The Apple Watch SE 2 is a great entry point for users invested in the Apple ecosystem, but is it waterproof? Since the Apple Watch Series 2, the company has maintained the same water resistance standard on its smartwatches. However, with the Watch Series 7, Apple officially added dust resistance to make the smartwatch even more durable. The Apple Watch Ultra released in 2022 comes with additional waterproofing capabilities that even allow it to be used while scuba diving.
On the official landing page, Apple mentions that the Apple Watch SE 2 is swimproof. While this does not mean that the wearable is completely waterproof, it can resist water damage to a certain extent. The company says that the Apple Watch SE has a "water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010." This means that users can take the Watch SE 2 for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. However, the company advises against using the smartwatch for other activities that might involve submersion below 50 meters or expose the device to high-velocity water, such as scuba diving and water-skiing.
Is The Apple Watch SE 2 Dustproof?
Unlike the Apple Watch Series 8 which has an IP6X rating, the Apple Watch SE 2 does not have an IP rating for dust resistance. Therefore, the watch may be prone to damage due to the ingress of minute dust particles. Users should keep that in mind while wearing the Watch SE 2, particularly at the beach. Nevertheless, neither water resistance nor dust resistance is a permanent condition. Even if a device is manufactured to resist damage from water and dust, the capability diminishes over time and with damage. The Apple Watch SE 2 also lacks the front crystal used on the Apple Watch Series 8, making it less durable.
That said, the Watch SE 2 offers key Apple Watch features such as activity tracking, high and low heart rate notifications, Emergency SOS, and Crash Detection. It is marketed at those buying an Apple Watch for the first time. Given that the Apple Watch SE 2 is available for $249, it's a great buy for anyone who wants the basic features of an Apple Watch on a budget, including water resistance.
Can You Shower With The Apple Watch SE 2?
Given that the Apple Watch SE 2 can be used for swimming, users might be wondering whether it's ok to shower while wearing the smartwatch. Unfortunately, Apple advises against using the Apple Watch SE 2 (or any Apple Watch, for that matter) while showering. The only exception to this rule is the Apple Watch Ultra, which features enhanced durability.
In fact, Apple says that users should avoid exposing their Apple Watch to soap or soapy water while showering or bathing. Apple says that if the Apple Watch accidentally comes into contact with soaps, shampoos, or conditioners, users should clean it with fresh warm water and wipe it dry with a lint-free cloth. The reason for this is that soap can damage the water seals and acoustic membranes on the Apple Watch SE 2, affecting its water resistance over time.