The Best Waterproof & Water-Resistant Phones
Many smartphones are water resistant and come with an official IP certification as an indicator of how resistant the device is. IP (ingress protection) is a scale of how well protected a device will be against water and dust.
Whether it’s a sudden downpour, an accident with a spilt drink, or you’ve chucked your jacket in the wash with your smartphone still inside – there are all sorts of reasons a waterproof handset can come in handy.
We’ve curated a selection of the best waterproof phones on the market, helping you find the ideal handset for your aquatic needs. You’ll find the below devices, and more, in our diverse collection of contract and refurbished phones.
Best overall waterproof phone
iPhone 14 Pro Max
A phone as premium as the iPhone 14 Pro Max should come with the utmost water resistance, and it certainly does.
With an IP68 rating, the 14 Pro Max can be submerged up to 6 metres for 30 minutes. This ensures the phone makes easy work of any spills, whether it’s from a glass of water or heavy rain.
Most of all, however, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is our top recommendation for the best overall waterproof phone because it combines this water resistance with outstanding performance. It’s on our list of the top camera phones for good reason, and there are few better phones to have with you around the pool when taking those holidays snaps.
Best affordable waterproof phone
Google Pixel 7a
If you’re after a waterproof handset that doesn’t break the bank, the Pixel 7a is a top choice.
As the entry-level option in the Pixel 7 series, the 7a is available at a budget-friendly price. This doesn’t come at the cost of performance, however; as we highlighted in our review, the 7a is a mini powerhouse.
Equipped with the Tensor G2 processor, this phone can handle the most demanding games, videos or productivity tasks, all while boasting IP67 water resistance. This level of protection shields the Pixel 7a from water damage up to 1 metre for 30 minutes; ideal if you need a phone that can brush off spills and tumbles into puddles.
Getting all of this within a small, affordable package is fantastic. Underestimate the Pixel 7a at your peril; this entry-level handset has a lot to offer.
Best Android waterproof phone
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Android users seeking the best waterproof phone should consider the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Sitting at the premium end of the S23 series, this phone is supremely powerful and packed full of useful technology, such as S-Pen support for easy note-taking. When it comes to water resistance you’re getting IP68 protection, enabling the S23 Ultra to be submerged up to 1.5 metres for 30 minutes.
This IP level ensures the S23 Ultra’s stunning 6.8” AMOLED screen is well protected, as is the superb 200MP camera lens on the rear.
If you are after a top-tier Android smartphone that can be enjoyed rain or shine, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is one of the best handsets available.
Best foldable waterproof phone
Google Pixel Fold
Foldable smartphones offer a completely unique handset experience, and we praised the Google Pixel Fold as one of the leading foldable devices on the market.
Shielding the Pixel Fold from water damage is IPX8 resistance (‘X’ meaning no testing against solids like dust), affording the phone high-level protection in 1.5 metres of water for 30 minutes. The screens are also supported by Gorilla Glass Victus to protect against bumps and scratches.
As you can see, the Pixel Fold is a very sturdy phone, but what cements it as a top recommendation is how Google learned from the issues on earlier foldable handsets. The distracting crease that plagued some foldable phones is virtually non-existent, and apps work seamlessly across folded and unfolded mode.
It’s a premium handset to be sure, yet you know with the Google Pixel Fold that you’re getting a foldable phone that can shrug off any water sent its way, and continuously impresses with its staggering visuals and form factor.
Best alternative waterproof iPhone
iPhone 13
Older iPhones are a great way to invest in a powerful, yet more affordable, Apple handset. The entire iPhone 13 series is rated IP68 for water and dust resistance; this means your smartphone is fully protected from dust, dirt, or sand, and is able to withstand submersion in water 1.5m deep for up to 30 minutes. With this IP rating, you can capture impressive slow-motion footage by the pool too, without worrying about water damage.
At the heart of the iPhone 13 series handsets is the powerful Bionic chipset; specifically, the A15. We remarked in our review that this processor blasts away many tasks you throw at it, including photography. If you’re interested in a spot of underwater picture-taking, the iPhone 13 is a top choice.
With our recommendations for the best waterproof and water-resistant phones, it’s easy to find the right handset to match what you need. Keep your device in prime condition for even longer with these top cleaning tips from our experts.
Waterproof phones FAQs
Can you shower with a waterproof phone?
Given that many smartphones can be submerged up to 1.5 metres, it’s possible to have your handset in the shower area with you.
Be careful though, as no phone is 100% waterproof; keep it in a holder at a distance, if possible.
How do you know if a phone is waterproof or water-resistant?
The website for your phone will list its IP rating in the specifications. This will tell you what level of resistance it has e.g., IP68 means level 6 dust protection, and level 8 water-resistance.
How can I waterproof my phone for swimming?
A waterproof case will help bolster your phone’s resistance to damage when submerged, alongside its IP rating.
If you’re looking for a waterproof handset, you’ll be able to find the latest iPhone and Android deals at Mobiles.co.uk.