Samsung is the biggest smartphone company for Androids in the world. So, it makes sense that they would branch out into smartwatches with a focus on health and fitness. But, does that mean they’re safe to use in the water?
Based on the five main Samsung Galaxy Watch models, all are resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m) but aren’t waterproof. These models include Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch Active, Galaxy Watch Active2, Galaxy Watch 3, and Galaxy Watch 4 & Watch 4 Classic.
Even though each Galaxy Watch model has strong resistance to water and durability, care is vital for preserving the integrity of your watch. So, read on to learn more about each watch.
Article Contents
Are Samsung Watches Waterproof?
Unfortunately, it’s common for many companies to use water-resistant terms interchangeably. This sometimes leads to accidental water damage. So, let’s clarify what the two most popular terms actually mean.
Waterproof defines a device as completely impervious to water (i.e., no water can get in).
Water resistance is the maximum depth a device can withstand (along with water pressure).
So, what does Samsung say about their watches?
| Samsung Watch | Waterproof | Water resistance |
| Galaxy Watch | No | Up to depths of 164 ft (50 m) |
| Galaxy Watch Active | No | Up to depths of 164 ft (50 m) |
| Galaxy Watch Active2 | No | Up to depths of 164 ft (50 m) |
| Galaxy Watch 3 | No | Up to depths of 164 ft (50 m) |
| Galaxy Watch 4 & 4 Classic | No | Up to depths of 164 ft (50 m) |
Guaranteeing waterproof status on any watch (or device) is extremely difficult so it makes sense why Samsung doesn’t.
But, if you’re curious how Samsung’s phones fare in comparison, check out our guide ‘Can I Swim with Samsung Phone? Is it Waterproof?‘
You may also be interested in Huawei watches and if they’re waterproof, find out here: Can You Swim with Huawei Watch? Is It Waterproof?
Seeing as all these models have the same water resistance, let’s dive a little deeper into each model’s capabilities.
Is Galaxy Watch Waterproof?
Samsung launched the first Galaxy Watch in August 2018. It comes in two sizes, 46mm and 42mm, with a 1.3-inch and 1.2-inch screen, respectively. And, it’s capable of accurately tracking more than 39 activities, but does that mean it’s waterproof?
Galaxy Watch is not waterproof but it is water-resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m). And it comes with military-grade durability. However, it isn’t suitable for high-pressure water activities or diving.
Galaxy Watch is compatible with both Apple (iOS 9.0 and above) and other Android devices (OS 5.0 or higher). And, fully charged, it can last up to 7 days, depending on use.
Is Galaxy Watch Active Waterproof?
Launching in March 2019, the Galaxy Watch Active focused more on fitness and health. It automatically detects seven types of activity and lasts up to 45 hours on a single charge. But, how does it fare in water?
Galaxy Watch Active is water-resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m). However, Samsung doesn’t class it as waterproof and recommends avoiding wearing it in high-pressure water activities and diving.
Galaxy Watch Active is compatible with iPhones 5 and above, and any Android device with OS 5.0 or higher.
Is Galaxy Watch Active 2 Waterproof?
Released later in 2019, Galaxy Watch Active2 detects seven activities automatically and allows you to manually record a dozen more. And, includes a running coach for running fans too. But, is it waterproof?
Galaxy Watch Active2 isn’t waterproof. However, it is water-resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m) but you should avoid high-pressure water activities.
Similar to its predecessor, Galaxy Watch Active2 needs at least Android 5.0 or iOS 9.0 to function properly.
Is Galaxy Watch 3 Waterproof?
With its release in August 2020, the Galaxy Watch 3 allows you to stay connected to your phone, enabling notifications and calls to appear on your watch. Galaxy Watch 3 tracks 120 home workout programs. But, can you use it in your pool?
Galaxy Watch 3 isn’t waterproof, according to Samsung. But, it is water-resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m), although avoid high-pressure water activities and diving.
The Galaxy Watch 3 is thinner than its predecessor and includes Samsung Pay. So, for it to operate properly, this model needs at least Android 5.0 or iOS 9.0.
Is Galaxy Watch 4 Waterproof?
Releasing within a couple of weeks of each other in August 2021, Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are the latest models of Samsung smartwatches. Differences between these two models include the Classic being bulkier than its sibling. And, Watch 4 Classic offers extra features to the standard model. But, is either waterproof?
Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are both water-resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m) but aren’t waterproof, according to Samsung. And, they’re unsuitable for high-pressure water activities and diving despite their military-grade durability.
Even though these models are the newest Samsung smartwatches on the market, they are only compatible with Android devices (OS 6.0 or higher). They don’t support Apple products at all.
Does Samsung Watch Warranty Cover Water Damage?
Samsung covers their Galaxy watches for 24 months from the date of purchase, and 6 months for their watch straps. However, the warranty doesn’t cover any liquid damage, even if it’s accidental.
