When specifying LED strip lights for any project, understanding IP (Ingress Protection) ratings is essential for product longevity, safety, and compliance. The IP rating tells you exactly how well the strip is protected against solid objects (dust) and liquids (water). Choosing the wrong rating can cause premature failure, safety hazards, and costly callbacks — critical for contractors and distributors whose reputation depends on reliable installations.
This guide explains the IP rating system, compares IP20, IP44, IP65, IP67, and IP68 LED strips, and helps you select the right waterproof rating for your application. HST Light manufactures LED strips across the full IP rating spectrum.
What Is an IP Rating and How to Read It
IP stands for Ingress Protection, defined by the international standard IEC 60529. An IP rating consists of “IP” followed by two digits.
First Digit: Protection Against Solid Objects
| Digit | Protection Level |
|---|---|
| 0 | No protection |
| 1 | >50mm (large body surfaces) |
| 2 | >12.5mm (fingers) |
| 3 | >2.5mm (tools and thick wires) |
| 4 | >1mm (most wires and thin tools) |
| 5 | Dust-protected |
| 6 | Dust-tight |
Second Digit: Protection Against Liquids
| Digit | Protection Level |
|---|---|
| 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Vertical dripping water |
| 2 | Dripping water (15° tilt) |
| 3 | Spraying water |
| 4 | Splashing water |
| 5 | Low-pressure water jets |
| 6 | High-pressure water jets |
| 7 | Immersion up to 1m (30 min) |
| 8 | Continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified) |
| 9K | High-pressure, high-temperature jets |
A IP65 strip is fully dust-tight (6) and protected against low-pressure water jets (5). The IP67 vs IP68 difference is temporary immersion versus continuous immersion — a critical distinction for underwater use.
IP Ratings Compared: IP20 vs IP44 vs IP65 vs IP67 vs IP68
| Feature | IP20 | IP44 | IP65 | IP67 | IP68 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dust protection | None | >1mm | Dust-tight | Dust-tight | Dust-tight |
| Water protection | None | Splashing | Water jets | Temp. immersion | Continuous immersion |
| Manufacturing | Bare PCB | Silicone coating | Sleeve / extrusion | Sleeve + sealed ends | Full silicone extrusion |
| Indoor dry | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indoor humid | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Outdoor covered | No | Limited | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Outdoor exposed | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Underwater | No | No | No | Temporary only | Yes |
Detailed Breakdown of Each IP Rating
IP20 (indoor dry areas only). The baseline non-waterproof strip with exposed PCB. Lowest cost, maximum flexibility, easiest installation — ideal for indoor cove, under-cabinet, and display lighting in dry environments.
IP44 (splash-resistant). A thin silicone or PU coating protects against objects >1mm and splashing water. Suitable for bathroom vanity, kitchen near-sink, and indoor areas with occasional moisture.
IP65 (versatile all-rounder). Dust-tight and protected against water jets under specified test conditions. Cutting or modifying the strip may affect its ingress protection. Follow the approved model-specific termination procedure and verify the required protection of the completed assembly.
IP67 (temporary submersion). Dust-tight and protected against immersion up to 1m for 30 minutes, using a thicker sleeve with sealed end caps. Ideal for fully exposed outdoor, deck, pathway, and marine (above waterline) applications.
IP68 (immersion protection). An IP68 rating describes protection under the immersion conditions specified for the tested product. It does not by itself confirm suitability for every pool, fountain, aquarium or marine installation. Verify the permitted immersion depth and duration, environmental compatibility, electrical safety and protection of the complete assembly, including cable entries and terminations.
How IP Ratings Affect Performance and Installation
Waterproof construction can affect heat dissipation, flexibility and mounting requirements. Minimum bending radius, thermal performance and suitable mounting methods depend on the exact strip design, materials, power configuration and installation conditions. Refer to the model-specific specifications and verify the installation arrangement before use.
Re-Sealing Cut Ends
Cutting or re-terminating an IP-rated LED strip can affect the ingress protection of the finished assembly. Use the approved cutting, sealing and termination procedures for the exact product model and installation environment. Silicone sealant and end caps alone do not establish or restore a specific IP rating. Where IP65, IP67 or IP68 protection is required, confirm applicable test evidence for the completed assembly, including cut ends, cable entries and connectors. If the required protection level cannot be verified, consider a factory-terminated solution or further engineering evaluation.
Common Mistakes When Choosing IP Ratings
- Over-specifying: choosing a higher IP rating than the installation requires can increase cost or affect flexibility, depending on the model and construction — match the required protection to actual exposure conditions and request a model-specific quotation
- Under-specifying: an IP65 rating for water jets does not establish protection for submerged use. Select a product and completed assembly tested for the intended immersion conditions, and confirm electrical safety and environmental compatibility
- Ignoring connectors and power supplies: the system is only as waterproof as its weakest link
- Assuming all IP65 strips are equal: hollow sleeve may collect condensation; flat extrusion is solid
- Ignoring UV exposure: specify UV-resistant silicone for outdoor installations
Conclusion
Choosing the right LED strip IP rating depends on where and how the strip will be used. For indoor dry areas, IP20 is adequate; for outdoor covered areas, IP65 is the best balance; for submerged installations, verify the product-specific immersion conditions, electrical safety requirements and protection of the complete assembly. For help selecting the right waterproof rating for your project, browse HST Light’s waterproof LED strips or contact us.