Most newer iPhones are water resistant or waterproof. But these terms are often incorrectly used as synonyms of each other. What exactly is the difference? And is your iPhone water resistant, waterproof or neither?
These iPhones are water resistant
iPhones that are water resistant have a so-called IP67 certification. This means that your iPhone can stay under water for a maximum of 30 minutes and no more than one meter deep. For example, your iPhone can withstand a fall in the toilet. These iPhones are also dustproof. The following iPhones have an IP67 certification and are therefore waterresistant:
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE 2020
Predecessors of the iPhone 7 are not water resistant. If you have one of these iPhones, it is therefore recommended that you do not use them in the rain or place them in a damp place.
These iPhones are waterproof
iPhones with an IP68 certification are waterproof and therefore remain usable when you keep them under water. A waterproof iPhone should not go deeper than 3 meters under water. The following iPhones have an IP68 certification and are therefore waterclose:
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
You can safely use these iPhones during a heavy rain shower. If you drop one of these iPhones in the bath, it should survive. Apple has also continued this trend with the iPhone 12 series. Nevertheless, it is wise not to take your iPhone with you in very damp places, such as the sauna or swimming pool.
As your iPhone wears, the water resistance can also decrease. For example, if your screen is cracked, your iPhone is no longer waterproof. Therefore, do not look for danger, because you do not have an (automatic) guarantee against water damage.
More helpful tips
Do you want to know more? On iPhone read useful tips every day to get the most out of your iPhone. For example, you can read about the iPhone warranty or how to clean your iPhone properly. We also give you an overview of which iPhones support wireless charging.