Waterproof Phone Case: IP Ratings, Protection Levels & Buying Guide
, by Syndmart, 8 min reading time
A waterproof phone case keeps your device safe from water damage during pool days, beach trips, and water sports. Here's everything you need to know to pick the right one.
Your phone is expensive. Water is everywhere. A waterproof phone case allows you to take your device into the pool, ocean, or through a rainstorm. But not all cases are created equal—and honestly, a lot of them aren't actually waterproof at all.
In this article
- What Makes a Phone Case Actually Waterproof?
- Understanding IP Ratings for Waterproof Phone Cases
- When Do You Actually Need a Waterproof Phone Case?
- What to Look For When Shopping
- Water Activities and Case Selection
- How to Use Your Waterproof Phone Case
- Common Mistakes People Make
- Pairing Your Waterproof Case With Other Water Gear
- The Bottom Line
- People Also Ask
What Makes a Phone Case Actually Waterproof?
The key difference between waterproof and water-resistant comes down to one thing: IP ratings.
IP stands for "Ingress Protection," and it's a standardized rating system that indicates how much water exposure a case is designed for. If you see IP67 or IP68 on a case, that indicates the case is designed for submersion. If you only see "water-resistant" with no IP rating, it means the case is designed for splashes and light rain—but not full submersion.
Understanding IP Ratings for Waterproof Phone Cases
IP ratings have two digits. The first number rates dust protection; the second rates water protection. For a waterproof phone case, you care about that second number.
- IP67: Fully protected against dust. Designed for submersion in fresh water up to 3 feet (about 1 meter) for up to 30 minutes.
- IP68: Designed for submersion in fresh water up to 19 feet (6 meters) for up to 1 hour. This rating is intended for water sports enthusiasts and those engaging in water activities.
- Water-resistant (no IP rating): Designed for rain and splashes. Not designed for full submersion.
If you're buying a waterproof phone case, IP68 offers a higher submersion rating than IP67. IP67 is designed for occasional water exposure, while IP68 is designed for deeper and longer submersion.
When Do You Actually Need a Waterproof Phone Case?
You may want a waterproof phone case if any of these apply to you:
- You spend time at the pool or beach and want to bring your phone for photos or emergency calls.
- You participate in water sports like surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
- You snorkel or dive and need your phone protected underwater.
- You live somewhere rainy or humid and want to protect against accidental splashes.
- You have kids and worry about them dunking your phone in the bathtub or pool.
- You take outdoor adventures seriously and want your device to survive water exposure scenarios.
A waterproof case adds a layer of protection for your device during water activities.
What to Look For When Shopping
Beyond the IP rating, here are the things that matter:
Material: Look for cases made from TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or durable plastics. These materials are designed to flex and seal. Silicone seals around the edges are designed to create a sealed fit.
Seal Quality: Check if the case has a secure latch or snaps. You want something that feels solid when you close it. A secure seal is important for the case's water-resistance design.
Compatibility: Make sure the case fits your exact phone model. A proper fit is necessary for the case to function as designed. Most waterproof cases are available for major brands like Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices.
Port Access: Some waterproof cases seal all ports (no button or speaker access), while others have tactile buttons built in. Decide what matters to you. Full access is convenient, but sealed cases are designed with different access levels.
Floatability: If you're near deep water, a case that floats can be helpful. If you drop it, you can locate it more easily.
Water Activities and Case Selection
Here's what different water activities mean for your case choice:
Light rain or splashes: A water-resistant case is designed for this. No submersion needed.
Pool or beach days: IP67 is designed for this use. You can wade or splash without concern.
Snorkeling or shallow diving: IP68 with sealed design is intended for this use. This rating is designed for submersion when your phone is in the water.
Intense water sports (surfing, whitewater kayaking): IP68 with a floating case is designed for these activities. These are designed to handle impacts and keep your device protected if it goes overboard.
When you're ready to shop, Syndmart carries a selection of waterproof accessories and water sports gear that pairs well with protective phone cases. We focus on water sports essentials, so our product recommendations align with active, outdoor lifestyles.
Ready to shop?
Shop Now →How to Use Your Waterproof Phone Case
Follow these practices with your waterproof case:
Check the seal every time: Before you go near water, make sure the latch is fully closed. A partially sealed case will not function as designed.
Test it first in a bathtub: Fill a tub with a little water, seal your phone in the case, and watch for leaks. It's better to identify any issues at home before water activities.
Replace the gasket/seal regularly: Over time, rubber seals can wear. Some waterproof cases have replaceable gaskets. Check your case instructions, and follow the manufacturer's guidance on gasket replacement.
Follow the manufacturer's submersion specifications: Adhere to the depth and duration limits specified by the manufacturer for your case.
Rinse after saltwater use: If you've been in the ocean, rinse the case with fresh water and let it dry completely. Salt residue can affect seals over time.
Dry your phone when you remove it: Wipe everything down before opening the case.
Common Mistakes People Make
We see these all the time:
Confusing water-resistant with waterproof: This is the biggest one. A brand will say "water-resistant" on the box, and people assume it's fully submersible. Read the fine print. Look for that IP rating.
Ignoring port seals: The charging port or headphone jack seal is an important part of the case design. Make sure those are protected according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Not testing before a big trip: Don't take a new waterproof case on vacation without testing it first. Fill a sink with water, seal it up, and verify it functions as designed.
Assuming all IP68 cases are identical: IP68 is the rating, but build quality varies. Review product specifications and manufacturer details when comparing cases.
Pairing Your Waterproof Case With Other Water Gear
If you're investing in phone protection for water activities, you probably care about your overall water safety. Consider pairing your waterproof case with other essentials. For example, Syndmart carries water sports gear including goggles, water shoes, and swim accessories that work well alongside a protective phone case when you're at the beach or pool.
The Bottom Line
A waterproof phone case provides protection for your device during water activities. Look for IP68 if you plan serious water activities, check the seal before every use, and test it at home first. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific case.
People Also Ask
Is IP67 or IP68 better for a waterproof phone case?
IP68 is designed for deeper and longer submersion (up to 19 feet for 1 hour versus 3 feet for 30 minutes with IP67). If you plan water activities involving deeper submersion, IP68 is designed for that use.
Can you use a waterproof phone case for snorkeling?
An IP68 rated case is designed for submersion in fresh water at depths you'd encounter while snorkeling. Saltwater use requires rinsing the case afterward to prevent salt residue buildup.
Do waterproof cases affect your phone's touch screen?
The added material and sealing layers may affect touch screen responsiveness. The degree varies by case design and construction.
How long do waterproof phone cases last?
Refer to the manufacturer's specifications and warranty information for your specific case. The durability of rubber seals and other components varies by product. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions to maintain your case.
What's the difference between waterproof and weatherproof?
Weatherproof indicates the case is designed for rain and moisture in the air. Waterproof indicates it is designed for submersion. These represent different design standards. Refer to the IP rating and manufacturer specifications to understand what water exposure your case is designed for.
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