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 |
| Relative cost | Baseline | +10–15% | +15–25% | +25–35% | +35–50% |
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 low-pressure water jets, via silicone sleeve or flat extrusion. Perfect for outdoor covered areas, landscape lighting, bathrooms, and commercial facades. Note: cut ends must be re-sealed to maintain the rating.
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 (continuous underwater). The highest protection — dust-tight and rated for continuous immersion, using solid silicone extrusion. Required for pools, fountains, aquariums, and below-waterline marine lighting.
How IP Ratings Affect Performance and Installation
Higher IP ratings mean thicker silicone that acts as a thermal insulator. IP20 dissipates heat best, while IP68 has the most limited heat dissipation — use aluminum channels for high-power strips (15W/m and above), especially IP68. Bending radius also increases with IP level (from around 20mm for IP20 to 50mm+ for IP68).
Re-Sealing Cut Ends
One of the most common causes of waterproof strip failure is improperly sealed cut ends. For IP65/IP67 apply silicone sealant and an end cap; for IP68 use a manufacturer sealing kit or professional re-sealing — improper sealing causes water ingress and failure.
Common Mistakes When Choosing IP Ratings
- Over-specifying: using IP68 everywhere adds 35–50% cost and hurts flexibility — match the rating to real conditions
- Under-specifying: IP65 rated for water jets will fail if submerged — always use IP68 underwater
- 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 continuous submersion, IP68 is mandatory. For help selecting the right waterproof rating for your project, browse HST Light’s waterproof LED strips or contact us.