Ratings Decoder · Immersion Testing

IPX7 vs IPX8: Waterproof Ratings Explained

IPX7 gives you a fixed immersion condition. IPX8 tells you the test was more severe, but you still need the manufacturer’s actual depth and time.

Published October 18, 2026Waterproof RatingsApprox. 5 min read

The useful answer

IPX8 is the higher rating, but it is not one fixed number. Two IPX8 products can be tested at very different depths and durations. Before trusting an IPX8 claim, find the stated depth and time.

The key difference

IPX7 tells you the condition. IPX8 tells you to read the fine print.

Both ratings come from IEC 60529, the standard used to describe how well an enclosure keeps out solids and water.

An “X” means the solids digit is not being stated. The final digit is the water-protection level. That is why IPX7 and IPX8 are water claims rather than complete dust-and-water ratings.

01 / Decode the code

Every character carries a different part of the claim.

IPPrefixIngress Protection

The rating system describes enclosure protection against solids and/or water.

XFirst positionSolids digit not stated

The “X” does not mean zero protection. It means that solids rating is not being represented in this code.

7Water levelImmersion to 1 meter

IPX7 is the fixed immersion level discussed by the testing references used here.

8Water levelMore severe immersion

The depth and duration come from the manufacturer or test plan rather than one universal IPX8 number.

02 / Side by side

IPX7 vs IPX8 at a glance.

Factor	IPX7	IPX8
Depth	1 meter	More than 1 meter, with the exact condition set by the manufacturer/test plan
Duration	Typically 30 minutes in the references used here	Set by the test plan or manufacturer
Severity	Baseline immersion test	Conditions must be more severe than IPX7
What the label alone tells you	The basic immersion condition is defined	You still need the manufacturer’s depth and duration
Example from Apple	IP67 examples include 1 meter for up to 30 minutes	Apple publishes a specific depth and time for current IP68 models rather than relying on “8” alone

03 / Which one matters?

Choose by the exposure you are trying to survive.

IPX7 can be enough when…

The realistic risk is a short, shallow dunk
You want a standardized baseline without hunting through a spec sheet
Your actual use does not require deeper immersion

Look for IPX8 with numbers when…

The gear could end up deeper than 1 meter
It may remain submerged longer
You are comparing two IPX8 products and need the actual test conditions

What the code does not promiseAn IP rating is one lab test, not a guarantee against every kind of water.

Real use adds wear, moving water, pressure, impacts, aging seals and user error.

Apple states that splash, water and dust resistance are not permanent conditions and can decrease with normal wear. Apple also warns against pressurized or high-velocity water for rated phones. The larger lesson is useful beyond phones: a rating describes the conditions of a test, not every environment a product may encounter.

That is why “higher number” should never replace reading the maker’s actual instructions.

04 / Before you buy

Five questions before you trust an IPX8 claim.

IPX8 claim checklist

Is a depth stated in meters or feet?

Is a time stated in minutes?

Does the claim say what must be closed or sealed?

Is this an actual IP rating or only the word “waterproof”?

Does the manufacturer describe splash, immersion or both?

Do the test conditions match the way you plan to use it?

05 / Related guides

Keep decoding waterproof claims.

From SKÖ

Read the product claim, not just the category label.

SKÖ’s Waterproof Crossbody is designed for compact essentials such as a phone, wallet and keys and uses a waterproof zipper. When evaluating any waterproof bag, the same rule applies: use the manufacturer’s actual performance guidance rather than assuming an unstated depth or duration.

See the Waterproof Crossbody →

Sources

SKÖ

Written and maintained by the SKÖ Team

SKÖ designs waterproof gear for real-world travel, water and outdoor use. This guide focuses on what the rating itself establishes and where manufacturer-specific conditions still matter.