Best Waterproof Phones in 2023

Waterproof ratings explained

The level of water-resistance for a phone can be found by checking its IP rating (Internal Protection Rating or Ingress Protection Standard). If you’re unsure what it is, check the phone’s description or specification. 

The IP rating is made up of two numbers, with each number dictating a certain level of water resistance. The first digit is almost always six, which means the phone is dust-resistant as well. The second digit indicates the level of protection against water submersion. The higher the second number, the more resistant the model is. 

Common IP ratings

IP68 is typically the most common rating on smartphones.You’ll find that an IP68 device can be submerged underwater for up to 30 minutes before suffering water damage!

Some other waterproof phones may have a different IP rating that begins with IP5, but these aren’t as common.

Although some phones are classified as water-resistant or waterproof, we don’t recommend submerging your electronics if you can help it! 

If your phone does end up in water accidentally and isn’t waterproof, here’s what you can do to try and save it.

Best Waterproof Phones

Jump to your favourite brand:

• Samsung
• Apple
• Huawei
• Google
• Xiaomi
• Hammer
• Nokia
• Sony

Waterproof Samsung phones

Samsung is one of the leading manufacturers in electronics, so it’s no surprise that they’ve already produced several high-tech, waterproof models. 

Waterproof Apple phones

Apple has been championing waterproof phones for a while now, with a large number of iPhones featuring some level of protection. 

Waterproof Huawei phones

Huawei is the leading phone manufacturer in China. They’re available in the UK, but you won’t have access to Google services due to a ban.

Waterproof Google phones

Google has been making waterproof phones for some time. You’ll find anything more recent than the Pixel 3 has some sort of IP rating. 

Waterproof Xiaomi phones

Xiaomi is one of the biggest smartphone manufacturers worldwide, with big batteries, impressive cameras, and huge displays. 

Waterproof Hammer phones

Hammer phones are some of the toughest and most durable smartphones on the market. 

Waterproof Nokia phones

Nokia offers a few handsets with an IP rating. 

Waterproof Sony phones

Sony are well-known for producing waterproof phones. Many of their flagship handsets boast water and dust-resistant capabilities without spoiling their sleek designs.

Best waterproof phone cases

If your phone isn’t waterproof, you may want to invest in a waterproof case for protection instead. Though an external case will only go so far in protecting your smartphone against water damage, it’s better than nothing at all!

If you do have a waterproof phone, adding a waterproof case will simply increase your protection whilst in rain or underwater.

• Ounne iPhone Waterproof Case
  - IP68
  - Withstand up to six feet of water
  - Shock resistant up to 6.5 feet
  
  
• Kona Submariner Waterproof Phone Case
  - Withstand up to 100 feet of water
  - Fits smartphones under 6.3 inches in length
  
  
• Joto Universal Waterproof Case
  - IPX8
  - Fits smartphones up to six inches
  - Withstands up to 100 feet of water for a maximum of 30 minutes
  
  
• Punkcase Galaxy S8 Plus Waterproof Case
  - IP68
  - Withstands up to 6.6 feet of water
  
  
• Vanksy Floatable Waterproof Phone Case
  - IP68
  - Fits smartphones up to 5.7 inches
  - Withstands up to 100 feet of water
  - Includes external audio jack

Waterproof phone pouches

If you’re doing any sort of water-based activity, like swimming, kayaking, or canoeing, you might want to pick up a waterproof phone pouch.

These pouches look like little bags that completely seal your phone away from water. They’re usually translucent so you can still see and use your phone while it’s inside. They also normally float and are attachable to your body via a strap, so you can safely take your phone into the water without the fear of losing it.

Discover more

It’s not just water that can damage your phone - it’s temperatures too! Find out what overheating can do to your phone.

Other “Best of…” series you might be interested in:

• Best phones for teens
• Best camera phones
• Phones with best battery life
• Best phones for seniors
• Best phones for privacy
• Best phones for under £200 

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