Find out what the IP69, IP69K, and IP68 resistance ratings mean for mobile phones.
Just when we think cell phones can't get any more durable, companies are working hard to change our minds. The IP68 rating is the most common feature of high-end mobile phones, but that is about to change.
The IP69 certification has started to reach more premium mobile phones, such as the OnePlus 13, promising greater protection against dust and water.
But is this a true guarantee of greater protection? In our last article, we explained how a phone's water resistance is measured and what the IP67 and IP68 ratings mean. So, IP69 represents the highest level of protection currently available, similar to IP69K. Of course, they are not the same thing, and here we'll explain the main difference between the two certifications.
What is IP69 and how does it differ from IP69K and IP68?
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating determines the device's resistance level to dust and water. The first number corresponds to dust, up to level 6, and the second to water, up to level 9.
When a mobile phone receives an IP69 rating, it means it's completely dustproof and can withstand powerful jets of pressurized water at high temperatures. The important detail is that these features don't include submersion, so it doesn't guarantee your phone will survive a drop.
In this regard, the IP68 rating level is more suitable for mobile phones, as it guarantees the device's ability to withstand water immersion. Can a mobile phone have both IP68 and IP69 certifications simultaneously? Yes, it will be protected against both water immersion (IP68) and high-pressure jets (IP69).
Now, the IP69K certification isn't much different. It represents maximum resistance against dust and water and applies only to vehicles like cars or tractors, although it's also used in the smartphone industry for rugged mobile phones, which are more suitable for use in hazardous environments like construction work.
IP69K confirms complete resistance against dust and pressurized hot water jets. The only difference between IP69 and IP69K lies in their application. To clarify, the main difference between IP69 and IP69K is their application:
- IP69 is designed for devices located in areas subject to intensive cleaning operations, such as the pharmaceutical or food industries.
- IP69K is specifically designed for in-car equipment and must withstand harsh conditions such as high-pressure cleaning at car wash stations and vibrations.
Both classifications 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 that resistant?
In real-world, practical situations, an IP69 rating isn't enough to provide complete protection against dust and water. After all, a mobile phone will have to withstand pressure jets, which are quite uncommon in everyday life. The advantage lies in their ability to withstand immersion in water, so an IP68 rating is preferable.
Similarly, it's important to keep in mind that the tests for this certification are conducted in controlled laboratory environments with clean water. They do not accurately represent real-life conditions.
The conclusion is that, regardless of its type, it's essential to keep your mobile phone in the best possible care, avoiding accidental drops or heavily soiled environments. Proper care is what will truly ensure it lasts as long as possible.