Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
No. Samsung watches are not “waterproof” in the unlimited sense. They are water resistant to different degrees, and the exact model, condition, water type, and activity all matter. Most recent Galaxy Watch models can handle rain and supported swimming, but Samsung gives the original 2018 Galaxy Watch more restrictive guidance: it should not be used in swimming pools or the sea.
Samsung’s terminology is important. Water resistant means a device passed defined tests under defined conditions; it does not promise unlimited protection from depth, pressure, heat, chemicals, or water exposure.
What “waterproof” really means
“Waterproof” suggests complete and permanent protection. That is too strong for consumer wearables. Samsung rates compatible watches as water resistant, using classifications such as IP68, 5ATM, and 10ATM.
Those ratings describe controlled laboratory tests. They do not mean a watch can tolerate every depth, duration, temperature, water jet, wave, or high-speed activity. Water resistance can also decline as seals age or after drops, cracks, case damage, or repairs.
#1 Best Overall
![Apple Watch SE 3 [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Band - S/M. Fitness and Sleep Trackers, Heart Rate Monitor, Always-On Display, Water Resistant](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31YiTby0pOL._SL160_.jpg)
- GET SMARTER HEALTH INSIGHTS—Apple Watch SE 3 is an advanced health tracker that helps you better understand your body. The smartwatch sends alerts for an irregular heart rhythm, or an unusually high or low heart rate.* You can view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app,* track your sleep score, and get sleep apnea notifications.*
- A GREAT FITNESS TRACKER—SE 3 can track your workouts in a healthy number of ways—from running and strength training to simply achieving your 10K steps a day. With real-time metrics and Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone,* you’ll hit your goals like never before.
- KEEP HELP CLOSE AT HAND—SE 3 is a smartwatch that can detect a hard fall or severe car crash and automatically help connect you to emergency services and notify your emergency contacts.* Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- WOMEN’S HEALTH INSIGHTS—SE 3 has advanced sensors that track your wrist temperature while you sleep. With this smartwatch, you can log your periods and symptoms, get period predictions, and get notified of cycle deviations.*
- GREAT BATTERY LIFE AND FASTER CHARGING—Enjoy a smartwatch with all-day, 18-hour battery life* from sunup to sundown. Then charge up to twice as fast as SE 2* and get up to 8 hours of battery in just 15 minutes.*
Which Samsung watches are water resistant?
Samsung’s current U.S. comparison page lists these Galaxy Watch models with the following ratings:
| Model | Samsung-listed rating | Practical guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Watch9 | 5ATM/IP68 | Swimming is generally supported within Samsung’s limits; check the manual. |
| Galaxy Watch8 | 5ATM/IP68 | Suitable for ordinary wet conditions and supported swimming, not every water sport. |
| Galaxy Watch8 Classic | 5ATM/IP68 | Avoid high-pressure, very hot, and high-velocity water. |
| Galaxy Watch7 | 5ATM/IP68 | Swimming is generally supported within Samsung’s limits. |
| Galaxy Watch Ultra | 10ATM/IP68 | Samsung specifically documents ocean use with fresh-water rinsing and drying afterward. |
See Samsung’s current U.S. watch comparison for model-specific specifications. Samsung’s general support guidance also documents water resistance for the Galaxy Watch, Watch3, Watch Active, Watch Active2, Watch4, Watch5, Watch6, and Watch7 families. Because regional pages and manuals can differ or lag behind newly released models, use the exact product page and manual for your watch.
The important older-model exception
The original Galaxy Watch, released in 2018, is a major reason a blanket “all Samsung watches are swim-proof” answer is misleading. Samsung’s regional support documentation identifies it as IP68 water resistant but says it is not suitable for swimming pools or the sea.
Older Galaxy Watch Active and Active2, Galaxy Watch3, Gear Sport, Gear S3, Gear Fit2 Pro, and Galaxy Fit devices also vary by model and regional guidance. A brand name alone is not enough to establish swimming suitability. Confirm the exact model in the Galaxy Wearable app, on the case, or in the purchase record. Samsung’s older-model water-resistance guidance is useful, but your local manual takes priority.
IP68, 5ATM, and 10ATM explained
IP68
IP means Ingress Protection. In IP68:
- IP6X indicates a high level of dust protection.
- IPX8 indicates water resistance under specified immersion conditions.
Samsung commonly describes IP68 testing for its wearables as immersion in approximately 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes, with the device stationary. That is not a promise of safety in moving water, waves, jets, diving, or indefinite repeated exposure. Read Samsung’s explanation of the test conditions.
