What is the difference between IP67 and IP68 cob led strip?

IP stands for Ingress Protection. The two digits after "IP" tell you how well a product blocks solids and liquids. The first digit measures protection against dust and solid objects. The second digit measures protection against water.

For LED strips, the first digit is usually 6, which means the strip is fully dust-tight. The second digit is what matters most when comparing IP67 and IP68. A higher second digit does not always mean "better" for every project; it means the strip is tested for different water conditions.

An IP67 COB LED strip is dust-tight and can handle temporary immersion in water up to about 1 meter for a limited time, usually 30 minutes. In real-world use, this rating is excellent for outdoor signs, building outlines, shop facades, and areas exposed to heavy rain or wind-driven spray.

IP67 strips are often built with a silicone sleeve or coating that seals the LED surface. However, the rating applies to the strip body as tested by the factory. Cut ends, joints, cable entries, and power connections still need proper sealing during installation. If these weak points are ignored, water can still enter the system and cause failure.

HansonLed offers a wide range of waterproof LED strip solutions, including COB, RGB, and high-efficiency models. Their IP67-rated strips are used in shopping malls, restaurants, car showrooms, and outdoor signage projects across more than 80 countries.

An IP68 COB LED strip also keeps out all dust, but it is tested for continuous submersion under water pressure specified by the manufacturer. Unlike IP67, where the test conditions are fixed, IP68 limits depend on the exact model. One supplier may rate its IP68 strip for 1 meter depth, while another may rate it for 3 meters or more.

Because of this, IP68 should never be treated as a generic "underwater forever" label. Buyers should always ask the supplier for the exact depth, duration, and installation limits. A reliable supplier will state these clearly on the data sheet and will explain how cut ends and connectors must be sealed to maintain the rating.

Common uses for IP68 COB LED strips include poolside lighting, fountains, marine applications, outdoor architectural accents in flood-prone areas, and any project where the strip may sit in pooled water for long periods.

A common mistake is to choose a strip based only on the IP number. In practice, most waterproof LED strip failures start at the ends, cuts, connectors, or power supply locations, not in the middle of the strip. Even an IP68 strip can fail if the cable entry is left open or if a field-cut end is not resealed correctly.

Before installation, map the water path. Identify where rain, spray, or pooled water may reach. Count every cut, joint, and plug. Then choose a sealing method approved by the supplier. For large or hard-to-reach projects, ordering factory-cut custom lengths can reduce field joints and lower the risk of leaks.

HansonLed supports custom sizes, logos, and colors through its OEM and ODM services. With a 2,500-square-meter factory in Shenzhen and certifications including CE, RoHS, UL, and ISO9001, the company can deliver tailored LED module and strip solutions that match both the rating and the installation conditions.

Use these simple rules to guide your decision:

• Choose IP65 or IP67 for indoor damp areas, under-cabinet lighting, covered outdoor signs, and building outlines exposed to rain.
• Choose IP67 for outdoor facades, shop signs, and commercial lighting where the strip will get wet but not sit underwater.
• Choose IP68 only when the strip may be submerged or surrounded by pooled water for long periods, and only after confirming the supplier's depth and time limits.

If you are unsure, start with IP67 for general outdoor and wet-area signage. It offers strong protection at a lower cost and is easier to install correctly. Move up to IP68 only when the project truly requires it.

A trustworthy supplier should be able to answer the following questions clearly:

• What is the exact IP test standard used for this model?
• For IP68, what depth and duration was tested?
• How should cut ends and joints be sealed in the field?
• What connector or cable entry method is recommended?
• Can you supply custom lengths to reduce on-site cutting?
• What certifications does the product carry?

HansonLed welcomes these questions. The company provides detailed product data, sample support, and 24-hour online customer service. Buyers can request samples to check end-cap quality, seal methods, and brightness before placing bulk orders.

The difference between IP67 and IP68 COB LED strip comes down to water exposure. IP67 handles heavy rain and temporary immersion, making it ideal for most outdoor signage and commercial lighting. IP68 is designed for continuous submersion, but only when the supplier's specific depth and time limits are understood and followed.

No matter which rating you choose, proper installation is essential. Seal every end, cut, and cable entry. Keep drivers and controllers in dry locations. And work with a supplier who can provide clear data and reliable products.

For buyers looking for a dependable source of waterproof COB LED strips, HansonLed Ltd offers factory-direct pricing, custom OEM/ODM options, and a full catalog of LED lighting products including LED modules, LED strips, LED rigid bars, and LED neon flex. Contact HansonLed today to find the right IP rating and product configuration for your next project.