When looking at different devices such as Bluetooth earbuds and headphones, you might have noticed that most of them have an IPX rating. The rating is usually on the device itself or within the specification list. However, many people do not know what an IPX rating is and its importance. In this article, we will look at the frequently asked questions about IPX ratings to help you understand IPX ratings.
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Q. What Is an IP Rating?
If you have no idea about what an IP rating is, this might be the first question you might want to ask. IP is an acronym for International or Ingress protection. Although the term IPX rating might not be familiar, you might be familiar with term “waterproof”. Most of the smartphones or modern phones we use are said to be waterproof. Traditionally, this could only be associated with waterproof watches. There is no need to worry about being caught in the rain if you have a waterproof phone. Similarly, you might have seen many electronic devices with words such as “dust-proof” or water resistant. This is what is referred to as an IPX rating. It’s one of the main specifications in modern electronic gadgets.
An IPX rating simply means blocking something from entering. This protection is made possible by an electronic enclosure or mechanical casing. Examples of IPX ratings include IPX5, IPX6, IPX 7 and so on.
The first part of an IP rating indicates the level of protection the earbuds or headphones offer against dust. The second character shows the level of protection it offers against water. It is on a scale of 0 -9k. The higher the number, the better the earbuds or headphones will be protected against water.
Q. Can you Shower in IPX4 Bluetooth Rated Headphones?
You can shower with any pair of earbuds or headphones. The question is, will they continue working? IPX4 certified earbuds can withstand splashing water from any direction. It depends with how powerful the splash is. IPX 4 rating is the minimum rating you should take a shower with. However, most warranties don’t cover this. IPX 4 rated headphones are meant for protection against sweat, heavy rain and occasional accidental splash.
Higher rated devices such as IPX 5 and IPX 6 can withstand regular and powerful water jets from any direction. On the other hand IPX 7 and IPX 8 devices allow you to submerse the device in water entirely. You need to keep in mind that when showering, you not only expose your earbuds or headphones to water only but to other substances like soap and shampoo.
Q. Can You Use IPX7 Bluetooth Earbuds in the Shower?
It is safe to take IPX7 earbuds or headphones into the shower. IPX7 earbuds or headphones can be immersed in water for thirty minutes at a depth of 1 m and not get damaged. This is ideal if you work in wet environments or if you want to shower while listening to your favorite music. IPX7 devices are often called waterproof. So, if you want to by any “waterproof “earbuds or headphones for use in the shower make sure that they are at least rated IPX7.
Q. What is IPX7 Certification and How Reliable Is it?
IF your earbuds or headphones are IPX7 certified, it means that the earbuds or headphones are protected against accidental submission in 1m of water for up to half an hour. Any water that enters them cannot cause damage. This does not mean that they are tested and protected against dust. However, IPX earbuds or headphones are not ideal for swimming. They are only protected against brief immersion in water. A few drops of water should not be a problem for such devices.
Q. Can You Swim With Bluetooth Headphones?
Bluetooth is a standard of communication for exchanging data at short range between two or more devices. It is a myth that Bluetooth signals cannot travel over water. They can but not as good as they travel over air. Water reduces the strength of Bluetooth signals. Besides, Bluetooth only works within a short range. You need to be within the range and the SURGE BT or STREAM needs to be above the surface. The STREAM keeps the earbuds or headphones from submerging and thus helps to maintain a connection.
The best thing to do when you buy new earbuds or headphones is to check the manual to confirm if you can swim with them. While you can fully submerge some models in water, some are only meant for running in the rain.
Q. What is the Difference between Splash Resistant and Water Resistant?
Most people use the confusing terms “splash resistant” and “water resistant” interchangeably. However, these two terms have different meanings. Splash resistant devices can withstand a water splash. This means that if you splash some water on it, it won’t get damaged. Most devices that are not rated splash resistant such as smartphones are smart resistance.
On the other hand, water resistant earbuds or headphones allow you to take them with you when swimming without getting damaged. You can completely submerge them in water but they won’t get damaged.
Q. Do Under Water Headphones Work?
Underwater headphones work. They can help you enjoy your favorite music while swimming without noise of the splashed water. However, underwater headphones have different IPX ratings. The higher the level, the higher the device is protected against damage by water. Here are values showing IPX ratings for various devices.
| IPX0 | Has zero protection |
| IPX1 | Offers protection from drizzling or dripping water |
| IPX2 | Offers protection against water dripping vertically |
| IPX3 | Offers protection against spraying water |
| IPX4 | Offers protection against splashing water |
| IPX5 | Offers protection against eater from a nozzle |
| IPX6 | Offers protection against water coming from a strong jet |
| 1PX7 | Offers protection even when submersed in water up to 3 ft. |
| 1PX8 | Allows you to swim at 3m depth underwater for 30 minutes |
| IPX9 | Although this is not found in earbuds and headphones, these devices offer protection against powerful high temperature water jets |
Q. What Are Water-Resistant Earbuds?
If earbuds or headphones are labeled as water-resistant, it means that they are built to prevent water from getting inside them. Water-resistant headphones have internal circuitry components waterproofed. These headphones have a hydrophobic coating that repels water particles. The coating promotes the formation of water beads that glide off water on the surface of the earbuds or headphones. However, water-resistant only provides resistance to a certain level. They have high survival chances in areas where contact with water is limited.
Q. What IP Rating tells that Your Earbuds or Headphones are Water-Resistant?
From the above table, you can tell that wireless earbuds or headphones with IPXO can’t survive water at all. Take note that each rating offers a different limit of protection against water. Water resistant earbuds have a rating of between IPX1 and IPX5.
