Water Resistant vs. Waterproof: Understanding the Difference
Understanding Water Resistance in Gadgets
The terms water-resistant and waterproof are frequently used when discussing electronic devices, however, this doesn't imply that these gadgets can be casually submerged in water.
It's crucial to understand that water resistance is distinctly different from being truly waterproof.
A Broader Look at Water Resistance
Previously, a detailed examination of the naming conventions and standards governing the testing and manufacturing of water-resistant devices was conducted.
This article provides a simplified explanation, ideal for individuals seeking a general understanding of water resistance without extensive technical details.
Key Considerations Regarding Water Resistance
Here are the most important aspects to be aware of when it comes to water resistance and your electronic devices:
- Water resistance is a level of protection, not complete immunity to water damage.
- The degree of water resistance varies significantly between devices.
- Exposure to water beyond a device’s specified resistance level can lead to failure.
Water-resistant gadgets are designed to withstand limited exposure to water, such as splashes or brief immersion.
However, they are not intended for prolonged submersion or use in high-pressure water environments.
Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications to determine the precise level of water resistance offered by a particular device.
Understanding Water Resistance in Gadgets
Each year, a significant number of consumers damage their devices, believing they are fully protected against water, due to both unclear marketing and a lack of consumer awareness. A solid grasp of water-resistance fundamentals is crucial for safeguarding your electronics and making informed purchasing decisions for active lifestyles.
A critical point to recognize regarding "waterproof" claims is that true waterproofing is largely a myth perpetuated by marketing. No gadget currently available is genuinely waterproof. Any device – be it a phone, smartwatch, fitness tracker, GPS unit, or portable speaker – advertised as "waterproof" should more accurately be described as "Water-resistant, within the limits defined by the manufacturer."
The Illusion of Waterproofing
The concept parallels claims of "earthquake proof" construction. It’s impossible to create a building entirely immune to seismic activity. Even the most robust and meticulously engineered structures will eventually succumb to an earthquake of sufficient magnitude and duration. Water-resistance operates under the same principle.
All so-called "waterproof" gadgets have limitations. These devices will fail if submerged for an extended period, taken to excessive depths, or exposed to water temperatures outside the manufacturer’s specified range. This causes the device’s seals to compromise, allowing water ingress.
Understanding these limitations is vital for protecting your investment and ensuring your gadgets perform as expected.
Understanding Water Resistance in Your Devices
With the ambiguity surrounding the term "waterproof" now clarified, it’s important to grasp the true meaning of water resistance. Manufacturers frequently assert that their devices possess water-resistant capabilities, however, verifying these claims requires examining their specific definition of this resistance.
Two primary systems are employed to communicate a device’s level of water resistance: the Atmospheres (ATM) rating and the IP (Ingress Protection) rating. These two ratings are seldom utilized concurrently.
ATM Ratings: A Historical Perspective
You will most often encounter ATM ratings on wearable fitness trackers and similar devices. This is because the ATM rating originated with the development of water-resistant watches.
ATM ratings indicate the static pressure a watch can withstand. One ATM equates to approximately 10 meters of water depth, but this is a theoretical value.
IP Ratings: The Modern Standard
The IP rating is the more prevalent method for classifying water resistance in larger gadgets, such as smartphones and Bluetooth speakers.
The IP rating consists of two digits. The first digit represents protection against solid particle ingress (dust), while the second digit indicates protection against water ingress.
- IP67: Protected from dust and capable of withstanding immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- IP68: Protected from dust and capable of withstanding immersion in water to a depth greater than 1 meter. The specific depth and duration are specified by the manufacturer.
It’s crucial to remember that these ratings are determined under specific laboratory conditions. Real-world conditions, such as moving water or soap, can affect a device’s actual water resistance.
Important Considerations
While a device may have a certain IP or ATM rating, it doesn't guarantee complete protection against water damage. Factors like seals degrading over time can compromise water resistance.
