Guide
IP65, IP66 and IP67 Ingress Ratings Explained
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings tell you how well an enclosure keeps out dust and water. For industrial panel PCs and monitors the front-bezel rating matters most, and IP65, IP66, and IP67 are the common choices.
Reading an IP rating
The first digit rates solids and dust protection (6 = dust-tight), the second rates water. IP65 resists water jets, IP66 resists powerful jets, and IP67 resists temporary immersion. Panel PCs usually quote a front-bezel rating because the front faces the environment while the back sits in a cabinet.
Which rating do you need
For dusty floors and light spray, IP65 front is usually enough. For heavy hose-down or outdoor kiosks, choose IP66. For full washdown, step up to IP69K stainless hardware. Always confirm whether the rating applies to the front bezel only or the whole enclosure.
Front bezel vs full enclosure
An IP65 front bezel means the display face is sealed, but the chassis may need cabinet mounting to stay protected. Fully sealed or stainless units carry a whole-enclosure rating and can be mounted in the open.
Frequently asked questions
What does IP65 mean?
Dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction.
Is IP66 better than IP65?
IP66 withstands more powerful water jets; both are dust-tight.
What is a front-bezel IP rating?
It certifies only the display face of a panel PC; the rest of the chassis may rely on cabinet mounting.