Just how waterproof is the iPhone XR?
TL;DR: not 100% waterproof - best to have a waterproof case solution.
Do you still need a waterproof phone case for iPhones? Along with upgrades to Apple’s iOS software and photography features, the new iPhone XR boasts an IP67 waterproof rating. This sounds great for those brave enough to take their new phone to the beach or pool. But the iPhone XR isn’t completely waterproof just yet – don’t think that the iPhone XR can handle all your watery adventures.
Priced between $749 to $899, the iPhone XR carries quite a hefty price tag despite being the budget solution for 2018. In Apple’s own words, the new XR is “Brilliant. In every way.” With an upgraded 6.1” Liquid Retina LCD display, the iPhone XR is stacked with loads of new features: much like the new iPhone Xs and Xs Max, faster computing power and longer battery life are paired with even more durable glass and aluminium casing than previous iPhones. Coming in a handful of unique colors, premium construction and capabilities should mean a stronger smartphone with a longer lifespan. All these features considered, such a powerful and tough device might justify the high price for a lot people. Especially when compared to earlier models, the iPhone has come a long way in terms of processing power and durability.
Like some earlier iPhones, the new iPhone XR is water and dust resistant to IP67. Catalyst is no stranger to IP ratings. For those of you out of the loop, IP refers to a standard of protection against tiny materials and particles from outside your device. A rating of IP67 means that the iPhone XR has been tested to withstand splash, water, and dust in a laboratory setting. This typically means 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. As such, the iPhone XR doesn’t quite meet the waterproof limits of the iPhone Xs and Xs Max. This puts it at about the same level of resistance as the previous iPhone X and perhaps more than the iPhone 8 or 7.
While the iPhone XR is thought to be “brilliant” all around, it doesn’t promise complete protection from the elements. You’ll find that beyond most dust, splashes, and 1 meter of water for a short period, you should also consider a case to protect your $899 investment. A little bit of water damage may very well throw you and your iPhone XR off the deep end.
Don't expect a whale to save your device every time
How to Protect Your iPhone XR
Smartphones have come a long way since the days of delicate and fidgety screens and casings. The new iPhones are one such example of these improvements in durability. Leaving an iPhone in a bowl of water for 30 minutes is admittedly a marvel of technology. Grains of sand and drops of water could easily damage some previous iPhone models, with many of us placing them into crude plastic bags when at the beach. Devices with the new level of IP67 and IP68 water and dust protection are a step up from those dark ages.
IP67 is the second highest standard of lab testing for protection from dust and water. This rating means that your iPhone XR is safe from rain and accidental drops in the sink or toilet. It may also remain usable after a very quick dunk in a shallow pool. You can find many iPhone torture tests online, soaking iPhones in water, soda, beer, and other liquids. Increased waterproof capabilities is the growing norm across all smartphone brands, from Apple to Samsung and beyond.
But don’t go off thinking that your iPhone is safe from water in all situations. Always remember that the iPhone XR is water resistant, not waterproof. For those without cases, the days of leaving wet phones in bags of rice overnight may not be over. While iPhones have quite a tight seal, there are still entry points for water on the phone, whether it enters through the charging port, speaker components, or other means.
A naked iPhone XR is certainly not safe beyond the recommended depths of 1 meter, and there is still a risk of damage during other activities involving water. If that risk isn’t enough, Apple also warns against too much confidence while handling your iPhone around water:
Additionally, the iPhone XR waterproof capabilities may be further reduced over time. Without a case offering effective drop protection, drops and damage may open tiny cracks for water to enter, damaging its sensitive electronics. Even if not immediately broken, charging a wet iPhone can also be disastrous, frying your $899 electronic investment. While super high-tech, iPhones are not indestructible machines (yet).
Though your iPhone XR may resist splashes or even submersion early on, regular wear and tear may leave your phone and wallet broken as repairs or replacement are both very expensive. From drops to scratches to bends to submersions, an iPhone XR can only take so much damage before something goes noticeably awry. You would ideally have a case over your phone to protect from continuous overall damage. This is more reasonable than expecting a naked iPhone to be invulnerable on its own.
The iPhone XR is undoubtedly tougher than older iPhones, but that doesn’t mean it’s indestructible. Luckily, cases are now the norm anyways, with some cases offering far more protection than the minimum protection offered after lab testing. This allows you to take some of your favorite devices with you on all your adventures. While cases do add a bit of bulk to slim smartphones, this bit of added protection can make all the difference in keeping your shiny new iPhone XR fresh and fully functioning. There are some great choices to keep your iPhone looking fresh and clean!
What to look for in an iPhone XR waterproof case
With so many different rugged cases to choose from, it’s hard to recognize the best of the best. A lot of cases provide at least a little bit of surface or drop protection from day-to-day damage, but this may not be enough to keep your expensive iPhone XR totally safe from all damage. Though drop proof and waterproof cases do add a bit of width and bulk to iPhones and other devices, it’s a necessary trade-off to protect your investment.
Another consideration is that not all cases are created equal in terms of protection: while many meet the minimum IP68 requirements, a lot of phone cases only provide minimal extra protection compared to a naked iPhone. Very few exceed 2 meters of submersion for longer periods of time. You should also look for a phone case that does not make your iPhone XR more difficult to use. Some cases make the OLED display screen harder to see, the camera lens much darker, the speakers more muffled, and the buttons less responsive.
Why choose Catalyst Case?
All these design features considered, the Catalyst Waterproof Case for iPhone XR has all the protective features to secure your iPhone without sacrificing too many capabilities. It offers IP68 protection up to 33ft (10m) of water submersion, as well as 6.6ft (2m) of drop protection. Catalyst cases are slimmer than many other protection cases, with easy-to-use buttons, patented mute switch knob, and clear and slim case features. They also allow wireless charging for the newer iPhone models. This exceeds most protection standards, making the Catalyst case the most suitable for adventurers and people with active lifestyles. For all your adventure needs, the Catalyst Impact Case and Waterproof Case for iPhone XR have got you covered.
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