What is the IPX4 Rating? [IPX4 vs IP55 2024]

Understanding IP ratings is essential in a world where electronics are always with us. IPX4 offers impressive water resistance. The IPX4 rating protects your common devices from water damage, making it extremely convenient. Discover why water-resistant Bluetooth speakers, headphones, and other devices perform best due to the IPX4 rating. Two popular water and dust resistance ratings are IPX4 and IP55. We’ll compare IPX4 and IP55 in this article.

IPX4 Rating

An item with an IPX4 certification indicates that the device is water-resistant. The “X” in IPX4 implies that dust protection is not specified. The position of “4” after “IPX” indicates the level of water protection.

Water Resistance Level 

The water resistance level of a device with an IPX4 rating means that it can resist water splashes from any direction without getting damaged. It’s fine if it gets wet or something small goes wrong.

Examples of Use

• Everyday Gadgets: IPX4 is commonly used in gadgets like Bluetooth speakers and headphones.

• Outdoor Electronics: Perfect for outdoor electronics that might get wet.

Limitations

Dealing with heavy rain or strong water jets may remain a risk to a device, even if it has an IPX4 rating.

IP55 Rating

IP55 rating gives limited protection to devices from dust and water from any direction.

Water Resistance

The water resistance of an IP55 gadget is higher than an IPX4. This device can handle 6.3 mm nozzle-projected water from any direction without damage. It works well in harsh, water-exposed situations.

Examples of Use

• Outdoor Cameras: IP55 is typically utilized for water and dust protection.

• Certain Smartphones: Phone with IP55 rating may survive moderate weather.

Limitations

Although it cannot resist full submersion or heavy water jets, it has increased water resistance.

IPX4 vs IP55

IPX4 and IP55 are popular water resistance ratings. Here are the main differences between IPX4 and IP55 to assist you in choosing devices for your needs.

Water Resistance

IPX4

• Water-resistant from all angles.

• It works well with Bluetooth speakers and headphones with occasional water exposure in everyday situations.

• Long-term submersion or severe rain are not recommended.

IP55

• Resists 6.3 mm nozzle-projected water from any direction.

• It is compatible with outdoor cameras and some cell phones in harsh weather.

• It may not survive complete submersion or forceful water jets.

Common Applications

IPX4

Bluetooth speakers, headphones, and everyday devices.

IP55

Moderate weather affects outside cameras, cellphones, and devices.

Level of Protection

IPX4

Protection from water splashes.

IP55

Better water-ingress protection in difficult conditions.

Use Case Considerations

IPX4

Minimal water exposure daily scenarios.

IP55

Conditions that increase water exposure but are not submerged.

Comparative Analysis

When choosing between IPX4 and IP55, you should consider how they will be used. IPX4 is suited for daily work with occasional water contact, while IP55 protects electronics in harsher conditions. Since neither IP rating is for submersion, the device’s IP rating must meet the expected environmental circumstances.

FAQs

Is IP55 waterproof?

In moderate weather, IP55 devices are resistant to nozzle-projected water but not waterproof or submersible.

What is IPX4 equivalent to?

IPX4 protects against water splashes from any direction, making it suitable for ordinary devices with occasional water contact.

Which is better IPX4 or IPX5?

IPX5 is more water-resistant than IPX4, making it ideal for harsher weather.

What does IP55 mean on earbuds?

Earbuds with IP55 water and dust protection are appropriate for exposure to mild weather and light water.

Is IPX4 OK for rain?

IPX4 can guard against water splashes from any direction in mild rain. However, avoid extended exposure to heavy rain or violent water jets.

Conclusion

The choice between IPX4 and IP55 depends on device demands. IPX4 provides basic protection for ordinary usage, while IP55 meets more severe situations. Consider your device’s location – occasional splashes or moderate weather – to choose a waterproof companion. Finding the right mix between practicality and resistance is key.