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Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant Phone Cases: What IP Ratings Mean

IPX8 does not mean every phone case can go to the same depth or stay underwater for the same time. Compare the exact conditions, closure and device rating.
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“Waterproof” is not a rating. To compare phone cases, look for an IP code and the maker’s specific limits for depth, time, closure and use. The first digit covers solids and dust; the second covers water. An IPX8 label, for example, says nothing about solids protection, and it does not tell you a universal safe depth or duration.

What does an IP rating mean?

IP stands for ingress protection. The code describes an enclosure’s protection against solids and liquids under specified test conditions. In a code such as IP68, the first digit refers to solids and dust, while the second refers to water. The X in IPX8 means the code supplies no solids-protection rating in that position; it does not mean the product has no protection.

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Google’s phone IP-rating explainer describes IP67 as dust-tight protection plus water level 7, and IP68 as dust-tight protection plus water level 8. Read the code alongside the product’s own instructions: the words “waterproof” and “water-resistant” alone do not specify a test or a real-world use limit.

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What do IPX7 and IPX8 mean for immersion?

IPX7 is associated with temporary immersion up to one metre for 30 minutes. IPX8 covers continuous immersion in conditions more severe than IPX7, but the precise conditions are specified by the product maker. There is no single depth or duration that applies to every IPX8 case.

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The Google explainer describes IPX8 as immersion beyond one metre with depth and time set by the manufacturer. A European Union ecodesign regulation describes level 7 as temporary immersion at one metre and level 8 as continuous immersion at one metre or more. These definitions help explain the rating vocabulary; the individual product’s stated conditions still govern how to use it.

Why the case’s rating is not the phone’s rating

A case rating applies to the case under its stated conditions. It does not upgrade the phone’s own rating or establish that the phone inside can withstand the same pressure. Sea to Summit, for example, gives its TPU smartphone and accessory cases an IPX8 rating equivalent to water pressure at 10 metres for up to one hour when properly closed, but explicitly warns that this does not guarantee the stored electronic device can withstand that pressure. The company also says those storage products are not designed for intentional submersion. See its case-use guidance.

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Phone makers publish separate claims for their devices. Apple lists different controlled-laboratory limits across iPhone families: its newer listed models reach up to 6 metres for 30 minutes, iPhone 11 Pro models up to 4 metres for 30 minutes, and iPhone 11 and XS models up to 2 metres for 30 minutes. Older listed models include IP67 protection up to one metre for 30 minutes. These are Apple’s phone claims, not case ratings. Check Apple’s current iPhone splash, water and dust resistance guidance for your model.

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How to compare phone cases

Compare the maker’s actual limits and instructions, not just the label. A useful checklist is:

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  • ADJUSTABLE LANYARD: Comes with a detachable lanyard from 13.8 to 21 inches providing various choices for the length you prefer—lifestyle by crossing your body or around your neck
  • Protection mode: Is the claim about splashes, spray or jets, or immersion?
  • Exact conditions: What depth, duration and other test conditions does the maker state? For IPX8, look for the product-specific limits.
  • What was tested: Is the rating for the phone, the case, or both independently?
  • Fit and closure: Does the case fit your phone model, and how must it be sealed?
  • Condition and care: What damage can compromise protection, and how should you inspect or test the seal?
  • Warranty: Check the phone and case makers’ actual coverage and exclusions rather than assuming a rating guarantees reimbursement for liquid damage.

For example, Seawag says its smartphone cases are IPX8 and were tested to 25 metres (80 feet) for 20 minutes, provided the case is correctly sealed and undamaged. Those are the maker’s stated conditions, not an independent comparison with other cases. Seawag recommends inspecting the case and periodically testing it with dry material inside before use; its warranty terms also exclude damage to devices placed inside the case. Its usage instructions say touchscreens generally do not function underwater.

What water-resistant and waterproof claims do not guarantee

Lab ratings do not promise protection in every real-world situation. Water type, pressure, wear, impact or a faulty seal may matter, and a product’s published rating is not blanket permission to submerge it. Google notes that laboratory ratings do not guarantee performance in all circumstances.

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Apple says iPhone water resistance is not permanent and may decrease with normal wear. It advises against intentionally submerging an iPhone, swimming or bathing with it, and exposing it to pressurized or high-velocity water, including showers and water sports. Apple also says liquid damage is not covered under its warranty. Follow the guidance for your own phone model, even if you add a case.

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Using a pouch as an extra barrier

A waterproof pouch can add a layer of protection for an activity, but it has its own seal, model fit, depth and time limits, damage risks and instructions. It does not change the phone’s IP rating. Use a pouch only within its maker’s stated conditions, and inspect and close it as directed. A case’s IP label alone does not establish that every phone inside it is safe to submerge.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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