IP68 vs 5ATM Waterproof Ratings: What They Mean for Your Wearable
When you're shopping for a smartwatch or smart ring, you'll almost certainly encounter two waterproof ratings: IP68 and 5ATM. Both suggest the device can handle water, but they mean very different things — and choosing the wrong one for your lifestyle could mean an expensive wet surprise. This guide explains exactly what each rating means, how they're tested, what activities they cover, and which COLMI wearables use which standard.
What Is IP68?
IP68 is a rating from the International Protection Marking system (IEC standard 60529), which classifies the level of protection provided by enclosures against solid particles and liquids. The "IP" prefix stands for Ingress Protection, and the two digits represent protection against solids (first digit) and liquids (second digit).
Breaking down IP68:
- 6 (first digit) = Dust-tight. Complete protection against contact with dust and other solid particles. The highest rating for solid protection.
- 8 (second digit) = Protected against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer. Typically rated to a depth and duration defined by the manufacturer — commonly 1.5 metres for 30 minutes, though some devices are rated deeper or longer.
Crucially, IP68 is a static immersion test. The device is submerged in still water at the specified depth and left for the specified duration. There is no testing for water pressure generated by movement — like the pressure waves created when swimming laps or diving into a pool.
What IP68 covers: Rain, splashes, sweat, hand washing, accidental immersion (dropping your phone in the toilet), brief submersion in still water.
What IP68 doesn't cover: Swimming laps, water sports, showering with strong water jets, diving, or activities that generate significant water pressure on the device.
What Is 5ATM?
ATM stands for atmospheres — a unit of pressure. 5ATM means the device is rated to withstand pressure equivalent to 5 atmospheres, which is approximately 50 metres of water depth.
The ISO 22810:2010 standard for water resistance in watches defines 5ATM (50 metres) as suitable for:
- Swimming (surface)
- White-water rafting
- Non-diving water sports
- Showering (though strong jets directly on the crown should still be avoided)
5ATM is a pressure test, not just a static immersion test. The device must withstand the hydraulic pressure generated by active water movement, including the dynamic pressure created by swimming strokes. This is a fundamentally more rigorous test than IP68's static submersion.
What 5ATM covers: Swimming laps, snorkelling, showering, water polo, water aerobics, kayaking, water sports, rain running, and all scenarios covered by IP68.
What 5ATM doesn't cover: Scuba diving, high-pressure water jets (power washing), or activities at depths greater than 50 metres.
IP68 vs 5ATM: The Critical Difference
The key misunderstanding that catches many buyers out is this: a higher IP68 depth rating does not equal 5ATM suitability.
You might see a smartwatch rated to IP68 at 3 metres and think it's safe for swimming. It isn't — because the 3 metres in the IP68 test refers to static pressure, not the dynamic pressure generated during swimming. The act of swimming creates pressure fluctuations far exceeding the static depth equivalent would suggest, particularly when performing strokes that create impact or turbulence on the device.
Conversely, 5ATM does not necessarily tell you anything about dust protection (there's no "solid particle" component in the ATM rating). Most 5ATM watches also carry IP ratings, but if you work in dusty environments, verify the IP rating separately.
Real-World Scenario Guide
| Activity | IP68 Safe? | 5ATM Safe? |
|---|---|---|
| Rain / getting caught in a downpour | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Hand washing / dishes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Sweaty workout | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Showering (gentle flow) | ⚠ Generally yes, but not guaranteed | ✓ Yes |
| Showering (strong jets) | ✗ Not recommended | ⚠ With care |
| Casual pool wading | ✓ Likely fine | ✓ Yes |
| Swimming laps | ✗ Not recommended | ✓ Yes |
| Snorkelling | ✗ No | ✓ Yes (surface) |
| Water polo / water aerobics | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Scuba diving | ✗ No | ✗ No (need 10ATM+) |
Which COLMI Products Have Which Ratings?
IP68 (most COLMI models)
The majority of COLMI smartwatches and smart rings carry IP68 water resistance. This includes the P71, P80, P81, P82, P85, P86, V72, V73, M42, i28 Ultra, V75 GPS, V76 GPS, and most smart rings (R02, R03, R07, R09, R10, R11, R12). IP68 makes them safe for everyday use including sweat, rain, hand washing, and accidental splashing — but not for swimming.
3ATM (COLMI P76)
The COLMI P76 carries a 3ATM water resistance rating, which certifies it for surface swimming in pools and open water. 3ATM (30 metres pressure equivalent) is suitable for recreational surface swimming, though not for diving or jumping into water from height.
5ATM (COLMI R06 Smart Ring)
The COLMI R06 smart ring is the standout for water resistance, carrying a full 5ATM rating. This makes it the best choice in the COLMI range for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone who spends significant time in the water. The R06 can be worn swimming, snorkelling, and during water sports without concern.
Do I Need 5ATM If I Only Swim Occasionally?
If you swim regularly or plan to wear your device in the pool, yes — 5ATM or 3ATM (at minimum) is what you need. The COLMI R06 (5ATM) or P76 (3ATM) are your best options from the COLMI range for swimming use.
If you never swim but want protection against rain, sweat, and accidental splashes, IP68 is entirely adequate. All COLMI smartwatches and rings handle these everyday scenarios comfortably.
Tips for Maintaining Water Resistance
- Water resistance degrades over time, particularly if the device is dropped or sustains physical shock
- Salt water and chlorine can degrade seals more quickly than fresh water — rinse your device with fresh water after ocean or pool swimming
- Avoid pressing buttons while submerged where possible, as button apertures are a common ingress point for water
- Have the water resistance seal checked periodically if the device is used regularly in water
Conclusion
IP68 and 5ATM serve different user needs. For most people — those who sweat, work in the rain, wash their hands, and occasionally get splashed — IP68 is perfectly adequate and covers every COLMI smartwatch and smart ring. For swimmers and water sports enthusiasts, the COLMI R06 (5ATM ring) and P76 (3ATM watch) are the purpose-built choices. Match the rating to your actual lifestyle needs and you'll never have a water-related worry with your COLMI device.