Apple Watches are great devices for sports, adventure, fitness, and more. However, one thing that always confuses users is whether their Apple Watch is waterproof or not. After all, you don’t want to damage your expensive device by accidentally getting it wet. Hence, in this guide, we got all the details you need to use Apple Watch in Water.
Is your Apple Watch Waterproof?
The answer to whether Apple Watches are waterproof or not is tricky. Since Apple Watch is an electronic device the term waterproof isn’t used for it. The term Apple uses while describing Apple Watch is water-resistant. This means that the Apple Watch can withstand water exposure to a certain degree, but not indefinitely or under all conditions. So, based on their Water resistivity all Apple Watch models are given ratings. Here’s the list of all Apple Watch models with their Water-resistant rating:
Apple Watch Water-Resistant Ratings
- Apple Watch Series 1 and 1st generation Apple Watch have a water resistance rating of IPX7 under IEC standard 60529. This means that they can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. However, Apple does not recommend swimming or bathing with these models.
- Apple Watch Series 2 to Series 8 has a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010 which means you can wear these watches for shallow-water activities like swimming. However, they are prone to damage caused by activities like scuba diving, and waterskiing, that involve high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depths.
- Moreover, Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 3 and later generations also have a built-in water lock feature that prevents accidental taps on the screen. To activate this feature, swipe up on the watch face and tap the water drop icon. To deactivate it, turn the Digital Crown until you hear a series of beeps and feel a vibration.
- Apple Watch Ultra on the other hand is the most water-resistance Apple Watch which has a rating of 100 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010 and is EN13319-compliant.
Which Apple Watch Bands are Water-Resistant?
If you are using Apple Watch underwater, you should wear water-resistant bands like Braided Solo Loop, Ridge Loop, or Alpine Loop. Avoid using Classic Buckle, Leather Loop, Modern Buckle, Milanese Loop, and Link Bracelet Bands while going near water because these bands aren’t water-resistant.
All Apple Watches are Water-resistant to some extent but not waterproof. You should always follow Apple’s guidelines on how to use your watch in water and how to dry it afterward. Also, avoid exposing your smartwatch to soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, perfume, solvents, detergents, acids or acidic foods, insect repellent, sunscreen, oil, or hair dye. These substances can affect the water resistance and acoustic performance of your watch.
Hope you got the answer to whether your Apple Watch is waterproof or not. Also, check out our other guides, such as Apple Watch Ultra compatible bands or the Best eco-friendly Apple Watch Bands.