IP57 Rating in AirPods Pro 3: Everything You Need to Know
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 have taken durability and usability to the next level by introducing an IP57 rating — a significant improvement over the IP54 rating on AirPods Pro 2. But what does IP57 actually mean, and why should you care? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Understanding IP Ratings
IP stands for Ingress Protection, a standard set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC 60529). It defines how resistant a device is to solids (dust) and liquids (water).
An IP rating always has two numbers:
- The first digit tells you how well the device is protected against solids like dust.
- The second digit tells you how well it is protected against liquids like water.
What IP57 Means
For AirPods Pro 3, the IP57 rating breaks down like this:
- 5 – Dust Protection
- Your AirPods are dust-protected, meaning small amounts of dust may enter, but not enough to affect performance.
- Ideal for everyday environments — whether you’re using them at the gym, outside on a dusty road, or during your commute.
- 7 – Water Protection
- Your AirPods Pro 3 can survive submersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
- This is a major upgrade from earlier AirPods models that were only splash-proof.
- Accidental drops in water, getting caught in a heavy rainstorm, or a sweaty workout session won’t harm them.
What You Can Safely Do with IP57 AirPods
With this rating, your AirPods Pro 3 are designed to handle:
- Workouts and intense sweat
- Running in the rain
- Quick rinses or cleaning under a damp cloth
- Accidental water spills
- Short accidental drops into sinks or puddles
Limitations You Should Know
While IP57 is impressive, it doesn’t make your AirPods completely indestructible. Here’s what you should avoid:
- Swimming or showering with them — prolonged exposure to water, especially warm water or soap, can damage the components.
- Saltwater and pool water — chlorine and salt can corrode internal parts.
- Charging while wet — always dry your AirPods and case completely before placing them back in the charging case.
IP57 vs IP54: What’s New?
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 (IP54) | AirPods Pro 3 (IP57) |
|---|---|---|
| Dust Resistance | Level 5 (same) | Level 5 (same) |
| Water Resistance | Level 4 – Splash-proof only | Level 7 – Immersion up to 1m for 30 min |
| Sweat Resistance | Yes | Yes, with better sealing |
| Practical Use | Safe for light rain, sweat | Safe for heavy rain, accidental water drops, brief immersion |
This upgrade is one of the most underrated improvements of AirPods Pro 3. For fitness enthusiasts and people living in rainy or humid regions, this extra water resistance adds real peace of mind.
Benefits of IP57 for Users
- Increased durability – Better protection means longer lifespan.
- Confidence during workouts – No worrying about sweat damage.
- Everyday practicality – Survives unexpected rain or spills.
- Resale value – More resistant AirPods retain better condition over time.
FAQs: IP57 in AirPods Pro 3
Q1. Can I swim with AirPods Pro 3?
No, IP57 is meant for short accidental submersion. Continuous swimming or showering is not recommended.
Q2. Does IP57 cover the charging case?
Yes, Apple states that both the earbuds and the case are dust and water resistant with an IP57 rating — a nice improvement over previous models.
Q3. Will Apple warranty cover water damage?
Even with IP57, water damage is not always covered under the standard warranty. AppleCare+ may offer replacement options.
Q4. How to clean AirPods Pro 3 after water exposure?
Gently dry them with a lint-free cloth and leave them to air-dry before putting them back in the case or charging them.
The IP57 rating in AirPods Pro 3 is a game-changer for people who want earbuds that can withstand dusty environments, sweaty workouts, and accidental water exposure. While it doesn’t make them fully waterproof, it’s a big step forward in durability compared to previous generations.
If you value peace of mind and all-weather usability, the IP57 protection makes AirPods Pro 3 a more reliable choice for your daily life.
