In the ever-evolving world of wearable technology, the Apple Watch series has carved a niche for itself, offering an array of features that cater to the tech-savvy and fitness-conscious alike.
Amongst its stellar lineup, the Apple Watch SE stands out, captivating users with its blend of performance, and versatility.
But is the Apple Watch SE waterproof?
In this blog post, we will delve into the Apple Watch SE technical specifications, and use cases to determine whether the Galaxy Watch 5 is waterproof or not.
Before we explore its water resistance capabilities, let’s take a closer look at the key features and technical specifications that have made it a popular choice among tech enthusiasts and fitness aficionados alike.
Apple Watch SE features
The Apple Watch SE is one of the best smartwatches and fitness trackers for iPhone users out there.
Here below are the key features of the Apple Watch SE:
- Design and Display
The watch boasts a beautiful Retina display that makes every interaction a visual treat. With vivid colors and sharp text, the screen enhances readability and delivers an immersive experience, whether you’re checking notifications or tracking your fitness metrics.
- Powerful Performance
The Apple Watch SE packs a punch with its advanced S5 dual-core processor, providing swift app loading and seamless navigation
- Fitness and Health Tracking
The Apple Watch SE comes with a wide array of fitness-tracking capabilities. From heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking to GPS tracking during workouts, it empowers you to stay on top of your health goals and make informed decisions.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life
With impressive battery optimization, the Apple Watch SE ensures it keeps up with your busy day. Enjoy extended battery life, lasting you through your daily activities without frequent charging interruptions.
- Water-Resistant Brilliance
The Apple Watch SE’s water resistance rating of 50 meters makes it a great choice for water enthusiasts. Swim tracking, surfing, or snorkeling is possible as the watch has the ability to endure water-based activities.
You can read my Apple Watch SE review to learn more about this latest Apple Watch.
Now, let’s find out if the Apple Watch SE is waterproof or not.
Is Apple Watch SE waterproof?
The short answer is yes. Both Apple Watch SE 1 and the SE 2 versions are water resistant.
And this is not a surprise because the Apple Watch Series 7 and 8 which are its predecessor have an IP68 water-resistant rating.
The Apple Watch SE 1 and its second version not only have an IP68 rating and it is certified to 5ATM standards.
That means they are water resistant up to a depth of 50 meters for a certain time.
The 5ATM provides more robust water protection than the IP68 rating.
In fact, the IP68 rating means is protected against accidental water exposure. But it can’t withstand deep water pressure and activities.
In short, the Apple Watch SE series are waterproof. So you can use them when swimming.
But be careful because there are some limitations!
To help you use your Apple Watch SE confidently in everyday situations involving water while taking necessary precautions to protect it from potential water-related damage, let’s understand what waterproof means and its difference from Water resistance.
Related article: Can Apple Watch measure blood pressure?
Understanding Water Resistance vs. Waterproofing
Water Resistance
Water resistance means that a device, like the Apple Watch SE, can handle exposure to water to some extent without getting damaged. The Apple Watch SE has been given a water resistance rating based on the IP68 standard, which indicates that it is protected against dust and can withstand being submerged in water up to a specific depth for a limited time (typically around 1.5 meters) for up to 30 minutes.
Imagine you accidentally spill some water on the Apple Watch SE or get caught in the rain while wearing it. Thanks to its water resistance, the watch should be able to handle these situations without any issues.
This feature makes the Apple Watch SE more durable and reliable for everyday activities where there might be some contact with water.
Waterproofing
On the other hand, waterproofing implies complete protection against water infiltration under any circumstances.
It might sound like the device can be submerged underwater indefinitely without any harm, but that’s not entirely true.
The reality is that no electronic device can be entirely waterproof, even though some may claim to be. Every device, including highly water-resistant ones, has its limits when it comes to exposure to water.
So, while the Apple Watch SE is water-resistant and can handle certain water activities, like swimming, diving into the water, or snorkeling, there are precautions users should take to preserve its water resistance and prevent potential damage.
In simple terms, water resistance means a device can handle some water exposure without getting damaged. The Apple Watch SE is water-resistant and can withstand being submerged in water up to 50-meter depth for a limited time.
However, it’s not entirely waterproof, and you should avoid extreme water activities like diving, as it may surpass the watch’s water resistance capabilities.
Is the Apple Watch SE Safe for Swimming?
Many users wonder if they can wear the Apple Watch SE while swimming.
The Apple Watch SE’s IP68 water resistance rating makes it well-equipped to handle activities that involve splashes, rain, and accidental submersion. It is designed to withstand water immersion up to a specific depth for a limited time, which means that wearing the watch while swimming in shallow waters should generally be safe.
In addition, the watch boasts a dedicated Swim Workout mode, which allows you to track your laps, stroke efficiency, and calories burned with remarkable accuracy. Moreover, the watch’s water-resistant capability ensures you don’t miss any notifications or important calls, even while swimming.
But keep in mind that…
While the Apple Watch SE is suitable for swimming in relatively shallow waters, there are limitations that users should be aware of to ensure its longevity and performance.
Here are some of the precautions to take into account when swimming with your Watch 5:
- Depth Limitation
The IP68 rating suggests that the Apple Watch SE can handle water immersion up to a certain depth (typically around 1.5 meters) for up to 30 minutes.
So you should avoid from taking the watch into deeper waters or engaging in activities like diving, as it may surpass the watch’s water resistance capabilities.
- Water Temperature
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can impact the integrity of the watch’s seals and gaskets. It’s advisable to avoid exposing the watch to hot water (e.g., hot tubs, saunas) and extremely cold water (e.g., icy lakes) to prevent potential damage.
Precautions for Using the Apple Watch SE Around Water
While the Apple Watch SE can handle everyday water exposures, there are precautions you should take to preserve its water resistance and prevent potential damage.
The watch is not intended for high-velocity water sports, such as scuba diving or water skiing, where water pressure surpasses the 50-meter mark.
Engaging in such activities might expose the watch to water intrusion, potentially causing damage. Therefore, it’s prudent to avoid these extreme scenarios and instead embrace the Apple Watch SE’s strengths in moderate water activities.
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Tips for Enhanced Waterproof Performance
To maximize your Apple Watch SE’s water-resistant capabilities, follow these essential tips:
- Always ensure the watch’s water lock feature is activated before immersing it in water. This prevents accidental touches and enhances its protection against water intrusion.
- Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorine, ensuring longevity and preventing corrosion.
- Avoid pressing buttons while the watch is underwater to maintain its water-tight seal
- Avoid deep water activities. Despite its water resistance, it’s best to avoid activities like diving, snorkeling, or swimming in deep waters while wearing the Apple Watch SE. Prolonged exposure to significant water pressure can surpass the watch’s limits and compromise its water resistance.
- Check for damaged seals. Regularly inspect the watch’s seals and ensure they are in good condition. Damaged seals could compromise the water resistance, so it’s crucial to have them replaced by authorized service centers if needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Apple Watch SE offers a notable level of water resistance with its IP68 rating.
While it can withstand everyday exposures to water, it is not completely waterproof, and certain precautions are necessary to preserve its water resistance over time.
By taking into consideration the allowed limits of the water resistance the device can handle and following the recommended precautions, you can make the most of the Apple Watch SE’s capabilities without compromising its functionality or durability.
Overall, the Apple Watch SE remains a reliable and popular choice for those seeking a smartwatch that can handle a variety of environments.