When it comes to waterproofing, two standards stand out from the rest: 5ATM and IP68. Both are widely used in the tech industry, particularly in the production of smartwatches, fitness trackers, and other wearable devices. But what do these ratings mean, and which one is better? In this article, we’ll dive into the details of each standard, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
The Basics of Water Resistance
Before we delve into the specifics of 5ATM and IP68, it’s essential to understand the concept of water resistance. Water resistance is typically measured in units of pressure, with higher ratings indicating a greater ability to withstand water ingress. There are several ways to measure water resistance, but the most common method is by immersing a device in water and applying pressure to simulate various depths.
In the context of wearable devices, water resistance is crucial. These devices are designed to be worn on the body, often in environments where water is present, such as during swimming, showering, or even just sweating. A device that’s not water-resistant can be damaged or even rendered useless if exposed to water.
5ATM: The Basics
The 5ATM rating is a standardized measurement of water resistance developed by the Swiss watch industry. ATM stands for “atmospheres,” with 1 ATM equivalent to 10 meters (33 feet) of water pressure. A 5ATM rating, therefore, means that a device can withstand water pressure equivalent to 50 meters (164 feet) of depth.
To achieve a 5ATM rating, a device must pass a series of tests, including:
- Immersion in water at a depth of 50 meters for a minimum of 10 minutes
- Resisting water ingress when subjected to various pressure cycles
- Withstanding exposure to saltwater and other corrosive substances
Devices with a 5ATM rating are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities, but not for deep-sea diving or high-impact water sports.
IP68: The Basics
IP68 is a rating developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The “IP” stands for “Ingress Protection,” and the “68” refers to the level of protection against solid objects and water.
The first digit in the IP rating represents protection against solid objects, with higher numbers indicating a higher degree of protection. The second digit represents protection against water, with higher numbers indicating a higher degree of water resistance.
In the case of IP68, the rating breaks down as follows:
- The “6” represents a high degree of protection against solid objects, with no ingress of dust or other particles.
- The “8” represents a high degree of protection against water, with the ability to withstand immersion beyond 1 meter (3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
Key Differences Between 5ATM and IP68
While both 5ATM and IP68 are measures of water resistance, there are some key differences between the two:
Pressure and Depth
One of the most significant differences between 5ATM and IP68 is the level of pressure and depth they can withstand. A 5ATM rating is equivalent to 50 meters of water pressure, while IP68 is tested at a depth of up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) for 30 minutes.
In practical terms, this means that a device with a 5ATM rating is more suitable for deep-water activities, such as scuba diving, while a device with an IP68 rating is better suited for everyday water exposure, such as showering or swimming in shallow water.
Testing Methodology
Another key difference between 5ATM and IP68 is the testing methodology used to achieve the rating. 5ATM testing involves immersing the device in water at a specific depth and pressure, while IP68 testing involves submerging the device in water at a specific depth for a specific amount of time.
Device Design
The design of a device can also affect its water resistance rating. Devices with a 5ATM rating often have more substantial construction and tighter seals to withstand higher pressures. Devices with an IP68 rating, on the other hand, may have more flexible seals and gaskets to accommodate the water pressure.
Which One is Better?
So, which one is better: 5ATM or IP68? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re a serious swimmer or diver: A 5ATM rating is likely a better choice, as it provides a higher level of water resistance and is suitable for deeper water activities.
If you’re looking for everyday water resistance: An IP68 rating is a better option, as it provides a high level of protection against water ingress in everyday situations, such as showering or swimming in shallow water.
Real-World Examples
To illustrate the differences between 5ATM and IP68, let’s look at some real-world examples:
Smartwatches
The Apple Watch Series 5 has a water resistance rating of 50 meters (5ATM), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active has an IP68 rating, making it suitable for everyday water exposure, but not for deep-water activities.
Fitness Trackers
The Fitbit Versa has a water resistance rating of 50 meters (5ATM), while the Garmin Vivosport has an IP68 rating. Again, the 5ATM rating makes the Fitbit Versa more suitable for swimming and snorkeling, while the IP68 rating makes the Garmin Vivosport more suitable for everyday water exposure.
Conclusion
In the world of waterproofing, 5ATM and IP68 are two of the most widely recognized standards. While both provide a level of water resistance, they have distinct differences in terms of pressure, depth, testing methodology, and device design.
