You want to get a waterproof cell phone, but you're not sure which to get. We use ingress protection (IP) ratings to measure how water-resistant phones are. In this article, I'll explain what IP ratings are and tell you about the best waterproof phones!
Why Should I Get A Waterproof Phone?
There are a lot of reasons why you should consider getting a waterproof phone. Let's be honest — accidents happen. You or someone you know has probably dropped their phone in a pool or toilet, or accidentally spilled a drink onto their phone. Back in the old days, that would've meant death for your phone. However, today's waterproof phones are designed to survive such accidents, and save you quite a bit of money in the process.
Another benefit of a waterproof phone is the ability to use it when it's raining or snowing out. You won't have to run for cover if you need to answer the phone or send a text while it's precipitating!
Finally, if you workout regularly, a waterproof phone is a must. Sweat from exercise can damage your phone just like any other liquid. If you use wired headphones, sweat can run down the cable and get inside the headphone jack.
In summary — there are a lot of ways water or other liquids can damage your phone. Most modern smartphones are at least somewhat water-resistant, and getting one can help you avoid an expensive water damage repair or replacement fee.
What Are Ingress Protection Ratings?
Ingress protection (IP) ratings define how effectively sealed electrical ports and enclosures are from for substances like dust and moisture. IP ratings consist of two numbers. The first ranges from 0–6 and measures resistance to solid substances. The second ranges from 0–9 and measures resistance to liquids. The higher the number, the better the IP rating is.
These days, the most “waterproof phones” are rated IP68. This means that they are completely dust-resistant and can withstand being submerged in 1.5 meters of water for about 30 minutes.
For example, the iPhone 11 Pro is designed to be able withstand water submersion at a depth of up to four meters for a maximum of thirty minutes. The Samsung Galaxy S10 can be submerged in 1.5 meters of water for up to thirty minutes. Double-check the manufacturer specs to know your phones exact durability levels.
So These Phones Aren't Waterproof?
Technically speaking, these phones are water-resistant, not waterproof. In fact, liquid damage isn't covered by Apple or Samsung warranties.
The truth is that your “waterproof phone” will hold up fine if you use it the rain or have it in your pocket when someone pushes you in the pool. Just don't expect your phone to be in working condition if you drop it to the bottom of a lake!
Every phone we're recommending all have an ingress protection rating of IP68, as they are the most waterproof phones you'll find today.
Best Waterproof Phones
iPhone 11 Pro
As we mentioned earlier, the iPhone 11 Pro is water-resistant when submerged up to four meters in water for thirty minutes.
The 11 Pro is the first iPhone with a rear triple camera — one Telephoto lens, one Wide lens, and one Ultrawide lens. On top of that, you can record videos in 4K at 60 frames per second.
This phone has a 5.8 inch display, 24 hour battery life (talk time), and dual stereo speakers. It comes in four different colors and three storage variants — 64, 256, and 512 GB.
Your purchase includes a fast charger, which can charge your iPhone 11 up as much 50% in less than thirty minutes.
iPhone 11 Pro Max
It's like the iPhone 11 Pro, just bigger! The iPhone 11 Pro Max has the same water-resistance specs as the 11 Pro, as well as the same rear triple camera.
It comes in three different storage variants: 64, 256, and 512 GB. Some people were upset that there wasn't a 1 terabyte variant of this phone, but it really wasn't necessary. We believe 64 GB is enough for the average user!
The iPhone 11 Pro Max has a 6.5 inch display and a battery life (talk time) of up to thirty hours.
iPhone 11
If you're looking for a waterproof iPhone at a less expensive price, this might be the phone for you.
The iPhone 11 can withstand being submerged in up to two meters of water for thirty minutes. It has a 6.1 inch display, rear dual cameras, and a battery life (talk time) of up to 26 hours.
This iPhone has the new Ultra Wide lens and supports Night Mode, making it easier to take photos in dimly lit environments. It comes in six different colors with three different storage variants — 64, 128, and 256 GB.
Google Pixel 4
The Pixel 4 is the most recent release of Google's flagship phone. This phone has an IP rating of IP68, but Google doesn't specify beyond that. It's safe to assume that your phone will be fine if submerged in up to one meter of water for thirty minutes. Anything beyond that could get a bit risky!
This phone has a 5.7 inch display, rear dual camera, and a battery life (talk time) of up to 29 hours. The Pixel 4 is the first in its line to have a 128 GB variant in addition to the standard 64 GB.
