If you’ve ever wondered, “Are AirPods Pros waterproof?” you’re not alone. With their sleek design and advanced features, these earbuds are often exposed to various elements, from rain to sweat during workouts. But how much can they actually withstand?
The AirPods Pro come with an IPX4 rating, meaning they’re resistant to water splashes and sweat, but not waterproof. This means they’re safe for light rain and gym sessions, but should never be submerged in water. Understanding this limitation is key to keeping your AirPods Pro in top condition, ensuring they last as long as possible.
Key Takeaways
- AirPods Pro are water-resistant, not waterproof: They can handle light splashes and sweat but should never be submerged in water.
- IPX4 Rating Explained: This rating means they can resist water splashes from any direction but aren’t designed for immersion or heavy water exposure.
- Charging Cases Lack Water Resistance: Both MagSafe and Lightning charging cases are not water-resistant, requiring extra care to avoid moisture damage.
- Immediate Action Required if Wet: If your AirPods Pro get wet, dry them immediately with a soft cloth and let them air dry before using them again.
What Does IPX4 Mean for AirPods Pro?
The IPX4 rating on the AirPods Pro indicates that they are water-resistant, specifically designed to handle splashes of water from any direction. This does not make them waterproof, but rather resistant to moisture that could occur during light rain, sweating, or similar situations.
The “IP” stands for “Ingress Protection,” where the “X” means that the product has not been rated for protection against solid particles like dust, and the “4” signifies its ability to resist water splashes​.
Water Resistance vs. Waterproof
It’s essential to understand that water-resistant and waterproof are not the same. Water-resistant, as in the case of IPX4-rated AirPods Pro, means they can handle exposure to minor splashes or sweat but are not designed for submersion in water.
For example, you can safely wear them while running in light rain or during an intense workout, but swimming or using them in the shower would likely cause damage.
In practical terms, the AirPods Pro can survive accidental splashes, like being caught in a brief downpour, but they should be dried immediately afterward. However, submerging them in water, such as dropping them in a pool or exposing them to continuous streams like a shower, will likely damage the internal components.
This distinction is crucial for users to maintain the longevity of their AirPods Pro, ensuring they are used within their limits. Regular exposure to moisture without proper care could gradually diminish their water resistance, a factor Apple has explicitly mentioned.
Practical Scenarios: Can You Use AirPods Pro?
AirPods Pro are designed to be water-resistant with an IPX4 rating, but their performance and safety vary depending on the situation. Below are several scenarios that highlight where they can be safely used and where extra caution is needed:
- 🏋️‍♂️ During Workouts: AirPods Pro are sweat-resistant, making them suitable for workouts. However, it’s essential to wipe them down after use to prevent long-term moisture damage.
- 🌧️ In the Rain: They can handle light rain without issues, but prolonged exposure could lead to water seeping in. Always dry them off immediately after getting wet.
- đźš« While Swimming or Showering: AirPods Pro are not waterproof, so avoid using them while swimming or showering. Submerging them in water can cause significant damage.
- 🌬️ With Wet Hair or in Humid Conditions: Using them with wet hair or in humid environments is generally safe, but prolonged moisture contact should be avoided. Dry your hair as much as possible before use.
- 🏖️ Near Water Bodies (e.g., pools or beaches): Keep your AirPods Pro away from water bodies like pools or the beach, as accidental drops could lead to irreversible damage if they get submerged.
- 🏀 During Intense Sports (e.g., football, basketball): They can handle sweat but avoid heavy impacts or environments where they might be exposed to excessive moisture or direct contact with water.
AirPods Pro Charging Case: Is It Water-Resistant?
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Neither the MagSafe nor the Lightning charging cases for AirPods Pro are water-resistant. While the AirPods Pro themselves have an IPX4 rating, their charging cases do not share this feature. The MagSafe case is designed for easy and secure wireless charging through its magnetic alignment, but it does not offer any protection against water or moisture.
Similarly, the Lightning charging case, which charges via a standard Lightning cable, is also vulnerable to water exposure. In essence, both cases require the same level of care to avoid damage from water​.
How to Keep the Charging Cases Dry
- 🌊 Avoid Exposure to Water
- 🧴 Dry Immediately
- 📱 Use a Waterproof Case Cover
- 🛡️ Store in a Safe Place
- 🥵 Avoid Extreme Conditions
What to Do If Your AirPods Pro Get Wet?
If your AirPods Pro get wet, quick and careful action is crucial to minimize damage. Here’s what you should do:
- Dry Immediately: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the AirPods Pro. Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the surface. Avoid using a blow dryer or any heat source, as this can further damage the internal components.
- Let Them Air Dry: After wiping, place your AirPods Pro upside down on a dry towel in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to air dry naturally. This could take several hours, so be patient.
- Use a Fan: If you’re in a hurry, you can use a fan to speed up the drying process. Increase airflow around the AirPods by placing them near a fan, but avoid using any high-pressure or warm air.
- Desiccants for Extra Drying: If you have silica gel packets (often found in new shoe boxes or electronics packaging), place them in a ziplock bag with the AirPods Pro. Silica gel is excellent at absorbing moisture and can help draw out any remaining water.
- Avoid Rice: While using rice is a common DIY method, it’s not recommended for AirPods Pro as the rice particles can get lodged inside the earbuds, potentially causing more harm than good.
- Water Ejection Feature: Consider using a water ejection app or Siri Shortcut that emits a sound wave to help push water out of the AirPods. This can be particularly effective for small amounts of moisture that are trapped inside the earbuds.
- Do Not Use Until Completely Dry: It’s important to ensure that your AirPods Pro are completely dry before attempting to use them or placing them back in the charging case. Trying to use them while still wet can cause further damage.
If despite these efforts your AirPods Pro do not function correctly, it might be necessary to contact Apple Support for repair or replacement options. Taking immediate and careful action can help save your AirPods Pro from severe water damage.
FAQs
Can You Use AirPods Pro in a Sauna or Steam Room?
No, it’s not recommended to use AirPods Pro in a sauna or steam room. The high temperatures and humidity can cause condensation inside the earbuds, potentially damaging their internal components.
How Long Can AirPods Pro Be Exposed to Water?
AirPods Pro, with their IPX4 rating, can handle brief exposure to water, such as light rain or sweat during a workout. However, any exposure beyond splashes, such as submersion in water, should be avoided to prevent damage.
Do AirPods Pro Lose Their Water Resistance Over Time?
Yes, the water resistance of AirPods Pro can diminish over time, especially with regular exposure to moisture. Apple explicitly mentions that sweat and water resistance are not permanent conditions and may decrease as a result of normal wear.
Can You Wear AirPods Pro While Washing Your Face?
While it’s technically possible to wear AirPods Pro while washing your face, it’s not advisable. Splashes of water could seep into the earbuds, especially around the speaker mesh, potentially leading to moisture damage. It’s best to remove them before any activity involving water.
Final Thoughts
While AirPods Pro might not be ready for a deep-sea dive or a spin cycle in your washing machine, they’re certainly built to handle the everyday splashes and sweat that come with an active lifestyle. Just remember, these little tech marvels prefer a dry, cozy environment when they’re not in use.
Treat them with care, avoid any unintended swims, and you’ll keep jamming out for a long time to come. And if they do take an unexpected dip, don’t panic—follow the right steps, and they might just come out the other side good as new.
