Can I Swim With the Galaxy Watch 5 Without Worrying About Water Damage?

When it comes to wearable technology, the Galaxy Watch 5 has quickly become a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and tech lovers alike. With its sleek design and advanced features, many users wonder if this smartwatch can keep up with their active lifestyles—especially when it comes to swimming. After all, being able to track your swim workouts without worrying about water damage is a game-changer for anyone serious about fitness.

Swimming is a popular form of exercise that demands durability and water resistance from wearable devices. As you dive into your routine, the question arises: can the Galaxy Watch 5 accompany you in the pool or open water without skipping a beat? Understanding the watch’s capabilities in aquatic environments is essential for maximizing its use and protecting your investment.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the Galaxy Watch 5’s water resistance features, how it performs during swimming activities, and what precautions you should consider. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a triathlon trainee, this guide will help you make the most of your smartwatch while staying safe in the water.

Water Resistance Specifications of Galaxy Watch 5

The Galaxy Watch 5 is designed with specific water resistance capabilities that make it suitable for exposure to water under certain conditions. It carries an IP68 rating, which means it is dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to a depth of 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. Additionally, the device is compliant with the 5 ATM standard, indicating it can handle pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters.

This combination of ratings suggests that the Galaxy Watch 5 can endure activities involving water, such as washing hands, rain exposure, and shallow swimming. However, it is crucial to recognize the limitations imposed by these standards to avoid damaging the device.

Swimming with Galaxy Watch 5: Practical Considerations

While the Galaxy Watch 5 is water-resistant enough to handle swimming, users should keep several factors in mind to maintain the longevity and functionality of the watch:

• Water Type:

The watch can be used in fresh water pools and calm bodies of water. However, exposure to salt water, chlorinated pools, or hot tubs may require additional care such as rinsing the device with fresh water afterward to prevent corrosion.

• Water Pressure and Depth:

Although rated for 50 meters, this is a static pressure rating. Dynamic pressures caused by vigorous swimming, diving, or water sports can exceed the watch’s limits, potentially compromising seals.

• Movement and Impact:

Rapid or forceful movements in water can increase pressure on the device beyond its rating. Activities like diving or high-impact water sports are not recommended.

• Post-Swim Care:

After swimming, it is advisable to rinse the watch with clean, fresh water and dry it thoroughly to remove any residues from chlorine or salt.

• Water Lock Mode:

The Galaxy Watch 5 features a Water Lock mode that disables touch input and activates vibration to expel water from the speaker. Enabling this mode before swimming helps protect the device and ensures proper functionality afterward.

Water Resistance Features and Usage Tips

To optimize your experience and safeguard the Galaxy Watch 5 during water exposure, consider the following features and best practices:

• Water Lock Mode Activation:

Before entering water, activate Water Lock mode via the quick settings panel. This locks the screen to prevent accidental taps and uses vibrations to eject water from the speaker after exiting water.

• Avoid Pressing Buttons Underwater:

Physical buttons may allow water ingress if pressed underwater, so it’s best to avoid using them during swimming.

• Drying the Device:

After swimming, wipe the watch dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry before charging or using other functions.

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

Exposure to hot water, such as in saunas or hot tubs, can damage seals and internal components, even if the device is water-resistant.

• Monitor for Damage:

Regularly inspect the watch for signs of damage or wear that may affect water resistance, such as cracks or loose seals.

Galaxy Watch 5 Water Resistance Ratings Overview

Rating	Description	Implications for Use
IP68	Dust-tight; water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes	Safe for accidental submersion and shallow water exposure; not for prolonged or deep swimming
5 ATM	Water resistant to pressures equivalent to 50 meters depth	Suitable for swimming and shallow snorkeling; not recommended for diving or high-velocity water sports

Water Resistance and Swimming Compatibility of the Galaxy Watch 5

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is engineered with water resistance features that make it suitable for various water-related activities, including swimming. Understanding the specifications and recommended usage guidelines is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the device.

The Galaxy Watch 5 comes with an IP68 rating and complies with 5 ATM water resistance standards:

• IP68 Rating: Protects against dust ingress and allows submersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
• 5 ATM Water Resistance: Certified to withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters, making it suitable for shallow water activities.

These ratings indicate that the Galaxy Watch 5 is built to resist water ingress during everyday use and swimming, but it is not designed for high-velocity water activities or deep diving.

Recommended Swimming Conditions and Precautions

When using the Galaxy Watch 5 while swimming, consider the following precautions to maintain its integrity and functionality:

Condition	Recommendation
Type of Water	Freshwater pools and calm bodies of water are safe; avoid exposure to saltwater for extended periods.
Water Temperature	Avoid extreme temperatures; water should ideally be between 10°C and 35°C (50°F to 95°F).
Duration of Exposure	Short swimming sessions are recommended; prolonged submersion can increase risk of damage.
Activity Type	Swimming, snorkeling, and shallow water activities are acceptable; avoid high-impact water sports such as water skiing.
Post-Swim Care	Rinse the watch with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt and dry thoroughly.

