You can not submerge the new smartwatch of the South Korean company in water, but we should not worry, because the Samsung Galaxy Gear es splash resistant of water. In fact, we can use it without any problems to wash our hands, without fear of getting wet, or use it under rainwater, as is the case with the Sony SmartWatch 2.
And the new smart watch has a IP55 resistance level. We already talked about what these certificates meanThe fact that the first number is a five indicates that it is dirt resistant to a high degree. Not to the maximum, so sand can get into the watch, but the sand that does get in can't cause any problems with the watch's performance, according to this certification. Most water- and dirt-resistant smartphones don't have a better certification than this one regarding dirt, although they do have one regarding water resistance. Still, it's quite remarkable that the Samsung Galaxy Gear It has an IP55 resistance level. This means that, although we cannot submerge it in water, nor can we start taking photographs, we can use it as a conventional watch, without fear of washing our hands with it, because splash resistant perfectly.
In fact, what resists is low pressure water from all directions. However, not constantly. And there is a difference at this point with respect to certificate number six. The latter would allow the watch to be used on a boat, with constant bursts of low-pressure water (as occurs in the Active Galaxy S4). However, in this case, we're only dealing with number five, where it's best to avoid constant gusts of water. However, there wouldn't be any problem with washing our hands with it, with rainwater, or with a waiter spilling a glass of water on the clock.
El Samsung Galaxy Gear It went on sale in Spain with a recommended price of 299 Euros.
What do IP55, IP68 and 5 ATM mean?
IP (Ingress Protection) indicates protection against solids and liquids: the first digit indicates dust/dirt and the second, water. IP55 It implies high protection against dust and against low-pressure water jets from any angle, but not immersion. IP68, present in latest Galaxy watches, Add total dust tightness y resistance to temporary immersion which the manufacturer usually limits to 1,5 m for 30 minutes in fresh water.
For its part, the classification 5 ATM assesses resistance to Static pressure equivalent to 50 m. This enables swimming in shallow water, but does not mean it is suitable for diving nor for high-pressure sports like water skiing. In real-life use, the 5 ATM + IP68 combination supports short, controlled baths; in the Galaxy Gear (IP55), the recommendation is clear: avoid any immersion.
Please note that in water or other liquids, the touch screen and associated functions may not operate properly. Additionally, exposure to moving water (taps, waves, or waterfalls) exerts more pressure than static immersion.
Good practices and limits of use
To preserve the device integrity, apply these official guidelines and good practices:
- Do not immerse the Galaxy Gear. In models with IP68/5 ATM, avoid going over 1,5 m y 30 minutes; the Gear (IP55) is only for splash.
- Evita water springs direct or moving water (taps, waves, waterfalls) even in better certified watches.
- After contact with sweet water, dry it with a soft cloth. Yes there are saltwater, soap, chlorine or other liquids, rinse first with sweet water and dry thoroughly.
- If the watch suffers a fall or impactWater and dust resistance may be compromised; check its condition and take extreme precautions.
- Evita saunas, steam baths, jacuzzis and prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which can damage seals and components.
- Resistance is not permanent bases; is reduced with the wear and the passage of time.
On Galaxy watches compatible with the Water Lock mode, activate it before entering the pool or shower: lock the touch screen to avoid accidental touches and, when deactivating it, the watch expels water from the speaker with a vibration/sound pattern. To activate it, you can use the quick panel (icon with two drops) or the menu Advanced functions.
If you are going to be near water and your priority is to avoid any risk, use a IPX8 waterproof case or silicone strap for water activities. These solutions add an extra barrier, especially useful in environments with saltpeter or chlorine.
El Samsung Galaxy Gear It is a watch designed for daily life with splash and occasional rains thanks to its IP55, but not for diving. If you need to swim regularly, consider a Galaxy model with IP68 and 5 ATM and follow the rinsing, drying, and water lock usage guidelines to prolong the life of the device.
