The Ultimate Guide to Waterproof Smartwatches
Do all waterproof smartwatches have the same degree of water resistance? The answer is a big NO!
The waterproof grading of smartwatch is determined by its IP and ATM ratings. Higher the ratings better protection it provides against water contact. So, before purchasing, you need to understand the level of water resistance your smartwatch needs based on its application.
Here, we bought you an in-depth guide on waterproof smartwatches. Dive in and pick the ideal waterproof smartwatch for you:
What Is a Waterproof Smartwatch?
Waterproof smartwatches are regular smartwatches with water-resistant features. You can expose these smartwatches to water without worrying about any damage. This means you can wear them for various water activities like swimming, scuba diving, etc.
However, the water resistance levels of all waterproof smartwatches are not the same. Some can work well under high-pressure water, while others can tolerate only a little water splash. That is why, before you use your waterproof smartwatch for any water activity, check its resistance ratings.
Water Resistance Of Smartwatch
To measure a smartwatch's water resistance, you must consider its IP rating and ATM. Here is what you need to know:
IP Rating
IP stands for ‘Ingress Progress.’ It refers to the degree of protection against solid and liquid particles. The IP rating consists of two digits. The first digit indicates protection against solid particles like dust, debris, etc. The rating ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dustproof).
The second digit determines the protection against liquid. So, for a waterproof smartwatch, you need to focus on the second IP digit. This is rated from 0 (no protection) to 9 (high water pressure). However, lower ratings can only resist the splash of water. You need to go for IP67 or IP68-rated smartwatches for intense water activities.
The higher the IP rating, the better water resistance it will provide. In this sense, an IP68-rated smartwatch is more water resistant than an IP67-rated smartwatch.
|
IP Rating |
Level Of Water Resistance |
|
IP67 |
Immersion up to 1m |
|
IP68 |
Can submerge in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes |
NB: Ratings like IPX7 or IPX8 mean they are not examined for dustproofing but are water resistant.
Some smartwatches claim to be IP69. However, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has yet to approve this rating.
ATM
A higher IP rating doesn’t mean the smartwatch suits all water activity. You need to consider an ATM for activities like snorkeling or diving.
ATM stands for atmosphere. It refers to the water pressure resistance level of a smartwatch. So, when diving deep into the water, you must ensure the smartwatch has a suitable ATM rating to withstand the water pressure.
1 ATM = 10 meters of water pressure at sea level
Therefore, a watch with a 3ATM rating can withstand 30 meters of water pressure. The chart below will help you pick the right ATM rating for a waterproof smartwatch:
|
ATM Rating |
Level Of Water Resistance |
Suitable Activity |
|
3ATM |
Withstands pressure equivalent to 30 meters (100 feet) |
Resistant to splashes, rain, and brief immersion in water, but not suitable for swimming or diving. |
|
5ATM |
Withstands pressure equivalent to 50 meters (165 feet) |
Showering, swimming in shallow water, and light water sports, but not for snorkeling or diving. |
|
10ATM |
Withstands pressure equivalent to 100 meters (330 feet) |
Swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports |
|
20ATM |
Withstands pressure equivalent to 200 meters (660 feet) |
Professional marine activity, serious surface water sports, and skin diving, |
Guide To Choose The Right Waterproof Smartwatch
Here are the criteria you need to consider for picking the best waterproof smartwatch-
Use Of The Watch: Pick The Correct Waterproof Rating
All types of activities don't have to face the same level of water contact. So, consider the use of the smartwatch before choosing one with the right waterproof ratings-
|
Activity/Usage |
Description |
Suggested Waterproof Rating |
|
Everyday Use |
Resistant to accidental splashes and handle rain and sweat |
IPX1-IPX3 1 ATM-3 ATM |
|
Fishing and Kayaking |
Exposure to water and occasional submersion |
IPX4-IPX6 3ATM |
|
Indoor Activities and Light Workout |
Sweat and occasional water exposure |
IP67- IP68 3 ATM |
|
Handwashing |
Frequent exposure to water |
IP68 + 5 ATM |
|
Outdoor Sports and Activities |
Mountain biking, hiking, or camping |
IP68 + 5 ATM |
|
Swimming and Sailing |
Prolonged exposure to water while swimming |
IP68 + 5 ATM |
|
Snorkeling |
Submersion in deeper water, moderate pressure when swimming, pool workouts, or snorkeling purposes |
IP68 + 10 ATM |
|
Scuba Diving |
Deeper water, higher pressure |
IP68 + 20 ATM |
|
Professional Deep Diving |
For military and professional divers. Ideal for extended periods of extreme water sports and saturation diving. |
IP68 + 30ATM |
Additional Features
You should look for additional features in your waterproof smartwatch based on your activities. For outdoor sports activities, consider features like-
- Built-in GPS tracking
- Maps
- Weather updates
- Altimeter
- Barometer sensors
- Health status
For regular swimming and sailing with a smartwatch on, the features that will boost your experience-
- Swim lap
- Stroke and waterproof heart rate tracking
- Water lock
Again, if you are into scuba diving, you need to focus on some specific features, such as:
- Depth sensors
- Dive logs
- Rotating bezel for timing your dives
Battery Life
Consider a waterproof watch with a longer battery life. This will remove the hassle of frequent recharging. Thus, you can monitor your performance and health metrics without worrying about the battery dying mid-activity.
However, to pick the ideal battery life focus on battery capacity and using time. A smartwatch with 5-7 days using time will be a great deal for traveling.
User-Friendly Design
Go for a comfortable wrist design that you can wear for a long time. A silicon strap will be the best choice in this case. Besides, the navigation menus must be straightforward. The display should be clear and bright enough to read underwater.
Top Waterproof Smart Watches
- Screen type: IPS
- Battery Capacity: 280mAh
- Using time: 5~7 days
- Spot mode
- Screen type: AMOLED
- Battery Capacity: 410mAh
- Using time: 5~7 days
- Extensive spot
Maintenance Of Waterproof Smart Watch
With proper maintenance, you can use your waterproof smart watches for years. Here are some tips for you-
- Rinse your watch after swimming. This will remove chemicals or salt clinging to it.
- Always charge your smartwatch in a dry area, irrespective of its water resistance.
- Avoid high-temperature contact with the watch. Excessive temperature can damage the waterproof sealing of the watch.
- Don’t use cleaning agents like detergent/soap or abrasive materials to clean the watch. Instead, use a soft cotton fabric and wipe it up.
Conclusion
While purchasing a waterproof smartwatch, consider what you will use it for. A low-IP and ATM-rated watch will work if you want one for regular use and daily activities. It will easily resist light water splashes or rain. However, go for a higher water resistance rating if you are into water activities like swimming, sailing, and scuba diving.
Whatever waterproof smartwatch you choose, brand and quality are key factors to look at. In this case, Colmi Watch offers reliable, high-quality waterproof smartwatches. These watches have IP68 ratings, ensuring complete sealing. Besides, our watches come with a one-year warranty policy. So, why wait anymore? Place your order now!
FAQs
Can you swim with a smartwatch?
Yes, you can swim wearing a smartwatch, but it should have an IP68 and 5 ATM rating.
Can you go diving with a smartwatch?
Yes, diving is possible with a 20 ATM smartwatch. This watch can tolerate a depth of 200 meters, which is ideal for scuba diving.
What happens if my smartwatch falls in the water?
If it has sufficient water resistance, it will remain protected. But if not, your watch will be damaged and will not work.
How do I know if my smartwatch is waterproof?
Look for a water resistance rating on your watch’s case back or on the dial. If you find ratings, it's a waterproof watch. But, if there is no such claim, avoid using it near water contact.