Rainy season is here. Have you familiarized yourself with the IP waterproof ratings on phones?

Have you ever wondered about symbols like IP53, IP65, or IP68 and wondered what features they bring to your phone? Explore the waterproof standards on phones with 24h Technology in the article below!

Waterproof Standards on Phones - What is IP Waterproof Rating?

The IP (Ingress Protection) waterproof standard classifies and ranks the level of device protection against external environmental impacts by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) - a non-profit organization that sets standards for electronic devices around us, from home appliances, audio equipment, cameras, to smartphones.

Different standards will include different alphanumeric characters. Each code provides us with additional information about the durability and protective level of the device. To achieve an IP rating, your smartphone, tablet, or accessory must undergo independent testing and certification.

In general, the higher the IP rating, the better the waterproof and dustproof capabilities. However, you should know that manufacturers equip this feature on phones to prepare for unforeseen circumstances.

Apple also states that waterproof, water-resistant, and dust-resistant capabilities are not permanent and resistance may decrease due to normal wear and tear. Therefore, you should not solely rely on these ratings.

The Significance of Numbers in Their Names?

This ranking system comprises characters of letters or numbers. Each character indicates the level of protection against different impacts, typically in the form of IPXY, where X ranges from 0 to 6, and Y ranges from 0 to 8.

The first digit: It denotes the level of protection of the device against impacts from solid objects, starting from 1 (protection against accidental touches) to 6 (complete dust resistance). These solid objects include things like fingers, household tools, electrical wires, to dust. Below is a detailed explanation chart:

• Level 0: Smartphone cannot resist external intrusion.
• Level 1: Smartphone can resist large surface areas of the body, such as the palm; but does not protect against contact from a part of the body, such as a finger.
• Level 2: Smartphone is protected against fingers and similar-sized objects.
• Level 3: Smartphone can block tools, thick electrical wires.
• Level 4: Smartphone is protected against most electrical wires, screws.
• Level 5: Partially dustproof.
• Level 6: Completely dustproof and other agents.

The second digit: The second digit indicates the ability to resist water ingress, ranging from 1 (resisting condensed liquid) to 8 (withstanding water pressure at a depth of over 1 m). With specific specifications as follows:

• Level 0: No protection.
• Level 1: Can resist small water flow in a vertical direction.
• Level 2: Can resist small water flow at an angle not exceeding 15 degrees.
• Level 3: Resists direct water spray at a 60-degree angle to the device.
• Level 4: Resists direct water spray from all directions.
• Level 5: Resists low-pressure water. For example, from a nozzle with a diameter of 6.3 mm from all directions.
• Level 6: Resists water jet from a 12.5 mm diameter nozzle from all directions.
• Level 7: Protects the device when immersed in water up to 1 m deep for 30 minutes.
• Level 8: Protects the device when immersed in water deeper than 1 m and under various conditions.

Henceforth, we can observe the plethora of diverse waterproof standards applied in smartphones, showcasing their resilience. Let's delve into some prevalent waterproof standards today.

Common IP Standards Today

Presently, most smartphones boast various waterproof standards, indicating manufacturers' focus on device durability and enhancing user experience. Below are the commonly encountered standards in today's smartphone landscape.

• IP52 and IP52 Water Resistance Standards

Based on the aforementioned specifications, digits 2 and 3 can withstand direct splashes of water at 15 and 60 degrees respectively, at moderate levels. These IP52 and IP53 standards only offer protection against light rain or minor water splashes. Hence, direct submersion is not advisable. Smartphones with this feature predominantly belong to the budget segment.

However, IP standard tests are only accurate when the device comes in contact with freshwater. This implies that we cannot guarantee the safety of your device when submerged in other liquids such as coffee, beer, alcohol, soda, etc.

Typically, affordable and occasionally mid-range models feature this standard, such as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S and Redmi Note 10 Pro, listed with IP53 water/dust resistance.

Specifically, these two devices are not entirely dustproof, and cannot be submerged in a 'pool', but only help protect the device from light rain or minor water splashes.

• IP67 Waterproof Standard

The IP67 standard indicates that a smartphone device will be completely dustproof and capable of withstanding water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. However, these specifications are accurate only under standard laboratory conditions, meaning real-world performance may vary depending on the environment.

With standards from IP67 and above, most devices can still function normally if accidentally dropped into clean water but promptly retrieved and properly dried, or in common 'accidents' such as spills of filtered water, soft drinks, or beer on the phone, which typically do not cause easy damage to the device.

Although not reaching the maximum waterproof standard like IP68, the IP67 standard is still a premium feature that requires significant investment in technology and production lines from manufacturers. You can also find IP67 on high-end smartphones like the Galaxy A53.

Additionally, this waterproof standard is also integrated into many other devices such as smartwatches, electric control valves, personal health tracking devices, etc.

• IP65/68 Waterproof Standard

With the 65/68 specifications, your device is entirely dustproof. Regarding waterproofing standards, this device can protect components from water pressure and immersion under water up to a maximum depth of 1.5 meters for about 30 minutes.

This is also considered a relatively rare waterproof standard on today's smartphone products. The last time we encountered an IP waterproof standard on this phone was back in 2016 with the Xperia XZ series from Sony.

• IP68 Waterproof Standard

The IP68 waterproof standard indicates that these phones are designed to withstand dust at the highest level of 6 and can operate normally in water environments up to 1 meter deep with certain water pressure.

Although present on phones for many years, IP68 is still considered a feature exclusive to high-end devices.

A prime example is the iPhone 14 series, offering users premium IP68 water resistance. Now, you can comfortably go out in the rain or even if accidentally dropped into water, there's no need to worry.

Furthermore, the IP68 waterproof standard equipping the device also aids in dust resistance, enhancing durability and allowing for worry-free usage in harsh environments.

Conclusion

Here's everything you need to know about waterproof standards on phones. Hopefully, this article brings you valuable insights to choose your phone wisely!

Do you agree with this list? Feel free to leave your comments below!

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