What Is An IPX Rating And Why It Matters

If you use electronics and portable devices, you may have heard of IPX ratings. But what exactly are they, and why should you pay attention to them? IPX ratings are a measure of the water resistance of electronic products, ranging from 0-8 with higher numbers indicating more protection. Let's take a look at what IPX ratings mean and how they can help you when shopping for electronics.

What Does IPX Rating Mean?

IPX stands for Ingress Protection (IP) eXtended, which is an international rating system developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The system assigns two digits to a device based on its resistance to liquids and dust exposure. The first number in the rating indicates its level of protection against solids such as dust or sand, while the second number indicates its level of protection against liquids such as water.

For example, an IPX7 rated product is protected from immersion up to one meter for 30 minutes. Although we don't recommend putting any electronics directly in water. An IPX4 rated product is protected from splashing water from any direction.

What Products Usually Have An IPX Rating Or IMP Code?

Most consumer electronics products have some form of an intelligent power management (IPM) code associated with them; usually on their packaging or printed on their labels/plates. Portable devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, etc., typically have an IPM code associated with them since they are subject to more exposure outdoors than other electronic devices like TVs or refrigerators which are typically found indoors. This helps with power management of devices. At times it's the combination of hardware and software that optimizes the distribution and use of electrical power.

Other common products with an IPM code include outdoor lighting fixtures used in gardens and outdoor areas like patios or decks; these are usually indicated by “IP” instead of “IPN” on their labels/plates since they typically don't have ratings higher than 8 due to their increased exposure outdoors.

How Does It Help You When Shopping?

When shopping for electronics or portable devices, knowing their IPX rating can help you decide which one to purchase. Look out for waterproof or water-resistant labels on products as this will indicate that they have some form of liquid resistance.

Generally speaking, higher numbers indicate more protection but be sure to read the details carefully before purchasing a product so you know exactly what type of protection it offers. For example, if you are buying a laptop or phone case, make sure that it has been tested for at least IP67 standard since this will protect your device from any liquids up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. Even though this protection rating exists, don't dunk your electronics in water! Why take a chance, right?

The Wrap Up

Having an understanding of IPX ratings can help you make better purchasing decisions when it comes to electronic products and portable devices. Knowing which products are waterproof or water-resistant can save you time and money in the long run by ensuring that your devices remain safe and secure even in wet conditions.

However, keep in mind that not all products are created equal—be sure to read their specifications carefully before making your purchase so that you know exactly what level of protection they offer!

Looking to buy some earbuds or headphones? See our picks below👇
https://radraters.com/best-bass-earbuds/
https://radraters.com/best-portable-cd-player/
https://radraters.com/best-closed-back-headphones/
https://radraters.com/best-bluetooth-headphones-under-200/