Introduction
A waterproof smartphone can be useful for people who want extra protection against rain, accidental spills, splashes and everyday exposure to water. Modern smartphones are available with different levels of water and dust resistance, but the term “waterproof” can sometimes be misleading.
Most phones marketed as waterproof actually offer a specific level of water resistance based on an IP rating. Understanding this rating can help you choose a smartphone that matches your daily needs.
In this guide, we explain what a waterproof smartphone means, how IP ratings work, the difference between IP67 and IP68, what water resistance can and cannot protect against, and what you should check before buying a water-resistant phone.
What Is a Waterproof Smartphone?
A waterproof smartphone generally refers to a phone designed to resist water entering its internal components under specified test conditions.
However, smartphones are usually water-resistant rather than completely waterproof. Their level of protection is commonly represented by an IP rating, such as IP67 or IP68.
The IP rating tells you how well the device is protected against solid particles such as dust and against water under defined laboratory conditions.
Therefore, when looking for a waterproof smartphone, it is important to check the phone's actual IP rating rather than relying only on the word “waterproof” used in marketing.
What Does an IP Rating Mean?
IP stands for Ingress Protection. An IP rating normally contains two numbers.
For example:
IP68
The first number represents protection against solid particles such as dust.
The second number represents protection against water.
The higher the relevant number, the greater the tested level of protection within that rating system.
First Digit: Dust Protection
The first digit indicates protection against solid particles.
A rating of 6 means the device is dust-tight under the applicable test conditions.
This is useful for smartphones because dust can enter openings such as ports, speakers and other areas and potentially affect components over time.
Second Digit: Water Protection
The second digit relates to protection against water.
Different water-resistance levels cover different conditions, such as dripping water, water sprays or immersion.
This is why two smartphones can both be water-resistant but offer different levels of protection.
IP67 vs IP68: What Is the Difference?
IP67 and IP68 are two commonly discussed ratings when choosing a water-resistant smartphone.
IP67 Smartphone
An IP67-rated smartphone provides:
- Dust-tight protection
- Protection against temporary immersion in water under specified test conditions
- Protection intended for accidental exposure to water within the manufacturer's specified limits
An IP67 phone can therefore provide useful protection against situations such as accidental drops into water, depending on the conditions and manufacturer's specifications.
IP68 Smartphone
An IP68-rated smartphone provides:
- Dust-tight protection
- Protection against immersion in water under specified test conditions
- A level of water protection defined by the manufacturer within the applicable IP testing framework
The exact depth and duration associated with an IP68 smartphone can vary by manufacturer and model.
Therefore, you should always check the individual smartphone's specifications instead of assuming that every IP68 phone has exactly the same water-resistance limits.
Is a Waterproof Smartphone Completely Waterproof?
No smartphone should automatically be considered completely waterproof simply because it has an IP rating.
An IP rating describes protection under specific testing conditions. Real-world situations can be different.
For example, exposure to:
- Chlorinated swimming-pool water
- Salt water
- Soap or detergents
- Hot water
- High-pressure water
- Repeated immersion
may not be covered in the same way as controlled IP testing.
The condition of the smartphone can also change over time because of normal wear, accidental drops, repairs or damage to seals.
Can You Use a Waterproof Smartphone in the Rain?
A water-resistant smartphone can provide additional protection when you are caught in light or moderate rain, depending on its rating and the manufacturer's instructions.
However, water resistance does not mean that you should intentionally expose the phone to unnecessary amounts of water.
If your phone becomes wet, dry the exterior carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions before connecting a charger or accessory.
Can You Take a Waterproof Smartphone Swimming?
It is generally not a good idea to intentionally take a smartphone swimming simply because it has an IP67 or IP68 rating.
Swimming involves conditions that can differ significantly from controlled laboratory testing. Water movement, chemicals, salt, pressure and repeated exposure can affect the device.
Always check the manufacturer's specific guidance before exposing a smartphone to a swimming pool, sea water or other bodies of water.
Does Water Resistance Last Forever?
Water resistance is not necessarily permanent.
A smartphone can experience normal wear and tear over time. Drops, cracks, repairs, opening the device, damaged seals and other physical changes may affect its resistance to water.
This means that a phone that was tested for water resistance when new may not provide exactly the same protection after years of use or physical damage.
Taking care of the device and avoiding unnecessary exposure to water can help reduce the risk of damage.
What Should You Look for in a Waterproof Smartphone?
If water resistance is important to you, consider these factors before buying.
1. Check the IP Rating
Look for the official IP rating in the smartphone's specifications.
Do not rely only on terms such as “waterproof,” “water-resistant” or “splash-proof.”
2. Check the Manufacturer's Conditions
The manufacturer's product page or user manual may provide additional information about water exposure, immersion, charging and other limitations.
3. Consider Dust Protection
Water resistance is only one part of smartphone durability.
A rating such as IP67 or IP68 also indicates a high level of protection against dust under the relevant testing conditions.
4. Check the Charging Instructions
Never assume that a wet charging port is safe to use.
If the phone or charging port is wet, allow it to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before connecting a charger.
5. Consider Your Daily Usage
If you frequently travel, work outdoors or live in an area with heavy rainfall, water resistance can be a useful smartphone feature.
However, you should still handle the phone carefully and avoid unnecessary water exposure.
Common Myths About Waterproof Smartphones
Myth 1: IP68 Means the Phone Can Go Anywhere Underwater
Not necessarily.
IP68 protection is based on specified testing conditions, and the exact conditions can vary between manufacturers and devices.
Myth 2: Water Resistance Means Water Damage Is Always Covered
Not necessarily.
Warranty policies and exclusions vary by manufacturer. Check the warranty terms for your particular smartphone.
Myth 3: An IP-Rated Phone Cannot Be Damaged by Water
An IP rating reduces the risk under specified conditions, but it does not guarantee that the phone will never suffer water damage.
Myth 4: Every IP68 Smartphone Has the Same Protection
No.
The specific conditions associated with an IP rating can vary, so always check the manufacturer's specifications for the particular model.
How to Protect Your Water-Resistant Smartphone
Even if your phone has a high IP rating, a few simple precautions can help:
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to water.
- Keep the phone away from salt water and chemicals.
- Do not charge the phone while the charging port is wet.
- Avoid using a damaged or cracked phone around water.
- Follow the manufacturer's drying instructions after water exposure.
- Check the user manual for specific water-resistance limitations.
- Use a protective case if you need additional physical protection.
Is a Waterproof Smartphone Worth Buying?
A water-resistant smartphone can be useful if you want additional protection from everyday accidents such as rain, splashes and accidental water exposure.
The most important thing is to understand that “waterproof” is commonly used as a simple term, while the actual protection level is determined by the phone's IP rating and manufacturer specifications.
Before buying a smartphone, compare its IP rating, build quality, specifications, warranty conditions and features with your everyday requirements.
Final Thoughts
A waterproof smartphone can offer useful protection against water and dust, but no IP rating should be treated as a guarantee that a phone is completely waterproof in every situation.
When choosing a water-resistant smartphone, check the IP rating carefully and understand what the manufacturer says about immersion, rain, charging and other types of water exposure.
For many buyers, features such as IP67 or IP68 protection can provide valuable additional durability. However, responsible handling is still important even when a smartphone has a high water-resistance rating.