What is the IP rating scale? What do IP rating meadns?
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating system is a globally recognized scale that measures verified protection against liquids and solids dust in the surroundings. The characters IP, followed by two digits, are used to identify ingress protection grades. These figures indicate how well a digital scale protects against specific elements and how well it resists foreign materials that could otherwise enter the product and cause it to malfunction.
The first number indicates how well a scale or indicator enclosure protects against solid matter (such as dust particles), while the second number indicates how well it protects against liquids. The higher each digit is, the stronger the protection.
Understanding IP ratings (Code breakdown)
The water and dust protection certificate contain a code. This code contain –
| Code letters | First characteristic numeral: Solid particle protection | Second digit: Liquid ingress protection |
|---|---|---|
| IP (Ingress Protection) | Single numeral: 0–6 or letter X | Single numeral: 0–8 or letter X |
Example:
Ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IP_Code
IPX RATING SYSTEM: WHAT IT MEANS AND WHY YOU SHOULD KNOW
In order to determine how resistant products are to environmental conditions, the IPX Rating System is employed. In many cases, cycling and camera products are marked with an IPX rating, which tells the consumer how well the product will work in certain types of weather.
Numbers are written as IPXX, with “X”s acting as placeholders for the actual values. First, the “X” stands for solid (dust/particle) resistance, and the second “X” stands for liquid (liquid) resistance (water).
IP Rating Chart Download
IP Rating Table of Explanation
First Digit Explanation After IP : IPX rating
The IP rating is typically defined by two letters or digits following the IP. The first letter after IP is defined as “solid particle protection.” This number can vary from 1 to 6, and the letter “X” is used when it was not tested.
| Number/ Letter/ Digit | Information contain |
|---|---|
| X | Not Tested |
| 0 | No Protection |
| 1 | Protected against a solid object greater than 50mm, such as a hand |
| 2 | Protected against a solid object greater than 12.5mm, such as a finger |
| 3 | Protected against a solid object greater than 2.5mm, such as a wire |
| 4 | Protected against a solid object greater than 1.0mm, such as a strap |
| 5 | Dust Protected. Prevents ingress of dust sufficient to cause harm |
| 6 | Dust Tight. No ingress of dust |
Second Digit Explanation After IP
The second digit after IP is refer the Degree of Protection against water. It is mainly use to give the rating how much waterproof and electrical device (headphones, Earbuds, Speaker and others). The explanation of second digit is in the following IP rating table.
| Letter/ Digit | Information contain |
|---|---|
| X | Not Tested |
| 0 | No Protection |
| 1 | Protection against water drops |
| 2 | Protected against water drops at a 15 degree angle |
| 3 | Protected against water spray at 60 degree angle |
| 4 | Protected against water splashing from any angle |
| 5 | Protected against water jets from any angle |
| 6 | Protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas |
| 7 | Protected against effects of temporary submersion in water (30 minutes at 3 feet) |
| 8 | Protected against the effects of permanent submission in water (up to 13 feet) |
You May Also Read
Popular IP Ratings Explanation
IPX4 Rating
The IPX4 product is water resistant, not waterproof. It can only protect the form against water splashing from any angle. A product cannot be considered waterproof when used underwater.
On the other hand, there is no test performed to check against dust protection. From my experience, these rated devices are not so much protected from dust particles or solid objects.
IPX5 Rating
The IPX5 product is water resistant, not waterproof. It is certified for protection against low pressure jets of water from any angle for three minutes. IPX5 does not cover full submersion or immersion. The AirPod, headphone, or other device is water resistant, not waterproof.
On the other hand, there is no test performed to check against dust protection.
Can IPX5 be used in the rain?
IPX5 water-resistant gadgets are more than capable of withstanding light to moderate rain and are ideal for outdoor use.
IPX6 Rating
With the IPX6 rating, it can ensure that it will not leak from 1.5 meters to 30 meters underwater and also the performance will not be affected.
IPX6 rated earbuds are – TOZO NC7 and so on.
IPX7 Rating means-
The IPX7 grade indicates that the headphone or earbud is waterproof if submerged in water for 30 minutes at a depth of one meter and for a period of one hour. The first disit is replaced by the latter “X”, which means dust or solid particle protection is not checked. But the second digit, 7 means this device is protected against the effects of temporary submersion in water (30 minutes at 3 feet).
So, this is the waterproof level. You can use this at the time of bath, swearing, raining, or playing, but you should not use it when you are driving or going too deep in the water.
IP2X Rating
When an X is used, it signifies that no testing has been carried out. So when an IP rating reads IP2X, it simply stands for an IP rating 2 for solid particle protection. It is protected against a solid object greater than 12.5 mm, such as a finger.
I think that is not any protection. Because it can only tolerate your touch. It may be cracked if it falls down. On the other hand, you do not get any water protection.
IP20 Rating | What is a IP20 rating?
An IP20 rating indicates that the product is touchproof and resistant to dust or items larger than 12mm in size. However, it has no protection against liquids and will be damaged if it comes into touch with water sprays.
