Key Takeaway
IP68 ≠ swim-proof. It can effectively protect against sweat, rain and splashes in daily use.
IPX ratings measure water resistance only (no dust protection tested/claimed).
For swimming, choose a watch with 5ATM or higher; IP ratings alone don’t indicate swim suitability.
Different ratings and standards fit different activities and budgets. Choose what suits your routine instead of chasing the highest number.
Always follow manufacturer care tips (hot shower, soap, and seawater might still cause damage).
If you’ve been browsing smartwatches lately, you’ve probably stumbled on specs like IP68, IP67, or 5ATM. They sound a bit like technical codes, right? But what do they actually mean for you — especially if you’re wondering whether it’s safe to take your watch into the pool?
This guide will break down the meaning of waterproof ratings, clarify what IP68 really covers (and what it doesn’t), and help you figure out which rating fits your lifestyle. Quick spoiler: IP68 ≠ swimming safe. Let’s dive in!
Are Waterproof Ratings Important for a Smartwatch?
The answer is definitely YES. Water-resistance is always an important factor to consider when purchasing any type of electronic device. But for a smartwatch, it is especially important since the watch will likely be worn during activities where it could be exposed to water, such as swimming, sweating during a workout, or being caught in the rain.
A smartwatch is more than just a time-telling device—it’s your smart companion during workouts, adventures, and everyday life. So, to make sure your smartwatch can keep up with your active lifestyle, it’s important to know its water resistance rating.
What is IP68?
“IP” stands for “Ingress Protection (IEC 60529)”. It is a standardized rating system for protection against solids and liquids determined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
An IP code has two characters:
Solids / Dust (0–6)
6 = Dust‑tight — no dust ingress per IEC 60529 talcum‑powder chamber test (under vacuum).
- Everyday meaning: protects against typical ambient dust at home/outdoors.
- It’s about ingress prevention, not resistance to abrasive sand‑blasting.
Water (0–9K)
Higher number = stronger protection under specified lab tests.
- Example 8: immersion beyond 1 m in still, fresh water — depth/time set by the manufacturer.
- IP ratings cover daily life water exposure; for swimming, check ATM rating.
Tip: IP68 covers handwashing, rain, and splashes. Swimming requires 5 ATM or higher.
IP68 is one of the most common protection standards you’ll see on modern electronics, and for good reason. For a smartwatch, an IP68 rating guarantees two things: it’s sealed against dust, and it can handle the accidental water exposure in everyday life.
Sounds tough, right? But here’s what many people miss. The IP68 test is done in still, fresh water under lab conditions. Real life is more complex: swimming strokes, water jets, waves, salt, heat, and soap all introduce stress that goes beyond the IP test. So while IP68 is excellent for everyday scenarios, like rain, hand-washing, or rinsing off sweat, it doesn’t mean swim-proof, dive-proof, sauna-proof, or salt-proof.
That’s why most Runmefit smartwatches and fitness trackers, including the latest Runmefit RACER 3 and RACER 4 running watch, carry an IP68 rating. Instead of chasing higher waterproof ratings that add bulk and cost, these models are designed around the reality of daily use: dust-tight protection, splash resistance, and easy care after workouts or outdoor runs.
In other words, Runmefit RACER series deliver the durability you actually need, without compromising their slim, comfortable design or battery efficiency. You can wear them with confidence through workouts, commutes, and outdoor adventure, knowing they’re built to handle the environment you actually live in.
Runmefit Water Resistance Guide
| Waterproof Rating | Protection Level | Safe For | Not Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP67 | Dust-tight (avoids household, DIY, outdoor trail dust, etc.) + splash resistant withstands incidental exposure to still, fresh water up to 1m, 30 min) | Handwashing, rain, sweat | Swimming, showers, saltwater |
| IP68 | Dust-tight (avoids household, DIY, outdoor trail dust, etc.) + higher water resistance (withstands incidental exposure to still, fresh water up to 1.5m, 30 min) | Rain, washing hands, daily use in wet conditions | Swimming, diving, long submersion |
| 3ATM (30m) | Water pressure equivalent to 30m depth | Rain, splashes, everyday spills | Swimming, sea water, high-pressure/high speed water activities |
| 5ATM (50m) | Water pressure equivalent to 50m depth | Shallow-water swimming, pool workouts, showering | Diving, water sports with strong impact |
| 10ATM (100m) | Water pressure equivalent to 100m depth | Swimming, snorkeling, water sports | Scuba diving |
| 20ATM (200m) | Water pressure equivalent to 200m depth | Jet-skiing, high-speed water sports, shallow diving | Deep sea diving |
| Dive Standard (EN13319) | Designed for professional diving | Recreational diving | Technical diving beyond certified limits |
Choosing the Right Waterproof Rating for Your Activities
Now that you have a better understanding of these waterproofing levels, the next question is which level of protection is right for your needs. Here is a general guide to some common water resistance standards for watches:
For Everyday Usage:
- IP67/IPX7: Can handle occasional water exposure, such as splashes, sweat, or drizzle. Avoid swimming or hot showers.
