Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Tech Advisor warns that smartwatch water resistance ratings like 5ATM+IP68 don’t guarantee safety for swimming, especially in salt water or chlorinated pools.
- IP certification tests use only fresh, still water, while real-world conditions like seawater can cause severe internal corrosion and component damage.
- Even premium models like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 5 Pro can fail after ocean swimming, though some water-damaged devices may be repairable or covered under warranty.
Currently, most smartwatches come with a high IP rating, suggesting they’re largely waterproof. However, a recent incident highlights why swimming with one might not be the best idea.
A Reddit user named mangoed decided to swim in the sea, trusting that his Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, boasting a 5ATM+IP68 rating, could handle it. The ‘6’ represents full dust protection, and the ‘8’ signifies one of the highest water resistance levels, safeguarding against prolonged water immersion. The ‘5ATM’ rating implies resistance to pressure at a water depth of 50 meters. These features might suggest it’s safe for a brief ocean swim.
However, the reality is different. The watch unexpectedly stopped working after the swim. Upon returning home, the user discovered significant salt accumulation inside the device.
Further inspection revealed corrosion on the haptic motor and rust on some metal components. Fortunately, the user managed to clean and repair the watch, serving as a valuable cautionary tale.
What IP certification actually means
Many forget that IP certifications typically involve testing in clean, fresh, still water. This means that smartwatches can suffer damage when exposed to salty, chlorinated, or turbulent water.
Samsung’s website acknowledges the ratings of its smartwatches, noting that most models are suitable for swimming pools and shallow water. However, it includes several caveats, such as:
- “Do not stay submerged underwater”
- “Do not swim in fast-moving water”
- “Water resistance feature of Galaxy Watch/Fit is not permanent. Be sure to check water resistance regularly at an authorised Samsung Electronics service centre”
- “Disinfectants or salt in pool water or seawater can affect water resistance performance”
Thus, not only can ocean swimming affect your smartwatch, but pool visits might pose a risk too. Chlorinated water can harm sensitive smartwatch components or even cause short circuits, as Android Authority points out.
Reddit / mangoed
Other impurities, such as those in natural lakes, can similarly damage your devices. Despite manufacturer claims, most devices are not completely waterproof.
There are exceptions, like the Honor Watch 5 Pro, reportedly designed for both pool and ocean swimming, according to the maker. However, verification is challenging as the watch is currently available only in China.
Price does not guarantee protection. The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, owned by the Reddit user, is a high-end model, albeit older. Cheaper models typically offer even less protection and are definitely unsuitable for swimming.
Explore our recommended options in our compilation of the best smartwatches we’ve tested.
What to do if your watch stops working
If your smartwatch becomes non-responsive after water exposure, there might still be a chance to save it. The Reddit user managed to revive his watch by cleaning salt-encrusted parts with isopropyl alcohol, then drying and recharging it.
He also noted that most water likely entered through the microphone and pressure sensor openings. Sealing these areas might be possible before swimming, though it’s not advisable.
If repair isn’t an option, consider returning the device to the manufacturer if it’s under warranty. If the official specifications claim waterproofing, you might secure a refund or repair. Otherwise, it could be an expensive swim.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and adapted from German.
