Is the iPhone 14 Waterproof? And Should You Buy a Case?

Released back in 2022, the iPhone 14 has many exciting features that make it one of the highest-quality phones available on the market even today.

Although technology has since progressed, with the new iPhone 16 offering a stronger and brighter display, thinner bezels, and an even longer battery life, durability remains a major benefit of the iPhone 14 series.

This includes everything from its aerospace-grade aluminium enclosure to the tough glass back that supports seamless wireless charging. But while the device can handle accidental drops and falls, will it survive submersion in water?

Find out everything you need to know about whether the iPhone 14 is waterproof or water-resistant, including the key differences between these two terms and how to keep your device free from liquid damage.

Waterproof vs. Water Resistant: Exploring the Differences

Did you know that "waterproof" and "water resistant" actually have two different meanings when it comes to technology?

While waterproof devices don't allow any moisture penetration at all, regardless of depth or duration, those that are water resistant can only repel limited amounts of liquid. Most modern smartphones offer different levels of water resistance, which you can identify through their ingress protection (IP) rating.

Created by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), IP ratings provide an indication of how resistant technological devices are to liquids. For every device, the letter "IP" will be followed by two numbers to determine its durability, as follows:

• First Number: This refers to its level of dust resistance, on a scale from 0 (no protection) to 6 (fully dust-resistant).
• Second Number: 0 indicates that the device offers no water resistance, while 9 shows that it can survive exposure to high-pressure hot water from different angles.

Is the Apple iPhone 14 Waterproof?

Under IEC Standard 60529, the iPhone 14 has an IP68 water resistance rating.

This means that it can withstand being submerged in a maximum depth of 6 metres of fresh water for up to 30 minutes at a time. It also offers complete dust resistance from small solid particles.

The iPhone 14 also features enhanced sealing technology, which provides further protection against moisture ingress for the critical components of your device. This includes the buttons, speakers, and SIM card tray.

So, while your iPhone 14 will survive those drops, splashes, light rain, and accidental spills from common liquids like coffee, tea, juice, beer, and other soft drinks, it isn't fully waterproof.

Improving the iPhone 14's Water Resistance: 3 Key Tips

Whether you've dropped your phone in the bath or spilled some of your morning coffee, here are some of the most effective ways to prolong the lifespan of the iPhone 14 Plus:

1. Use a Comprehensive Drying Process

While you may be tempted to submerge your phone in a bag of rice to quickly soak up any spilled liquid, this can actually cause further damage to the internal compartments.

We'd therefore recommend following this comprehensive process instead to ensure that your device and its Lightning Port are completely clean and dry before use:

1. First, switch the device off to prevent short-circuiting and remove the SIM card tray, carefully wiping it down.
2. If your iPhone 14 has been exposed to any liquids other than fresh water, rinse the affected area with tap water. Then, use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the touch screen and all other surfaces of the device, avoiding abrasive cleaning products and compressed air.
3. With the Lightning connector face down, gently tap the phone against your hand to remove any excess liquid.
4. Leave the iPhone to dry thoroughly in an area with plenty of airflow. This process can take up to 24 hours, so avoid using an external heat source or inserting any foreign objects into the Lightning Port during this time period.
5. When your device is completely dry, turn it back on and try inserting the charger. If a liquid detection alert appears, you'll need to leave the device to dry for longer.

2. Avoid Severe or Prolonged Liquid Exposure

If you've ever been caught in a surprise rain shower or been splashed by a car on the roadside, you'll understand that moment of panic after realising your phone has got slightly wet. What's great about the iPhone 14 is that it can handle these light splashes and will even survive when taking quick underwater photos.

However, the internal components of the device may sustain damage if exposed to deeper pools or large amounts of liquid for longer periods.

The IP68 rating also only applies to fresh water; when dropped in salty ocean water without a waterproof case, your iPhone 14 is less likely to survive without irreparable damage. If this does happen, be sure to rinse your phone with fresh water immediately afterward.

Some of the other scenarios you should avoid to prevent water damage include:

• Using your iPhone while jet skiing, surfing, or wakeboarding
• Exposure to high water pressure jets
• Taking the device into a sauna or steam room
• Spilling sunscreen, hair dye, insect repellent, harsh soaps, or detergents on the phone

3. Buy a Water Resistant Phone Case

Although the iPhone 14 is splash, water, and dust resistant, this protection often decreases over time with general wear and tear. To maintain the water resistance capabilities of your iPhone 14, we'd therefore recommend investing in a heavy-duty water-resistant phone case.

When it comes to choosing the right case, there are several different types that offer unique levels of protection. For instance, rugged cases provide protection against extreme water exposure for those who regularly use their phone outdoors or during water sports. They also come with additional protective features, such as impact-absorbing technologies.

Alternatively, slim cases keep your phone protected from water without adding extra bulk, making them the perfect choice for those wanting to maintain the aesthetic appeal of their iPhone 14 device.

At Ghostek, our iPhone 14 collection offers both case types to suit your lifestyle and style needs, with our Nautical Slim and Nautical case models.

Rated IP68, the Nautical series delivers extreme waterproof protection, thanks to its ability to survive in a maximum depth of 20 feet for up to one hour. The 360-degree cases also feature a watertight port seal that keeps out sand, dust, and dirt, plus a built-in screen protector and camera lens cover.

Enjoy a secure hand grip to stop your phone falling into the water and 12-feet drop resistance in case any accidents do occur.

Whether you've got the iPhone 14 Pro Max, Pro, Plus, or base model, browse our full collection today for your peace of mind when in or around water.