Q. What are Waterproof Earbuds?
Waterproof devices have higher level of protection against water. Bluetooth earbuds and headphones are said to be water proof if they can survive large amounts of water. Waterproof headphones are ideal for activities such as diving, swimming, camping, snowboarding, running, cycling and many more. You can also use them in the shower. They are made of material that can’t let water in. The IPX rating for waterproof devices indicates how long and deep they can be immersed in water.
Q. What IP Rating tells that Your Earbuds or Headphones are Waterproof?
In simple terms, if a device can survive immersion in water, it is said to be waterproof. However, from the table above, earbuds or headphones with a rating of between IPX6 and IPX9K are said to be waterproof. In this case, IPX9K devices can withstand more water and at a higher depth in comparison with devices rated as IPX6.
Q. Does Waterproof Mean Water Can’t Damage the Earbuds or Headphones?
The term waterproof communicates that the earbuds or headphones won’t fail when they come in contact with water. This is false. Waterproof doesn’t mean that your earbuds are now fully protected against water. It also doesn’t mean that your earbuds or headphones will work perfectly when you are swimming below 2 meters.
Q. What factors should I Consider before Buying Waterproof headphones or earbuds?
Purchasing headphones or earbuds for swimming could be a daunting task because buying something and regretting later can lead to buyer remorse. Not all earbuds or headphones are meant for the same purpose. You should therefore know what you are getting in return. Consider the following factors before purchasing your next waterproof Bluetooth earbuds or headphones.
- What is the IPX rating?
As mentioned earlier, the IPX rating is essential in ensuring that you are getting quality waterproof headphones for swimming or underwater purposes. Don’t buy waterproof earbuds that don’t include the rating on the specification list. Also check out for rating claims that seem suspicious. If there is a hyphen IPX and the two digits, the rating is fake or invalid.
- What is the Battery life and Charging Speed?
Although most Bluetooth headphones and earbuds can work for four hours on average before running out, choose those with a maximum operating capacity. Also check if the unit’s proprietary connectors are compatible with the conventional ones. It can be a pain in the ass in case they break down. Choose units with universal connectors. Lastly, consider its charging speed. Good earbuds or headphones charge fast.
- Eartip styles
The eartip helps to secure the water tight seal. They aim to make the headphones comfortable to give you extended hours of use. Eartips are made of different materials including, silicone, rubber, foam, and hybrid material. Your choice of waterproof should fit well especially, if you plan to use them for heavy activity such as when swimming or at the gym. They shouldn’t affect the quality of your swimming stroke.
- What is the Sound Quality?
There is nothing as bad as poor sound quality. Sound quality should be a priority. The waterproof capability of the devices shouldn’t compromise the sound quality. Check out the specification list to see if the sound quality has been listed. Alternatively, you can check online reviews from reputable sites.
- What Activities Do You Want to Use them for?
Before buying waterproof Bluetooth earbuds or headphones, you need to consider what you want to use them for. It will help you choose the best ones.
- What is the cost?
As with the price, just with other technological devices, the more you pay, the better the quality. That said, quality Bluetooth IPX rated earbuds or headphones don’t cost an arm and a leg. If you don’t plan to use the earbuds or headphones daily, consider purchasing budget friendly ones.
Q. How Should I Use Waterproof Bluetooth Earbuds or Headphones?
Unlike wired devices, it is easy to use Bluetooth enabled devices. With the increase in their demand, manufacturers are now developing a wide range of varieties to cater for everyone’s needs. If you don’t know the right size of IPX rated Bluetooth earbuds or devices that don’t fit you, visit your local electronic store and try out different pairs. Ensure the earbuds are clean before trying them out.
Q. How Reliable Are Waterproof Earbuds or Headphones?
Just like other electronic gadgets, waterproof earbuds and headphones have their own limitation. However, this does not mean that they are not reliable. With proper care and maintenance they can last for a long time. It’s important to note that the more you use them, the more they wear and tear. Always remember to follow the user manual to gain the benefits of using them for longer.
Q. What Are the Advantages of Water-Resistant Headphones?
The main advantage of water resistant headphones and earbuds is that you can use them both underwater and in inclement weather. Swimmers can attest to how morale boosting and relaxing listening to music while swimming can be.
Q. What are the Best Way to use Water Resistant Headphones?
Water resistant headphones are ideal for listening to music. Unlike other products their use is self-explanatory. They allow you to use them even under wet conditions.
Q. What Precautions should you Take When Using Water-resistant Headphones?
The first thing that you need to do before using your water resistant headphones is to read the manual that comes with it. You should take this precaution with every electronic gadget that you purchase. It is however critical with headphones because you are using an electronic equipment under water. If you ignore the safety precautions, you could easily injure yourself or others. Precautions are not universal. Each product has different precautions. It is therefore essential to read the manual of each pair of earbuds or headphones that you purchase.
Q. What if an IPX Rating Is not Provided for the Earbuds?
Not all earbuds come with an IPX rating. This doesn’t mean that the earbuds or headphones are not water resistant. It means that there is no clear way to tell their level of protection against water. It also means that the manufacturer hasn’t put the earbuds up for testing and clarification. Always check the user manual to confirm if the device has an IP rating. Besides, devices that don’t come with IP ratings come with water resistant nano- coating. Nano coating protects against the odd splash of water, accidental spills, and light rain. However, they can’t be submerged.
A device can only be waterproof or water resistant only if you can confirm their certification.
Conclusion
Have you ever thought of splashing around the pool, while listening to your favorite music from your wireless headphones or earbuds? This is a perfect way of boosting your mood when swimming or even when working out. What has made this possible is the invention of water proof and water resistant models. To clarify the level of protection your device has against water, you need to check the IPX rating. The IPX rating indicates how repellent your earbuds or headphones are toward liquids and solids.
I hope that the frequently asked questions about IPX rating discussed above have helped you to understand these concepts better. Keep it here for related content
