The IP rating of waterproof low-voltage cable connectors is an international standard that classifies the solid and liquid intrusion protection levels provided by the enclosure. The IP rating consists of two digits: the first digit (0-6): prevents solids (dust, etc.), and the second digit (0-9K): prevents liquids (water, etc.). All three ratings we compared (IP67, IP68, IP69K) have the same highest dust protection rating of "6", which means they are completely dust-proof, but the difference lies in their water protection capabilities.

Below, we have made a detailed comparison of the waterproof grade of waterproof low-voltage cable connectors

IP67 rating: Immersed in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes, generally suitable for accidental flooding scenarios, such as preventing temporary floods or heavy rain

Commonly found on outdoor electronic products and consumer devices, as well as some basic consumer electronic products such as outdoor lighting and industrial sensors in non extreme environments,

IP68 rating: Continuous immersion in water under manufacturer specified conditions (usually ≥ 1.5 meters, for 30+minutes), with stricter requirements than IP67, and can be exposed to water for extended periods of time. Generally applicable to marine or underwater applications, such as underwater cameras, marine electronic devices, swimming pool equipment, and some high-end smartphones.

IP69K rating: Designed specifically for extreme cleaning conditions in high-pressure, high-temperature water jet scenarios, commonly found in industrial and food processing environments such as food processing equipment, car washing systems, industrial cleaning equipment, etc.

So, should we choose the correct level of protection for waterproof low-voltage cable connectors?  

If the device used is only occasionally exposed to water and will not be submerged in rainwater for a long time, and you want to save some money budget, you can choose IP67 waterproof low-voltage cable connectors.

IP68 waterproof low-voltage cable connectors are suitable for marine or underwater applications. When the equipment needs to be submerged in water for a long time, this level of waterproof connector can be considered for use.

If you are suitable for equipment that requires frequent high-pressure cleaning, such as food processing or medical disinfection environments, exposed to steam cleaning equipment, you can consider using IP69K waterproof connectors.

A higher IP protection level usually means an increase in material costs, as the complexity of production and manufacturing processes is higher, sealing is better, and the structure is more robust. For most waterproof scenarios using low-voltage cables, IP67 protection can generally provide excellent protection at a reasonable cost. Only in situations where prolonged immersion is expected, IP68 is worth using at a premium.