Apple Airpods are easily the most popular wireless earbuds in the world. They offer a great build, easy and intuitive features, great sound quality, and competitive battery life.
One of the reasons AirPods have dominated the market is the handy charging and carrying case. Without it, the earphones are quite useless and can’t be charged. However, it makes for a stylish presentation.
But, the charging case has been the subject of much debate…
Ever since 3rd Gen AirPods launched, people have asked, “Are AirPods waterproof or water-resistant?” And, to what degree can the case withstand water?
There’s a big difference between waterproof and water-resistant, and, sometimes, Apple can get quite ambiguous regarding what these terms mean in their literature.
So, I decided to answer the question, “Are AirPods cases waterproof?” After that, I will be taking a look at some AirPod case covers that can give you an extra layer of protection for your Apple charging case.
Is The Apple Charging Case Waterproof?
Let’s start by bursting any bubbles of hope that may yet be floating around. AirPods and AirPods Pro are not waterproof. This extends to the case and earbuds. You cannot take them swimming or go walking in the pouring rain with them.
But, the engineers over at Apple seem to think their product can stand up to water. So, what gives? Well, this is where it becomes a bit of a grey area.
First things first…
Let’s examine the differences between AirPods and AirPods Pro. Standard 1st and 2nd Gen AirPods offer no protection from water. Only the AirPods Pro and 3rd Gen AirPods come with water resistance.
Now that we’ve got that cleared up, let’s look at how water resistant are AirPods. I mean, the case and the earbuds are two different things, right?
Apple’s Definition of Water-Resistance
Apple’s official rating on 3rd Gen Airpods and Airpods Pro is IPX4. They further elaborate by saying that means they are okay for use with non-water sports and exercise. But, it’s important to understand that water-resistant is not the same as water-proof.
So what does the IPX4 rating mean?
And, of course, which AirPod models have an IP rating? Are we talking about the earbuds, the buds and the case, or just the case? These are all good questions, and it’s important to know if you are an Apple AirPods owner or plan on getting a pair.
The only version of AirPods that offer an IPX4 rating on both the earbuds and charging case is the 3rd Gen AirPods with the Megasafe Charging Case.
However, the 3rd Gen AirPods Pro offers an IPX4 rating on the earbuds but not the case. Not even the Airpods Pro Megasafe charging case comes with a water-resistance rating.
Now that I have that cleared up…
…you should have a good idea about the level of water resistance of your AirPods. This will help you know how to best handle them. If they are damp after a workout, let them dry before putting them in the case. And always keep them away from excess moisture.
Case-Mate AirPods Case Covers
The Apple Airpods are certainly some of the best wireless earphones you can buy; they are also some of the most expensive. Therefore, when you learn the answer to the question, “Are AirPods cases waterproof?” is no, it can be quite disappointing.
So, it would be safe to assume that users would want to add any extra protection they can to their AirPods case. Well, the engineers at Case-Mate have also identified this need, and they offer a range of cases to add that extra layer of protection.
The Case-Mate Pelican series is the last word when it comes to the best AirPods charging case protection. They are made with layered hard shells that offer military-grade drop protection. These can shield your AirPods from snow, dust, and water. So, let’s take a look at two of their best options.
Pelican Marine Series Covers – Best Airpod Case Cover
The Pelican Marine series case might not be the best-looking, but that is not its function. This hard case comes with an IP68 rating. That means it’s not just water-resistant; it is waterproof. It can withstand being fully submerged in 1.5m of water for up to half an hour.
The case comes in a variety of colors and offers military-grade drop protection. It also comes with a handy carabiner so that you can easily attach it to a bunch of keys or a backpack.
Pelican Protector Series – Best Airpod Case Cover with Charging
The Pelican Protector series comes in a variety of colors and offers great protection against the elements. The Protector series offer an IPX7 rating which means they can be submerged in 1.5m of water for a period of up to half an hour.
The case also comes with an easy access port for your lightning cable. Meaning you can charge your case and earbuds while they are inside the Pelican protector.
There is also MicroPel® Antimicrobial Case Protection which allows for extra grip on the case while handling. This, in turn, can help avoid accidental drops. Even if you do drop it, the Pelican Protector offers military-grade layering and drop protection.
Have Other AirPod Questions?
Perhaps we can help. Take a look at our handy articles on How to Make Your AirPods Louder, AirPods Connected But No Sound, Can I Use Two Different AirPods, Do AirPods Work Well on Android Devices, and Can Reset AirPods Be Tracked for more useful information.
Also, check out our in-depth reviews of the Best iPhone Earbuds, the Best AirPods Alternative, the Best Apple AirPods Pro Alternatives, the Best Wireless Earbuds For Small Ears, the Best True Wireless Earbuds, as well as the Most Comfortable Earbuds you can buy in 2023.
Are AirPods Cases Waterproof? – Final Thoughts
So now you know. Those AirPods that you paid so much for, wonderful as they might be, are not fully waterproof. Furthermore, they need to be kept away from water and moisture as much as possible.
That being said, if you have the newest generation, there is some protection in the form of an IPX4 water resistance rating. But, this is not enough to make your case as safe as it could be. For that extra peace of mind, you can look at robust protection in the form of case protectors. For example, the waterproof options offered by Case-Mate and Pelican.
Until next time, happy listening.