When shopping for gadgets—especially smartphones, smartwatches, or earbuds—you’ve probably seen the terms “water-resistant” and “waterproof.” But what do these labels really mean? Are they technical standards, or just clever marketing?

The truth lies in the IP rating system, which stands for Ingress Protection. It measures how well a device can resist dust and water. For example, a gadget rated IP67 is dust-tight and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. IP68 usually means it can go deeper and last longer. But even with these ratings, the term “waterproof” is misleading—very few consumer gadgets are truly immune to water under all conditions.

Water-resistant gadgets can handle splashes, sweat, and rain. They’re ideal for workouts or accidental spills. Smartwatches like the Apple Watch or fitness trackers like Fitbit are water-resistant enough to survive a shower or even a swim.

Waterproof implies the device can survive full submersion—but this varies based on pressure, temperature, and duration. A “waterproof” phone might survive in a swimming pool but not in saltwater or high-pressure water jets.

Many companies use these terms loosely to attract buyers, but consumers should read the fine print. For instance, warranties often don’t cover water damage, even if the device is labeled “waterproof.”

Ultimately, water resistance is a valuable feature—but it’s not a license to be careless. Understanding the limits of your gadget’s protection is key to avoiding damage. So yes, it’s a feature—but sometimes, it’s also marketing dressed up as tech.