Understanding IPX ratings helps you pick electronics (earbuds, speakers, watches, phones) that survive water exposure — from sweat and rain to full immersion. This guide explains each IPX level, how to read combined IP ratings, real-world examples, and buying tips.
What is IPX?
IP stands for Ingress Protection. When you see IPX, the X means the device either wasn’t tested for solid/dust ingress or that the dust rating is not specified. The number after the X indicates the device’s level of water resistance. Higher numbers mean stronger protection against water.
IPX Ratings — Explained
Below is a quick-reference table showing common IPX levels and what they mean in everyday situations.
| Rating | Water Protection | Practical Example |
|---|---|---|
| IPX0 | No water protection | Not safe to get wet |
| IPX1 | Protection from vertical dripping water | Light rain for short time |
| IPX2 | Dripping water when tilted up to 15° | Rain at an angle |
| IPX3 | Protection from spraying water (up to 60°) | Light shower, splashes |
| IPX4 | Protection from water splashes from any direction | Sweat, rain, accidental splash |
| IPX5 | Protection from water jets (low pressure) | Shower, hose spray, heavy rain |
| IPX6 | Protection from powerful water jets (high pressure) | Strong hose spray, tougher outdoor conditions |
| IPX7 | Protected from immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes | Dropped in sink, brief submersion |
| IPX8 | Protected from continuous immersion beyond 1 m (manufacturer specifies depth/time) | Swimming, long submersion (check specs) |
| IPX9K | Protected against high-pressure, high-temperature wash | Industrial cleaning, car-wash conditions |
Reading Full IP Ratings (e.g., IP67)
When both digits are present, the first number (0–6) indicates dust/solid protection and the second (0–9K or X) indicates water protection.
Examples:
IP67— Dust-tight (6) and protected against immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes (7).IPX5— No dust rating provided (X) and protected against low-pressure water jets (5).
Where You’ll See These Ratings
- Earbuds & headphones: IPX4–IPX7 (sweat, rain, occasional immersion)
- Bluetooth speakers: IPX4–IPX7 (outdoor use, poolside)
- Smartwatches & fitness bands: IPX7–IPX8 (swimming-ready models)
- Phones: IP67 or IP68 (dustproof + immersion protection)
Quick Buying Tips
- Decide the environment: sweat/rain (IPX4) vs shower/jet (IPX5–6) vs swimming/submersion (IPX7–8).
- Prefer full ratings (e.g., IP67/IP68) if you need both dust and water protection.
- Follow the manufacturer’s exact specs for IPX8 — depth and time vary by model.
- IP ratings reflect lab tests — they don't guarantee permanent protection after wear, drops, or damage.
- For heavy water exposure (diving, long swims) look for devices explicitly marketed for that activity.
Conclusion
IPX ratings are an easy way to compare how well devices resist water. Match the rating to your real-world needs: IPX4 for everyday splash resistance, IPX5–6 for shower and jet protection, and IPX7–8 for immersion. Always check the full manufacturer specification to understand exact limits and warranty coverage.
