Everything you need to know before taking the plunge
Your Apple Watch boasts water resistance, but it is crucial to understand that it is not entirely waterproof. While you can confidently wear and use your Apple Watch during activities such as exercising (exposure to sweat is acceptable), strolling in the rain, and washing your hands, there are limits to its water resistance capabilities.
Are Apple Watches Waterproof?
Here’s an overview of the water-resistance ratings for different Apple Watch models:
- Apple Watch Series 1 and Apple Watch (1st generation) hold a water-resistance rating of IPX7 under IEC standard 60529.
- Apple Watch Series 2 and subsequent models feature an improved water-resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This enhancement allows for safe usage during swimming and other water-related activities.
- For those seeking even greater water resistance, the Apple Watch Ultra carries a remarkable rating of 100 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010 and complies with EN13319.
- In addition to water resistance, Apple Watch Series 7 and later models also boast an IP6X dust-resistant rating, safeguarding against dust and debris intrusion.
However, it’s essential to note that certain bands, including Classic Buckle, Leather Loop, Modern Buckle, Milanese, and Link Bracelet Bands, are not water-resistant. Hence, exercising caution and removing these bands before any water-related activities is advised.
By being mindful of these water-resistance ratings and adhering to the suggested guidelines, you can make the most of your Apple Watch’s capabilities while ensuring its longevity and reliable performance.
Can I wear my Apple Watch while scuba diving, swimming, or taking a shower?
If you own the Apple Watch Ultra, feel free to wear it and while engaging in recreational scuba diving up to depths of the 40 meters (130 feet). It is also suitable for other activities such as they swimming, showering, and water skiing.
The Apple Watch Series 2 and later models, they are suitable for use in shallow-water activities, and other including swimming in a pool or ocean. However, it’s essential to the avoid using models other than the Apple Watch Ultra for activities like diving, water skiing, or any other activities that in involve going below shallow depths or being exposed to high-velocity water.
As for the Apple Watch Series 1 and the 1st generation Apple Watch, they are splash- and water-resistant, but it is a not recommended to submerge these models in water.
What Precautions Should I Take While Wearing My Apple Watch?
Water-resistance is not a permanent the feature and may diminish over time. Please be aware that the Apple Watch cannot be rechecking or resealed for water-resistance. To ensure the longevity of your watch’s water-resistance, it’s essential to avoid the following
- Dropping your Apple Watch or subjecting it to any impact events.
- Exposing your Apple Watch to soap or soapy water, such as during showering or bathing.
- Contact with substances like perfume, solvents, detergents, acids, acidic foods, insect repellent, lotions, sun cream, oil, or hair dye.
- Exposing they models other than Apple Watch Ultra to high-velocity water, like water skiing.
- Wearing the Apple Watch while cliff diving or high diving.
- Wearing the Apple Watch in a steam room.
- Wearing the models other than Apple Watch Ultra in a sauna.
- For Apple Watch Ultra, avoiding use in a sauna above 55°C (130°F).
Taking these precautions will help maintain the water-resistance of your Apple Watch and ensure its proper functionality over time.
What to Do If Your Apple Watch Gets Wet?
To address water exposure on your Apple Watch, please follow these guidelines:
Use a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth to gently wipe off any water from your Apple Watch. Do not apply heat, use compressed air, or sprays.
After workouts or heavy sweating, make sure to clean and dry both your Apple Watch and its band, as well as your skin.
If you’ve been swimming with an Apple Watch Series 2 or later model, rinse it under lightly running, warm, fresh water and ensure thorough drying afterwards.
If the speaker on your Apple Watch sounds muffled after getting wet, refrain from inserting anything into the openings (such as microphone or speaker ports) and avoid shaking the watch to remove water. Instead, allow they watch to charge overnight, which can expedite the evaporation process.
Please note that on Apple Watch the Series 3 and later models, the barometric altimeter’s accuracy may be affected by water entering the air vent (for instance, during swimming). Once the water has evaporated, the altimeter’s normal performance will be restored.
By following these steps, you can help maintain the proper functioning Apple Watch even after exposure to water.
Apple Watch SE APPLE Watch SE 2 water resistant up to 50 Meters
Are you chosen the Apple Watch SE or the newer Apple Watch SE 2, you’re in luck. While you might miss out on a few health features compared to the top-end models, you won’t have to compromise on water resistance. Both Apple Watch SE models are rated to be water-resistant up to 50 meters. So, go ahead and enjoy swimming or relaxing in a hot tub – they should be more than capable of handling all but the most extreme water activities.
Apple Watch Ultra Water Resistant up to 100 Meters Review
Water-resistant up to 100 meters, the Apple Watch Ultra provides double the depth capacity compared to other Apple Watches, making it the ideal choice for avid divers. Notably, it comes equipped with a diving sensor, allowing you to monitor your dive depth, water temperature, and dive duration. Additionally, it supports the Oceanic+ app, which offers extra diving features, including undersea GPS tracking and a comprehensive diver’s logbook. While these features might exceed the requirements of most users, it’s commendable that Apple now offers a truly competent diving option.
Apple Watch 8 Water Resistant up to 50 Meters Review
The Apple Watch 8, like most older models, boasts water resistance up to 50 meters. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that water resistance can diminish as the watch ages. Therefore, newer versions generally offer improved water resistance. While the Apple Watch 8 comes with several upgrades compared to earlier iterations, these enhancements might not specifically enhance its performance in water-related activities.
Note About the water resistance Review
Apple watches differ from most electronics like iPhones, iPads, and other devices, as they don’t utilize the IP water resistance rating. Instead, they follow the standard watch rating system based on depth.
For instance, a 50-meter rating indicates it can endure the pressure found at that depth during lab tests (approximately 4.5 times the surface pressure). However, it’s essential to avoid testing it yourself, as doing so could harm your watch. Except for the specialized Apple Watch Ultra designed for divers, there’s no need for such tests.
If you require a smartwatch for scuba diving or freediving, opting for a model that doubles as a dive computer, like the Apple Watch Ultra or the Garmin Descent, would be more suitable.
Moreover, keep in mind that Apple Watches, in general, aren’t built to withstand frequent high-energy impacts. While it can handle activities like swimming, avoid wearing it during extreme sports such as water skiing or surfing. While it might endure a few such impacts, excessive high-velocity forces can compromise its water resistance, eventually damaging the watch.
