IP68 vs IP64
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP64 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP64 provides dust-tight and splashing water (all directions).
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
IP64 is dust-tight and resists splashing water from any direction. A solid outdoor-covered rating combining complete dust exclusion with splash tolerance, sitting between IP65 (jets) and IP54 (dust-protected).
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP64
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP64
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP64
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP64
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP64)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP68 and IP64 share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP68 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP64. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP64 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.