In today’s fast-paced world, smartphones are not only a tool for communication but also a companion that goes wherever you do. Whether you’re navigating a rainy city, hitting the beach, or caught in an unexpected splash, having a waterproof smartphone can save you from potential damage and ensure your device remains functional in all conditions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top waterproof smartphones of 2024, providing you with essential details to help you choose the perfect device for your lifestyle.
Why Choose a Waterproof Smartphone?
Choosing a waterproof smartphone is a wise investment for anyone who wants to ensure their device can handle a variety of conditions, from accidental spills to full submersions. Choosing the top waterproof smartphones comes with further benefits as:
1. Enhanced Durability
Protection Against Water Damage
Waterproof smartphones are designed to withstand various water-related mishaps. With an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, such as IP68, these devices can handle accidental spills, splashes, and even submersion to a certain depth. This durability is especially beneficial for people who frequently encounter wet conditions or those who want extra peace of mind.
Built to Last
Waterproofing often involves additional protective measures, which can also contribute to the overall durability of the smartphone. This means you get a device that is not only resistant to water but also more resilient to dust and other environmental factors.
2. Convenience and Versatility
Use in Diverse Environments
With a waterproof smartphone, you can use your device in a variety of situations without worry. Whether you’re taking a call during a rainstorm, using GPS on a muddy trail, or snapping underwater photos, a waterproof phone adds a level of versatility to your daily activities.
No Need for Extra Protection
You won’t need to invest in bulky waterproof cases or accessories, as the built-in waterproofing technology provides sufficient protection on its own. This reduces the hassle of carrying additional gear and keeps your phone streamlined and accessible.
3. Peace of Mind
Less Worry About Accidents
Water damage can be a costly and frustrating issue, often leading to repairs or replacements. A waterproof smartphone minimizes this risk, allowing you to enjoy your activities without the constant worry of accidental spills or exposure to water.
Long-Term Reliability
Investing in a waterproof phone means you’re less likely to experience issues related to water damage, leading to a longer lifespan for your device and potentially saving you money in the long run.
In an era where our smartphones are not just communication tools but essential companions in every aspect of life, having a device that can withstand the elements is crucial. Whether you’re an adventurer, a busy professional, or simply prone to accidental spills, a waterproof smartphone can offer peace of mind. However, choosing the right waterproof phone involves more than just checking its IP rating. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to look out for when selecting the best waterproof smartphones.
Read also: Top 10 Best Camera Phones for Photography
Things You Should Look Out For in Waterproof Smartphones
1. Ingress Protection (IP) Rating
Understanding IP Ratings
The IP rating (Ingress Protection) is a standardized measure of how well a device is protected against dust and water. It’s important to understand the meaning of these ratings:
- IP67: Dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
- IP68: Dust-tight and can withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter (often up to 1.5 meters) for an extended period (usually 30 minutes).
- IP54: Protected against limited dust ingress and splashes of water from any direction.
Why It Matters
Higher IP ratings provide better protection. For example, IP68 is ideal for most users as it offers robust protection against both dust and water, making it suitable for underwater photography and use in harsh conditions.
2. Durability Beyond Water Resistance
Build Quality
A waterproof phone should also feature a durable build to withstand drops and impacts. Look for:
- Reinforced Glass: Phones with Gorilla Glass or other toughened glass are more resistant to scratches and cracks.
- Shock-Resistant Design: Some phones are built to absorb shocks and impacts, adding to their overall durability.
Additional Features
- Military-Grade Certification: Some rugged phones come with military-grade certifications for drop resistance and temperature extremes.
- Rubberized Edges: These can help absorb shock and protect the phone from drops.
3. Performance and Features
Processor and RAM
Ensure the phone has a capable processor and sufficient RAM to handle your needs. Whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or using demanding apps, performance is crucial.
Camera Quality
For those who enjoy taking photos or videos, especially in wet conditions, the camera quality matters. Look for:
- High-Resolution Sensors: More megapixels generally mean better photo quality.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Helps reduce blurriness in photos and videos.
Battery Life
A good waterproof phone should have a battery that can last through your daily activities. Consider:
- Battery Capacity: Measured in mAh, higher capacities generally offer longer battery life.
- Charging Speed: Fast charging features can be beneficial if you’re often on the go.
Top Waterproof Smartphones In 2024
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Overview: Samsung continues to lead the market with its Galaxy S series, and the S24 Ultra is no exception. It combines high-end specifications with impressive waterproof capabilities.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, QHD+ resolution
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, up to 1TB storage
- Camera: Quad-camera setup (200MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP periscope telephoto, 10MP telephoto)
- Battery: 5000mAh with fast charging support
Why It’s Top-Notch: The Galaxy S24 Ultra offers top-tier performance and a high-resolution display, making it perfect for multimedia use and outdoor adventures. Its IP68 rating ensures it can handle submersion in water and is resistant to dust and sand.
2. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Overview: Apple’s latest flagship continues to impress with its robust build quality and advanced features.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display
- Processor: A17 Pro chip
- RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM, up to 1TB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera system (48MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto)
- Battery: 4500mAh with MagSafe support
Why It’s Top-Notch: The iPhone 15 Pro Max combines excellent waterproof capabilities with cutting-edge technology and a premium design. It offers outstanding performance and camera quality, making it a versatile choice for any environment.
