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Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE waterproof?

They offer some protection, but you’re better off keeping them away from water.
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Published onDecember 26, 2023

The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE are pretty capable earbuds. From good connectivity to sound quality and ear fit, they have just about everything that makes a good set of true wireless earbuds. But earbuds are only truly great if they last, so today we’ll be answering the all-important question: are the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE waterproof?”

QUICK ANSWER

With an Ingress Protection rating of X2 (IPX2), the Galaxy Buds FE can protect against sweaty and slimy conditions. However, they can’t handle rain, shower, or immersion in water.


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Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE waterproof?

samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-in-case-1000w-563h.jpg (1)
Ryan Haines / SoundGuys
The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE bear an Ingress Protection rating of X2 (IPX2). As per the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard, the “X” in the rating denotes that they aren’t tested for any substantial protection against solid (usually dust) intrusion.

The “2” means that the earbuds can survive being sprayed with water from less than 15 degrees from the vertical for up to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, the charging case has no IP rating. But what do these mean for real-life situations?

For starters, you want to keep the earbuds and their case away from dust and haze since they’re not certified to be impenetrable to solid intrusion. Using them under such circumstances threatens their internal components.

As for the resistance to water ingression, many scenarios apply. We’ll explore some of them in the following sections, but note that the Galaxy Buds FE are not exactly the most durable earbuds on the market.

Can you wear the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE in the rain?

Featuring an IPX2 rating, the Galaxy Buds FE can theoretically withstand light rainfalls for up to 10 minutes. However, you’re better off not using the earbuds in the rain unless it’s unavoidable.

That’s because rainfall is quite different from a laboratory experiment with fixed conditions and controlled outcomes — it’s unpredictable. What might start out as a light, harmless downpour may turn into a windy mess with high-speed water droplets smacking your earbuds at an angle well beyond its 15-degree safety net.

To put it simply, IPX2 earbuds like the Buds FE are not made to survive the harsh, varying conditions of rainfall. But this doesn’t mean they are no good. They’re durable enough for use as earbuds for working out, thanks to their snug fit and ability to withstand sweaty conditions.

Can you wear the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE in the shower?

The JBL Clip 4 Bluetooth speaker hands from a shower as it's sprinkled by water.
The IP67 rating protects the speaker from dust, dirt, and water.

While you can technically wear your Galaxy Buds FE in the shower and anywhere else you wish, they may not work the same when you come out. As with rainfall, using your Buds FE in the shower is not a great idea as they aren’t verified to withstand your shower’s unknown pressure and temperature.

If you want to enjoy your favorite tunes or listen to audiobooks in the shower, you’ll a pair of the best premium earbuds rated IPX6 and above.

Can you swim with the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE?

Bearing a mere IPX2 rating, the Galaxy Buds FE cannot survive immersion in water. Submersion in a pool or beach water will likely damage them. While there are endless ways to enjoy fantastic sub-$100 earbuds like the Buds FE, taking them for a swim isn’t one.

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