Are Apple Watch SE Waterproof? The Truth About Water Resistance

by Emily Johnson
Are Apple Watch SE Waterproof?


The Apple Watch SE is one of the most popular smartwatches available, but if you're considering buying one—or already own one—you might be wondering: Is the Apple Watch SE waterproof?

The short answer: No, the Apple Watch SE is not waterproof, but it is water-resistant up to 50 meters.

This means it can handle swimming, rain, and sweat, but not high-pressure water activities like scuba diving or water skiing.

If you use your Apple Watch SE for workouts, swimming, or just everyday wear, knowing its water resistance capabilities is essential to avoid costly damage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Specifically, we’ll cover Apple’s official claims, real-world performance, and, most importantly, the best practices for keeping your watch safe in water.



Key Takeaways

  • The Apple Watch SE is water-resistant, NOT waterproof. It has a 50-meter water resistance rating under ISO 22810:2010.
  • It can handle swimming, sweat, and rain but should not be used for high-pressure water activities like diving or jet skiing.
  • Water resistance can diminish over time, especially if exposed to soaps, chemicals, or extreme temperatures.
  • The “Water Lock” feature helps protect your watch by disabling the touchscreen and expelling water from the speaker.
  • Apple does not cover water damage under warranty, so knowing how to maintain and protect your watch is crucial.

Want to learn more about picking the best Apple Watch for your needs? Check out Which Apple Watch Is the Best?.


What Does "Water-Resistant" Mean for Apple Watch SE?

What does waterproof means?

"Water-resistant" and "waterproof" are not the same thing. The Apple Watch SE is water-resistant, meaning it can withstand some water exposure but is not immune to water damage.

Apple rates the SE for 50 meters of water resistance, following the ISO 22810:2010 standard. However, this rating applies under controlled conditions. In real-world use, factors like water pressure, temperature changes, and wear and tear can reduce its effectiveness over time.

Apple warns that water resistance is not permanent—This means that, over time, due to factors like repeated exposure, natural aging, or even minor physical damage, your watch can gradually become more susceptible to water intrusion.

For a deeper dive into Apple Watch compatibility and features, visit Are Apple Watch Bands Universal?.


Understanding the 50-Meter Rating

The 50-meter water resistance rating can be misleading. It does not mean you can safely dive 50 meters underwater with your watch. Instead, it means:

Safe for:

  • Swimming in pools
  • Shallow water exposure (showers, washing hands, sweat, rain)

Not safe for:

  • Scuba diving, snorkeling, or deep-sea diving
  • High-speed water activities (jet skiing, surfing, water skiing)
  • Pressurized water (power washing, hot tubs, steam rooms)

To make sure you have the right watch for your needs, check out Which Apple Watch Do I Have?.


Can You Swim with an Apple Watch SE?

Can You Swim with an Apple Watch SE?

Yes, you can swim with the Apple Watch SE, but with precautions.

Apple states that the watch is safe for:

  • Swimming in pools or shallow ocean water
  • Light water activities like washing hands or walking in the rain

However, prolonged water exposure and high-impact water sports should be avoided.

Tips for Swimming with an Apple Watch SE

  1. Use "Water Lock" Mode: This feature disables touch input and expels trapped water from the speaker after swimming.
  2. Avoid Pressing Buttons Underwater: This can allow water to enter the device.
  3. Rinse with Fresh Water After Use: Saltwater and chlorine can corrode seals over time.
  4. Limit Time in Water: While occasional swims are fine, extended submersion can degrade water resistance.

User Experiences:
Some Apple Watch SE owners use it for lap swimming without any issues. However, others have reported water damage after frequent pool use, especially after a year or more.

For a model with more durability, check out Which Apple Watch Is the Best?.


What Happens If You Exceed Its Limits?

If your Apple Watch SE is exposed to high-pressure water or is submerged too long, it may suffer water damage.

Signs of Water Damage

🚨 Condensation under the screen – Fogging or water bubbles inside the display.
🔊 Speaker distortion – Muffled sound due to trapped water.
💔 Unresponsive sensors – Heart rate monitor or touchscreen not working properly.

What to Do If Water Gets Inside Your Apple Watch SE

  1. Turn it off immediately.
  2. Place it in a dry, warm environment.
  3. Use the Water Eject feature (available after enabling Water Lock).
  4. DO NOT use heat sources (like a hair dryer).
  5. Contact Apple Support if issues persist.
    Apple Watch SE Water Resistance Guide

Apple does not cover water damage under warranty. If you’re concerned, consider an Apple Watch model with better durability.


Comparing Apple Watch SE to Other Models in Water Resistance

Apple Watch Model Water Resistance Recommended for
Apple Watch SE 50m (ISO 22810) Swimming, rain, sweat
Apple Watch Series 7 & 8 50m (ISO 22810) Same as SE, but with a more durable design
Apple Watch Ultra 100m (EN13319) Diving, extreme water sports, rugged conditions

For adventurers and deep-sea swimmers, the Apple Watch Ultra is the best choice.

Want more details? Check out Which Apple Watch Is the Best?.


FAQs About Apple Watch SE and Water Resistance

Is the Apple Watch SE Waterproof?

No, it is water-resistant up to 50 meters, but not fully waterproof.

Can I Shower with My Apple Watch SE?

Yes, but avoid exposing it to soap, shampoos, or high-pressure water.

Can the Apple Watch SE Handle Salt Water?

Yes, but rinse it with fresh water afterward to prevent corrosion.

Does the Apple Warranty Cover Water Damage?

No, Apple does not cover water damage under warranty.

How Can I Maintain Water Resistance Over Time?

  • Avoid high-pressure water
  • Keep it away from soaps, detergents, and chemicals
  • Don’t expose it to extreme heat or cold

External Links:

  1. Apple’s official page on water resistance: Apple Support - Water Resistance
  2. ISO water resistance standards: ISO.org - Water Resistance Standards
  3. Independent guide on smartwatch water resistance: CNET - Apple Watch Waterproof Guide

YouTube Links:

  1. Real-world swimming test with Apple Watch SE: Apple Watch SE Waterproof Test
  2. How to get water out of your Apple Watch: How to Get Water Out of Apple Watch
  3. Apple Watch Ultra Water Resistance Test (for comparison): Apple Watch Ultra Water Resistance Test

Final Thoughts: Is the Apple Watch SE Suitable for Water Activities?

Is it suitable for water activities?

The Apple Watch SE is a great option for casual swimmers and everyday use, but it is not designed for deep-sea diving or high-pressure water sports.

If you take care of your watch—use Water Lock, rinse it after exposure to salt or chlorine, and avoid extreme conditions—you can enjoy its water resistance without worry.

For more guidance on choosing the right Apple Watch for your needs, visit Which Apple Watch Is the Best?.

Blog Author section.


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Emily Johnson

 


Emily is a seasoned writer and technology enthusiast with a passion for digital watches and wearable tech. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to her readers.

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