Learn the difference between IP69, IP69K and IP68 resistance certification in mobile phones
Just when we think that mobile phones can’t be more resistant, manufacturers are trying hard to change our minds. Although the most common thing about high-end mobile phones is that they have an IP68 certification, this is something that is about to change.
IP69 certification is starting to reach more premium phones, such as the OnePlus 13, promising greater protection against dust and water.
But is this a real guarantee of more protection? In our last article, we told you how a phone’s water resistance is measured and what the IP67 and IP68 ratings mean . So IP69 means the highest level of protection that can exist so far, similar to IP69K. Of course, they are not the same thing, and here we will explain to you what the biggest difference between the two certifications is.
- What is IP69 and how is it different from IP69K and IP68?
The IP (Ingress Protection) certification determines the level of resistance of devices to dust and water. The first number corresponds to dust, up to level 6, the second to water, up to level 9.
When a mobile phone is IP69 certified, it means that it is completely dust-resistant and can withstand powerful jets of pressurized water, at high temperatures. The small detail is that these features do not include submersion, so that does not guarantee that your phone can survive a drop.
In this regard, level 8 (IP68) is more suitable for mobile phones, as it ensures that the device can be immersed in water. Can a mobile phone have both IP68 and IP69 certifications at the same time? Yes, and it will be protected against immersion in water (IP68) and high-pressure jets (IP69).
Now, the IP69K certification is not much different. It is considered the ultimate resistance to dust and water, and only applies to vehicles such as cars or tractors, although it is also used in the smartphone industry for rugged mobile phones, which are more suitable for use in risky environments such as construction work.
IP69K confirms complete resistance to dust and pressurized hot water jets. The only difference between IP69 and IP69K is in their application. To be clear, the main difference between IP69 and IP69K lies in their application:
- IP69 is designed for devices in areas that undergo intensive cleaning operations, such as pharmaceutical or food industries.
- IP69K is specifically designed for in-vehicle equipment and must withstand harsh conditions such as high pressure cleaning at car washes and vibration.
Both ratings include high-pressure and high-temperature water jet testing, but IP69K includes additional testing for vibration and other vehicle-specific factors.
- Are IP69 mobile phones really waterproof?
In real life and practical matters, the IP69 certification of a mobile phone is not enough to provide complete protection against dust and water. After all, the mobile phone will withstand pressure jets, which is not very common in daily life. The advantage is that they can resist immersion in water, so IP68 is better for them.
Likewise, it is important to keep in mind that the tests for this certification are conducted in controlled laboratory environments with clean water. They do not closely represent real-life conditions.
The conclusion is that, regardless of its adoption, it is essential to keep your mobile phone in the best possible care. Without risking accidental drops or very dirty environments. Taking care of it is what will really ensure that it lasts as long as possible.