3. Google Pixel 8 Pro
Overview: Google’s Pixel 8 Pro excels in camera performance and clean Android integration, with added protection against water damage.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.7-inch LTPO OLED, QHD+ resolution
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto)
- Battery: 5100mAh with fast and wireless charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: The Pixel 8 Pro’s exceptional camera system and robust waterproofing make it a great choice for capturing high-quality photos in various conditions, including wet environments.
4. Sony Xperia 1 V
Overview: Sony’s Xperia 1 V stands out with its 4K OLED display and advanced camera features.
- IP Rating: IP65/IP68
- Display: 6.5-inch 4K OLED
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto)
- Battery: 5000mAh with fast charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: With its superior display quality and waterproof rating, the Xperia 1 V is ideal for media consumption and photography. It offers strong performance and durability for various outdoor and wet conditions.
5. Samsung Galaxy XCover 6 Pro
Overview: Designed for rugged use, the Galaxy XCover 6 Pro is built to withstand tough environments.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.6-inch PLS LCD, FHD+ resolution
- Processor: Snapdragon 778G
- RAM/Storage: 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
- Camera: Dual-camera setup (50MP main, 8MP ultra-wide)
- Battery: 4050mAh with fast charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: The XCover 6 Pro’s rugged design and IP68 rating make it perfect for industrial or outdoor use where extra protection is needed. Its durability and water resistance ensure it can handle challenging conditions.
6. Oppo Find X6 Pro
Overview: Oppo’s flagship combines high performance with strong waterproof capabilities.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.82-inch AMOLED, QHD+ resolution
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (50MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 50MP telephoto)
- Battery: 5000mAh with 100W fast charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: The Find X6 Pro’s impressive camera system and high-speed charging, combined with its waterproof rating, make it a top choice for users who need a powerful and durable device.
7. Motorola Edge 40 Pro
Overview: Motorola’s Edge 40 Pro offers strong performance and a water-resistant design.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED, FHD+ resolution
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (50MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto)
- Battery: 4600mAh with 125W fast charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: With its high-performance specs and waterproof rating, the Edge 40 Pro is an excellent option for users seeking a powerful device that can handle various environments, including wet conditions.
8. Vivo X90 Pro
Overview: The Vivo X90 Pro combines advanced camera technology with robust waterproofing.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, QHD+ resolution
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9200
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (50MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto)
- Battery: 4870mAh with 120W fast charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: The X90 Pro’s advanced camera system and waterproof rating make it a great choice for those who prioritize photography and multimedia use in various conditions.
9. Huawei Mate 60 Pro
Overview: Despite some limitations, the Huawei Mate 60 Pro remains a solid option with its waterproof capabilities.
- IP Rating: IP68
- Display: 6.82-inch OLED, FHD+ resolution
- Processor: Kirin 9000S
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (50MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto)
- Battery: 5000mAh with 66W fast charging.
Why It’s Top-Notch: The Huawei Mate 60 Pro continues to offer impressive hardware and waterproofing, despite challenges with U.S. sanctions affecting its software ecosystem. It remains a solid choice for those who can navigate its unique software environment.
10. ASUS ROG Phone 7
Overview: Known primarily as a gaming phone, the ASUS ROG Phone 7 provides high performance and robust waterproofing features.
- IP Rating: IP54
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, FHD+ resolution
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM/Storage: 12GB/16GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage
- Camera: Triple-camera setup (50MP main, 13MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro)
- Battery: 6000mAh with 65W fast charging
Why It’s Top-Notch: While not fully IP68-rated, the ROG Phone 7’s IP54 rating indicates it can handle dust and light splashes, making it durable enough for various conditions. Its exceptional performance and large battery make it suitable for intensive tasks and extended use.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Waterproof Smartphone
1. IP Rating
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating is crucial for understanding a phone’s water and dust resistance. An IP68 rating means the device can withstand continuous submersion in water up to a certain depth (usually 1.5 meters) for a specific time (typically 30 minutes). IP67 also provides protection against temporary immersion, but it’s slightly less robust compared to IP68. Consider your needs and choose a phone with an appropriate IP rating.
2. Durability Beyond Water Resistance
Waterproofing is just one aspect of durability. Look for additional features such as reinforced glass, shock resistance, and overall build quality. Phones designed for rugged use often include extra protection against drops and extreme temperatures.
3. Performance and Features
Ensure the waterproof phone you choose meets your performance needs. Consider factors such as processing power, camera quality, battery life, and additional features like fast charging or high refresh rate displays. The best waterproof phones balance protection with high performance and advanced features.
4. Brand and Support
Opt for reputable brands known for their reliable waterproofing and customer support. Brands like Samsung, Apple, and Google have a proven track record of delivering high-quality devices with robust water resistance and excellent after-sales service.
5. Price and Value
Waterproof phones are available across a range of price points. Assess your budget and determine what features are most important to you. Higher-end models offer more advanced features and better protection, but there are also excellent mid-range and budget options that provide solid waterproofing and performance.
Conclusion
Choosing a waterproof smartphone is a smart decision for those who want to ensure their device can withstand various environments and conditions. The top waterproof smartphones of 2024 offer a blend of durability, high performance, and advanced features, making them suitable for a wide range of users and activities. Whether you’re looking for a flagship device with top-notch specs or a rugged phone built for tough environments, there’s a waterproof smartphone that fits your needs.
Investing in one of these top waterproof phones not only enhances your device’s longevity but also provides peace of mind in challenging conditions. Explore your options, consider your priorities, and choose a device that will keep you connected and protected wherever you go.
Read also: Top 5 Best Budget Smartphones In 2024
