When buying a smartphone, smartwatch, or wireless earbuds, you might see terms like IP67 or IP68 in the specifications. But what do these ratings mean? Understanding IP rating is essential if you want to know how well your device resists water and dust.
What Does IP Rating Mean?
IP stands for Ingress Protection. This rating system measures how well a device is protected against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). It consists of two numbers:
- The first digit (0–6) indicates protection against solid particles.
- The second digit (0–9) represents protection against liquids.
For example, an IP68 rating means a device is completely dustproof (6) and can withstand water immersion beyond 1 meter (8).
If an X appears instead of a number (e.g., IPX7 or IP6X), it means the manufacturer did not test for that type of protection. For example:
- IPX7: Tested for water resistance but not for dust protection.
- IP6X: Fully dustproof but not tested for water resistance.
IP Rating Chart
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the IP rating system:
| First Digit | Protection Against Solids | Second Digit | Protection Against Liquids |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | No protection | 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Protected against solid objects over 50 mm (e.g., accidental touch by hands) | 1 | Protected against vertically falling water drops |
| 2 | Protected against solid objects over 12.5 mm (e.g., fingers) | 2 | Protected against vertically falling water drops when enclosure tilted up to 15 degrees |
| 3 | Protected against solid objects over 2.5 mm (e.g., tools, thick wires) | 3 | Protected against spraying water at an angle up to 60 degrees from the vertical |
| 4 | Protected against solid objects over 1 mm (e.g., most wires, screws) | 4 | Protected against water splashed from any direction |
| 5 | Dust protected; limited ingress permitted but not harmful | 5 | Protected against water jets from any direction |
| 6 | Dust tight; complete protection against dust | 6 | Protected against powerful water jets |
| 7 | Protected against temporary immersion in water (up to 1m, 30 min) | ||
| 8 | Protected against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer | ||
| 9 | Protected against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets |
Source: IEC – For more detailed information, visit the IEC’s official page here
Why Is the IP Rating Important?
Understanding the IP rating helps consumers make informed decisions based on their environment and usage. For instance, if you plan to use a device outdoors or in wet conditions, a higher IP rating ensures better protection against dust and water ingress.
Keep in mind:
1-Not All IP68 Devices Have the Same Water Resistance
Even if two devices have the same IP rating, their actual water resistance may vary. This is because the IEC standard does not specify a fixed depth for IPX8 devices. Instead, manufacturers determine their own test conditions.
For example:
- iPhone 13 (IP68) can survive 30 minutes at 6 meters of depth.
- iPhone 11 (IP68) is only rated for 30 minutes at 2 meters.
This difference happens because manufacturers use their own testing conditions beyond the IEC’s minimum requirements for IPX8. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before assuming water resistance levels.
2-Water Resistance Weakens Over Time
Even if a device has an IP rating, water resistance can deteriorate over time due to:
- Wear and tear on protective seals.
- Drops and impacts that compromise water resistance.
- Exposure to high temperatures that weaken adhesives.
3-Salt Water and Liquid Damage Warranties
Most manufacturers, including Apple, explicitly state that:
- Saltwater, chlorine, and other liquids can cause damage.
- Warranty does not cover liquid damage, even if the device has an IP rating. See Apple’s official statement here.
This means submerging your phone in salt water or a pool might permanently damage it, despite having a high IP rating.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the IP rating of a device can prevent costly mistakes. Whether you need protection against dust, rain, or accidental drops in water, checking the rating before buying is always a smart move. However, no rating guarantees permanent water resistance. Always use caution, even with IP-rated devices, especially if they are old.