Is the Pixel 8a waterproof? I put it through three real-life tests to find out

The Pixel 8a is water resistant, but not waterproof. It has an IP67 rating. While this is not as good as most flagships, which usually come with an IP68 rating, it’s still pretty reliable for most people.

What does the IP67 rating mean?

IP ratings tell you the level of protection products offer against solids and liquids. These standards are set by the International Electrotechnical Commission. “IP” stands for Ingress Protection (or International Protection). Two numbers follow it. The first number indicates the level of protection against solids, like dirt. The second number tells us how water-resistant something is.

In this case, the IP67 rating tells us the Pixel 8a is dust-tight and can be submerged in 3.3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. However, there are some things you should keep in mind.

We’ve looked into all the small text and would advise that you never really get your phone wet on purpose. This is mainly because water-resistant phones don’t really stay water-resistant forever. A phone can lose this quality over time for many reasons, including basic wear and tear. Phone repairs or damage from drops can also make way for liquids to sip in.

Additionally, these IP rating tests are done with fresh water. Ocean water has salt, and pool water usually has chlorine. Salt and chlorine are known to affect seals and materials more.

Better be safe than sorry! Think of the IP67 rating more as an extra layer of reassurance in case you accidentally drop the Pixel 8a in a puddle, use it under the rain, or drop it in the toilet.