IP21 Rating
IP21 does not provide any suitable protection. Because it provides protection from touch by fingers and objects greater than 12 millimeters. And also protected against water drops. Very small rain can be tolerated. But this protection against rain or sweat does not work in real life.
IP22 Rating
The IP22 rating provides protection against a solid object greater than 12.5mm, such as a finger. In water protectivity it is protected against water drops at a 15 degree angle. It can not tolerate rain and moderate to heavy sweat.
IP23 Rating
The IP23 rating provides protection against a solid object greater than 12.5 mm, such as a finger. In water protectivity, it is protected against water spray at a 60-degree angle. It can not tolerate rain and moderate to heavy sweat.
Is IP23 waterproof?
No, this not waterproof. It only can tolerate water properly. Simple and very little rain can tolerate it. It should not use with bath, swim, or in rain.
Is IP23 suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, IP23 is suitable for outdoor use in dry condition. But remember do not get it into rain or water.
IP24 Rating
The IP24 rating provides protection against a solid object greater than 12.5 mm, such as a finger. In water protectivity, it is protected against water splashing from any angle. It is water resistant, not waterproof.
IP32 Rating
It is recommended that the headphone is protected against a solid object greater than 2.5 mm, such as a wire, pencil, pen, etc. On the water side, it is protected against water drops at a 15 degree angle. Heavy rain or droping into water it cannot tolerate.
How good is IP32 water resistance?
It can resist from water such as very fine rain, sweat, water dripping from the hand etc.
IP34 Rating
It is recommended by IP34 that the headphone or earbud is protected against a solid object greater than 2.5 mm, such as a wire, pencil, pen, etc. And against water splashing from any angle.
IP4X Rating
It is recommended by IP4X that the headphone or earbud be against a solid object greater than 1.0 mm, such as a strap. And as for water, there is no experiment done to determine it. So, you should keep in mind that these types of drinks are not water protected.
IP40 Rating
It is recommended by IP4X that the headphone or earbud be against a solid object greater than 1.0 mm, such as a strap. And as for water, there is no protection. So these devices are water sensitive. Do not take these in contact with water.
IP42 Rating
It is recommended by IP4X that the headphone or earbud be against a solid object greater than 1.0 mm, such as a strap. And as for water, it is protected against water drops at a 15 degree angle. It can not tolerate rain and moderate to heavy sweat.
Is IP42 waterproof?
No, it is not waterproof and also not a proper water resist. Please do not take this in contact of water.
IP44 Rating
An IP44 rated devices is protected against a solid object greater than 1.0 mm, such as a strap. It is also protected against water splashing from any angle. This is not your ideal device for a heavy rainstorm! It is only water resist, not waterproof.
Is IP44 rating waterproof?
No, IP44 rating does not provide protection against water properly. These are not waterproof. These are only water resist.
IP45 Rating
An IP45 rated devices is protected against a solid object greater than 1.0 mm, such as a strap. It is also protected against water jets from any angle. It can tolerate water temporary. So, it is better to say this is water-resistant that waterproof.
IP53 Rating
IP53 rating is referred to the headphone or Earbuds is Dust Protected. It Prevents ingress of dust sufficient to cause harm. It is also Protected against water spray at 60 degree angle.
Is IP53 good enough?
This is good enough from the side of dust protection. But it is not fully waterproof. It is only water resist. This protection is mainly provide proper dust protection for circuits and mother board.
IP54 Rating
IP53 rating is referred to the headphone or earbuds being dust protected. It prevents the ingress of dust sufficient to cause harm. It is also protected against water splashing from any angle. So it has proper water resistance.
IP55 Rating : Explanation, What does IP55 stand for?
The IP55 rating refers to the headphone or earbuds being dust protected. It prevents the ingress of enough dust to cause harm. It is also protected against water jets from any angle. So, it is also properly water resistant. It can not be tolerated if it goes under water.
According to some other website, A product with an IP55 rating is protected against dust intrusion that could be damaging to the product’s normal operation, but it is not completely dust tight as a result. Items such as solid objects and water jets projected by a nozzle (6.3mm) from any direction are prevented from entering.
Is IP55 rating waterproof?
It is protected against water jets from any angle, but it can tolerate dipping in water. It is water resist but not proper waterproof.
Is IP55 for outdoor use?
Yes, IP55 rating is for outdoor use. But be careful while heavy rain, swimming, etc. Because it can tolerate normal rain and light water. But it can not tolerate dipping in water or other fluids.
IP56 Rating | How waterproof is IP56?
The IP56 rating refers to the headphone or earbuds being dust protected. It prevents the ingress of enough dust to cause harm. It is also protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas. This highly water resistant. There is no water resistance. But a simple lack is here. It is not waterproof. It cannot tolerate dipping in water or any other fluid for more that 1 second.
Is IP65 enough for rain?
Yes, it is protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas. So, light, moderate and heavy rain can tolerate it easily.
IP57 Rating | Is IP57 waterproof rating?
