No, the Samsung Galaxy S21 is not 100% waterproof, only water resistant to a certain degree. While it has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, Samsung does not recommend deliberately submerging the S21, even briefly. Accidental splashes and spills should be fine, but use caution around water.
As an audiophile and headphone enthusiast, I know how damaging liquid can be to sensitive electronics. So for a device as expensive as the Galaxy S21, it‘s natural to have concerns about its water protection and durability.
In this comprehensive guide from a tech expert‘s perspective, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about using the Galaxy S21 around water, including:
IP68 Rating and Waterproof Standards
Let‘s start by explaining the technical IP68 rating and what it means for real-world water protection…
IP Rating System
The IP Code (Ingress Protection Rating) is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for classifying electrical equipment protection against intrusion by solid objects and liquids. It consists of:
IP – Ingress Protection marking
First digit – Solid particle protection (dust)
Second digit – Liquid ingress protection (water)
Each digit has a rating from 0 to 9, with higher numbers indicating better sealing from particles or moisture.
IP68 Rating
The Galaxy S21 has an IP68 rating, meaning:
- 6 – Dust tight, no ingress of dust.
- 8 – Protected against water submersion greater than 1 meter (3.3 ft) for over 30 minutes.
So technically, the Galaxy S21 can withstand being submerged in 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes without short-circuiting or permanent damage, according to Samsung.
Waterproof vs Water Resistant
While IP68 provides excellent water protection, it does not make the Galaxy S21 completely waterproof. Terms like waterproof, water-resistant, and IP ratings have important distinctions:
- Waterproof – Can be continually submerged without leakage. No IP rating goes this far.
- Water-resistant – Can withstand water exposure to a certain degree. IPX7 and IPX8 devices are considered water-resistant.
- IPX7 – Can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- IPX8 – Can withstand immersion in over 1 meter of water based on the manufacturer‘s specs.
So in summary, the Galaxy S21 is considered water-resistant, not fully waterproof. But what does this mean in everyday use? Let‘s dig into some real-world tests.
Water Resistance Tests on the Galaxy S21
Many reviewers have tested the limits of the Galaxy S21‘s IP68 water resistance rating:
Pool Submersion
The Samsung Galaxy S21 was submerged in pool water up to 19 minutes in tests by CNET and MrWhosetheBoss on YouTube with no issues or water damage afterwards.
Hot Tub Dunk
When YouTube channel JerryRigEverything subjected the S21 to 104°F hot tub water for 20 minutes, it continued working flawlessly despite exceeding IP68‘s ambient water temperature assumptions.
However, a similar hot tub test by TechRax resulted in issues hours later, indicating the phone‘s heat protection may have limits.
Shower Use
Reviewers at Max Tech and iPhoneWars found that briefly showering with the Galaxy S21 and using it under a faucet with water spraying directly onto the phone posed no problem thanks to its IP68 rating.
Based on these real-world tests, the Galaxy S21 holds up impressively well in water, even beyond IP68‘s assumed 1.5 meter and 30 minute ratings. But for a more controlled look at its limits, let‘s examine its water pressure ratings.
Water Pressure Ratings
IP ratings measure both depth and duration of water exposure. But water pressure is another important factor.
According to AT&T device specs, here are the Galaxy S21‘s water pressure limits:
| Water Pressure | Time Duration |
|---|---|
| < 50 kPa | 15 minutes |
| > 50 kPa | Never |
For context:
50 kPa is roughly 5 meters depth in water, well below the IP68 1.5 meter rating.
Water pressure increases the deeper you go. 6 meters depth already exceeds the Galaxy S21‘s safe water pressure threshold.
While the S21 can apparently withstand brief dips below its IP68 limits, sustained high water pressure poses a real danger to water-resistant seals.
When to Use Caution with the Galaxy S21
Clearly the Galaxy S21 has impressive water protection abilities thanks to its IP68 ingress rating. But there are still important limits to keep in mind:
Avoid Hot Water
Hot tubs and water exceeding 104°F could potentially damage seals according to JerryRigEverything‘s testing. Samsung does not cover heat-induced damage under warranty.
Don‘t Exceed 1.5 Meters Depth
The IP68 rating specifies 1.5 meters max submersion. Greater depths increase water pressure past the phone‘s tolerances.
Limit Submersion to 30 Minutes
Even within its rated limits, the longer the phone is underwater, the greater the risk of leakage over time.
