What is IP68 Rating Protection in Mobile Phones?

5 min readDec 16, 2023

IP68 is a standardized rating assigned to electronic devices, including mobile phones, to indicate their level of protection against dust and water. The “IP” stands for Ingress Protection, and the numbers following it provide specific details about the device’s resistance.

Relevant:

Breaking IP68 Rating Protection?

Ingress Protection (IP): The first two letters indicate that the device has been tested for its ability to withstand the ingress of foreign objects, such as dust and water.
Dust Resistance (6): The first digit (6 in this case) refers to the level of protection against solid particles, like dust. A rating of 6 means the device is “dust-tight” and should not allow any dust to enter.
Water Resistance (8): The second digit (8) pertains to the level of protection against liquids, particularly water. An IP68 rating implies that the device is capable of withstanding immersion in water up to a certain depth for a specified duration.

Practical Implications:

Everyday Protection: With an IP68-rated phone, you don’t need to worry about using it in the rain or accidental spills. It’s designed to resist water and dust in regular daily scenarios.

Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beach trips, or camping, an IP68-rated phone provides an extra layer of protection against environmental elements.

Peace of Mind: Knowing your phone has a high IP rating offers peace of mind, especially in situations where exposure to water or dust is more likely.

While IP68 Rating is a good indicator of a phone’s durability, it’s crucial to remember that it doesn’t make the device completely waterproof or immune to damage. It’s always wise to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and avoid unnecessary exposure to extreme conditions.

Q 1. Is IP68 fully waterproof?

The IP68 rating means that this device is fully resistant to dust and can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. On the other hand, IP67 is also an excellent rating, providing the same dust resistance as IP68, but only lasting up to 1 meter in water for the same duration. I hope that clarifies things for you!

Q 2. Can We Swim With My Phone Which Is Protected With IP68 Ratings?

The IP68 rating for electronic devices, including smartphones, indicates a high level of protection against dust and water. An IP68 rating means that the device is dust-tight and can be immersed in water up to a certain depth for a certain duration.

However, it’s important to note that IP68 ratings are typically tested under controlled laboratory conditions, and real-world usage may vary. The rating doesn’t account for factors like water pressure, water movement, or other environmental conditions that can affect the device’s performance.

Swimming with a phone that has an IP68 rating may be generally safe, but it’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Submerging the phone in water deeper than the specified depth or exposing it to water for longer than the recommended duration could potentially lead to water damage.

Additionally, the IP68 rating can degrade over time due to wear and tear, and it’s advisable to regularly inspect the device for any signs of damage, such as cracks or compromised seals.

If you’re unsure or concerned about swimming with your phone, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and, when in doubt, use a waterproof case for added protection.

Relevant:

5ATM vsIP68: Which Is better?

Both 5ATM (Atmospheres) and IP68 are standards used to indicate the water resistance of electronic devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers. However, they measure different aspects of water resistance, and it’s not accurate to say that one is universally “better” than the other. Let’s break down the differences:

IP68:

IP (Ingress Protection) Rating: The IP rating includes two digits. The first digit refers to solid particle protection (dust resistance), and the second digit refers to liquid ingress protection (water resistance).
IP68: The “6” in IP68 indicates that the device is dust-tight (highest level) and can be immersed in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.

5ATM

This rating indicates that the device can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters underwater. It doesn’t specify the duration of the water exposure.

Comparison

The IP68 rating specifically mentions the depth (1.5 meters) and the time frame (30 minutes) for water immersion.
The 5ATM rating specifies a pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 meters but doesn’t provide a specific time frame for immersion.

In practical terms, both IP68 and 5ATM ratings are suitable for everyday activities such as swimming and showering. However, the specific needs and usage scenarios may influence which rating is more appropriate for an individual. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and not exceed the specified limits, as doing so could result in damage to the device.

Ultimately, the “better” rating depends on the user’s requirements and the intended use of the device in water. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations for accurate information about water resistance.