Designed and marketed by Apple Inc., the Apple Watch consists of an analog face with a numeric display and digital displays for time, date, step count, heart rate, and notifications. Its customizable face and interchangeable bands make the watch an item that users can show off to friends and family. But most users sometimes want to know if Apple Watch is waterproof.
Well, Apple Watch is water-resistant, but it is not waterproof. It can be worn while swimming and in the shower, but Apple recommends that users avoid getting the watch wet when washing their hands or taking a bath. While most people prefer to buy new Apple watches, some also settle for refurbished Apple watches.
Also, in some cases, if your watch is having trouble or shutting down abruptly, you should know how to restart Apple Watch. Similarly, if you are stuck with a frozen Apple Watch, you must know how to handle it.
You can also check the Apple watch buying guide if you plan to buy one. Before we get into the details of whether the Apple Watch is waterproof or not, let’s understand the IP and ISO ratings.
What is IP Rating?
Whether the Apple Watch is waterproof, each watch has an IP rating. It indicates the level of protection against dust and water. In addition, the International Protection Marking (IP) is a two-digit code that indicates the level of protection provided against intrusion and dust by enclosures. A watch’s IP rating is an international standard that measures how well a device protects against the intrusion of solid objects and/or liquids.
The first digit denotes protection against solid objects, and the second digit denotes protection against liquids. The IP rating is followed by a “+” (plus) or “-” (minus). An “X” after the digits indicates that the device is not protected against either solid objects or liquids.
The IP rating of the Apple Watch is “IPX7.” This means it is water-resistant to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
What is ISO rating?
An ISO rating is a standard used for testing water resistance. So, to know whether Apple Watch is waterproof or not, the ISO rating measures how much water can penetrate pores on the surface of a device without affecting it.
The water resistance ISO rating for the Apple Watch is 22810:2010. In addition, the company claims that you can drop your Apple Watch in “salted or muddy water” with up to 30 seconds of “freezing time.”
A Note About Apple Watch Water Resistance
So, is Apple Watch waterproof? Well, it is splash and water-resistant, but not waterproof. You can, for example, wear and use your Apple Watch during exercise or in the rain or even wash your hands with it on.
However, in the following situations, you should avoid using your Apple Watch:
- Swimming or diving in water deeper than 30 meters (99 feet)
- Showering or bathing with Apple Watch
- Exposing Apple Watch to pressurized water, high-velocity water, or corrosive liquids such as saltwater and chlorinated pool.
Note: You can use an Apple Watch while it is wet, but the screen may be difficult to see or you may experience other problems. If your Apple Watch gets wet and doesn’t dry out in a few hours, you should take it to an expert for repairs or replacement at the nearest Apple store.
Is Apple Watch Waterproof?
Yes, most Apple Watch models are waterproof – or if described better, they are water-resistant. This means they can be submerged in water at any depth, but it is recommended not to swim or dive with the Apple Watch on your wrist.
However, let’s check the details for every Apple watch.
Is Apple Watch Series 1 Waterproof?
Apple Watch Series 1 is splash, water, and dust resistant but not waterproof. It has a water resistance rating of IPX7 under IEC standard 60529. You can, for example, wear and use your Apple Watch in the shower or while washing your hands, but submerging it is not recommended.
So, is Apple Watch waterproof? If you’re still wearing a 1st generation Apple Watch or Series 1 watch, be careful – don’t submerge it underwater.
Is the Apple Watch Series 2 Waterproof?
The Apple Watch Series 2 is water resistant but not waterproof. That means it can be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. It’s also safe to wear while showering or washing your hands but submerging it is not recommended.
The best way to protect your watch is to wear it on the wrist you usually wear it on, and use common sense. However, Apple does caution that it should only be used within a 50 meter (164 feet) depth and not used at lower depths or high-velocity water activities like water skiing.
However, one of the long-term users of the Series 2 has spent most of their summer days in the pool with no issues, including fully submerging the watch and playing water games (splash-resistant) and cannon-balling.
Is the Apple Watch Series 3 Waterproof?
