What Is the Difference Between IP67 and IP68
IP67 and IP68 both indicate strong protection against dust and water, but they are not interchangeable. Waterproof LED lights carrying either rating are completely protected against dust according to the first digit. The difference lies in the second digit, which defines the level of water protection under specified test conditions.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Rating | Dust protection | Water protection | Typical application |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP67 | Dust-tight | Temporary immersion | Wet outdoor and selected inground areas |
| IP68 | Dust-tight | Continuous immersion under agreed conditions | Pools, fountains and underwater Installations |
IP67 versus IP68 lighting should be evaluated according to actual exposure rather than assuming that the higher number is necessary for every outdoor fixture.
What Does IP67 Mean?
The number 6 confirms complete protection against dust entering the enclosure. The number 7 indicates protection against temporary immersion in water under standardized conditions.
IP67 may be suitable for fixtures exposed to heavy rain, temporary flooding or occasional immersion. It is commonly considered for some underground lights, deck lights and exterior products, provided that the installation includes effective drainage.
An IP67 fixture should not automatically be specified for permanent underwater operation.
What Does IP68 Mean?
The number 8 indicates protection against continuous immersion. However, the applicable depth and duration are agreed between the manufacturer and customer and should be more demanding than the IP67 test conditions.
This means two IP68 products may have different approved operating depths. Buyers should ask for:
Maximum installation depth
Test duration and pressure
Permitted water temperature
Cable-entry test conditions
Intended continuous operating environment
An IP68 marking without these details provides incomplete information for an underwater project.
Which Rating Fits Each Application?
Wall lights, bollards and wall washers usually use IP65 or IP66 because they face rain and water jets rather than immersion. Deck and underground fixtures may require IP67 or IP68 depending on drainage and the risk of standing water.
Pool, pond and fountain luminaires generally require IP68 because they remain submerged. Water chemistry and pressure must also be considered when selecting housing materials and seals.
Why IP Rating Is Not Enough
An enclosure may pass a laboratory test but fail on site when the cable joint, mounting sleeve or drainage system is poorly installed. Waterproof connectors should match the fixture rating, and underground cavities should not be allowed to fill permanently with water.
Temperature changes can create internal pressure cycles that stress gaskets and cable glands. Reliable Construction therefore depends on controlled gasket compression, durable seals and stable housing dimensions.
SYA Lighting offers outdoor products with different protection levels, including IP68 underwater and selected underground lighting. As an IP68 light manufacturer China project teams can work with, the company can match fixture construction to installation requirements without applying one rating to every product.
Confirm Before Ordering
Review the installation drawing, expected water exposure, operating depth, material grade and connection method. Request applicable test information when the fixture will be submerged continuously.
IP67 protects against temporary immersion, while IP68 is designed for continuous immersion under declared conditions. Correct installation and system-level waterproofing remain essential regardless of the rating printed on the fixture.
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