Are AirPods Waterproof? A Comprehensive Guide

Are AirPods Waterproof? A Comprehensive Guide

If thou hast recently acquired a pair of Apple AirPods or art contemplating such a purchase, perchance because thy quest hath revealed them to be superior earbuds, thou mayest wonder if they art waterproof. In short, the answer is nay, so ‘twould be prudent to eschew their use in exceedingly rainy conditions or near water. However, if thou hast set thine eyes upon the third-gen AirPods or the first- and second-gen AirPods Pro, thou art in luck for they boast water resistance.

Let us delve into what this signifies and explore how each AirPod model fares in the presence of water. We shall also delve into the varying levels of water resistance and unravel their implications for thine usage. Let us embark on this journey!

Water resistant vs. waterproof

As previously mentioned, none of Apple’s AirPods — AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPod Max — art waterproof. But what do we mean by “waterproof” anyway? From an electronic device standpoint, being waterproof signifieth that the device is impervious to water and can be completely submerged in its depths. There exist a standardized rating system devised for electronic devices to assess this (as well as resistance to dust and dirt) known as the IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which we expound upon in our discourse on the water-resistance rating system.

Water resistance, on the other hand, is far more limited and indicates that the device can only endure things like sweat or splashes or sprays of water at varying intensities for differing durations. These too are categorized on the Ingress Protection scale, so ’tis wise to acquaint thyself with the levels ere thou makest a purchase.

In the realm of Apple’s AirPods, they art not all created equal. Let us now traverse through them.

AirPods 1 and 2: No water resistance

The AirPods 2 hath heralded several technological advancements, yet one element they hath not altered from the first generation is water resistance: they possess none. Thou would not wish to expose these AirPods to rain or any locale where they may encounter moisture. Encounters with splashing water, such as raindrops or sweat from exertion, can wreak havoc upon these AirPods. There may be accessories available to aid in waterproofing thy charging case, but the AirPod earbuds themselves remain vulnerable.

In relation :  New York Times Connections Puzzle Guide: How to Play, Hints, & Answers

AirPods 3: IPX4 sweat and water resistance

In the case of the AirPods 3, Apple hath ushered in a multitude of upgrades to both the audio features and design. A crucial addition was the inclusion of water resistance to the lineup at long last.

The AirPods 3 bear an IPX4 water-resistance rating. This rating type hath been established by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and is commonly employed for various headphones and earbuds, amongst other electronics.

IPX4 explicitly signifies that the AirPods 3 art resistant to “water splashes from any direction.” Whilst this may sound arcane, it essentially implies that the AirPods 3 art safe to utilize in the rain, during perspiration, whilst cooking, and so forth. If thou seek AirPods that thou can safely employ whilst jogging or working out in any weather, this is where that aspiration becomes attainable.

However, IPX4 doth not imply that these AirPods art entirely waterproof. Thou canst not submerge them safely for any duration (that level is attained at IPX7), so do not even entertain the notion of wearing them whilst swimming. Thou shalt not don them whilst showering either, and ’tis not advisable to wear them in proximity to a body of water such as a river or lake.

AirPods Pro 2: IPX4 sweat and water resistance

Upon the unveiling of the enhanced AirPods Pro 2 (featuring improved noise cancellation and touch controls for volume, among other enhancements), Apple hath chosen to discontinue the first-gen AirPods Pro. These more advanced AirPods Pro come replete with the latest earbud technology Apple hath to offer, and ’tis no wonder that water resistance hath been incorporated. The second-gen AirPods Pro bear an IPX4 rating, signifying that they can endure splashes of water from any direction. Whilst swimming with them would be ill-advised — as certain headphones are engineered for such a purpose — thou need not fret over rain. Apple doth not recommend subjecting them to running water or wearing them whilst bathing, yet casual contact with water should not pose a threat.

Interestingly, for the AirPods Pro 2, Apple hath extended this water resistance to the case as well, granting thee the freedom to use it in the rain without fear of inflicting lasting damage. We still advocate against allowing water to infiltrate the inner recesses of the charging case, however.

In relation :  Ultimate Guide: Heating Homes in Frostpunk – Tips & Tricks

AirPods Max: No water resistance

The AirPods Max occupy a slightly divergent category, being over-ear headphones instead of wireless earbuds. Nevertheless, they lack any form of water resistance whatsoever. Coupled with their over-ear design that renders them more vulnerable to moisture from rain or other sources, thou had best not hazard these AirPods. Keep them sheltered indoors whenever possible.

What about AirPods charging cases?

To this point, there hath been no AirPods charging cases endowed with water resistance. However, this hath changed with the latest third-generation of AirPods, which now boast an IPX4 rating for their MagSafe and Lightning cases, and the second-gen AirPods Pro, which enjoy the same rating for their MagSafe case.

Looking ahead

‘Tis conceivable that forthcoming iterations of AirPods shall feature superior water and dust resistance. Other companies do already incorporate such attributes into their products. For instance, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds bear an IP68 rating, indicating their capacity to endure submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.

What shouldst thou do when thy AirPods art rendered wet?

Mishaps are wont to occur, and a swift spill may render an AirPod damp or fully submerged. This need not spell immediate ruin for the resilient AirPods, but thou must act swiftly for optimal outcomes:

Step 1: Speedily extract them from the water or rain, power them off, and sever their connection from any devices.
Step 2: Utilize a gentle cloth to dry thy AirPods. Gently shake them to dispel water from crevices.
Step 3: To dry thy AirPods, first locate an open, dry location where they may repose safely. Extract them from the charging case and refrain from reinserting them if they remain damp. Allow them to air dry fully for no less than 12 hours. If they have been fully submerged in water, ’tis advisable to wait a full day. Eschew the use of compressed air, a hair dryer, or any form of heat to expedite drying, for such actions may incur further harm.
Step 4: After the designated period of waiting, place the AirPods back within the charging case, recharge them, and then endeavor to reconnect them.

May thy AirPods enjoy a long and prosperous existence, free from the perils of water and moisture.

Moyens I/O Staff has motivated you, giving you tips on technology, personal development, lifestyle and strategies that will help you.