IP Ratings Guide: IP20 vs IP67 vs IP68
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IP ratings tell you how well an LED strip is protected against dust and water. Choosing the correct IP rating for your installation environment is critical. Using an under rated strip in a wet location can lead to premature failure, while overpaying for waterproofing you do not need adds unnecessary cost. This guide explains what each rating means and when to use it.
What Does IP Stand For?
IP stands for Ingress Protection. It is an international standard (IEC 60529) that classifies the degree of protection provided by an enclosure against solid objects and liquids. The IP code always has two digits. The first digit rates protection against solids (dust, debris), and the second digit rates protection against water.
For LED strips, the most common ratings you will see are IP20, IP67, and IP68. Each represents a very different level of environmental protection.
IP20: Indoor Dry Locations
An IP20 rated strip has basic protection against solid objects larger than 12.5mm (like a finger) but no water protection at all. The strip is completely bare, with exposed components and solder points.
IP20 strips are designed for indoor, dry environments only. Common installations include bedrooms, living rooms, closets, entertainment centers, and any location where the strip will never encounter moisture. They are the most affordable option and the easiest to work with because there is no silicone coating to cut through or work around.
IP67: Outdoor and Wet Locations
An IP67 rated strip is coated in a silicone sleeve or layer that seals the LEDs and circuitry against dust and water. The "6" means it is fully dust tight, and the "7" means it can withstand temporary submersion in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes.
IP67 strips are the right choice for outdoor installations, bathrooms, kitchens, covered patios, and anywhere the strip may be exposed to rain, splashing, or humidity. The silicone coating also adds a layer of physical protection, making the strip more durable during handling and installation.
IP68: Continuous Submersion
An IP68 rated strip is fully encased in a thick silicone or resin housing, providing the highest level of water protection. The "8" means the strip can withstand continuous submersion at depths specified by the manufacturer, typically beyond 1 meter.
IP68 strips are engineered for pools, fountains, water features, aquariums, and any installation where the strip will be permanently underwater or exposed to pressurized water. They are the most robust option but also the most expensive due to the additional materials and manufacturing required.
How IP Rating Affects Pricing
Higher IP ratings require more materials and more complex manufacturing processes. A silicone coating or full encasement adds cost per meter to the base strip price. In our catalog, you will see price modifiers listed for IP67 and IP68 variants of the same strip. The base price typically reflects the IP20 version, with the waterproof options available at a clearly marked upcharge.
When budgeting for a project, it is worth calculating whether the entire run needs waterproofing or only certain sections. For example, an outdoor installation under a deep soffit may only need IP67 for the exposed portions while indoor sections can use IP20.
Choosing the Right Rating
IP20 is the right choice for any indoor location that stays dry. It offers the lowest cost and the simplest installation.
IP67 is the right choice for outdoor use, bathrooms, kitchens, or any area where water exposure is possible but the strip will not be submerged for extended periods.
IP68 is the right choice for underwater applications, pools, fountains, and any scenario requiring continuous water contact.
Bottom line: Match the IP rating to your actual environment. Do not overpay for waterproofing you will never need, and never underspec in a location where moisture is present. Getting this right protects both your investment and the longevity of your installation.