The third leading cause of accidental smartphone damage is dropping it in the water, so it is important to find a phone that won’t be damaged by simple splashes. While there aren’t any truly waterproof phones on the market, some models are highly water-resistant. These are phones that can withstand being submerged in several feet of water for long periods of time. Here is our list of the best waterproof phones for every budget.
What is an IP Water-Resistant Code?
The IP (Ingress Protection) Code is a rating that tells you how much protection a gadget offers from dust and water. The first number after IP refers to dust protection, while the second number defines how protected the gadget is from water.
The lower the number of the IP rating, the less protection a phone has from dust and water. For example, a device with an IP67 rating means that it has complete protection against dust, and it can withstand being submerged in water for short periods of time.
Take note, however, that despite being waterproof, these phones are only protected against drops in freshwater. Manufacturers will often state that their IP ratings are not for pool or beach water. In other words, it’s still recommended to take the necessary precautions when you take one of these out sailing or swimming.
iPhone 11 Pro: Best Waterproof Phone from Apple
The iPhone 11 Pro is undoubtedly the most waterproof phone from Apple. With an IP68 rating, Apple claims the iPhone 11 Pro will still work after you drop it in water that is up to 13 feet deep for up to half an hour.
Apple also claims that the iPhone 11 Pro is spill-resistant for other common liquids, such as coffee, tea, and soda. However, Apple also does not cover liquid damage as part of its iPhone 11 Pro warranty.
If you read the fine print, Apple says that the water-resistance tests for the iPhone 11 Pro were conducted in “controlled laboratory conditions.” The tech giant goes on to say that the water-resistance rating is “not permanent” and that it can “decrease as a result of normal wear.”
Apple also warns users not to charge their phone when it is wet. And, the company says you should avoid getting moisture in any of the openings of your iPhone when cleaning it. While the iPhone 11 Pro has an oil-repellent coating, it can be diminished by cleaning products.
If you want to know how to properly clean your phone, check out our article here.
Aside from its waterproof rating, the iPhone 11 Pro has a great battery life, which has been tested to last 4 hours longer than the iPhone XS. It also has fast-charging capabilities and three 12MP cameras that can capture beautiful night shots, unlike any other smartphone on the market.
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Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus: Best Android Waterproof Phone
For Android fans who want a waterproof phone, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus is your best bet. Sporting an IP68 rating, this high-end smartphone can survive being dunked in 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
However, Verizon warns users not to have this phone under high-pressure water, like a waterfall or shower. If the Galaxy S20 suffers any physical damage from drops or scratches, the water-resistance rating will be negatively impacted, according to Verizon. The telecommunications company also warns users not to expose the phone to “salt water, ionized water, or soapy water.”
Samsung does not cover water damage in its normal Galaxy S20 Plus warranty. There is even a liquid damage indicator on the phone, which will change color upon contact with liquids. If this indicator has been “tripped,” your warranty will be voided. However, if you sign up for Samsung Premium Care, drops, liquid spills, and cracked screens will be covered for the first 12 months.
Aside from its water-resistance rating, the Galaxy S20 Plus offers several impressive features. It comes with 5G connectivity, and outstanding battery life, and a fantastic triple-lens camera system. Plus, you can expand its storage to up to 1.5TB with a microSD card.
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Google Pixel 4: Best Waterproof Phone Under $800
If you don’t want to spend over $1,000 on a new phone, the Google Pixel 4 is one of the best waterproof phones you can get. This flagship phone from Google has an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in up to 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
However, Google says that normal wear and tear will damage this phone’s water-resistance. Water damage is also not covered as part of the warranty for the Pixel 4, and Google warns users against taking this phone into a sink, shower, bathtub, swimming pool, or any body of water.
The Google Pixel 4 also comes with an advanced camera for taking beautiful photos and impressive videos. This smartphone is also equipped with fast charging, a dual-camera system with 12MP and 16MP lenses, and fast Bluetooth connectivity for your wireless headphones.
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Samsung Galaxy S10 – Best Waterproof Phone Under $600
The Samsung Galaxy S10 is one of the best mid-range waterproof phones on the market. The Samsung Galaxy S10 also comes with an IP68 rating, which means it can be submerged in 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes without suffering any damage.
It’s also the only waterproof phone in this list that comes with a headphone jack. The other models have either only Bluetooth connectivity for earbuds or a specialized port for wired connectivity to headphones.
This Android phone also comes with a triple-camera system and other impressive features. It has fast charging support, a good battery life, fast performance, and fantastic connectivity.
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iPhone SE – Best Waterproof Phone Under $400
The iPhone SE is one of Apple’s newest and most affordable smartphones. Aside from its friendly price, this phone has a decent water-resistance rating. With its IP67 rating, the iPhone SE can withstand being submerged in up to 3.3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
Aside from being a cheap and safe phone to bring near the water, the iPhone SE is equipped with other great features. This phone has wireless charging support, a 12MP camera, and the same processor found in the iPhone 11.
If you’re an Apple user, check out our articles on which iPhones are waterproof here.
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