The IP57 rating refers to the headphone or earbuds being dust protected. It prevents the ingress of enough dust to cause harm. It is also protected against the effects of temporary submersion in water (30 minutes at 3 feet). The IP57 rating is waterproof. You can use it outdoors without any hesitation. No tension about rain, sweat, dropping into water, drains, etc.
Is IP57 good?
Yes, IP57 rating is one of the highest rating and provide almost highest security against dust and water. You can use it indoor, outdoor, bathroom, sleep time etc without any hesitation.
IP58 Rating
The IP58 rating refers to the headphone or earbuds being dust protected. It prevents the ingress of enough dust to cause harm. It is also protected from the effects of permanent submission in water (up to 13 feet). The IP58 rating is waterproof. This is the highest waterproofness.
IP64 Rating | What is IP64 water resistant?
The IP64 rating is the symbol of the highest protection against dust and solid particles. It is dust tight. No ingress of dust. It is also protected against water splashing from any angle. This is not your ideal device for a heavy rainstorm! It is only water resist, not waterproof.
IP65 Rating
The IP65 rating is the symbol of the highest protection against dust and solid particles. It is dust tight. No ingress of dust. It is also protected against water jets from any angle. It can tolerate water temporary. So, it is better to say this is water-resistant that waterproof.
Is IP65 waterproof?
No, This is water resist. It can stay safe against water jet from any angle. But on dipping into water, protection does not worked.
Is IP65 enough for rain?
Yes, IP65 is enough for light, moderate and heavy rain. So, it can be use outdoor.
Is IP65 better than IP44?
Obviously, IP65 is better than IP44. The IP65 rating gives more strong protection against solid and water.
| IP rating | Solid Protection | Water Protection |
|---|---|---|
| IP65 | Dust Tight. No ingress of dust | Protected against water jets from any angle |
| IP44 | Protected against a solid object greater than 1.0mm, such as a strap | Protected against water splashing from any angle |
IP66 rating
The IP65 rating is the symbol of the highest protection against dust and solid particles. It is dust tight. No ingress of dust. It is also protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas. This highly water resistant. There is no water resistance. But a simple lack is here. It is not waterproof. It cannot tolerate dipping in water or any other fluid.
Is IP66 fully waterproof?
No, it is protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas. So, light, moderate and heavy rain can tolerate it easily. But on dipping in water or such fluid it can tolerate. Thus, IP66 is not waterproof.
Which is better IP65 or IP66?
IP66 rating is better than IP65 rating. Though both are provide same protection against solid, but IP66 provides more water protection. IP65 is protected against water jets from any angle, but no protection against water dipping. On the other hand, IP66 provides protection against powerful water jets and heavy seas.
IP67 Rating | What means IP67 waterproof?
The IP67 rating is the symbol of the highest protection against dust and solid particles. It is dust tight. No ingress of dust. It is also protected against the effects of temporary submersion in water (30 minutes at 3 feet). The IP67 rating is waterproof. You can use it outdoors without any hesitation. No tension about rain, sweat, dropping into water, drains, etc.
Is IP67 fully waterproof?
Yes, IP67 is fully waterproof but only for 30 minutes to 1 hours in the water. All types of rain, bathing, dropping into water etc.
Is IP67 OK for shower?
Yes, IP67 rating is OK for shower.
IP68 rating
The IP658 rating is the highest rating of solid and water protection in Ingress Protection or International Protection. It is fully dust tight. No ingress of dust. It is also protected against the effects of permanent submission in water (up to 13 feet). Fully waterproof. By using this you can swim, shawar, wet in the rain, driving, everything is possible. It is even possible to take it into the water
Can I swim with IP68?
Yes, IP68 rating is fully waterproof. It is ready to submission into water. It is protected against the effects of permanent submission in water (up to 13 feet).
Is IP68 the highest waterproof rating?
Yes, not only the highest waterproof rating but also the highest solid protection rating.
FAQs
What IP rating is waterproof?
IPX6, IPX7, IPX8, IP16, IP17, IP18, IP26, IP27, IP28, IP36, IP37, IP38, IP46, IP47, IP48, IP56, IP57, IP58, IP66, IP67, IP68 are the IP ratings which are waterproof.
What is a good IP rating?
IP45, IP46, IP47, IP48, IP55, IP56, IP57, IP58, IP65, IP66, IP67, IP68, IPX5, IPX6, IPX7, IPX8 are the good IP rating according to my observation.
Is higher IP rating better?
Yes, The higher IP rating is the greater protection. So, higher IP rating is better for any device.
How do you read an IP rating?
IP rating is stands for Ingress Protection or International Protection Rating. After that 2 digits are used. The first digit express the protection rating against solid and the second digit for water protection. The higher number is the higher protection.
What is the highest waterproof rating?
Water protection defined by the second digit of IP rating. The highest rating on second digit or waterproof rating is 8. So, IPX8, IP18, IP28, IP38, IP48, IP48, IP58, IP58 all are the highest waterproof ratings.
What IP rating is submersible?
IPX7, IPX8, IP17, IP18, IP27, IP28, IP37, IP38, IP47, IP48, IP57, IP58, IP67, IP68 are the submersible IP ratings.
