You have seen "IP67" and "IP68" on phone boxes and case listings, but the difference is easy to misread — and getting it wrong can cost you a phone. Here is exactly what those codes mean and how to choose the right level of protection.
What the IP Code Means
IP stands for Ingress Protection. The two digits after it describe protection against solids and liquids. The first digit (0–6) is dust; the second digit (0–9) is water. So in IP68, the '6' means fully dust-tight and the '8' is the water rating. Both IP67 and IP68 share the same top dust rating; only the water number changes.
IP67 vs IP68: The Real Difference
IP67 means the device withstands immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. IP68 means immersion deeper than 1 meter for 30 minutes — the exact depth is defined by the manufacturer, commonly 1.5 to 6 meters. In everyday terms, IP67 survives a drop in the sink or a rain-soaked pocket; IP68 is rated for deeper, longer submersion like a pool.
The Fine Print Everyone Misses
IP ratings are tested in fresh, still water. Salt water, chlorinated pools, hot showers, and high-pressure jets are not part of the test and can defeat the seals. Ratings also fade with age as gaskets wear and drops flex the frame. That is why manufacturers say liquid damage is not covered under warranty — your phone's IP68 rating is a factory result, not a lifetime promise.
When a Dedicated Waterproof Case Wins
If you actually plan to swim, kayak, fish, or film underwater, a purpose-built waterproof case with sealed ports and a built-in screen membrane is the safer bet than relying on your phone's own rating. A case like the iPhone 16 Pro Max Waterproof Case adds a physical barrier around every opening.
Android users have the same options — for example the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra Waterproof Case. Browse more by model in the iPhone 15 Pro Max Cases and iPhone 16 Pro Max Cases collections.
How to Keep Any Waterproof Seal Working
Always inspect the gaskets for grit or hair before sealing. Close every port cover fully, and do a quick dry test (no phone inside) if the case is new. Rinse the case in fresh water after ocean or pool use, and let it dry before reopening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IP68 fully waterproof? No rating means "waterproof forever." IP68 means water-resistant to a manufacturer-defined depth beyond 1 m for 30 minutes in fresh water. Treat it as strong resistance, not invincibility.
How deep can an IP68 phone go? It depends on the maker — commonly 1.5 m, and up to 6 m on some models, for 30 minutes. Always check the spec for your exact phone.
Does IP67 protect against dust? Yes. The '6' means it is fully dust-tight, identical to IP68 on that front.
Can I take IP68 phones in the pool or ocean? Manufacturers advise against it. Chlorine and salt are not part of IP testing and can degrade seals. A sealed waterproof case is the safer choice for pools and beaches.
Why did my water-resistant phone still get damaged? Seals wear over time, and heat, pressure, and non-fresh water can breach them. Liquid damage is generally excluded from warranty, so add a physical waterproof case for real water activities.