5ATM
5ATM represents pressure resistance associated with approximately 50 meters of static water pressure. Samsung describes testing the device in 50 meters of fresh water for 10 minutes while stationary, under ISO 22810:2010-style conditions.
It is therefore wrong to translate 5ATM into “safe to swim or dive to 50 meters.” Swimming, jumping into water, waves, and water impact create forces that are not represented by a simple static-depth number.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →10ATM on the Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Galaxy Watch Ultra has a 10ATM/IP68 rating. Samsung describes the relevant rating conditions as permitting submersion to 100 meters, but that does not turn the Ultra into a scuba-diving computer or authorize every high-pressure or high-speed activity. A dedicated dive computer remains the appropriate tool for scuba and decompression-related use.
Rank #2
- 【Compatibility】: The replacement silicone watch strap is compatible with watches that use a standard 20mm spring bar. PLEASE confirm the watch lugs' width before purchasing. Just choose the strap with the appropriate width, and it will fit your watch.
- 【Quick Installation】The quick-release strap has a quick-release function, the quick-release spring bar allows you to change the watch strap in seconds without tools.
- 【High-quality material】: The watch strap is made of high-strength and environmentally friendly silicone rubber with a black matte stainless steel buckle. Simple fashion and durable.
- 【Soft and skin-friendly】: The watch accessory watch straps have no sharp edges, feel soft, are light, flexible to use, and very strong. The bracelet can be washed repeatedly without fading.
- 【Wide Application】: The watch strap for men and women is suitable for creating your unique daily style. Ideal for outdoor sports such as running, fitness, hiking, climbing, camping, fishing, golf and more.
Can you swim with a Samsung Galaxy Watch?
Pool and freshwater swimming
For most recent models with the appropriate rating, pool and freshwater swimming are generally supported. Use the watch within the model’s instructions, avoid impact and high-pressure water, and rinse and dry it afterward.
Swimming in the sea
Salt-water guidance is model-dependent. Samsung specifically says the Galaxy Watch Ultra can be used in salt water if it is rinsed with fresh water and dried afterward. Do not automatically apply that recommendation to every Galaxy Watch. Samsung’s general guidance warns that salt water and other liquids can create problems.
Showers and rain
Rain, sweat, and accidental splashes are normally low-risk for a rated model. Samsung describes rated watches as suitable for everyday wet conditions such as rain and showers, but showering is not identical to controlled freshwater testing. Hot water, steam, soap, shampoo, lotions, and sudden temperature changes can stress seals and components.
The conservative choice is to remove the watch before regular showers. Avoid hot tubs, spas, saunas, steam rooms, and very hot showers altogether. This follows Samsung’s warnings about heat, chemicals, steam, and temperature changes; it is not a claim that every watch will fail immediately in a shower.
Water activities to avoid
| Exposure or activity | Practical advice |
|---|---|
| Rain, sweat, splashes | Generally acceptable on a rated model. |
| Freshwater swimming | Generally acceptable on a supported model. |
| Chlorinated pools | Usually supported on rated models; rinse and dry afterward. |
| Salt water | Follow exact model guidance; Samsung specifically supports this for the Ultra with rinsing afterward. |
| Soap, shampoo, lotions | Avoid where possible; rinse promptly if exposed. |
| Hot tubs and spas | Avoid. |
| Saunas and steam rooms | Avoid. |
| High-pressure spray | Avoid. |
| Surfing, water skiing, rafting, and fast-moving water | Avoid unless Samsung explicitly approves the activity for that model. |
| Snorkeling or scuba diving | Do not infer suitability from an ATM number; use equipment designed and certified for the activity. |
Samsung’s water-resistance precautions and liquid-damage guidance warn against high-pressure water, scuba diving, high-velocity activities, chemicals, salt water, and sudden temperature changes.
Galaxy Watch Ultra versus regular Galaxy Watch models
The Ultra’s 10ATM rating is higher than the 5ATM rating listed for the mainstream Watch7, Watch8, Watch8 Classic, and Watch9. Samsung also gives the Ultra specific ocean-use guidance, provided it is rinsed with fresh water and dried afterward.
That makes the Ultra the stronger choice within Samsung’s lineup for buyers prioritizing the highest advertised water-resistance specification and ocean use. It still is not a universal license for diving, jet-skiing, water skiing, or other high-impact activities. If you only need notifications, fitness tracking, and rain protection, the Ultra’s extra rating may be unnecessary.
