IPX4 Water Resistance: What Does It Mean?
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Waterproof and water resistance are terms that get thrown around a lot when it comes to electronics. You may have heard of IPX4 ratings before, but what do they mean?
IPX4 water resistance is a rating given to products to show how well they can protect against water splashes from any direction. This includes protection from light rain and splashes, making it ideal for use with electronic devices like smartphones and tablets.
In this blog post, I will discuss what IPX4 water resistance means and what kind of protection it offers. I will also explore some of the best ways to take advantage of this feature on your electronic devices.
What is IPX?
Before we dive into IPX ratings, it is essential to understand what IPX means. IPX stands for Ingress Protection. This system rates the level of protection a product has against water and other foreign objects.
The X is the mark number, and it ranges from 0-9, with 9 being the highest level of protection.
How is IPX different from Waterproof?
One of the main differences between waterproof and water-resistant is that water resistance is not a guarantee. This means that while a product may have an IPX rating, there is always a chance that it could be damaged by water.
On the other hand, waterproof means the product is completely protected against water. This means you can submerge the product under water without worrying about damage.
READ MORE! Is Jaybird Vista 2 Waterproof? Full review!
What Does IPX4 Mean?
The IPX4 is the minimum protection/rating needed for a product to be considered water resistant. This means that the product can protect against water splashes from any direction.
So, if you are looking for a product that can protect against light rain or accidental splashes, then an IPX rating of at least IPX-04 is what you should look for.
How are IPX4 Certified Devices Tested?
To be certified as IPX-04, a product must undergo a series of tests.
1. Water Spray Test
IPX4 certification devices are those tested under standardized conditions using an IEC-approved nozzle. The same shield is used to test devices with IPX3 and IPX4 rating nozzle, but it has a counterbalanced shield in the first case.
In the second scenario, the shield is taken off, allowing the water jets to strike the device from any direction.
The water spray test is conducted from a distance of 0.15m away from the device. The nozzle is held at an angle of between 60ยฐ and 75ยฐ. The water jet should be applied for at least three minutes.
2. Water Drip Test
This simulates light rain or accidental splashes onto the device. A specified amount of water is dripped onto the device at a certain rate. The device must be able to withstand this without any water getting inside.
Other tests are also conducted, but these are the two main tests used to determine if a product is IPX-04 certified.
What Are the Benefits of IPX-04 Certification?
Many benefits come with having an IPX-04-certified device.
Peace of Mind
When buying your next electronic device, you can have peace of mind knowing that your device is protected against light rain and accidental splashes.
This means you can take your devices with you wherever you go without worrying about them getting damaged by water.
Improved Durability
IPX-04 certification also means that your devices are more durable. They have been tested to withstand water splashes and light rain.
Increased Protection
IPX-04-certified devices offer increased protection against the elements. You can use your devices in any environment, whether on the beach, the pool, or even in the rain.
Better Quality
IPX-04 certification is often a sign of quality. You can be confident that the product you buy is made to a high standard and will last you for many years.
5 Tips for Using IPX-04 Certified Devices
Now that you know what IPX-04 certification means and its benefits, here are some of the best ways to take advantage of this feature on your devices.
1. Use Water-Resistant Devices in the Rain
One of the best ways to take advantage of IPX-04 certification is to use your devices in the rain.
You can take your phone or tablet with you when you go for a run or walk in the rain without worrying about it getting damaged by water.
2. Take Your Devices to the Beach or Pool
Another great way to take advantage of IPX-04 certification is to use your devices at the beach or pool. You can listen to music through your portable speaker without worrying about getting wet.
3. Use Your Devices When Camping
IPX-04 certification is also great for when you are camping. Camping is an environment that can occasionally be wet, so it is important to have devices that can withstand this.
4. Use Your IPX-04 Device as You Workout
If you like to work out, you will be happy to know that many devices on the market are IPX-04 certified.
This means you can use your devices in any environment, whether it is indoors or outdoors. They are resistant to less severe water conditions, making them the perfect devices for your workout as you will be sweating.
5. Use Your Devices in Any Environment
IPX-04 certification means you can use your devices in any environment, whether hot or cold or dry or wet. This means you can take your devices with you wherever you go and be confident they will withstand the elements.
IPX-04 certification is a great way to protect your devices from the elements. By taking advantage of this feature, you can use your devices in any environment without worry.
Final Thoughts
IPX4 water-resistant means your device can protect against light rain and accidental splashes. This is a great way to protect your devices from the elements and use them in any environment.
If you are looking for a new device, check if it is IPX-04 certified. This will ensure that your device is made to a high standard and can withstand the elements.
I hope this article has helped you understand what IPX-04 water resistance means.
Espen
Espen is the Director of ProPairing and has written extensively about Bluetooth devices for years. He is a consumer product expert and has personally tested Bluetooth devices for the last decade.
