Warmer weather has us spending more time outside, and sometimes we bring our favorite devices along. But is your iPhone waterproof? What if you splash water on your Mac? Spilled water on Apple keyboard? Do you need a waterproof iPad case? Can you wear an Apple Watch in the pool? I'll answer all these questions and tell you how to dry your wet phone or other Apple device safely!
Related to: Apple Warranty 101: Is iPhone Insurance Worth It?
The Ultimate Apple Device Poolside Guide:
- The Difference Between Waterproof & Water-Resistant
- Which Apple Devices Are Water-Resistant?
- Which Apple Devices Are Not Water Resistant?
- Does Apple’s Standard Warranty Cover Water Damage?
The Difference Between Waterproof & Water-Resistant
Before we dive into individual products, I'd like to answer a common question: "Is waterproof and water resistant the same?" The short answer is no. If something is waterproof, that means that it is literally impervious to water. What is water resistant? When something is water-resistant, that means that it can resist the penetration of water to some degree.
Keep in mind that devices are tested for water resistance when they are new and in perfect condition. Regular wear and tear, oils from human skin, cracks, and damage caused by drops can make a device vulnerable to water damage. To learn more about protecting your Apple devices, sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.
Are All Apple Devices Waterproof?
Unfortunately, no Apple product is waterproof, but that doesn't mean that your device isn't safe around water. Many Apple devices are water-resistant and safe when facing accidental spills and splashes. Other devices are not safe and can suffer permanent damage from minimal water exposure.
Which Apple Devices Are Water-Resistant?
There are various levels of water resistance, and it is essential to know which products and models are safe by the pool or on the beach. These include iPhone 7 and later models, AirPods Pro, AirTags, most Apple Watches, and the HomePod Mini. They have different levels of water resistance, making some more prone to water damage than others.
iPhone SE, iPhone 7 & Later Models
What iPhones are waterproof? None. However, the iPhone SE and all iPhones from iPhone 7s and later are water-resistant. The iPhone 7s has a rating of IP67 under IEC standard 60529 at a maximum depth of 1 meter (3.2 feet) for up to 30 minutes. Look on Apple’s website for the water resistance rating of your model and find out exactly what the numbers mean.
iPhone 12s have a rating of IP68 at a maximum depth of 6 meters (19.7 feet) for up to 30 minutes. However, even the newest iPhones aren't water-resistant enough to let you take underwater pictures. Read more about iPhones and the extent of their water resistance here).
But if you drop your phone in water or even in the toilet, you can safely dry and sanitize it. iPhone got wet? Follow these steps to remove water from your iPhone safely.
AirPods Pro & Wired Headphones
While first-generation AirPods are not even water-resistant, AirPods Pros have a rating of IPX4. Are AirPods Pro waterproof? No, but they can get a little wet without getting damaged. This means that AirPods Pro can be worn to the gym because they are both sweat and splash resistant. To find out which AirPods you have, read this.
Apple wired headphones are also water-resistant. If you get your headphones or AirPods wet, Apple recommends that you use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the AirPods to remove as much water as possible. Do not use them while they are wet! Read this for step-by-step instructions on how to get water out of an AirPod.
AirTags
Recently released AirTags have taken the world by storm, taking advantage of Apple's Find My network to help people keep track of their possessions. According to Apple, AirTags are as water-resistant as the iPhone SE, with a rating of IP67.
Officially, AirTags are splash, water, and dust resistant, plus they can spend up to 30 minutes underwater at a maximum depth of 1 meter (3.2 feet.) Longer exposure or greater depth can result in water damage. Plus, any regular wear and tear can negatively impact the water-resistance of AirTags.
Apple is known for downplaying the water resistance of its devices. According to CNET, AirTags are a lot more water-safe than they seem. Read more about the water-resistance of AirTags and get step-by-step directions on drying them.
Apple Watch Series 2 or Later
According to Apple, all Apple Watch models are water-resistant. However, only Apple Series 2 or later can be safely used for swimming and certain water sports. The Apple Watch is Apple's most water-resistant device, and it is safe to use in various scenarios involving water.
Newer Apple Watch models come with a swimming workout option, and they have a Water Lock feature. This plays a sound that gets water out of speakers once unlocked. Discover which Apple Watch is best for swimmers and water sports here. Also, you can find fun water-proof bands, including one that gives you a Apple Watch camera!
HomePod Mini Speakers
HomePod Minis are the smaller, rounder versions of the original HomePod, which is discontinued but can still be purchased used. With their small size come several benefits, including water resistance! While you should never submerge your HomePod Mini speakers, they will survive a splash or two. If you decide to bring them outside for a pool party, try to keep them dry while enjoying your jam!
Which Apple Devices Are Not Water Resistant?
Just because Apple downplays the water resistance of iPhones and AirTags doesn't mean that you should take risks with your devices. Most Apple devices are not water-resistant and don't even have a water resistance rating. The list includes iPads, MacBooks, Apple Pencils, Apple TV remotes, AirPods, Apple Magic Keyboard, and older iPhone and Apple Watch models.
Then there are iPods, HomePod speakers, iMacs, and Apple TVs. These are either less popular or not as likely to get as wet as the other Apple devices, but I thought I'd mention them too. Unsurprisingly, they are also not water-resistant.
iPad, iPad Mini & iPad Pro
Is the new iPad Pro waterproof? No. People have been dreaming of a waterproof iPad for years, but unfortunately, no iPad is safe at the beach without a certified waterproof iPad case. None of the iPad models are water-resistant or even have water resistance ratings.
Even the new iPad Pro isn't water-resistant, and it doesn't even have a water resistance rating. The best way to keep your iPad safe from water damage is by using a certified waterproof iPad case. Check out the different waterproof iPad cases here, luckily; there are many options!
