The IPX7 waterproof rating is part of the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system, which classifies the degree of protection a device has against dust and water.
- IP stands for “Ingress Protection.”
- X means the device has not been tested for dust protection (if dust protection were tested, it would be a number from 0 to 6).
- 7 indicates the level of water resistance.
What Does IPX7 Mean?
A device with an IPX7 rating can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes without suffering damage. This means it can handle splashes, rain, and accidental submersion but is not designed for prolonged submersion or high-pressure water jets.
What It’s Suitable For
- Can survive accidental drops into water (like a puddle, sink, or bathtub).
- Suitable for outdoor use in rainy conditions.
- Ideal for devices like waterproof speakers, fitness trackers, and rugged handheld electronics.
What It’s NOT Suitable For
- Swimming or prolonged underwater use.
- Exposure to high-pressure water (e.g., power washing).
- Saltwater exposure (unless specified by the manufacturer).
If you need full waterproofing for swimming or diving, look for ratings like IPX8, which indicates protection against continuous submersion beyond 1 meter, depending on manufacturer specifications.