Avoid Salt Water & Chlorinated Pools
IP68 only applies to freshwater. Salts, minerals, and chemicals like chlorine can degrade gaskets and seals.
Dry USB Port Thoroughly
The USB port is the most vulnerable point for moisture ingress. Make sure it‘s completely dry before charging.
Don‘t Submerge Intentionally
While brief accidental immersion should be fine, deliberately bringing the S21 underwater is risky with unpredictable results.
For best protection, use the Galaxy S21 cautiously around water and limit unnecessary submersion. Accidents can happen, so having a contingency plan is wise…
How to Save a Water-Damaged Galaxy S21
In the event your Galaxy S21 takes an unexpected dunk, here are the steps I recommend as a repair technician to give it the best chance of survival:
Immediately power off the phone to stop electrical current flow.
Thoroughly dry the exterior and interior openings with a microfiber cloth.
Do NOT attempt to charge it while still wet. Use wireless charging only after drying.
Remove the SIM card and dry it completely before reinserting.
Place the phone into an airtight bag with silica gel packs to actively absorb moisture.
After 24 hours, remove the phone and battery, then rinse with 90% isopropyl alcohol to displace water.
Air dry for at least 72 hours to allow all lingering liquid to fully evaporate.
Inspect internally for corrosion and component damage before powering on again.
After powered on, monitor closely for issues like flickering screens which can arise over time.
The quicker you can power down and start drying a liquid-exposed S21, the less chance for long-term water damage. With rapid action, there‘s a good possibility of reviving it fully.
Using the S21 Around Water
While the Galaxy S21 has decent underwater protection thanks to its IP68 rating, I do not recommend intentionally submerging it without a waterproof case. Here are some best practices:
Keep the S21 away from hot tubs, baths, saunas and similar. The heat degrades its water seals.
Don‘t submerge it in salt water or chlorinated pools. The minerals can erode gaskets and seals over time.
Avoid using it underwater greater than 1.5 meters depth. Increased pressure can overcome its water barriers.
Limit any water exposure to under 30 minutes. Prolonged immersion allows moisture to seep in over time.
Dry it very thoroughly after getting it wet, especially the USB port before charging.
Consider using a waterproof case as an extra safeguard if showering or swimming with it. Some good options are the Catalyst, Lifeproof, Ghostek Atomic, and Dog & Bone Wetsuit cases.
While the Galaxy S21 is resilient against splashes, spills, and brief dunks, it‘s best practice to minimize unnecessary water exposure. The water-resistant design is intended to save the phone from accidents, not to encourage risky behavior. Just use sound judgment when using it around liquids.
Protecting Your Investment
As a fellow tech enthusiast, I treat my gadgets like prized possessions. After all, flagship phones like the Galaxy S21 represent a serious investment.
Here are some recommendations from my experience on keeping your S21 safe from water damage:
Get a waterproof case – For worry-free protection during activities with high liquid exposure risk, get a waterproof case like from Dog & Bone, Lifeproof, Ghostek, etc.
Insure it – Consider paying a little extra for phone insurance in case of accidents, especially around water. Samsung Care+, mobile carrier insurance, and 3rd party policies like SquareTrade are good options.
Waterproof your bags – When transporting your S21, use a water-resistant bag or pouch to avoid leaks from rain, splashes, etc.
Keep it away from water – Make it a habit to keep your phone away from sinks, tubs, pools, and other wet areas whenever possible. Accidents happen.
Learn to dry it out – Know what to do if it gets wet so you can take immediate action. Time is critical for water damage.
Have backup phones – Like a true audiophile, keep spare devices so you‘re never without a working phone. You can dedicate older models as water ready backups.
With caution and preparation, you can confidently use your Galaxy S21 without constantly worrying about water damage. Just take sensible precautions.
So in summary:
- The Galaxy S21 has excellent water resistance with an IP68 rating, but it is not fully waterproof.
-brief accidental liquid exposure should not damage it thanks to its ingress protection.
However, intentionally submerging the S21 without a waterproof case is risky and not recommended by Samsung.
Use care when exposing the Galaxy S21 to water. Limit use in wet environments, hot water, chlorinated pools, and saltwater.
Have a plan to quickly dry out and inspect the phone if it gets submerged unexpectedly. Time is critical.
Consider protective accessories and insurance to safeguard your investment against water damage and accidents.
I hope this guide better equips you to keep your prized Galaxy S21 safe from liquids. Feel free to reach out with any other questions!
