Are AirPods waterproof? Here's what you need to know

The AirPods are some of the best earbuds you can buy, especially if you have an iPhone. They’re small, sleek, and easy to use. However, there are a few things that you should probably know before you shop. If you’re hoping to hit the gym and work up a sweat or you live in a rainy area, you probably want to know if your AirPods are waterproof. We have your answer, and it’s not all good news.

See also: Apple AirPods (2019) review | Apple AirPods Pro review

There are quite a few models to choose from if you’re eyeing up AirPods, so we’ll cover them all. Check out our reviews above if you’re still weighing out your decision.

Are my AirPods waterproof? What about AirPods Pro?

Unfortunately, no, your AirPods are not waterproof. Nor are they water-resistant. It doesn’t matter whether they charge wirelessly or with a lightning cable, you won’t find an IP rating of any kind. You could maybe wear them for a light workout, provided that you don’t work up too much of a sweat.

If you spent a little more money on the AirPods Pro, we have some slightly better news. These premium earbuds do carry an IPX4 rating, which is good for sweat and light splashes of water. This makes them your top option as a workout companion, and they’ll stand up better against rain, too. However, this isn’t a suggestion that you should wear them in a torrential downpour. You probably shouldn’t wear them to shower or swim, either.

See also: AirPods Pro vs Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro

Finally, if you splashed the cash for the $549 AirPods Max, you should know that that’s the only splashing they can handle. Apple’s most premium audio equipment ever ditches the IP rating and offers no protection from rain or dust. You’ll have to turn your attention elsewhere if you want solid cans that can handle a little water.

What earbuds can I buy instead?

If you plan to work out regularly or you live in a wet climate, this may have just turned you off of AirPods. The good news is that you’re not out of luck. There are plenty of waterproof headphones and earbuds to be had, you just have to know where to look. Samsung’s latest Galaxy Buds Pro comes with an IPX7 rating, which will stand up far better against water. The JayBird Vista true wireless earbuds are another great option, and they come with soft fins that lock in your ear.

See also: The best true wireless workout earbuds you can buy

You can also dig into our list of workout earbuds linked above. Most options on that list pack some degree of water resistance or at least sweat resistance to keep up in the gym. We’ve chosen options from Jabra, Bose, and more to give you a solid selection.

Maybe Apple will bring water resistance to its wireless earbuds in the future, but right now your best bet is to head for a third-party option.