Recommended Free Tools
How to use Water Lock mode
Water Lock is a control feature, not a waterproofing feature. It helps prevent accidental screen taps and some wake gestures during swimming; it does not strengthen seals or increase an ATM rating.
Rank #3
- Designed Exclusively for Women: With an elegant round dial, an ultra-thin 5.95-millimeter case, and a lightweight body weighing just 40 grams, it fits perfectly on a woman’s wrist. Its 466x466 resolution delivers vibrant colors and crisp details
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 15 days on standby and 7–12 days with normal use. The magnetic fast-charging system fully charges the device in just 2 hours. Whether you’re traveling, working, or monitoring your sleep all night long, it’s always by your side
- Health and Fitness Companion: Monitors your heart rate around the clock, lets you view smart analysis reports anytime, and features over 100 workout modes—including yoga, Pilates, dance, and running—to track all the metrics that matter to you
- Easy to Use: View incoming calls, text messages, weather updates, and app notifications right on your wrist; control apps and use features like “Find My Phone”; seamlessly compatible with smartphones running iOS 10 or later and Android 6.0 or later
- Designed Specifically for Lifestyle: Whether you’re a working professional, a fitness enthusiast, or a stay-at-home mom, it seamlessly integrates into your daily life. It’s a thoughtful gift for women that makes every moment feel special
- Swipe down on the watch face to open Quick Settings.
- Tap the Water Lock icon, shown as two water drops.
- Alternatively, open Settings → Advanced or Advanced features → Water lock.
- To exit, press and hold the Home/Power button and follow any on-screen prompt.
On supported models, disabling Water Lock also activates a speaker water-ejection sound. Menu names and availability can vary by model, software version, provider, and region. See Samsung’s Water Lock instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do after swimming
- Remove the watch from the water and shake it lightly to remove excess water.
- Rinse it with fresh water after exposure to seawater, pool chemicals, soap, or another liquid.
- Dry the watch thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
- Place it on its side or with the speaker facing downward so water can drain.
- Use the speaker water-ejection feature if your model provides one.
- Make sure both the watch and charging contacts are completely dry before charging.
A muffled speaker after swimming does not automatically mean catastrophic failure. Allow the water to drain and dry, then use the ejection feature where available. If the speaker, buttons, touchscreen, sensors, or charging continue to malfunction, stop using the watch and contact Samsung support. Samsung’s cleaning and charging guidance warns against charging while wet.
When water resistance can fail
Water resistance is not permanent. Samsung says it may diminish through normal wear and tear. Protection can be reduced by:
- Aging or deteriorating seals
- Drops, hard impacts, cracks, chips, or case damage
- Unauthorized repairs or opening the device
- High-pressure water or high-velocity activities
- Repeated exposure to heat, steam, chlorine, salt, soap, or other chemicals
A secondhand watch with an unknown repair history should not be treated like a new watch with intact seals. If the device is damaged, assume its original water resistance may no longer be reliable.
Does Samsung’s warranty cover water damage?
Do not assume that an IP68 or ATM rating guarantees a free repair. Samsung’s U.S. terms exclude certain defects or damage caused by liquid, moisture, dampness, weather, sand, dust, or dirt when exposure is inconsistent with the product specifications, instructions, and applicable terms.
Warranty rules vary by country and product. Check the warranty terms for your market, and expect Samsung to assess whether the exposure was within the device’s documented specifications. See Samsung’s applicable U.S. warranty and product terms.
How to decide whether your Samsung watch should go in water
- Identify the exact model. “Samsung watch” covers Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Fit, and older Gear products with different guidance.
- Check the official rating. Look for IP68, 5ATM, or 10ATM in Samsung’s specifications or manual.
- Match the activity to the rating. Calm swimming is different from diving, surfing, rafting, or water skiing.
- Consider the water type. Fresh water, chlorine, salt, soap, and hot chemically treated water present different risks.
- Inspect the device. Cracks, dents, screen replacements, and unknown repairs are reasons to avoid submersion.
- Consider the consequences. Water damage may not be covered if use was outside the specifications.
Final verdict
Samsung watches are water resistant, not universally waterproof. Rain and splashes are usually fine on a rated model. Swimming is generally acceptable on supported recent Galaxy Watches, while salt-water use requires model-specific confirmation. The Galaxy Watch Ultra has Samsung’s strongest listed rating and specific ocean-use guidance, but it is not a dive computer.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Avoid hot tubs, saunas, high-pressure water, high-impact water sports, and scuba diving unless the manufacturer explicitly supports the activity. For any old, cracked, dropped, or previously repaired watch, assume its water resistance is reduced.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
