If you have ever compared two phone cases and seen labels like IP68, IP67 or IP54, you have run into the Ingress Protection (IP) system. Those numbers are not marketing fluff. They describe exactly how much dust and water a sealed case is designed to keep out. Here is what each rating means and how to choose the right level of protection.
What the IP rating actually means
An IP code has two digits. The first digit (0 to 6) rates protection against solids like dust. The second digit (0 to 9) rates protection against water. So in IP68, the "6" means fully dust-tight and the "8" means the highest standard submersion rating. The higher each digit, the more sealed the case.
IP54: splash and dust resistance
IP54 means limited dust ingress and protection against water splashing from any direction. This is the right tier for rain, sweat, kitchen splashes and dusty job sites, but it is not built for submersion. A slim "life" style case in the IP54 range gives you everyday peace of mind without adding much bulk.
IP67: submersion up to 1 meter
IP67 is fully dust-tight and rated for immersion in up to 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) of water for up to 30 minutes. That covers the classic "dropped it in the sink or toilet" moment and short, shallow accidents.
IP68: the deepest, longest submersion rating
IP68 is also fully dust-tight, but the water rating is defined by the manufacturer beyond 1 meter, commonly tested to around 2 meters (about 6.6 feet) for 30 minutes. For pool days, kayaking, snorkeling and beach trips, IP68 full-body cases are the safest choice.
Which rating do you actually need?
Match the rating to your habits. If you mostly worry about rain and drops, IP54 is fine. If water accidents are your fear, choose IP67 or higher. If you actively take your phone in or near open water, go straight to a sealed IP68 full-body case with a built-in screen membrane.
How Gorilla Cases build water resistance
A true waterproof case seals every opening: a gasket around the perimeter, covered port doors, and a built-in front membrane so the screen stays sealed. That full-body design is what separates a submersion-rated case from a "water resistant" back cover. Browse matching options in the Galaxy S21 Ultra Cases collection and other model pages.
Frequently asked questions
Is IP68 fully waterproof forever? No rating is permanent. IP68 covers roughly 1.5 to 2 meters for up to 30 minutes under test conditions. Seals age, so inspect gaskets and avoid saltwater soaking and high-pressure jets.
What is the difference between IP67 and IP68? Both are dust-tight. IP67 is tested to 1 meter for 30 minutes; IP68 is tested deeper (manufacturer-defined, often about 2 meters) for 30 minutes.
Does a waterproof case block wireless charging? Most full-body waterproof cases still allow Qi charging, though thicker seals can slow charging slightly. Remove heavy metal plates if charging fails.
Can I hear calls through a sealed case? Yes. Quality waterproof cases use acoustic membranes over the speaker and mic so sound passes while water stays out.
Need help choosing?
If you are unsure which rating fits your lifestyle, reach out through the Gorilla Cases Contact page or call 978-797-0223 and the team can point you to a case that matches your phone model.