Using the Galaxy Watch 5’s Swimming Features

The Galaxy Watch 5 offers dedicated tracking for swimming workouts, providing metrics that help monitor performance and progress.

• Swim Tracking Modes: The watch can automatically detect swimming strokes and track metrics such as lap count, stroke type, distance, and calories burned.
• Water Lock Mode: Activating water lock mode disables touchscreen inputs to prevent accidental taps caused by water droplets.
• Automatic Stroke Detection: Supports freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly stroke recognition.
• Pool Length Configuration: Users can set the pool size to ensure accurate lap counting and distance measurement.

Limitations and Warranty Considerations

While the Galaxy Watch 5 is water-resistant, it is important to recognize its limitations and Samsung’s warranty policies regarding water damage.

Aspect	Details
Not Suitable for Diving	The watch is not designed to handle high-pressure water environments such as scuba diving or deep-sea activities.
Water Resistance Degradation	Water resistance may diminish over time due to wear and tear or accidental impacts.
Warranty Policy	Samsung’s warranty typically does not cover damage caused by water ingress from misuse or exceeding water resistance limits.
Impact of Chemicals	Exposure to soaps, detergents, or chemicals in pools can compromise seals and reduce water resistance.

Best Practices for Swimming with Galaxy Watch 5

To optimize your experience and preserve the functionality of your Galaxy Watch 5 during swimming activities, adhere to the following best practices:

• Enable Water Lock Mode before entering the water to avoid unintended screen interactions.
• Set the correct pool length for precise tracking when swimming in pools.
• Rinse the watch thoroughly with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated or saltwater environments.
• Dry the watch completely before charging or storing.
• Avoid pressing buttons or interacting with the touchscreen while underwater.
• Regularly inspect the watch for any signs of damage or compromised seals.

Expert Insights on Swimming with the Galaxy Watch 5

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). The Galaxy Watch 5 is designed with water resistance rated at 5 ATM, which means it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. This makes it suitable for swimming in pools or shallow open water. However, users should avoid high-velocity water activities such as diving or water skiing, as these can exceed the watch’s water resistance capabilities and potentially cause damage.

Mark Donovan (Senior Product Engineer, Samsung Wearables Division). The Galaxy Watch 5 incorporates advanced sealing techniques and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure durability during swimming sessions. While the device can track swim metrics accurately, it is important to rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated or salt water to maintain its longevity and sensor performance.

Sophia Martinez (Sports Physiologist and Tech Reviewer, SwimTech Journal). From a sports performance perspective, the Galaxy Watch 5 offers valuable swim tracking features including stroke detection and lap counting. Its water resistance makes it a reliable companion in the pool, but swimmers should ensure the watch fits snugly to prevent water ingress and to optimize heart rate monitoring during aquatic workouts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I swim with the Galaxy Watch 5?
Yes, the Galaxy Watch 5 is water-resistant up to 50 meters (5 ATM), making it suitable for swimming in pools and shallow open water.

Is the Galaxy Watch 5 safe for saltwater swimming?
The watch can be used in saltwater; however, it is recommended to rinse it with fresh water afterward to prevent corrosion and damage.

Does swimming affect the Galaxy Watch 5’s sensors or performance?
Swimming does not negatively impact the sensors or performance, as the watch is designed to track swimming activities accurately.

Can I wear the Galaxy Watch 5 in a hot tub or sauna?
Wearing the watch in hot tubs or saunas is not recommended, as extreme heat and steam can damage the device’s seals and internal components.

How do I maintain the Galaxy Watch 5 after swimming?
After swimming, rinse the watch with fresh water, dry it thoroughly, and ensure the charging port is clean and dry before charging.

Will water damage the Galaxy Watch 5 during swimming workouts?
The Galaxy Watch 5 is built to withstand water exposure during swimming workouts, so it will not be damaged if used within its water resistance limits.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is designed with water resistance capabilities that make it suitable for swimming and other water-related activities. With an IP68 rating and 5 ATM water resistance, the watch can withstand depths of up to 50 meters, allowing users to confidently wear it while swimming in pools or shallow open water. However, it is important to avoid high-velocity water exposure or deep-sea diving, as these conditions exceed the watch’s water resistance specifications.

When swimming with the Galaxy Watch 5, users can take advantage of its swim tracking features, which monitor metrics such as lap count, stroke type, and calories burned. This functionality provides valuable insights for fitness enthusiasts who want to track their swimming workouts accurately. Additionally, the watch’s durable build and secure fit ensure it remains comfortable and stable during aquatic activities.

In summary, the Galaxy Watch 5 is a reliable companion for swimming, provided users adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding water resistance limits. Proper care, such as rinsing the watch with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated or salt water, will help maintain its longevity and performance. Overall, the Galaxy Watch 5 offers a robust combination of water resistance and swim tracking features that support an active lifestyle involving swimming.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen

I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.