Is Apple Watch waterproof? The Apple Watch Series 3 is water-resistant to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This means that it may be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. However, Apple Watch Series 3 should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing, or other activities involving high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth.
Even though it is designed for pool use (swimming workout function), a few Series 3 fans saw their watches die after their inaugural swims, setting them back a couple of hundred dollars in repairs. All models of the Apple Watch are water-resistant. However, the Series 3 still has some features that make it less than ideal for swimming and other aquatic activities: its digital crown and side button are not watertight, and its microphone cannot be submerged underwater.
Is the Apple Watch Series 4 Waterproof?
Fortunately, the Catalyst waterproof watch case is available for the Apple Watch Series 4. It is rated IP68, meaning it is completely waterproof to a depth of more than 3.2 meters for up to 30 minutes and can be submerged in water indefinitely without damage. The apple watch case is made of a hard polycarbonate shell with a soft silicone lining. The improved water resistance is achieved with a new case design that incorporates an additional membrane underneath the display glass to prevent water from entering the watch.
The watch slides into the case from above and locks in place with strong magnets that are built into it. So, is Apple Watch waterproof? It is a significant improvement over the previous generation of Apple Watches, which were only rated IPX7.
Without the case, Apple Watch Series 4 can be submerged in water up to 50 meters deep. This is the same as previous versions of the Apple Watch and will work with most swimming activities, including shallow-water activities, swimming, surfing, and showering. Additional Apple Watch Series 4 features include a new electrical heart sensor that is designed to work for people with irregular heart rhythms.
Spending hours in the pool and sea while wearing theirs has had no effect for a few S4 users. Unfortunately, for one, they lost their S4 while surfing because of a broken band. Again, it has been discontinued by Apple, but refurbished models are still being sold and are regularly updated.
Is the Apple Watch Series 5 Waterproof?
The Apple Watch Series 5 is water-resistant, not waterproof. This means it can withstand some exposure to water, such as rain, and washing your hands. However, Apple Watch Series 5 should not be submerged in water, including seawater and tap water. Apple says the watch can survive being submerged in up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water for 30 minutes. But that doesn’t mean you should go swimming with it on. The watch is not intended for water activity – swimming, showering, or diving.
Apple has also discontinued the series 5 watch, but second-hand models are still available for purchase.
Is Apple Watch Series 6 & SE Waterproof?
The Apple Watch Series 6 & SE models are water-resistant but not waterproof. Apple does not recommend exposing Apple Watch to pressurized water, and the warranty does not cover damage caused by exposure to pressurized water. Apple’s definition of water resistance is IPX7 under IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standard 60529. This means that the Apple Watch can be submerged in up to 1 meter of freshwater for up to 30 minutes.
Apple Watch Series 7
Is Apple Watch waterproof? The Apple Watch Series 7 is water-resistant, not waterproof. It can withstand some splashes and brief immersion in water, but submerging Apple Watch Series 7 is not recommended.
If your Apple Watch is frequently dunked in water, it may have compromised its internals. The fine print for the watch excludes it from responsibility for damage caused by diving or swimming in high velocity water.
What To Do If I Swim with An Apple Watch?
Apple Watch wearers should avoid swimming with their watch as it is not water-resistant and may be damaged if submerged. If you swim with your Apple Watch, remove the watchband and dry it off as soon as possible.
When swimming with an Apple Watch, use a “water lock” to prevent accidental taps. Get different bands for your watch, including sport-specific bands. The company recommends that users avoid exposing the device to liquids and high humidity as it can cause damage to internal components. The watch is not meant to withstand “submersion beyond shallow depth,” Apple said.
Will Pool Chlorine Damage Apple Watches?
According to the company, Apple Watch models from Series 3-7 and SE is swim-proof and safe for swimming in chlorinated water. So, is Apple Watch waterproof? The term “swim-proof” means Apple Watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters, but it’s not meant for prolonged submersion in water. Instead, Apple says that the watch is water-resistant for 30 minutes in “swim-friendly” environments.