If an iPad gets water on it, it has to be wiped off immediately. Even the smallest droplet in the port or speaker can cause significant water damage. Take extra care when using an iPad anywhere that it might be exposed to water.
MacBook Air & MacBook Pro
It can be tempting to bring your MacBook to the beach or even turn your bathtub into a temporary home office. Unfortunately, your MacBook is not water-resistant, and if any liquids get inside the ports, speakers, or keyboard, you may experience permanent water damage.
Having a silicone keyboard skin, such as the GhostCover Premium ($12.95) by UPPERCASE can help protect your device from unexpected spills. It is even possible to buy skins with beautiful designs, foreign keyboards, or common shortcuts.
When it comes to keeping your MacBook safe on the go, waterproof MacBook cases do exist. One great waterproof option is the Aqua Quest Storm Laptop Sleeve ($34.99), protecting your MacBook even if it ends up underwater. However, it has to be properly sealed and doesn't offer protection while the laptop is in use.
Another option is the Protective Laptop Case ($29.99) by Nacuwa. It can protect your MacBook from water and spills but cannot be submerged. Keeping your MacBook safe from water isn't easy, and it is safest to keep it away from water at all times.
Apple Pencil
Although the Apple Pencil looks like it's well-sealed, it isn't waterproof or even water-resistant. If your Apple Pencil gets wet, do your best to dry it immediately and keep it off for a few days. Using a dry, lint-free cloth, air drying, or even placing the pencil in a bag of uncooked rice can help. However, it is best to take it directly to Apple for inspection, if possible. The best way to protect your Apple Pencil is by getting a waterproof iPad case that also protects the pencil, such as this Bstpro case ($39.99.)
Apple TV & Apple TV Remote
Nothing makes watching TV or playing games better than good food and drinks. However, no model of Apple TV box or remote is water-resistant. There are a lot of ports and buttons that just don't mix well with liquids. If your box or Apple TV remote gets wet, you might be in trouble.
If your Apple TV box or remote gets wet, unplug and turn them off immediately and dry them gently with a dry lint-free cloth. Try to let them completely dry, leaving them out for a few days before attempting to use them again. If they don't work as they should contact Apple support directly.
AirPods First & Second Generations & AirPods Max
There are no waterproof AirPods, but the original AirPods are not even water-resistant like the AirPods Pro. While it is possible to get a waterproof AirPod case cover, the AirPods themselves will not be safe if exposed to water.
AirPods Max are also not water resistant and there isn't any product that could protect them. Avoid exercising in them because even a drop of sweat could damage them. If you do get them wet, follow these steps to get your AirPods dry.
Apple Magic Keyboards
Although Apple Magic Keyboards have been known to survive spills on occasion, they are not water-resistant. If you get any water on your keyboard, it is best to turn it off immediately and use a dry lint-free cloth to wipe it gently.
If liquids other than water spill on the keyboard, the chemicals can cause damage even if it isn't immediately apparent. It is best to contact Apple directly if this happens. You can add a layer of protection with a cover such as this Kuzo Silicone Skin ($8.99.)
iPhone 6 & Earlier Models
Older iPhone models such as iPhone 6 and earlier are not water-resistant. Phones that aren't water-resistant at all can be damaged by water if splashed or even from extreme humidity in the air.
Consider keeping these older iPhone models out of the bathroom while you are showering or bathing to be safe. If you want to use it somewhere where it might get wet, consider getting a waterproof case or pouch.
First Generation & Series 1 Apple Watches
The newer Apple Watch models are as water-resistant as any Apple devices get. While you can swim in the Series 2 or later, Apple Watch first generation and Series 1 are prone to water damage. According to Apple, you shouldn't worry about splashes, for example, while you are watching your hands. However, they cannot be submerged at all.
iPods
These music players may be a little outdated, but that doesn't mean they're obsolete. If you still have and love your iPod, make sure to keep it dry. Similar to iPads, iPods are not at all water-resistant. If you wish to use one somewhere where water exposure might occur, use a waterproof case. If you have a universal pouch for an iPad or iPhone, it could be perfect for your iPod as well!
Original HomePod Speaker
Some people like to bring their HomePod speakers outdoors in the summer, and that's just fine. But unlike HomePod Minis, the HomePod is not water-resistant. That means that even a splash of water can cause permanent water damage, so be extra vigilant when using these near liquids.
iMacs
Few people pack their iMac to bring to the beach or to use by the pool, but there are other ways for your computer to get wet. Even the new iMac is not at all water-resistant, so avoid getting it wet at all costs! There aren't any cases or covers to protect your iMac from water, so all you can do is keep liquids away and make sure to close any windows near your desk in case of rainfall.
Does Apple’s Standard Warranty Cover Water Damage
Apple products come with a one-year limited warranty that includes software problems and damage that isn't user-caused. Unfortunately, the official Apple water damage policy is strict, and it isn't covered under the standard warranty.
AppleCare, on the other hand, might be able to cover the damage. You need to purchase AppleCare at or soon after purchase, and damage coverage depends on circumstances. There is also a fee for most repairs; however, it is usually significantly cheaper than repairs that aren't covered. You can read more about AppleCare here.
So are iPads waterproof? No, but that's a trick question. While no Apple device is certified waterproof, many are water-resistant to a certain extent. Devices such as most Apple Watches, AirTags, newer iPhone models, AirPods Pro, and even HomePod Minis can be exposed to water without damage.
iPads, MacBooks, Apple Pencils, Apple Magic Keyboards, AirPods, Apple TVs and remotes, AirPods, and Apple Watches and iPhones are better off left at home unless they have waterproof cases. Plus, iPods, HomePod speakers, and iMacs are also best left dry!
Top image credit: Prostock-studio / Shutterstock.com
