If you're looking for a barcode scanner to keep up with your demanding work environment, you've probably come across terms like "IP65" or "IP67." But what do these ratings actually mean, and how do you choose the right one for your business?
In this guide, we'll break down the concept of IP ratings, explain the difference between IP65 and IP67, and help you decide which IP rating is best for your barcode scanning needs. Whether you're running a busy warehouse or a retail store, understanding IP ratings can save you from expensive equipment failures down the road.
1. What Is an IP Rating?
IP rating stands for Ingress Protection rating. It's an internationally recognized standard (IEC 60529) that measures how well a device is protected against solids like dust and liquids like water.
An IP rating typically consists of two numbers:
● The first digit refers to protection against solids (like dust or dirt).
● The second digit refers to protection against liquids (like water or moisture).
Common IP Ratings Explained
| IP Rating | Dust Protection | Water Protection |
| IP42 | Protects against solid objects >1mm; limited dust resistance | Resists water spray from angles up to 15°; suitable for basic indoor use |
| IP54 | Basic dust protection; prevents most dust from interfering | Resists splashing water from any direction; ideal for light industrial or warehouse use |
| IP65 | Fully dust-tight; suitable for dusty environments | Withstands low-pressure water jets; ideal for outdoor or washdown settings |
| IP67 | Completely dustproof; built for harsh, dusty conditions | Withstands immersion in water up to 1m for 30 minutes; suitable for accidental submersion |
The higher the numbers, the better the protection. Simple enough, right?
2. Why IP Ratings Matter for Barcode Scanners
Barcode scanners aren't just used in clean office environments. They're often exposed to dust, water, oil, or even drops in warehouses, factories, and field service operations.
An industrial barcode scanner with a higher IP rating can:
● Survive harsh working conditions
● Reduce maintenance and replacement costs
● Provide reliable performance even in wet or dusty environments
If you're investing in a barcode scanner, knowing its IP rating can make a big difference in how long it lasts—and how well it works.
3. How to Choose the Right IP Rating for Your Barcode Scanner
Not every business needs the highest protection level. Here's how to choose the right IP rating based on your real-world conditions:
Ask Yourself These Questions:
✔️Will the scanner be used indoors or outdoors?
✔️Is there exposure to dust, dirt, or metal shavings?
✔️Will it be exposed to moisture, rain, or washing processes?
✔️Do you require mobility or field use?
Recommended IP Ratings and Barcode Scanners by Use Case
● Retail / POS Systems
Recommended IP Ratings: IP42 or higher
Reason: Occasional spills, light dust exposure, primarily indoor use.
Model Recommendation: iDPRT HN-32/35 Series Handheld QR Code Scanners
✔️Offers wired and wireless Bluetooth versions, plug-and-play setup for quick deployment.
✔️360° omnidirectional scanning with intelligent illumination system for 90% improved success in backlight/low-light conditions; accurately reads paper barcodes, mobile QR codes, digital membership codes, payment codes, and even wrinkled or partially damaged barcodes.
✔️IP42 rated, lightweight, and durable, meeting the demands of high-frequency retail POS operations, even with coffee spills or shelf dust.
● Warehousing, Logistics, Manufacturing
Recommended IP Ratings: IP65
Reason: Constant movement, heavy dust, risk of water exposure, rugged use
Model Recommendation: iDPRT M2 Plus Android PDA Scanner
✔️Features an octa-core processor and Android 12, boosting response speed by 40%, seamlessly integrating with WMS/ERP systems.
✔️Professional 2D scanning engine for rapid reading of pallet codes, DPM laser-etched codes, and reflective metal barcodes.
✔️IP65 industrial-grade protection, 1.8-meter drop resistance, 5000mAh removable battery for 12-hour continuous operation, suitable for harsh environments like cold chain warehouses and automotive production lines.
● Healthcare, Medical Environments
Recommended IP Ratings: IP42 or higher
Reason: Exposure to occasional liquid spills, regular cleaning and disinfection, need for basic dust and moisture protection in clinical settings
Model Recommendation: iDPRT HN-33 Series Medical 2D Barcode Scanner
✔️Designed for healthcare, with an integrated antimicrobial casing to inhibit bacterial growth.
✔️Ergonomic grip and silent scanning mode minimize patient disturbance, supporting rapid scanning of IV bags, medical records, and test tube barcodes.
✔️IP42 rated, withstands repeated 75% alcohol wipes and UV sterilization, ensuring device hygiene.
Choosing the right IP rating ensures your barcode scanner performs reliably where you need it most.
4. Explore iDPRT Rugged Barcode Scanners
At iDPRT, we design and manufacture rugged barcode scanners built for high-performance in real-world conditions. From IP42 models perfect for retail to IP65-rated devices made for outdoor and industrial use, we have solutions tailored to your specific application.
Need help choosing the right barcode scanner? Contact our team for expert advice and recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Barcode Scanner IP Ratings
Q1: What does IP67 mean on a barcode scanner?
It means the scanner is fully dust-tight and can survive temporary submersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
Q2: Which is better IP65 or IP67?
There's no absolute “better”—it all depends on your working environment.
An IP65-rated scanner is fully dustproof and ideal for industrial settings with frequent cleaning, outdoor use, or exposure to water splashes. IP67 offers the same level of dust protection but adds the ability to withstand short-term submersion in water. If there's a risk of the device being dropped into water, IP67 is the safer choice.
Q3: Can barcode scanners get wet?
Yes, but only if they have the appropriate IP rating. Look for at least IP65 for water resistance.
Q4: What is the highest IP rating for a barcode scanner?
Some industrial models offer IP68, which allows for long-term water submersion under pressure.
Q5: Are all rugged barcode scanners waterproof?
Not necessarily. "Rugged" often implies drop resistance and durability, but water protection depends on the specific IP rating.
