IP65 vs IP67 vs IP68 Walkie Talkies: Which Do You Need?
Short answer: IP65 protects against dust and low-pressure water jets, suitable for light outdoor use. IP67 protects against temporary submersion up to 1 meter, suitable for rain, mud and accidental drops in water. IP68 protects against continuous or deeper submersion, recommended for marine, agriculture and heavy washdown environments.
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating on a walkie talkie tells you exactly what conditions it can survive, but the difference between IP65, IP67 and IP68 is often misunderstood or exaggerated in marketing materials. Choosing a higher rating than needed adds cost, while choosing too low a rating can lead to premature radio failure. This guide breaks down what each rating actually means.
How the IP Rating Code Works
An IP rating has two digits. The first digit (0 to 6) indicates protection against solid particles like dust. The second digit (0 to 9) indicates protection against water. For walkie talkies, the first digit is almost always 6 (fully dust-tight), so the meaningful difference between models is usually in the second, water-resistance digit.
IP65: Dust-Tight, Water-Jet Resistant
IP65 radios are fully protected against dust and can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction, such as light rain or occasional splashing. This is suitable for general outdoor use, light construction, delivery and hospitality environments where heavy submersion is unlikely.
IP67: Temporary Submersion Protection
IP67 radios can withstand being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. This is the most common rating for rugged commercial and industrial radios, covering rain, mud, accidental drops into puddles or shallow water, and general jobsite or outdoor conditions.
IP68: Continuous or Deeper Submersion
IP68 protection exceeds IP67 requirements, with the manufacturer specifying the exact depth and duration tested, often significantly beyond 1 meter or for continuous submersion. This level is typically recommended for marine crews, agriculture operations near water, mining, or heavy washdown environments such as food processing facilities.
Matching IP Rating to Industry
- Hospitality and retail: IP54 or IP65 is usually sufficient for indoor and light outdoor use.
- Construction and logistics: IP65 or IP67 covers most rain, dust and accidental drop scenarios.
- Security and event staff working outdoors: IP67 is a common standard for all-weather reliability.
- Marine, agriculture and food processing: IP68 is recommended where washdown or submersion is routine.
Common Mistakes When Comparing IP Ratings
- Assuming a higher number always means “better”: A higher rating adds cost and sometimes bulk. Match the rating to actual working conditions.
- Ignoring test duration and depth specifics for IP68: IP68 does not have a single fixed standard depth, so ask the manufacturer for the exact tested parameters.
- Not checking the rating applies to the full unit: Confirm the rating covers the radio with battery and antenna attached, not just the housing in isolation.
- Overlooking that IP ratings do not cover impact resistance: A separate drop-test rating (often MIL-STD-810) indicates resistance to physical shock, which is a different specification from water and dust protection.
IP Rating FAQs
Is IP67 enough for outdoor construction use?
Yes, for most general construction and outdoor jobsite conditions, IP67 provides sufficient protection against rain, mud and accidental drops into shallow water.
Do I need IP68 for a warehouse?
Usually not. Most warehouses do not involve routine submersion, so IP65 or IP67 is typically sufficient unless the facility involves frequent washdown or flooding.
Does a higher IP rating mean a more durable radio overall?
Not necessarily. IP ratings measure dust and water resistance specifically. Impact resistance is a separate specification, usually indicated by a drop-test standard.
Can an IP67 radio be submerged indefinitely?
No. IP67 covers temporary submersion, typically up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. For continuous or deeper submersion, an IP68-rated radio is required.
Request the Right Rugged Radio for Your Environment
To get a recommendation matched to your working conditions, please tell us:
- Industry and typical weather or water exposure
- Whether radios are used near water, dust, or washdown areas
- Target order quantity and timeline
- Any other required features (encryption, long battery life, accessories)
We can recommend a radio with the right IP and durability rating for your environment.