Is my smartwatch water resistant?

“Is this smartwatch waterproof?” is usually not the first question asked. Anyone who is going to buy a smartwatch usually pays attention to how it looks, what functions the watch has and the battery life. However, if you want to keep your smartwatch on while swimming and during water sports or if you end up in a rain shower, it is also good to know whether your smartwatch is resistant to water.

In this article we explain how you can see whether your smartwatch can withstand a little water and what you should pay attention to when purchasing a smartwatch.

Can I swim with my smartwatch?

In order to be able to swim with your smartwatch, it must be at least IP68 or 10 ATM waterproof. Always check the manufacturer's manual before use.

Was bedeuten IP68 und 10 ATM?

Die Wasserdichtigkeit einer Smartwatch wird immer mit einem Code angegeben, einer IP-Klassifizierung oder durch ATM. Wie wasserdicht Ihre Smartwatch ist, erfahren Sie in der Bedienungsanleitung Ihrer Uhr.

Bei „normalen“ Uhren wird die Wasserdichtigkeit in ATM (oder Bar, oder Meter) angegeben, was für einen bestimmten (Wasser-)Druck steht, dem die Uhr standhalten kann.

Als die ersten Smartwatches auf den Markt kamen, musste dafür eine andere Bezeichnung verwendet werden. Elektronische Geräte - wie Smartwatches - sind noch empfindlicher gegenüber Wasser, Temperatur und anderen Umweltfaktoren als eine herkömmliche Uhr. Für sie gelten daher andere Anforderungen. Hierfür wurde die internationale Schutzart (IP-Code) geschaffen.

Jetzt, wo Smartwatches „ausgereifter“ sind und es immer mehr Hybriduhren mit intelligenten Funktionen gibt, wird die ATM-Bezeichnung für die Wasserdichtigkeit auch bei Smartwatches häufiger verwendet.

ATM bedeutet Atmosphäre und steht für die Intensität des Drucks. In der Tabelle können Sie sehen, für wie viele ATM, welche Aktivität geeignet ist.

What does the IP code stand for?

IP67 is the lowest level of protection for electronic equipment. It means high protection against dust, sand and other solid objects and some protection against the effects of water ingress. IP67 is approximately equivalent to 3 ATM (splash-proof).

The IP68 standard guarantees complete protection against dust ingress and, unless otherwise stated in the manual, resistance to splashes, rain and deliberate complete immersion.

The IP code is structured as follows: The first number (6) stands for 'Protection against ingress'. The higher the number (on a scale of 1-6), the better the protection. This concerns dust and dirt, tools, contact, etc. The number 6 here stands for completely dust-proof.

The second number (7 or 8) stands for 'Protection against moisture'. Here too, the higher the number (on a scale of 1-8), the better the protection. You can see the descriptions in the table below.

Unless otherwise stated, it is not advisable to press any buttons while your device is under water. This way, water can still enter and cause damage.

Can I shower with my smartwatch?

Now you might be thinking "Great, my smartwatch is IP67 waterproof and I can shower while wearing it". Unfortunately, there is a catch. Smartwatches with this IP code can indeed withstand a little water, but the IP67 Rating only means that the device is completely dustproof and can withstand 30 minutes of immersion in standing water.

Unfortunately, devices do not receive the rating of the highest test they pass. An IP67 score does not mean that IP61 to IP66 have also been achieved. And since these are spray tests, it is therefore not wise to shower with a smartwatch with this rating. But if you accidentally forget to take off your smartwatch, this will not immediately break the watch. 

If a smartwatch has multiple IP ratings, it may be possible. So pay close attention to this when purchasing a smartwatch, depending on what you want to be able to do with it. Always read the manufacturer's instructions and warranty conditions carefully.

Be careful with salt water and heat

As with regular watches, most tests are done with tap water at temperatures between 15 and 35 degrees Celsius. Seawater, but also chlorinated swimming pool water is often not covered by the warranty, unless otherwise stated. It is also not advisable to wear your smartwatch in a Turkish steam bath, sauna or hot tub.

Easily interchangeable watch straps for your smartwatch

Do you want to use your smartwatch more often in conditions where the watch comes into contact with moisture, for example when running or hiking outside? Then choose a watch with a strap made of plastic, rubber or textile. 

Many smartwatch brands have easily interchangeable straps, so that you can put on a nice, but non-waterproof leather strap for a night out. View all straps for smartwatches here. Watch.co.uk also has an extensive collection of straps for Apple Watch.

Want to know more about the water resistance of watches? 

Do you want to know more about the water resistance of watches? Then also visit our page about water resistance.