IP68 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 8 vs 0). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
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.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP68 and IP6X share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP6X. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP6X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.