When choosing a device, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you’re a serious swimmer or diver, a 5ATM rating may be the better choice. If you’re looking for everyday water resistance, an IP68 rating is likely sufficient.
Ultimately, both 5ATM and IP68 are excellent standards for water resistance, and devices that meet these ratings can provide years of reliable service, even in the most demanding environments.
What is the difference between 5ATM and IP68?
The main difference between 5ATM and IP68 lies in the way they measure water resistance. 5ATM is a rating that measures water pressure, whereas IP68 is a rating that measures both water and dust resistance. 5ATM is typically used to describe the water resistance of watches and other devices that are designed to be submerged in water, whereas IP68 is used to describe the water and dust resistance of devices such as smartphones and fitness trackers.
In practical terms, this means that a device with a 5ATM rating is designed to withstand water pressure up to 5 atmospheres, which is equivalent to a depth of around 40 meters. A device with an IP68 rating, on the other hand, is designed to withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
Which is more reliable, 5ATM or IP68?
In terms of reliability, IP68 is generally considered to be more reliable than 5ATM. This is because IP68 is a more comprehensive rating that takes into account both water and dust resistance, whereas 5ATM only measures water pressure. IP68-rated devices are subject to more rigorous testing and are required to meet more stringent standards, which makes them more reliable in harsh environments.
Additionally, IP68-rated devices are more likely to be designed with water and dust resistance in mind from the outset, which means that they are less likely to suffer from water ingress or other issues related to moisture. In contrast, 5ATM-rated devices may be more prone to water ingress or other issues, especially if they are not designed with water resistance in mind.
Can I swim with a 5ATM-rated device?
Yes, you can swim with a 5ATM-rated device, but with some caution. A 5ATM rating means that the device can withstand water pressure up to 5 atmospheres, which is equivalent to a depth of around 40 meters. However, this does not mean that the device is suitable for all types of swimming or water activities.
It’s important to note that 5ATM-rated devices are not necessarily designed for high-impact water activities such as surfing or diving, and may not be suitable for prolonged exposure to water. Additionally, some 5ATM-rated devices may have specific restrictions or guidelines for use in water, so it’s always important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before taking your device swimming.
Can I shower with an IP68-rated device?
Yes, you can shower with an IP68-rated device. IP68-rated devices are designed to withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for up to 30 minutes, which means that they can easily withstand the water pressure and moisture of a shower.
In fact, IP68-rated devices are often designed with daily use in mind, including activities such as showering, sweating, and exposure to rain or snow. However, it’s still important to take some basic precautions to maintain the water resistance of your device, such as avoiding exposure to soap, shampoo, or other chemicals that could potentially damage the device’s seals or coatings.
Are all 5ATM-rated devices created equal?
No, not all 5ATM-rated devices are created equal. While a 5ATM rating provides a certain level of assurance that a device can withstand water pressure, it does not guarantee that the device is designed or built with water resistance in mind.
Some 5ATM-rated devices may be designed with water resistance as an afterthought, or may use cheaper materials or construction methods that compromise their water resistance. In contrast, other 5ATM-rated devices may be designed from the ground up with water resistance in mind, using high-quality materials and construction methods that provide an extra layer of protection against water ingress.
Can I use a 5ATM-rated device in saltwater?
It’s generally not recommended to use a 5ATM-rated device in saltwater. Saltwater is more corrosive than freshwater and can cause damage to the device’s seals, coatings, or other components over time.
Additionally, saltwater can also cause mineral buildup or scaling, which can compromise the device’s water resistance. If you plan to use your device in saltwater, it’s better to look for a device with a higher rating, such as IP68, which is designed to withstand more extreme environments.
Can I repair a water-damaged 5ATM or IP68-rated device?
It’s often difficult or impossible to repair a water-damaged 5ATM or IP68-rated device. Water damage can be catastrophic to electronic devices, and even if the device is designed to be water-resistant, water ingress can still cause corrosion, short circuits, or other types of damage that are difficult or impossible to repair.
Additionally, attempting to repair a water-damaged device can also void the warranty or compromise the device’s water resistance, making it even more prone to future water damage. In general, it’s better to take preventative measures to avoid water damage in the first place, such as using a protective case or avoiding exposure to water altogether.