Can I get my Samsung Galaxy or Gear device wet?
Electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets can be susceptible to water damage. Water should be avoided especially on older devices which do not have the same level of water resistance as newer devices.
Samsung devices have different IP ratings. IP stands for Ingress Protection and tells you how easily the device resists water and dust.
An IP68 rating means complete protection from dust ingress, and temporary immersion in up to 1.5 metres of freshwater for up to 30 minutes.
The below Samsung devices have an IP68 rating:
- Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G and S21 Ultra 5G
- Galaxy Note20 and Note20 Ultra
- Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra
- Note10, Note10+ and Note10 5G
- Galaxy S10, S10e, S10+ and S10 5G
- Galaxy Note9 (including S Pen)
- Galaxy Note8 (including S Pen)
- Galaxy S9 and S9+
- Galaxy S8 and S8+
- Galaxy S7 and S7 edge
- Galaxy A5 (2017)
- Galaxy A3 (2017)
- Galaxy Watch3
- Galaxy Watch Active 2
- Galaxy Watch Active
- Galaxy Watch
- Gear Fit 2
- Gear S3
- Gear S2
No, water resistant means that it is resistant to rain, splashing, and accidental immersion. Your device can still be damaged by water hitting the device with force and by lengthy submersion.
The rating is based on fresh water. Any water with a high salt or any chemical content such as chlorine can damage your device.
Do not immerse devices in water deeper than 1.5m and for more than 30 minutes.
Take care to keep the device away from running water or water moving with force.
The device should not be exposed to hot or soapy water, chlorinated water, water that is ionized, or salt water. If the device has been exposed to water, dry it thoroughly with a clean soft cloth.
Dry your hands before handling the device, and ensure you dry it thoroughly with a soft, clean cloth after it has been exposed to water.
The device may lose some of its dust and water resistance if dropped or damaged.
After the device has been exposed to water, you should wait until it is thoroughly dry before you charge it. The device will recognise if the USB port is still wet or damp and will show a water drop icon on the screen. You will not be able to charge the device until the USB port is dry.
The touchscreen and other features may not have full functionality if used while wet.
If the speaker gets wet, sound may not be heard clearly or make a crackling sound. Dry the device with a dry soft cloth and allow time for it to dry thoroughly. For faster drying, use cool air or gently shake it a few times while holding the speaker face down.
Moisture can also be removed by speaker vibration while it is on.
The device will not charge if it detects water in the USB port. Dry the port thoroughly after the device has been in contact with water.
Samsung devices will not charge if they detect water or moisture in the USB port. This is a preventative measure to protect the device and prevent corrosion.
Most moisture will naturally evaporate within a few hours but you can try dry it faster by gently blowing into the port or exposing it to cool, dry air.
If you're experiencing unusual behaviour on Samsung mobiles, tablets or wearables, you can send us an error report or ask us a question in the Samsung Members app.
This allows us to take a closer look at what is happening. The data is anonymised and only held for the duration of the investigation. Find out more about sending an error report through the Samsung Members app.
Thank you for your feedback!
Please answer all questions.
Samsung Online Store
![]()
![]()
Samsung Members
![]()
![]()
Mobile Phone & Tablet Repair
![]()
![]()