One of the coolest features is Project Soli, Google's motion sense radar. Without even touching your phone, you can skip a song with a single wave of your hand. Want to mute a call? No problem, just wave your hand. There's much more you can do too!
Unfortunately, the Pixel 3a (our favorite Android) doesn't have an IP rating.
Samsung Galaxy S10
Like we mentioned earlier, the Samsung Galaxy S10 can be submerged in water for up to thirty minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters. The Galaxy S10 has a 6.1 inch, edge-to-edge display, rear triple camera, and a battery life (talk time) of up to 34 hours.
This phone's camera is especially powerful. It can record video in 4K at 60 frames per second and its Night Mode makes it easier to take photos in low-light environments.
It comes in four different colors with two storage variants: 128 and 512 GB.
Samsung Galaxy Note9
The Samsung Galaxy Note9 wraps up our list of the best waterproof phones. It can be submerged in water for up to thirty minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters.
Note: When researching this phone's specs, I found one article claiming this phone could be submerged in up to 30 meters of water. The odds of your phone surviving at that depth for any amount of time are very poor.
The Galaxy Note9 has 6.4 inch display, 12 megapixel camera, and a battery life (talk time) of up to 38 hours. It also comes with a stylus known as the S Pen, which has some excellent Bluetooth features.
We prefer the Note9 to the Note10 for a couple of reasons. The Note9 has similar (sometimes better) specs and it costs much less. Sometimes it simply isn't worth upgrading to the newest model of a phone!
iPhone 12
One of Apple's newest releases, the iPhone 12, is another great waterproof device for 2020. There are tons of amazing features and several ways you can personalize the phone for exactly what you want. For instance, there are five different color options and three different storage sizes for you to choose from. Prices for the iPhone 12 are dependent on your mobile carrier, but it typically starts around $800.
The iPhone 12 is one of the first iPhones with 5G network compatibility. The Ceramic Shield glass display helps to minimize damage in the event of an accident. With a water resistance rating of IP68, this device is dust proof and water proof when submerged up to 6 meters for 30 minutes.
iPhone 12 Pro
The iPhone 12 Pro is similar to the iPhone 12 in size, but many of its features are significantly upgraded. This device has four different finishes and three storage capacities to pick from. Like the iPhone 12, it can access 5G data.
The iPhone 12 Pro also supports wireless charging, a Ceramic Shield glass design, and the fastest processor available. The camera quality of this device is unprecedented, and its rear camera is equipped with three high resolution lenses.
This model is a bit more costly than the standard iPhone 12, but the added features make it worth the investment. Similar to the iPhone 12, the 12 Pro has a durability rating of IP68, so you won't have to worry about water resistance complications.
iPhone SE 2
If you're looking for a device with the same great features as newer iPhones, but without the hefty price tag, consider the iPhone SE 2. As always, pricing is dependent on your mobile carrier, but outright costs for this device typically range between $250 and $400. Some of the perks of the SE 2 include a 14 hour battery life, fast charging, and the same great processor found in newer iPhone generations.
This device has an ingress protection rating of IP67, meaning it's not waterproof, but it is dust and water resistant in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
Samsung Galaxy S20
The Samsung Galaxy S20 is one of the most powerful phones on the market right now. If the 28 hour battery life isn't enough to draw you in, perhaps the different color and storage options will be more convincing. Outright costs range from $800 to $1000, but many mobile carriers offer competitive monthly payment options as well. The S20 also supports 5G networks.
The Samsung Galaxy S20 has a high resolution and durable display, but no headphone jack for listening to music. It has an ingress protection rating of IP68, meaning it's dust-proof and waterproof when submerged in up to six meters for 30 minutes.
Google Pixel 5
The Google Pixel 5 is Google's most premier phone available. Its starting price is $699, but many carriers offer monthly payment options to break up the cost. If you select the Pixel 5, you'll enjoy 28 hours of battery life, 256 GB of storage, and 5G network compatibility.
This phone is one of Google's first devices to feature a dual rear-facing camera. The ingress protection rating of the Pixel 5 isn't specified, but it is labeled as water resistant.
The Proof Is In The Water!
You now know everything there is to know about ingress protection ratings and waterproof cell phones. Make sure to share this article on social media to teach your friends and family about the best waterproof phones. Leave any other questions in the comments down below!