- IP68/IPX8: Can handle more frequent water exposure, such as splashing and handwashing. Avoid diving, hot showers, or saltwater.
For Water Sports Lovers:
- 5ATM: Can handle up to 50 meters of water pressure, suitable for swimming and other surface water activities that do not involve high-speed water flow or diving.
- 10ATM: Can handle up to 100 meters of water pressure, suitable for swimming, boating, snorkeling, and other water sports, but not for scuba diving.
- 20ATM: Can handle up to 200 meters of water pressure, suitable for jet-skiing, recreational, shallow diving, and more intense water activities.
Top Pick
These guidelines illustrate why choosing the right rating matters. Selecting a watch with sufficient water resistance ensures it stays functional, whether you’re simply washing your hands or plunging into the ocean. Let’s dive deeper into what these ratings mean and how to interpret them.
ATM Ratings for Smart Watches
When it comes to choosing a smartwatch to keep up with your water-loving lifestyle, you’re likely to come across the ATM waterproof ratings. Different from the familiar IP ratings, it is another common waterproof rating system used in fitness gadgets and smartwatches, signifying the ability of a device to withstand pressure when submerged and stationary in the water.
The ATM waterproof rating system measures water resistance based on atmospheric pressure, with the term “ATM” standing for “atmospheres”. Each ATM represents about 10 meters of water pressure resistance, so the higher the number, the more water pressure the device can withstand. For example, a device with a 3 ATM rating can withstand water pressure equivalent to a depth of 30 meters, while a device with a 5 ATM rating can withstand water pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 meters.
However, this does not mean that you can actually snorkel or dive with the device at that depth, as factors like water temperature, movement, and saltiness can affect the resistance. But generally speaking, the higher the ATM rating, the more suitable the device is for water activities.
Take the new Runmefit GTX2 GPS Outdoor Watch, for instance. Rated 3ATM waterproof, it’s designed to handle the splashes of daily life, rain, and even swim training. Equipped with a swim mode, the GTX2 not only withstands your swim training but also delivers detailed performance metrics to help you track and improve.
In addition to its water-resistant construction, the Runmefit GTX2 GPS outdoor watch also comes with advanced features tailored for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Its built-in GPS module ensures precise route tracking, while the compass provides reliable navigation, and the altitude barometer measures altitude to help you adapt to your surroundings. With a combination of 3ATM durability and cutting-edge functionality, the GTX2 is more than just a smartwatch—it’s your dependable companion for both aquatic adventures and outdoor exploration.
A Final Note on Water Resistance
Waterproof rating is an important factor to consider when choosing a smartwatch, as it determines how well the device can resist water damage. However, keep in mind that these ratings are not absolute and you should still follow the manufacturer’s instructions and care tips to prolong the life of your smartwatch. So, when choosing a smartwatch, consider your water-related activities and pick the rating that best suits your needs.
FAQ
Can I shower with an IP68 watch?
Is saltwater safe for my smartwatch?
What are the differences between IP67, IP68, and IPX ratings?
Different IP Ratings
There are actually different levels of IP waterproof protection, with the highest level being the IP69K rating. Generally, higher numbers in the IP rating indicate a higher level of protection. However, most smart watches on the market have an IP67 or IP68 rating, which is still very good, indicating they offer good dust and water resistance.
IP67 Rating vs. IP68 Rating Differences
When comparing the IP67 and IP68 ratings of smartwatches, the main difference is how water-resistant they are. The level of water resistance can significantly affect the usability of your smartwatch in various situations.
IP67 Rating:
• Protection: Withstands immersion from 15cm to 1m depth.
• Duration: Withstands immersion in water for up to 30 minutes.
• Typical Use: Resistant to splashes, light rain, and brief accidental submersion.
IP68 Rating:
• Protection: Withstands immersion to a depth of at least 1 meter.
• Duration: Withstands submersion for up to 30 minutes or more (as specified by the manufacturer).
• Typical Use: Resistant to showering (but avoid hot shower), hand washing, and other continuous immersion conditions at specified pressures.
It’s important to note that while both IP67 and IP68 ratings offer good water resistance, they are not intended for long-term underwater use. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific details on your smartwatch’s waterproofing capabilities.
IPX Rating
In addition to IP ratings, the IPX rating is an extension of the IP system that specifically focuses on water resistance for electronic devices. Unlike the standard IP rating, the IPX rating does not include a specific degree of protection against solid objects and focuses solely on water resistance. The IPX rating is followed by a number indicating the level of water resistance, with higher numbers generally indicating better protection.
What’s the difference between IP67 and IP68 ratings?
IP67: Withstands immersion from 15 cm to 1 m depth, up to 30 minutes. Typical use: splashes, light rain, accidental drops into water.
IP68: Withstands immersion beyond 1 m (depth/time set by manufacturer). Typical use: hand washing, sweat, rinsing after workouts — but not swimming or diving.
Note: Both ratings are for daily life water resistance, not long-term underwater use.
