When you spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on an Apple device, it’s natural to wonder how durable it really is. Many people ask the same question before taking their tablet poolside or tossing it in a bag for travel: are iPads waterproof? The short answer is no, iPads are not waterproof, and Apple has never marketed them as such. However, there’s more to the story when it comes to water resistance, protection options, and what to do if your iPad accidentally gets wet.
In this article, we’ll break down what waterproof vs. water-resistant really means, whether iPads have an IP rating, and how you can best protect your device from water damage.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: What’s the Difference?
Before we dive into Apple’s design choices, it helps to understand the difference between waterproof and water-resistant.
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Waterproof means a device is completely impervious to water. You could submerge it in a pool or drop it in the sink, and it would still work perfectly afterward.
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Water-resistant means a device can withstand small amounts of moisture, like splashes or brief rain exposure, but it’s not designed to survive full submersion.
To measure water and dust protection, manufacturers often use an IP rating (Ingress Protection rating). For example, the iPhone 14 Pro has an IP68 rating, which means it can survive submersion up to a certain depth for a limited time. Unfortunately, no iPad model has ever been released with an official IP rating.
Are iPads Waterproof?
The truth is that iPads are not waterproof. Unlike iPhones and Apple Watches, which do come with varying levels of water resistance, Apple has never claimed that iPads are designed to handle exposure to water.
If you check Apple’s official documentation, you’ll find that iPads are not covered for water damage under warranty. That includes both the standard one-year warranty and AppleCare+. Even a small splash can cause damage that Apple may classify as accidental, which means you’d be on the hook for repairs or replacement.
In short, if you’re wondering whether an iPad can handle a dip in the pool or survive being used in the bath, the answer is a definite no.
What Happens If an iPad Gets Wet?
Because iPads lack an IP rating, their internal components are vulnerable to moisture. Here are a few things that can go wrong if water gets inside:
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Screen damage: Liquid can seep under the display, leaving permanent marks or rendering the touchscreen unresponsive.
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Charging port issues: The Lightning or USB-C port can corrode, preventing charging and data transfer.
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Speaker and microphone damage: Sound quality may suffer, and the microphone might stop working.
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Long-term corrosion: Even if the iPad seems fine right after getting wet, internal corrosion can cause failure weeks or months later.
Apple technicians can usually detect liquid damage using internal indicators. Once that happens, repair options may be limited and expensive.
How to Protect Your iPad from Water Damage
Since iPads are not waterproof, prevention is key. Here are some practical ways to keep your device safe:
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Use a waterproof case: Several third-party manufacturers make rugged, waterproof iPad cases that fully seal the device. These are ideal for beach trips, boat rides, or use in environments where spills are common.
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Opt for a waterproof sleeve or bag: If you don’t want a bulky case, consider a waterproof pouch that can protect your iPad during travel.
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Be mindful of your environment: Avoid using your iPad near bathtubs, pools, or kitchens where spills are likely.
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Dry immediately if splashed: If your iPad does get a little wet, turn it off right away, wipe it down, and let it dry completely before turning it back on. Do not use a hair dryer, as heat can cause additional damage.
Alternatives for Water Protection
If you need a device that can withstand exposure to water without extra protection, you may want to consider alternatives. Rugged tablets from brands like Samsung or Panasonic are often built with higher IP ratings, making them better suited for outdoor or industrial environments.
Still, for most iPad users, a waterproof iPad case or sleeve provides more than enough peace of mind without sacrificing Apple’s ecosystem and user experience.
Conclusion
So, are iPads waterproof? No Apple has never designed or advertised iPads as waterproof or even water-resistant. While some Apple devices like the iPhone and Apple Watch have IP ratings that provide a level of protection, iPads remain vulnerable to liquid damage.
