Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Waterproof?

Key Takeaways

• All Galaxy Watch models can resist water to an extent, but they’re not waterproof.
• Samsung’s wearables are suitable for swimming in shallow water and low-impact activities, but not for high-intensity water sports.
• You should activate Water Lock mode before you swim with your Galaxy Watch, and clean it with fresh water when you’re done.

People expect modern smartwatches to withstand rain and accidental drops in the pool. If you’re in the market for a Galaxy Watch and wondering whether it’s waterproof, we’re here to explain how Samsung’s smartwatches hold up against liquid.

Your Galaxy Watch Is Water Resistant, Not Waterproof

First, let’s clear up the most common misconception. All Samsung Galaxy Watch models are water resistant, not waterproof. But what’s the difference between water-resistant and waterproof devices, you ask? Water resistance refers to how long and how deep your watch can be submerged in water. On the other hand, waterproof means it is impervious to water.

So how water resistant is the Samsung Galaxy Watch? All models are IP68-rated, which denotes the degree of protection against solid objects and liquids. Number 6 in IP68 indicates dust-tightness, whereas number 8 shows it can withstand immersion in water for 30 minutes to a maximum depth of 1.5 meters.

All Galaxy Watch variants also feature 5 ATM (atmospheres) water resistance. This means it can withstand water pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters (or 164 feet) for 10 minutes. However, this rating is for still and stationary water, not for high pressure or movement underwater.

Is It Safe to Swim With the Galaxy Watch?

Now that you know that the Galaxy Watch is water-resistant rather than waterproof, you may wonder whether you can swim with your Samsung wearable.

Absolutely. The watch is suitable for swimming in shallow water and low-impact activities. This includes swimming laps, recreational swimming, and even snorkeling. However, you must avoid high-intensity water sports like diving, surfing, or jet skiing. These activities are beyond water resistance’s limits and can damage your watch.

Although the original Galaxy Watch launched in 2018 is IP68 water resistant, it’s not suitable for use in pools or seawater.

Tips When Swimming With Your Samsung Galaxy Watch

Now that you know what water activities your Galaxy Watch is suitable for and its water resistance limitations, here are some tips if you want to swim without damaging your wearable:

• Stay in shallow waters: Your watch is designed to resist water up to 50 meters. However, it’s advisable to stay in shallow waters where the pressure is low. If the water is too deep, the pressure can exceed water resistance limits and cause damage.
• Activate Water Lock mode: Before you dive in, turn on Water Lock mode. This feature prevents your watch’s display from reacting to water drops or accidental touches. To activate it, swipe down to open the Quick settings panel and tap the water drop icon. When you’re done swimming, long-press the Home button to turn off Water Lock.
• Avoid high-intensity activities: As mentioned earlier, water sports beyond basic swimming are not suitable for your Galaxy Watch. This is because the pressure water exerts on your watch during such activities can exceed the pressure still water applies at the recommended depths for your device’s water resistance level. Take off your watch before engaging in anything like jet skiing or surfing.
• Clean your watch after swimming: Saltwater, chlorine, and other chemicals found in pools or seawater can damage the water-resistant seal on your watch. Use fresh water to clean it after swimming.
• Avoid using your watch in hot tubs or saunas: The heat and steam in hot tubs or saunas can also damage the seal that keeps water from entering. If a watch becomes too hot, the components inside may expand, causing the water-resistant seal to break.

The Galaxy Watch is a fitness tracker and phone companion for every moment, even while swimming. Thanks to water resistance and features like Water Lock mode, it’s an ideal choice for aquatic activities. If you plan to buy the Galaxy Watch, now you know what water exposure is OK and what’s too much.