Even though Samsung offers extended warranties on their watches, these are to cover defects in the device rather than accidental damage. But, there are many third-party insurance companies that cover accidental damage.
However, even if your Galaxy watch sustains water damage, it is worth contacting Samsung’s customer support to enquire about repairs and replacements.
Will Pool Chlorine Damage Samsung Galaxy Watches?
Although all the Galaxy smartwatches are water-resistant to depths of 164 ft (50 m), is there a chance that pool chlorine can damage yours?
Each Galaxy Watch series is safe to swim in a chlorine pool. There is an extremely low risk of lasting damage from pool chlorine. But, post-swim care is essential to keep your watch (and its strap) in pristine condition.
To protect your watch from pool chlorine, it’s best to develop a post-swim cleaning habit. And, it might be worth investing in covers and pool-friendly watch straps. Especially if your watch strap is leather.
If you wear glasses, you also be interested to know if it’s OK to swim with glasses.
Will Saltwater Pool Systems Damage Samsung Galaxy Watches?
Despite the different names, saltwater pools are still chlorine pools. Instead of adding chlorine to clean your pool, you add salt. This salt produces chlorine by electrolysis and any leftover chlorine rebinds with the salt before recycling through the filtration system. But, what does that mean for your watch?
All Galaxy Watch models are safe to swim in a saltwater pool. With the addition of salt in these pools, there is an increased chance of lasting damage so post-swim care is crucial. Particularly if your watch strap is leather or stainless steel.
Salt is corrosive especially when it dries. When saltwater water gets on your watch (and its strap) and dries, salt deposits stay behind. These particles can scratch and corrode their surroundings.
In particular, stainless steel is vulnerable to corrosion. And, leather is a porous substance so it allows particles to lodge, encouraging corrosion and fading.
Saltwater pools are becoming more popular as they tend to be more cost-efficient and have lower maintenance than a chlorine pool. (Curious to find out more? Check our comparison guide: Salt Water & Chlorine Pool Costs | What’s cheaper?)
What To Do If I Swim With A Galaxy Watch?
When it comes to swimming with your watch, it’s a fairly simple process. Samsung Galaxy watches have an automatic water lock feature.
This feature disables Always On Display, its wake-up gesture feature, and its touchscreen when you enter into the Swimming Menu.
The most important step to be aware of is when you’ve finished your swim. And that is your watch cleaning routine. The tips below are there to guide you on keeping your watch in top condition.
If you want extra protective measures, consider investing in screen cloths and protective covers/cases.
Cleaning A Galaxy Watch After Swimming
The following steps are from Samsung’s website.
- After use, clean your watch and its strap with a soft, lint-free cloth. And make sure to dry it completely.
- You can use a soft, damp toothbrush to get rid of stubborn stains or dirt.
- If the watch strap is rubber, clean it with fresh water and dry thoroughly.
- Or, if your watch strap is leather, clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Do not use detergents, soap, or heat sources to clean your watch.
What Can I Use To Swim With Galaxy Watches?
Although Galaxy watches are incredibly water-resistant, it’s understandable that you might want an added protective measure. So, what can you use?
Screen Protector
![[2 Pack] EGV Case Compatible with Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 40mm【Not for Active 4 44MM】, Case with Screen Protector [Tempered Glass] Full Around Hard PC Protective Case - Matte Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/419GmSPl9DS._SL500_.jpg "[2 Pack] EGV Case Compatible with Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 40mm【Not for Active 4 44MM】, Case with Screen Protector [Tempered Glass] Full Around Hard PC Protective Case - Matte Black")
This 2-pack has 4.3 stars out of 2,852 Amazon ratings. Each of its screen protectors is part of a hard, durable case that is compatible with Galaxy Watch Active 2 (40mm). It is a sleek but sturdy addition to keep your watch safe. However, make sure that your watch is the right size before purchasing as some reviewers found the strap didn’t fit well.
Alternative Watch Band
This silicone band has 4.5 stars out of 4,578 Amazon ratings. Silicone is a pool-friendly material to pick and is easy to clean. This band is compatible with Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch 3 and comes in various colors. However, some customers found that, although it was comfortable, it didn’t last very long with daily wear.
Soft, Lint-Free Cloth
This cloth comes in a 6-pack and has 4.7 stars out of 56,424 ratings. Microfiber cloths are excellent for cleaning all types of screens including camera lenses and eyeglasses. These cloth types don’t pick up lint and dirt like other cloths. However, some buyers found that their cloth scratched their screens. But, it could be from not using it correctly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a smartwatch is sometimes overwhelming. Factors such as the battery, workout options, and connectivity depend on what your watch needs are.
Luckily, all of these Galaxy Watch models have the same water resistance so all you’ll need to worry about is picking what suits you best!
Related Reading: Hacks for Swimming with Glasses On | Is it OK?
