When it comes to selecting the best fitness tracker for swimming, understanding water resistance ratings is crucial. With several options available in the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the technical specifications. Two terms you’re likely to encounter are IPX and ATM, which can significantly impact the functionality and durability of your fitness tracker in water based activities like swimming.
In our guide on How to Choose the Best Fitness Tracker for Swimming, we explored various essential features necessary for enhancing your swimming experience. Now, let’s dive deeper into the specifics of water resistance ratings. Understanding the differences between IPX and ATM ratings will empower you to make informed decisions, ensuring that your tracker withstands the rigors of your swim routine—whether you’re splashing around in the pool or braving the open waters.
In this post, we’ll break down what these ratings mean, how they differ, and why they matter when choosing a swimming fitness tracker. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to select a device that not only fits your needs but also keeps up with your swimming adventures!
Refer to the manufacturer’s official specifications for the most accurate and detailed information on water resistance.
What is an IPX Rating?
The Ingress Protection (IP) code, or more precisely, the IPX code (where X denotes the liquid ingress protection level), is a standardized way of measuring how resistant a piece of equipment is to dust and liquid ingress. Although older literature may still refer to the IP code without the X, the inclusion of the X is now the standard to specifically denote the level of water resistance. The rating consists of two digits: the first indicates protection against solid objects (like dust), while the second digit (the X in IPX) specifies protection against liquids. For water resistance, we focus on this second digit.
The table below shows the ratings in descending order of water resistance:
| Rating | Description | Water Protection Level |
| IPX8 | Continuous immersion (depth defined by manufacturer) | Designed for continuous underwater use |
| IPX7 | Immersion up to 1 meter (30 minutes) | Suitable for temporary immersion in water |
| IPX6 | Powerful water jets | Protected against high-pressure water jets |
| IPX5 | Water jets | Protected against low-pressure water jets |
| IPX4 | Splashing water | Protected against splashes from any direction |
| IPX3 | Spraying water | Protected against water spray |
| IPX2 | Dripping water (15° tilt) | Protected against dripping at an angle |
| IPX1 | Dripping water | Protected against vertical dripping |
| IPX0 | No protection | Not suitable for water exposure |
For swimming, a tracker with at least an IPX7 rating is generally recommended, indicating that it can withstand temporary immersion. Reputable brands, like Garmin, provide detailed water rating definitions to aid consumer decision-making.
What is an ATM Rating?
The ATM rating (atmosphere) measures a device’s ability to withstand pressure in water. This rating is directly related to water depth and is often used by brands like Garmin to communicate water resistance capabilities of their devices. A 5 ATM rating, for example, indicates that a device can withstand water pressure equivalent to 50 meters of depth. This rating relates to water depth and is commonly understood as follows:
| Rating | Water Depth |
| 1 ATM | 10 meters (33 feet) |
| 5 ATM | 50 meters (164 feet) |
| 10 ATM | 100 meters (328 feet) |
Important Note: ATM ratings indicate static pressure protection, meaning they analyze a still environment. Dynamic conditions, such as waves or splashes, can impact performance. For swimming, it’s generally recommended to opt for a tracker rated at 5 ATM or higher, as this rating ensures it can handle the pressures encountered while swimming.
IPX vs ATM: Key Differences and Considerations
While both IPX and ATM ratings relate to water resistance, there are key differences to consider:
| Feature | IPX Rating | ATM Rating |
| Focus | Ingress protection against dust and liquid | Pressure resistance at specific depths |
| Use Cases | Good for specific levels of exposure (e.g., light rain, showers, swimming) | Suitable for measuring depths (e.g., swimming, snorkeling) |
| Selection | Everyday use; rain, splashes, light immersion | Most relevant for swimming activities |
Choosing the right rating for your swimming fitness tracker is crucial. For swimming, an IPX7 rating or higher, along with a 5 ATM rating or higher, is generally recommended for reliable performance. Remember, an IPX rating addresses liquid ingress at a specific depth, whereas the ATM rating measures pressure resistance.
Choosing the Right Water-Resistant Fitness Tracker
When selecting a water-resistant fitness tracker, always check both IPX and ATM ratings to ensure your device can handle your swimming activities. Tracks designed specifically for swimming often specify both ratings, allowing you to understand exactly how much water exposure and pressure the tracker can withstand.
Before making a purchase, review the manufacturer’s instructions for specific water resistance limits and recommendations, ensuring that your chosen tracker is suitable for your needs.
To maintain your fitness tracker’s water resistance, always ensure that the device’s seals and gaskets are intact. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance (as per the manufacturer’s instructions) will help preserve its water resistance and extend its lifespan. Avoid exposing your device to extreme temperatures or pressure changes, as this may damage its water-resistant seals.
Conclusion
Understanding IPX and ATM ratings is essential for selecting a durable and reliable swimming fitness tracker. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently choose a device that fits your requirements and keeps up with your aquatic adventures. For additional guidance on choosing the right tracker, revisit our guide on How to Choose the Best Fitness Tracker for Swimming. For a deeper dive into the best options on the market and how these ratings influence performance, we invite you to read our detailed guide, “Best Fitness Tracker For Swimming: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide.”