Most modern phones are described as water resistant, but that label is often misunderstood.
IP ratings describe how well a phone resists dust and water under controlled laboratory conditions. They are useful, but only if you understand what they test, what they leave out, and how that translates to everyday use.
What is an IP rating?
IP stands for Ingress Protection. An IP rating is made up of two digits:
- The first digit refers to protection against dust and solid particles
- The second digit refers to protection against water
Higher numbers indicate stronger protection, but the numbers only apply to specific test conditions, not real-world use.
What IP ratings actually test (and what they do not)
IP ratings are assigned after laboratory testing. Phones are typically tested in fresh water, at controlled temperatures, and with new, undamaged seals.
They are not tested for salt water, chlorinated pools, steam or humidity, drops after water exposure, or long-term wear and tear. Treat IP ratings as protection against accidents rather than a guarantee.
Understanding the numbers
Dust protection (first digit)
5 means limited dust protection. 6 means the device is completely dust tight under test conditions.
Water protection (second digit)
4 means protection against splashes. 5 means protection against water jets. 7 means temporary immersion (up to 1 metre for 30 minutes). 8 means deeper or longer immersion, defined by the manufacturer.
There is no universal depth/time standard for IPX8 or IP68 beyond “better than IPX7/IP67”. Manufacturers define the exact conditions.
Common IP ratings you will see on phones
IP54
Limited dust protection and protection against splashes. Suitable for rain and light spills, not immersion.
IP65
Dust protected and resistant to water jets. Provides good everyday durability but does not protect against submersion.
IP67
Completely dust tight and protected against temporary immersion. Enough for most accidental drops into water.
IP68
Completely dust tight and protected against deeper or longer immersion. The highest mainstream rating for smartphones, but still not designed for intentional underwater use.
IPX8
Water resistance tested only. The X means the phone has not been officially tested for dust resistance. This is most common on foldable phones where hinges make full dust sealing difficult.
IP67 vs IP68: does the difference matter?
For most people, the difference is smaller than marketing suggests. IP67 already protects against common accidents. IP68 adds extra margin, not a guarantee.
Neither rating makes a phone safe for swimming, sea water, regular submersion, or high-pressure water.
Common IP rating misconceptions
- Water resistant does not mean waterproof.
- IP rated phones are not designed for underwater use.
- Water resistance can degrade over time, especially after drops or repairs.
- Liquid damage is almost always excluded from manufacturer warranty cover.
Should IP rating influence which phone you buy?
IP rating matters most if you are accident prone, spend time outdoors, or keep phones for several years. It matters less if you always use a protective case or rarely use your phone near water.
For many buyers, IP67 or IP65 is sufficient, and paying extra solely for IP68 is not always good value.
If you are weighing up a few models, it can help to browse mobile phones and compare the exact rating and any manufacturer notes side by side.
What IP ratings do not protect against
Even the highest rating does not protect against salt water corrosion, chlorinated pools, steam and humidity, internal damage from repeated exposure, or age-related seal degradation. Water resistance should be treated as insurance, not a feature to rely on daily.
Summary
IP ratings reflect laboratory tests rather than real-life use. Higher numbers mean stronger protection under specific conditions. IP65 is good for everyday durability. IP67 is enough for most accidental water exposure. IP68 provides additional protection but no guarantee. IPX8 means water tested but not dust tested. Water damage is rarely covered by warranty.
