In a world where electronic devices are an essential part of our daily lives, water resistance has become a highly sought-after feature.
It provides peace of mind and allows for worry-free use in various environments – from the beach to the pool to the shower. But with so many different standards and ratings, it can be confusing to understand the level of protection each one offers.
Two commonly used terms are IPX7 and IP67, both indicating some degree of water resistance. But what exactly do these ratings mean? And more importantly, what sets them apart?
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What is IPX7?
The difference between IPX7 and IP67 lies in their ability to provide protection against water and solid particles. While both ratings offer resistance to water, IP67 also offers protection against dust and other solid particles, making it more suitable for outdoor use or adverse weather conditions.
On the other hand, IPX7 may suffice for indoor use or light exposure to water.
IPX7 indicates that a device can withstand temporary submersion in water of up to one meter for 30 minutes. In comparison, IP67 offers the same level of water resistance but also provides protection against dust and other solid particles.
It is important to note that a device’s IP rating may decrease over time due to wear and tear or damage. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the intended use and environment when choosing between the two ratings.
| Rating | Water Resistance | Dust/Solid Particle Resistance |
| IPX7 | Can withstand temporary submersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes | N/A |
| IP67 | Can withstand temporary submersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes | Can protect against dust and other solid particles |
What is IP67?
When it comes to protecting your device against water and dust, the main difference between IPX7 and IP67 lies in the latter’s ability to offer protection against both elements. This makes IP67 rated devices more suitable for outdoor use, where they are likely to be exposed to various elements.
To put it simply, IPX7 means that a device can survive being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter. However, it does not guarantee protection against dust. On the other hand, IP67 offers the same level of water resistance but also provides protection against dust. This makes it a better option for activities like hiking or camping where dust exposure is common.
It’s important to keep in mind that if your main concern is water resistance, either rating would be sufficient. However, if you also need protection against dust, then IP67 would be the better choice.
Another factor to consider is the cost difference between the two ratings. As IP67 offers overall better protection, devices with this rating are likely to be more expensive compared to those with an IPX7 rating.
Therefore, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs and intended use before making a decision.
IPX7 vs IP67: Main Diffrences
The IPX7 and IP67 waterproof ratings may sound similar, but they have significant differences in their ability to protect against water and dust. While both ratings indicate some level of water resistance, IP67 offers a higher level of protection against both water and dust.
Here will delve deeper into the main differences between IPX7 and IP67 ratings.
| IPX7 | IP67 |
| Can withstand immersion in water up to one meter for 0 minutes | Can withstand immersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes |
| Suitable for use in wet environments like rain, snow, or showers | Suitable for use in wet and dusty environments like hiking or camping |
| No protection against dust or solid objects | Offers protection against dust and other solid objects |
| Less expensive compared to IP67 rated devices | Usually more expensive than IPX7 rated devices due to added dust protection |
| Commonly found in smartphones and other electronic devices | Commonly found in outdoor and rugged devices like action cameras and smartwatches |
As seen in the table above, the primary differences between IPX7 and IP67 ratings are in their capabilities to resist water and protect against dust. While both ratings offer some level of water resistance, IP67 provides a higher level of protection, making it more suitable for outdoor activities where the device may come into contact with both water and dust.
Another notable difference is the cost. Due to the additional protection against dust, IP67 rated devices are typically more expensive than those with an IPX7 rating. This difference in cost should be considered when choosing between the two ratings.
In terms of usage, IPX7 rated devices are commonly found in smartphones and other electronic devices that may be exposed to water, such as Bluetooth speakers.
On the other hand, IP67 rated devices are more commonly found in outdoor and rugged devices like action cameras and smartwatches, which may encounter both water and dust during outdoor activities.
To sum up, it is crucial to understand the differences between IPX7 and IP67 ratings before making a decision on which one to opt for.
So, Which is better?
IPX7 and IP67 are two commonly used ratings that measure the resistance of electronic devices to external particles, such as water and dust. These ratings provide consumers with important information about a device’s durability, but there are significant differences between the two.
IPX7 indicates a device can withstand temporary submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. However, this rating does not guarantee any protection against dust. In contrast, IP67 offers more robust protection against both water and dust. It can withstand water submersion for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter and also protects against dust.
The key difference between these ratings is the inclusion of an ‘X’ in IPX. This signifies that the device has not been tested for protection against solid particles. On the other hand, IP67 devices have undergone rigorous testing and proven to offer complete protection against both water and dust.
Cost is another crucial factor to consider when deciding between these ratings. Devices with higher IP ratings, such as IP67, often come at a higher price due to additional features for enhanced protection. The cost of obtaining an official IP rating can also vary significantly, so it’s essential to do thorough research before making a purchase.
For everyday consumer needs, an IP68 rating may be sufficient as it provides protection against dust and long-term water submersion. However, those who frequently use their devices in wet or dusty environments may benefit from the added protection of an IP67 rating.
It’s worth noting that a device’s IP rating can decrease over time due to wear and tear or damage.
So, while a device may have had an IP67 rating when purchased, it may no longer offer the same level of protection after some time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between IPX7 and IP67 ratings is crucial in safeguarding our electronic devices from water and dust damage.
While both offer some level of water resistance, IP67 takes it a step further by providing protection against solid particles as well. This makes it ideal for outdoor use or in harsh weather conditions.
However, this added protection comes at a higher cost, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a purchase decision. Ultimately, whether you opt for IPX7 or IP67 depends on your intended usage and budget.
But armed with this knowledge, you can confidently make informed decisions when buying your next electronic device and enjoy carefree use in any environment.
