Is There a Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Headphones?

The short answer to this question is yes. Our headphones nowadays come with waterproof and water-resistant features. The idea behind these features is to protect our headphones in case they get exposed to water. But how much water can they resist?

Many people tend to think that waterproof and water-resistant mean the same thing. But it’s not their fault, even some companies use them interchangeably.

But headphones, just like smartphones and other smart devices can easily slip out of our hands and fall in the sink or the pool. If your headphones are water-resistant and not water-proof, they might not survive it.

Difference between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Headphones

Water-Resistant Headphones

Water-resistant headphones typically mean headphones that have the ability, to prevent water from penetrating to an extent. Such headphones can survive little exposure to water but may not survive an entire submerging in water.

Water-resistant materials are not meant to last long in the water. Hence, they are not entirely protected from water.

So, your water-resistant headphones may survive the rain or splashes from the shower. However, if you’re thinking of taking them swimming, that’s probably not a good idea.

Waterproof Headphones

Waterproof headphones, on the other hand, are those that can completely keep water from penetrating. They are meant to last longer in water and can keep water out even in serious conditions. So, if your headphones accidentally fall in the tub, they will be just fine.

However, not all waterproof headphones are designed to withstand water when submerged for extended periods. You might want to look into getting headphones and music players that are rated IPX8 and higher. Headphones rated less than this will be damaged if immersed in water for long periods.

How Much Water Can Your Headphones Resist?

The amount of water your headphones can resist relies greatly on their IP rating. The IP rating is a standard used in measuring how well a device can resist water, dust, sand, or dirt penetration.

Headphones rated IP1 and IP2 can keep rain or sweat out. Those rated IP3 and IP4 can protect against splashing or spraying water. While headphones with IP5 and IP6 ratings can resist a higher level of water exposure such as exposure to a garden hose.

Headphones that come with IP7 and IP8 ratings, on the other hand, are more resistant. These can block water from penetrating even when submerged.

Nevertheless, note that IP7 headphones can only keep water out when it's 1 meter below water. Anything beyond 1 meter could damage your headphones. Only IP8 headphones can survive beyond that depth.