Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re considering getting a Fitbit Charge 5, you may be wondering whether it’s waterproof. After all, you don’t want to risk damaging your fitness tracker during water-based activities(or other times you get wet). In this article, we’ll explore whether the Fitbit Charge 5 is water resistant and can withstand submersion(complete or partial) in water.
We’ll also provide you with some tips and recommendations on how to care for your Fitbit Charge 5 to ensure it stays in top condition.
Whether you’re a swimmer, a surfer or simply an individual who loves to track your daily activities, you’ll find all the information on Fitbit device that has water damage you need right here. So, let’s dive in and discover “Is Fitbit Charge 5 Waterproof”?
Water Resistance Rating
The water resistance rating of the Fitbit Charge 5 is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it during water-based activities(like swimming or outdoor activities like scuba diving).
The Fitbit Charge 5 has a water resistance rating of 50 meters, which means it’s water-resistant but not fully waterproof.
This rating indicates that the Fitbit Charge 5 can withstand splashes of water but should not be used wet and completely submerged in water.
It’s worth noting that the resistance rating of the Charge 5 is different from the IP (Ingress Protection) rating that’s commonly used to describe the water resistance of electronic devices.
The IP rating is a two-digit number that shows how well dust and water are kept out. The Charge 5 doesn’t have an official IP rating, but its water resistance rating of 50 meters is equivalent to an IPX8 rating which means it can be used for swimming and diving at depths of up to 50 meters.
It is one of the best affordable smartwatches that you can use without being worried about any water damage.
Can you wear the Fitbit Charge 5 while scuba diving?
No, we do not recommend you to wear the Fitbit while scuba diving, as it’s not designed to withstand the pressure at deep sea diving depths. It can however, be used for swimming.
Fitbit Charge 5 and Water Lock Icon
The Fitbit Charge 5 comes with a water lock icon that appears when you activate the water lock feature. This brilliant feature is designed to prevent accidental taps while you’re in water and it can also be used to disable the screen wake feature.
You need to press and hold the button on the side of the Charge 5 until the water lock icon appears to activate the Fitbit app water lock feature. You can similarly press and hold it again to disable the water lock feature.
This feature is a lifesaver, especially when swimming laps and tracking swim workouts.
How to Care for Your Fitbit Charge 5
Caring for your swim proof Fitbit Charge 5 is important if you want to ensure it stays in top condition and stays safe from long term damage. Here are some tips and recommendations on how to care for your Fitbit Charge 5:
Use a lint-free cloth to clean and completely dry your wet Fitbit Charge 5 after each and every single use(especially after swimming or a sweaty workout).
Avoid using soap or any other similar harsh liquid chemicals to clean your Fitbit Charge 5. Look for a soap free cleanser instead.
Do not expose your Fitbit Charge 5 to extreme heat(like a hot tub) or cold(like fresh water).
Remove your Fitbit Charge 5 before showering or doing swim laps to prevent damage from soap, chlorine, or salt water.
If your Fitbit Charge 5 gets wet, dry it completely before using it again.
Keep your Fitbit Charge 5 away from insect repellent, sunscreen, and other chemicals that can damage the device.
What You Can and Cannot Do with Fitbit Charge 5 in Water
While the Fitbit Charge 5 is water-resistant, there are certain activities or water sports that you should avoid doing with it in water(no matter what). Here’s what you can and cannot do with the water-resistant Fitbit Charge 5 in water:
You can wear the Fitbit Charge 5 while washing your hands, sweating, or getting caught in the rain.
You can wear the Fitbit Charge 5 during water-based activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, or paddle-boarding.
You should avoid wearing the Fitbit Charge 5 while showering or bathing, as soap and shampoo can damage the device.
You should avoid wearing the Fitbit Charge 5 while hot-tubbing, as the heat and chemicals can damage the device.
You should avoid wearing the Fitbit Charge 5 during high-velocity water activities, such as surfing or jet skiing, as the force of the water can exceed the device’s water resistance rating and cause damage.
Comparing the Water Resistant Fitbit Charge 5 to Other Fitbit Devices and Competitors
The Fitbit Charge 5’s water resistance is above-average compared to previous Fitbit models but below-average compared to later generations.
Certain Fitbit models, including the Fitbit Ace, Fitbit Luxe, and Fitbit Sense, are designed to withstand brief submersion in water up to 50 meters in depth.
However two devices, the Fitbit Charge 4, the Fitbit Inspire 2, and the newer models in Fitbit Ace series are all waterproof to a depth of fifty meters.
Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch device and the Apple Watch Series 6 are similarly water-resistant to a depth of 50 meters. Depending on the device and its model, the Apple Watch can withstand water depths of up to 50 meters or up to 30 meters.
Is Fitbit Sense Waterproof?
The Fitbit Sense is designed to be water-resistant, which means that it can withstand splashes of water and can be used during water-based activities such as swimming or snorkeling.
How do I know if my Fitbit has been damaged by water?
If your device has been damaged by water pressure, it may exhibit signs of corrosion, such as discoloration or rust. You may also experience issues with the device’s functionality, such as a malfunctioning screen or buttons.
Do all Fitbit models and fitness trackers have the same IP rating?
No, not all models have the same IP rating. The IP ratings vary depending on the model. Fitbit Ace is extremely water resistant and has high IP ratings to survive harsher conditions.
FAQ
Will my Fitbit waterproof device be negatively impacted by high-velocity water?
Yes, high-velocity water can exceed Fitbit’s water resistance rating and cause damage to the device. Do not go near high-velocity fresh water under any circumstances, and most Fitbit devices are not fit to be used under extreme pressure.
Can I wear Fitbit in a shower?
While it may be tempting to wear your Fitbit in the shower to track your activity, it’s not recommended. The Fitbit is water-resistant but not fully waterproof, and exposing it to water can potentially damage the device.
Will using the water lock on the Fitbit Charge 5 affect the device’s battery life?
Using the water lock on the water-resistant Fitbit Charge 5 should not significantly affect the device’s battery life(as the screen locks), as it’s designed to conserve battery during water-based activities. If you charge this smart watch properly then its battery health will not deteriorate at all.
What is the issue with using a Fitbit device in a hot tub or sauna?
Using the Fitbit Charge 5 in a hot tub or sauna can cause damage due to the water’s chemicals, heat, and force. It’s recommended to avoid wearing most Fitbit models in a hot tub to prevent damage(whether minor or severe).
Conclusion
The Fitbit 5 is a dependable and flexible water-resistant fitness band, but it’s crucial to realize it’s not completely waterproof. It is not recommended for use in hot tubs or during high-velocity water activities because of the risk of damage.
After getting the water lock wet, manually activate it and let it dry entirely. To extend its life, don’t subject it to harsh environments.
It is a top-tier fitness tracker(and, dare I say, one of the best fitness trackers, especially with its distance-tracking feature), but it’s not the ideal option if you’re looking for something that can withstand water.