Is my Apple Watch waterproof?
The very first Apple Watch dates back to 2014. After the Apple Watch 1, Apple has released several other models and we are now already at the Apple Watch 7. Over the years, this smartwatch has been further developed and has many new innovative features. But which watch can you go swimming with and which one is not water-resistant at all? You can read it in this blog from SB Supply!
Waterproof or water resistant?
It's important to know the difference between waterproof and water resistant, especially when it comes to expensive tech like the Apple Watch. Because there are currently so many different models of Apple Watches, it is difficult to remember which watch has which level of water resistance. The difference between waterproof and water resistance is as follows: Waterproof offers a complete barrier to water and water resistance makes it difficult for water to get through, but it is still possible. This is also known as splash-proof. To be sure of all this, we need to look at the IPX code of the Apple Watch. Items with an IP certificate are tested according to very precise criteria, so you know exactly how waterproof your Apple Watch is. The value of the IPX code goes from 0 to 9K. In the table below you can see what these values mean:
Water resistance - IPX code 0 to 9K
|
Value |
Description |
Test |
|
0 |
No protection | - |
|
1 |
No damage when subject to verticel falling drops |
Time: 10 minutes |
|
2 |
No damage if subject to falling drops on a 15° tilted device |
Time: 10 minutes |
|
3 |
No damage when sprayed at an angle -60° up to 60° | Time: 10 minutes Water: 0.07 liters per minute per nozzle |
|
4 |
No damage when sprayed at any angle |
Time: 10 minutes |
|
5 |
No damage if sprayed at any angle, 6.3mm gap |
Time: 15 minutes Water: 12.5 liters per minute |
|
6 |
No damage if sprayed at any angle, opening 12.5mm |
Time: 3 minutes Water: 100 liters per minute |
|
7 |
No water ingresses if submerged one meter deep in water |
Time: 30 minutes |
| 8 |
Remains usable under water under conditions specified by the manufacturer. The maximum depth is probably more than one meter, but other factors such as temperature and environment can also play a role. |
Time: as agreed with manufacturer |
|
9K |
Remains usable at more than 90% humidity or high pressure watering |
Time: 2 minutes Pressure: 8-10 MPa |
Are Apple Watches waterproof?
The Apple Watch Series 1 and Apple Watch (1st generation) are splash-proof, so if you have one of these two, it is not recommended to submerge these in water. These watches meet the water resistance rating of IPX7. All models that come after are waterproof, to a depth of 50m. So the Apple Watch Series 2 and newer have a water resistance rating of IPX8. So if you have a newer version of Apple Watch, you are able to track your swimming laps with your watch and you can share how many calories you burnt with your friends. To make it all a bit clearer for you, here's a clear overview.
- Apple Watch Series 1: splashproof (IPX7)
- Apple Watch Series 2: waterproof up to 50m (IPX8)
- Apple Watch Series 3: waterproof up to 50m (IPX8)
- Apple Watch Series 4: waterproof up to 50m ( IPX8)
- Apple Watch Series 5: waterproof up to 50m ( IPX8)
- Apple Watch SE: waterproof up to 50m (IPX8)
- Apple Watch Series 6: waterproof up to 50m (IPX8)
- Apple Watch Series 7: waterproof up to 50m (IPX8)
Which Apple Watch bands are waterproof?
Aside from the wide range of Apple Watches, Apple also offers many straps models for these watches. But are these also waterproof? This differs per material of the strap. The strap with classic buckle, the leather strap, the strap with modern buckle, the Milanese strap and the link bracelet are not waterproof or water resistant. So take a good look at your wristband before you jump into the pool.
The Silicone Sport Bands from Apple howerver, are waterproof, just like the Nike Sport B, Nike Sport Loops and the Apple Sport Loops. Are you looking for a new band for your Apple Watch? View the entire range of Apple Watch Bands by SB Supply!
What should I do if my Apple Watch gets wet?
If water splashes on your Apple Watch, wipe it with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. This prevents getting any scratches on your screen. Do not use any heat sources such as a hairdryer or any other drying devices.
With the Apple Watch 2 or newer it can withstand to be submerged up to 50m. Make sure to rinse your watch well with warm tap water after swimming. After this you should also dry it well with a cloth as mentioned above.
Your speaker may sound dull after your watch has been in contact with water. If this is the case, don't put anything in the openings (microphone or speaker port) of the device. Certainly not any metal or aluminum. Also, it is not wise to shake the watch to get the water out. It is important that you let the watch dry on its own. So put it in a place where there is no moisture. Charging your Apple Watch overnight can speed up the drying process.
Also be careful with perfume, shampoo and saunas. Apple strongly advises against exposing your Apple Watch to any of these products and environments. These can lessen the water resistance.
Make sure you protect your Apple Watch properly. View the entire range of Apple Watch protection from SB Supply.
Can water resistance decrease?
Yes, it can. Water resistance is not a permanent condition and can decrease over time. For example, the following situations can affect the water resistance of your Apple Watch and should be avoided:
- Dropping an Apple Watch or any other shocks.
- Exposing an Apple Watch to soap or soapy water.
- Exposing an Apple Watch to perfume, solvents, detergents, acids or acidic foods, insect repellent products, lotion, sunscreen, oil or hair dye.
- Exposing an Apple Watch to high water velocities, for example wearing your watch on a jet ski.
- Wearing an Apple Watch in a sauna or steam room.
It's also important to make sure to protect the screen of your watch. SB Supply also has screen protectors available for your watch.
Want to know more about the water resistance of your iPhone? Then read this blog: Is my iPhone waterproof?
Want to know more about the water resistance of your AirPods? Then read this blog: Are my AirPods waterproof?
