Smart watch Xiaomi Watch S1 Pros are positioned as a premium device with advanced sports features, but many buyers are worried about the question: how much waterproof? IP68, But what does that mean in practice? Can you swim in the pool, take a shower, or wash dishes without fear of damaging the electronics?
In this article, we will discuss in detail:
- 🔍 What's Behind the Marking IP68 How to interpret it correctly for smart watches.
- 🏊♂️ What water activities are allowed and which can cause the Watch to break S1 Pro.
- ⚠️ Typical user errors that cause the watch to fail despite the claimed protection.
- 📊 Comparison with competitors: how Xiaomi moisture protection looks against the background of Apple Watch, Garmin and Huawei.
You will also find results from independent tests, tips on how to care for your watch, and answers to frequent questions, such as why you should be using your watch. IP68 The manufacturer does not recommend pressing buttons under water.
What does it mean? IP68 Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro: Decoding the standard
Marking IP68 two-part:
- 🔢 6 (first digit) - level of protection against dust, the number "6" means that the watch is completely dustproof: even the smallest particles will not penetrate into the case.
- 💧 8 (second digit) - water protection. This is where the nuances start: standard. IP68 This means that the device can withstand a dive to a depth of more than 1 meter, but the manufacturer must specify the exact parameters separately. S1 Pro is up to 50 meters in a static state (no movement).
It's important to understand: IP68 ≠ Waterproof. It's a standard of protection against short-term water exposure, not a long-term guarantee of underwater operation. For example, a watch can withstand an accidental fall into a bath, but regular swimming in the pool can cause seals to wear out.
Besides, IP68 coverless:
- 🌊 Waves and strong water flows (for example, in the shower or under a waterfall).
- ☕ Hot water or steam (sauna, bathhouse).
- 🧂 Salt water (sea, ocean) - salt corrodes seals.
- 🧴 Chemicals (soap, shampoo, chlorine in the pool).
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After contact with water, wash the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro with fresh water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.This will remove any residue of chlorine, salt or soap that could damage seals.
Can I swim with the Xiaomi Watch? S1 Pro: official recommendations vs reality
Xiaomi in the technical specifications indicates that the Watch S1 Pro support swimming in the pool, but with reservations:
⚠️ Warning: Do not press buttons underwater and avoid sudden movements.Pressure at depths of more than 1.5 meters can violate leakage.
Independent tests (e.g. from TechMoan) show that the watch can withstand:
- 🏊♂️ Swimming in the pool at a depth of 1.5 m for 30 minutes.
- 🚿 Shower (unless water hits the watch directly under high pressure).
- 🌧️ Rain and snow (provided the water temperature is higher) +5°C).
However, there are critical points:
| Activity | Official authorization | Risks. |
|---|---|---|
| Handwashing | ✅ Permitted | Minimum if the water is not hot |
| Soul | ⚠️ Not recommended | Pressure water jets can penetrate through the speaker/microphone |
| Swimming at sea | ❌ Forbidden. | Salt and sand destroy sealants |
| Sauna/bath | ❌ Forbidden. | Steam and high temperature deform gaskets |
Key takeaway: Watch S1 Pros are suitable for everyday use (rain, sweat, hand washing), but not for extreme water loads. If you're serious about swimming, consider a rated watch. 5ATM (Garmin Venu 2 or Apple Watch Ultra).
What happens if you break the rules: the consequences for the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro
Even with IP68 Incorrect operation may result in:
- Contact corrosion: Salt or chlorinated water leaves deposits that oxidize metal elements over time.
- Depressurization of the body: sharp pressure drops (for example, during diving) deform the sealing gums.
- Speaker/microphone breakdown: These components have microholes through which water can enter.
- Xiaomi does not cover damage caused by a violation of the rules of operation (see paragraph 4.2 of the warranty card).
Signs that water has been in the clock:
- 🔊 Distorted sound from the speaker or its absence.
- 📱 The foggy screen from the inside.
- 🔋 Fast battery discharge (water closes contacts).
- 🛠️ Heart rate sensor errors.
⚠️ Warning: If the watch is wet, do not turn it on or charge it. Put it in a dry place with good ventilation (for example, near the fan) for 24-48 hours. Using a hair dryer or rice will accelerate corrosion!
What to do if you have a Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro wet?
Comparison of water protection Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro with competitors
To see how well the watch is doing S1 Pro protected from water, compare them with popular models of other brands:
| Model | Standard for water protection | Max, depth of immersion | Swimming support | Price (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro | IP68 | 50m (static) | ⚠️ Limitedly. | ~25 000 ₽ |
| Apple Watch Series 9 | 50m (WR50) | 50 m (active swimming) | ✅ Complete. | ~45 000 ₽ |
| Garmin Venu 2 | 5ATM | 50 m m m | ✅ Complete. + pressure-stamp | ~35 000 ₽ |
| Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro | 5ATM | 50 m m m | ✅ Complete. + diving | ~30 000 ₽ |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 | IP68 + 5ATM | 50 m m m | ✅ Complete. | ~32 000 ₽ |
Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro loses to competitors in two key parameters:
- Active swimming: Apple and Garmin officially allow the watch to swim, while Xiaomi only gives “limited” support.
- Additional sensors. at Huawei GT 3 Pro has a barometer for diving, and in the Watch S1 Pro – only the basic accelerometer.
Xiaomi has the advantage, however, of sapphire glass, which is resistant to sand scratches (relevant to beach vacations), and competitors often use tempered glass that tarnishes faster.
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If swimming is your priority, choose a watch with a certificate. 5ATM or WR50. Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro is suitable only for accidental contact with water.
How to check the tightness of Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro independently
Before first contacting water, it is recommended to make sure that the watch seals are in order.
Check the body for cracks or chips|Check if the back cover fits tightly (there should be no gaps)|Make sure the buttons don't slug.|Close all the slacks (if any) with plugs.-->
You can also test for dust resistance:
- Place the watch in a plastic bag with 1 tbsp. flour.
- Shake the package for 1-2 minutes.
- Take out your watch and check if the flour has penetrated inside (especially around the buttons).
If the flour is found inside, it is a sign that the seals are worn out and the watch should not be exposed to water.
To check the waterproofness (at your own risk!):
- Lower the watch in a glass of water for 5-10 cm for 30 seconds.
- Take out and check for moisture under the glass or in the speaker.
- If everything is dry, you can use the watch in the shower or in the rain.
⚠️ Warning: This test could void warranty! officially Xiaomi doesn't recommend self-tightness checks.
Tips for care: how to extend the life of sealants
To keep the Watch moisture-protected S1 Pro has remained effective as long as possible, follow these rules:
- 🧼 After contact with water, wash the watch with fresh water and wipe dry:
- 🔥 Avoid extreme temperatures, such as wearing a watch immediately after a sauna in a cold pool.
- 🛠️ Every 6 months apply silicone lubricant to seals (sold in watch parts stores).
- ⚡ Do not charge the watch if it is wet. Wait for the full drying (minimum 1 hour).
It is also worth remembering the service life of sealers:
- 📅 2-3 years – the average period after which the rubber bands lose elasticity.
- 🔧 Replacement of seals can be done in the service center Xiaomi (cost) ~1 500 ₽).
If you are actively using a watch in water, consider buying a protective case (such as from Spigen or a squirrel). UAG). It will add an additional layer of protection for buttons and speakers.