IP ratings appear on power banks, earbuds, and chargers, but the code itself (IPX4, IP67, etc.) is rarely explained clearly. Here's what the numbers actually mean.
How to Read an IP Rating
IP stands for Ingress Protection, followed by two numbers: the first for solid particle protection (dust), the second for liquid protection (water). An "X" means that category wasn't tested/rated — common on audio devices that only test water resistance.
Solid Particle Rating (First Digit)
- 0: No protection
- 5: Dust protected (limited ingress, no harmful buildup)
- 6: Dust tight (completely sealed against dust)
Liquid Rating (Second Digit) — The One That Matters Most for Accessories
- IPX4: Splash resistant — handles sweat and light rain, not submersion. Common on gym earbuds.
- IPX5: Water jet resistant — handles a direct low-pressure spray
- IPX7: Submersible up to 1m for 30 minutes — survives an accidental drop in a puddle or sink
- IPX8: Submersible beyond 1m, manufacturer-specified depth and duration
What This Means for Buying Decisions
- Gym/workout earbuds: IPX4 is the practical minimum for sweat resistance
- Outdoor/rain use: IPX5 or higher gives real peace of mind in Pakistan's monsoon season
- Accidental drops near water: only IPX7+ actually protects against submersion, not just splashes
Important Caveat
IP ratings are tested under controlled lab conditions with fresh water — real-world exposure to sweat (which is more corrosive) or repeated exposure over time can perform differently than a single lab test suggests. Treat the rating as a guide, not a guarantee.
See our IPX-rated earbuds: Baseus.
0 comments