How to read the rating
IPX is followed by a number from 0-9K indicating water resistance level; a first digit (when present) separately covers dust resistance, so IP67 means both dust and water protection.
IPX4: splash resistant
Handles sweat and light rain from any direction, but isn\’t rated for submersion — the common baseline for earbuds and speakers marketed for workouts.
IPX7: submersion resistant
Rated for full submersion up to a specified depth for a limited time, which is a meaningfully stronger claim than splash resistance — relevant for anything you\’d risk dropping in water.
What the rating doesn\’t cover
Ratings are typically tested with fresh water under controlled conditions; saltwater, pool chemicals, and high-pressure water (like a direct shower stream) can exceed what the rating actually guarantees.
Why it matters for your specific use
A gym-and-rain rating like IPX4 is plenty for most people; only buy up to IPX7 or higher if you genuinely need pool or accidental-drop protection, since that jump usually comes with a real price difference.
[mkg_pros_cons pros=\”Understanding the rating system helps you compare products accurately|IPX4 genuinely covers the sweat and rain most people encounter daily|Higher ratings like IPX7 offer real protection against accidental drops in water\” cons=\”Ratings don\’t account for saltwater, chemicals, or high-pressure water|A rating tells you nothing about dust resistance unless a first digit is present|Manufacturers sometimes market water resistance more prominently than the specific number justifies\”]