The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, a popular smartwatch loaded with a plethora of advanced features and sleek design, is a tech accessory worth noting. As more people adopt an active lifestyle and gravitate towards fitness-focused gadgets, the question of whether the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is waterproof has gained considerable importance.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is indeed designed with water resistance features, allowing it to withstand splashes and occasional immersion in water. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations of this feature and the distinction between being waterproof and water-resistant.
Let’s delve into the specifications, explore the watch’s resistance to water, and understand how you can protect your Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 from potential water damage.
What is Samsung Galaxy Watch 3?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is a highly-rated smartwatch, boasting a classic design coupled with a variety of advanced health and wellness tracking features. The watch is equipped with a heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, step counter, and various other sensors to monitor your physical activity and overall health.
One of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3’s unique features is its water resistance, a critical factor for individuals who lead active lifestyles or engage in water-related activities. However, it’s important to understand what this water resistance implies.
Defining Water Resistance and Waterproof
The terms ‘waterproof’ and ‘water resistant’ are often used interchangeably but entail different meanings. A water-resistant device can withstand water to a certain extent, such as light rain or sweat. However, it might not survive prolonged or heavy exposure to water.
In contrast, a waterproof device is impervious to water, surviving even in conditions of complete immersion. These devices are usually rated based on their depth and duration of water resistance.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Waterproof?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, according to its specifications, possesses an IP68 rating, the ‘IP’ standing for ‘Ingress Protection’. The number ‘6’ signifies its resistance to dust, while ‘8’ denotes its resistance to water.
An IP68 rating implies that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 can endure immersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. It’s also worth noting that the watch is equipped with a 5ATM rating, meaning it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters.
Comparatively, this rating is robust and matches many top-tier smartwatches in the market, emphasizing the Galaxy Watch 3’s resilience to water exposure.
What to Know About the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 and Water Exposure
While the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is capable of resisting water, there are a few caveats to keep in mind. For instance, the watch’s water resistance is tested in freshwater and might not apply to saltwater or chlorinated water, such as in oceans and swimming pools.
Can you swim with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3? Yes, you can, but it’s recommended to rinse it off with fresh water afterwards. Additionally, it’s advised not to submerge the watch for extended periods or expose it to high-velocity water activities like water skiing or jet skiing.
If your watch does get wet, it’s important to dry it off completely before using any of the physical buttons or charging it to avoid potential damage.
Proper Care for Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 to Maintain its Water Resistance
To ensure that your Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 maintains its water resistance, proper care is necessary. Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures or conditions, and keep it clean from any dust or sand that might damage the seal and compromise its water resistance.
Furthermore, remember that any physical damage to the watch, like cracks or scratches, can affect its ability to resist water. Therefore, it’s recommended to handle the watch with care and get it checked regularly for any potential damages.
Caring for the Watch After Exposure to Water
If the watch is exposed to non-freshwater, make sure to rinse it thoroughly with fresh water and then dry it. Salt and chlorine can be harmful to the watch’s sealing and may reduce its water resistance over time.
Also, avoid pressing any buttons while the watch is submerged. Doing so can allow water to seep into the internals, potentially causing damage.
Tips for Maintaining Water Resistance
Regular maintenance and inspection can help in preserving the water-resistant feature of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3. Here are some helpful tips:
- Always ensure that the back cover and the charging port are properly sealed.
- Avoid dropping or hitting the watch as it can damage its structure, compromising the water resistance.
- Ensure the watch is completely dry before charging.
- Keep the watch clean and free from dirt or debris that can affect the seals.
FAQ Section
Is Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Good for Swimming?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 can be worn while swimming. However, it should be rinsed with fresh water and dried afterward to minimize potential damage from chlorine or saltwater.
Can I Shower with my Samsung Galaxy Watch 3?
It’s possible to shower with your Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, but it’s not recommended. The hot water and soap can affect the watch’s seals, potentially reducing its water resistance.
What Happens if my Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Gets Fully Submerged?
The watch can survive being submerged up to 1.5 meters in freshwater for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s advisable to remove it, dry it off, and avoid pressing any buttons while it’s submerged to minimize potential damage.
How to Check if the Water Resistance of My Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is Compromised?
Regularly inspect your watch for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks or scratches. If the watch starts behaving abnormally after water exposure, consider taking it to a professional for a check-up.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, with its IP68 and 5ATM ratings, is built to withstand water exposure to a considerable extent. It can be worn while swimming or performing other low-velocity water activities, but its exposure to these conditions should be limited to ensure the device’s longevity.
Maintaining the device by keeping it clean, avoiding unnecessary exposure to extreme water activities, and ensuring it is dry before charging, are some of the best practices to preserve its water-resistant capabilities.