Always consult the manufacturer’s documentation for specific details regarding the water resistance of your gadget and any limitations that may apply.
Understanding Water Resistance: The ATM Rating System
The concept of "waterproof" electronics is often perplexing, and the interpretation of ATM ratings has been a source of misunderstanding for a considerable time. Many watches and fitness trackers display markings such as "5 ATM" or "Water-Resistant to 50 Meters" on their casings.
However, numerous individuals have experienced failure of their supposedly "waterproof" devices in situations far less demanding than scuba diving – even during simple activities like jumping into a swimming pool.
What Does ATM Actually Mean?
The core of the confusion lies in the precise meaning of "5 ATM" or "50 meters." This specification doesn’t guarantee water resistance in all scenarios at a depth of 50 meters.
Instead, it signifies that the device’s seals can withstand the static water pressure experienced at 50 meters below the surface when the device is stationary.
Consider a scenario involving water skiing. The impact of water against the device during a fall generates a pressure significantly greater than the static pressure at 50 meters depth. Consequently, water ingress is a distinct possibility.
Dynamic vs. Static Pressure
It’s crucial to differentiate between static and dynamic water pressure. Static pressure increases linearly with depth, while dynamic pressure is influenced by movement and impact.
ATM Ratings: A Hierarchy of Protection
Generally, a higher ATM rating indicates superior water resistance. If you are choosing between two devices with comparable features, but one boasts a 10 ATM rating and the other a 5 ATM rating, prioritize the higher rating.
Don't question the necessity of a 10 ATM rating if your primary activity is swimming laps. Recognize that the increased protection offers a greater margin of safety, as recreational water activities can subject a device to stresses comparable to, or even exceeding, those encountered at significant depths.
- 5 ATM (50 meters): Suitable for showering, swimming in shallow water.
- 10 ATM (100 meters): Appropriate for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
- 20 ATM (200 meters): Designed for scuba diving and high-impact water sports.
Important Note: Even with a high ATM rating, regular maintenance and inspection of seals are recommended to ensure continued water resistance.
Understanding Water Resistance Through IP Ratings
The IP rating system, while intended to clarify device protection, can often be perplexing. This Ingress Protection code represents an internationally recognized standard. It defines the degree to which an object is safeguarded against both solid particle intrusion and liquid ingress.
The rating is expressed as IPXY, where 'X' denotes protection against physical intrusions, and 'Y' signifies resistance to liquids. Generally, a higher numerical value indicates a greater level of protection for your equipment.
While ratings such as IP12 are technically possible, consumer electronics rarely display ratings below IP56. An IP56 rating suggests near-total dust protection and defense against water jets.
Manufacturers striving to create “waterproof” devices commonly target an IP68 rating. This signifies “dust tight” operation and the ability to withstand immersion in water beyond 1 meter, as defined by the manufacturer’s specific parameters.
The iPhone 7, for example, carries an IP67 rating, meaning it is dust tight and can be immersed in up to 1 meter of water.
A key source of confusion lies in the phrase "conditions specified by the manufacturer." These conditions can differ significantly, impacting real-world performance.
For a more comprehensive understanding of both ATM and IP ratings, we recommend exploring our article, How Water Resistance Ratings Work for Gadgets. It provides a detailed breakdown and charts illustrating each certification level and its practical implications.
Key Takeaways Regarding IP Ratings
- IP stands for Ingress Protection.
- The first digit (X) relates to solid particle protection.
- The second digit (Y) relates to liquid ingress protection.
- Higher numbers indicate greater protection.
- Manufacturer-specified conditions are crucial to understand.
Understanding these ratings empowers consumers to make informed decisions about the durability and suitability of their electronic devices.
Understanding Water Resistance in Popular Gadgets
Determining the water-resistance capabilities of electronic devices can be complex. While a comprehensive list for every gadget isn’t feasible, this article clarifies the ratings of commonly used devices, providing insight into what these ratings signify in practical scenarios.
