Last updated: October 2026
IPX4 and IPX7 are the two water ratings you’ll see most on earbuds, speakers and wearables. They sound close, but the difference is significant: one handles splashes, the other handles a dunking. Here’s how they compare and how to pick the right level for how you’ll actually use your gadget.
What Is the Difference Between IPX4 and IPX7?
The difference is the type of water exposure each one was tested against. IPX4 devices are sprayed with water from all directions for several minutes. IPX7 devices are fully submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Submersion is far tougher, so IPX7 is the much higher level of protection.
In both cases the “X” means the device wasn’t tested for dust. Our explainer on what IPX7 means covers how IP codes are structured.
IPX4 vs IPX7: Side-by-Side
IPX4 is “splash-proof” and IPX7 is “submersion-proof.” Both handle sweat, but only IPX7 is designed for direct shower spray over long periods, being dropped in water, or sitting in a puddle. IPX7 devices usually cost a bit more because of tighter seals.
| Situation | IPX4 | IPX7 |
|---|---|---|
| Sweat during workouts | ✅ | ✅ |
| Light rain | ✅ | ✅ |
| Heavy rain | ⚠️ Usually OK briefly | ✅ |
| Shower spray | ❌ Not recommended | ✅ |
| Dropped in sink or bath | ❌ | ✅ (retrieve quickly) |
| Swimming | ❌ | ❌ (look for IPX8) |
When Is IPX4 Enough?
IPX4 is enough for earbuds and gadgets that only face sweat, splashes and the occasional rain shower: gym workouts, runs, walks to work and cooking near the sink. Many popular earbuds, such as the Sony WF-C510, are IPX4, which covers everyday life comfortably.
When Do You Need IPX7?
You need IPX7 for anything that lives in or near water: shower speakers, poolside and beach speakers, kayaking gear, and earbuds for very heavy sweat or rainy runs. If there’s a real chance the device gets dunked or sprayed directly for long periods, IPX7 is the safe minimum.
That’s why we only included IPX7 and IP67 models in our guide to the best Bluetooth speaker for the shower.
Which Water Rating Should You Buy?
Match the rating to the wettest place you’ll use the gadget. For desk, commute and gym use, IPX4 is fine. For the shower, pool, beach or outdoor adventures, choose IPX7 or IP67. For swimming, look for IPX8 or a device specifically rated for swimming by the manufacturer.
- Everyday earbuds: IPX4 or higher.
- Running in rain: IPX5–IPX7.
- Shower speaker: IPX7 or IP67.
- Beach and hiking: IP67 (dust and water).
- Swimming: IPX8 or a dedicated swim rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can IPX4 earbuds be used in the shower?
It’s not recommended. IPX4 protects against splashes, not the sustained spray and steam of a shower. Water can be forced into openings over time. Use IPX7-rated devices if you want audio in the shower.
Is IPX7 better than IPX4?
Yes, for water protection. IPX7 survives temporary submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, while IPX4 only handles splashing. IPX7 devices are safer around showers, pools and heavy rain.
Is IPX4 good enough for running?
For most runners, yes. IPX4 handles sweat and light rain. If you regularly run in heavy rain or sweat heavily, a higher rating like IPX5 to IPX7 gives extra peace of mind.
What does IPX8 mean compared with IPX7?
IPX8 means protection against immersion beyond IPX7’s 1 meter for 30 minutes, with the exact depth and time set by the manufacturer. It’s the rating to look for if you need to use a device while swimming.
Do water ratings last forever?
No. Seals can wear with age, drops, heat and exposure to salt, chlorine or soap. A device’s real-world water resistance may decline over time, so treat older devices more carefully around water.
The Bottom Line
IPX4 handles splashes and sweat; IPX7 handles a full dunking. Choose IPX4 for everyday earbuds and IPX7 or IP67 for anything that lives near water. For shower-ready options, see our best Bluetooth speaker for the shower picks.