The Samsung Galaxy Buds series is celebrated for its high-quality sound, noise cancellation, and stylish design. However, when it comes to water resistance, it’s important to know what these earbuds can and cannot handle. Let’s dive into whether the Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are waterproof and how they hold up in different scenarios.
Quick Overview: Water Resistance Ratings
The Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are not fully waterproof, but they do offer varying degrees of water resistance:
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Galaxy Buds 2: Rated IPX2, meaning they can handle light water drips at specific angles. This is minimal protection suitable for light splashes but not much else.
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Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Rated IPX7, which provides significantly more protection. They can survive submersion in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
It’s crucial to remember that water resistance isn’t permanent. Over time, seals and materials degrade, especially with regular exposure to water, sweat, and drops.
Breaking Down the Scenarios
1. Can You Wear Them in the Rain?
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Galaxy Buds 2: Light mist or a few drops of rain won’t harm them. However, a heavy downpour is a risk, as the IPX2 rating provides minimal protection.
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Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These can withstand rain more effectively thanks to their IPX7 rating. Still, prolonged exposure isn’t recommended to maintain their longevity.
2. Can You Swim with Them?
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Galaxy Buds 2: Absolutely not. The IPX2 rating is insufficient for swimming, and the buds will almost certainly be damaged.
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Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: While the IPX7 rating allows for submersion in shallow water, swimming is not advisable. Bluetooth signals don’t work underwater, and the constant movement in water can cause damage over time. For swimming, consider waterproof earbuds designed specifically for aquatic use.
3. Can You Shower with Them?
Showering with earbuds exposes them to high-pressure water jets and steam, both of which can damage their water resistance:
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Galaxy Buds 2: Not suitable for showering.
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Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: They might survive occasional exposure, but it’s risky. Steam and prolonged water pressure can still degrade their components.
4. Are They Sweatproof?
Both models are sweat-resistant to a degree, making them suitable for workouts:
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Galaxy Buds 2: Light workouts are fine, but heavy sweating could compromise their durability.
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Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Better equipped for intense workouts due to the IPX7 rating. However, you should wipe them clean after each use to preserve their water resistance.
How to Protect Your Galaxy Buds
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Avoid Direct Water Contact: Even with an IPX7 rating, minimize water exposure to extend the lifespan of your earbuds.
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Dry Thoroughly: If your buds get wet, dry them immediately with a soft cloth.
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Store Properly: Use the charging case to keep your earbuds safe from moisture and dust.
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Use Alternatives: For swimming or showering, invest in devices specifically designed for those activities, like bone-conduction headphones with waterproof capabilities.
Final Thoughts
While the Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer varying levels of water resistance, neither are truly waterproof. Understanding their limitations and handling them with care will ensure they last longer. If you’re frequently exposed to wet environments, consider investing in waterproof alternatives tailored for such conditions.