We will begin by examining devices frequently exposed to water during normal operation.
Fitness Trackers: A Closer Look
The growing popularity of wearable technology has led to widespread use of fitness and activity trackers. Though many Fitbit models are available, water-resistance varies across the brand’s product line. The Fitbit Flex and Charge possess only an ATM 1 rating.
Despite product page claims of submersion up to 10 meters, Fitbit’s official help resources state that this 1 ATM rating isn’t sufficient to withstand the pressures encountered during swimming. This discrepancy between marketing materials and support documentation can be confusing for consumers.
Even the Fitbit Charge, boasting a 5 ATM rating, isn’t recommended for swimming or watersports. Jawbone, conversely, adopts a more transparent approach, labeling its devices as “Splash-Proof” to accurately reflect their water resistance.
The Jawbone UP2, UP3, and UP Move all achieve a 5 ATM rating, ensuring protection against splashes, sweat, rain, and showers. However, they remain unsuitable for swimming, diving, or watersports, mirroring the Fitbit recommendations.
Interestingly, Misfit Shine and Flash devices are approved for swimming despite carrying 5 and 3 ATM ratings, respectively. This support for swimming is attributed to the devices’ unique portless design, relying on coin cell batteries and Bluetooth synchronization.
Smart Watches and Water Exposure
Smart watches, often expensive and frequently exposed to water, require robust water-resistance features. Accidental exposure during handwashing or showering is common, making this a crucial consideration.
Pebble, Pebble Steel, and the Pebble Time are all rated for 5 ATM, providing adequate splash protection for everyday activities like kitchen cleaning and showering.
Most Android Wear watches meet at least IP55 standards (dust protected and splash resistant), with many popular models achieving IP67 (dust tight and water-resistant up to 1 meter for 30 minutes). This includes the Moto 360, Samsung Gear, Gear 2, and Gear S.
The Apple Watch Series 1 carries an IPX7 rating, indicating submersion resistance up to 1 meter. The Series 2, however, offers water resistance up to 50 meters.
As with fitness trackers, it’s advisable to avoid deliberately testing the limits of your watch’s water resistance. Nevertheless, the ratings provide reassurance that the device will likely survive routine exposure to water.
Smartphones: Increasing Water Resistance
Water-resistant smartphones are becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly following the release of the water-resistant iPhone 7. As smartphones evolved into primary cameras and social media tools, manufacturers began prioritizing water resistance for outdoor use.
Smartphone manufacturers utilize the IP rating system to specify both physical and liquid protection. A rating of IP67 is now considered the minimum acceptable standard for devices potentially exposed to water.
Related: What's the Best Way to Waterproof My Phone?
The iPhone 7 features an IP67 rating, while some Android phones, like the Galaxy S7 and various Sony Xperia models, achieve IP68. Prior to the iPhone 7, Apple didn’t formally pursue IP ratings.
However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the iPhone 6’s improved port gaskets and sealing offer splash protection and survival from brief submersion. Despite this, the iPhone isn’t officially water-resistant, and a protective case is recommended for use near water.
Bluetooth Speakers: Designed for Water Exposure
Bluetooth speakers frequently receive IP designations, often intended for use in environments like beaches and poolside areas. Unlike other gadgets where water resistance is a safeguard, speakers are often designed for direct water exposure.
The Braven line offers highly water-resistant speakers, such as the BRV-1 (IPX7 rated), highlighted in guides to Bluetooth speakers. The BRV-1 has proven its water resistance as a shower sound system.
Some manufacturers, like Nyne with the Aqua speaker, combine splash proofing with floating capabilities, allowing the speaker to remain buoyant in the pool.
In conclusion, prioritize the highest available water resistance rating and carefully review the manufacturer’s specifications. For additional information, explore How Water Resistance Ratings Work for Gadgets. If you require temporary waterproofing for small electronics, consider using dry bags.
Image Credits: Kristin Nador, Misfit, Jawbone, Sony.