Apple recommends that you rinse your Apple Watch with fresh water after swimming in chlorinated water and then dry it off before using it again. The company also says to avoid exposing the watch to soaps, shampoos, pool chemicals, or saltwater. Apple does not provide warranty coverage for water damage. Apple Watches can withstand pool water if taken care of after swimming. Wristband choice is vital to prevent metal band damage from chlorination.
What Can I Use To Swim with Apple Watches?
You could use a few different things to swim with your Apple Watch. One option is to purchase a waterproof case for your watch. Another option is to purchase a watch band that is specifically designed for swimming. Maintaining the integrity of your watch comes down to post-swim care. You must ensure you take off your watch and allow it to dry out completely after swimming.
How to activate Water Lock
The Water Lock feature helps to protect your device from water damage. It is a feature of the original Apple Watch Series 2, or later that prevents water from activating the touchscreen.
To activate Water Lock mode, open your Control Center (swipe up from the bottom of the screen) and tap the water droplet icon. Once Water Lock is enabled, you’ll need to turn the Digital Crown on your watch until you begin to hear a series of beeps.
Once activated, the screen will turn off automatically after 30 minutes to prevent water damage. To disable Water Lock, simply hit the power button three times in quick succession or long-press it until a red light begins blinking.
When you turn off Water Lock, the watch will eject any water that remains in its speaker.
How To Clean an Apple Watch After Swimming/Bath
Swimming with an Apple Watch can cause water and sweat to accumulate inside the device, leading to malfunction. Cleaning an Apple Watch after swimming is necessary to avoid potential water damage. Before cleaning an Apple Watch, turn it off and remove it from its charger.
- If the apple watch band is not water-resistant, remove it.
- Wipe the watch clean with a lint-free cloth dampened with fresh water.
- Alternatively, hold the watch under a lightly running tap of warm fresh water for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Do not use soap or other cleaning products to clean your watch.
- Dry the watch front, back, and sides with a lint-free cloth
- Dry it off thoroughly before putting it back on.
Note: Apple warns that if you get your Watch wet. Do not try to dry it off with a towel; instead, use a hairdryer set on low or wait until it dries completely before putting it back on.
Cleaning Kit for an Apple Watch
You can also use the Premium Cleaning Kit for all your Apple Products. The cleaning kits are designed to safely clean your Apple products, including the new Apple Watch.
The kit for all Apple devices and accessories includes:
- premium microfiber cleaning cloth
- premium microfiber screen wipe
- premium microfiber lens wipes
- a bottle of our special blend of cleaning solution
Final thoughts On Are Apple Watches Waterproof
Be it the Samsung galaxy watch, Wear OS, Google pixel watch, or Apple Watch, users have many options to choose from. The Apple Watch is waterproof, making it more durable than before, and will cater to athletes who would use the device in areas with a lot of activity.
The consensus is that an apple watch model can withstand water for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter. Apple Watches are great smartwatches, but they are not sports watches. They are not built for sports. When you go swimming with the Apple Watch, it’s best to use a silicone or rubber band and close any apple watch app that is open, such as the Workout app.
When you’re done swimming, rinse off your Apple Watch with fresh water and dry it thoroughly before putting it back on your wrist.
FAQs
What are the best water sports for an Apple Watch?
Pool swimming, surfing, and water aerobics are the best water sports for an Apple Watch.
What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
Waterproof: the device can be submerged in water up to a particular depth. For example, Apple Watch Series 2 is IPX7 rated. That means it’s waterproof for 30 minutes at a depth of one meter.
Water-resistant: the device can withstand exposure to water, but it’s not waterproof. The Apple Watch Series 3 is rated as “water resistant” up to 50 meters.
Can You Shower with an Apple Watch?
You can shower with an Apple Watch, but avoid submerging it in water. Likewise, keep soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and perfumes away from your watch. You should also avoid wearing your best apple watch in a sauna or steam room.
How Long Can You Wear an Apple Watch in Water?
Apple Watch can be worn in water, but it is not recommended to wear it for more than 30 minutes at a time as the water can damage the watch. After use, Apple Watch should be rinsed with clean water to remove any potentially harmful chemicals.
