IP68 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP68 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.