13 Best Waterproof Phone Case of 2026

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A waterproof phone pouch’s IPX8 rating doesn’t guarantee it will stay sealed after a few uses. Clip breakage and gradual material fatigue are common reasons pouches fail — often when you least expect it. The real test is how the pouch holds up under repeated use, not just the first submersion.

The pouches selected here share two traits: a secure locking system that stays reliable over time and a fit that accommodates phones without needing to strip off thick cases. Whether you need a floating pouch for kayaking or a simple dry bag for the pool, this guide points you to a design matched to your trip.

Our Top Picks
Hiearcool IPX8 2-Pack
Best OverallHiearcool IPX8 2-Pack

Double-lock seal that survives snorkeling and beach trips, priced lower than a lunch

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Lamicall IPX8 2-Pack
Best Budget AlternativeLamicall IPX8 2-Pack

Upgraded lock clip that opens easily, with proven waterproofing for occasional use

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Rynapac Large 10" 2-Pack
Best for Large DevicesRynapac Large 10" 2-Pack

10-inch capacity fits oversized phones, passports, and small tablets

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Case-Mate Soap Bubble Floating
Best Style-Focused Floating CaseCase-Mate Soap Bubble Floating

Iridescent floating pouch with crossbody strap for style-conscious travelers

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JOTO IPX8 2-Pack
Best Proven WorkhorseJOTO IPX8 2-Pack

Thick vinyl construction with a watertight seal for repeated beach use

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CACOE Floating 2-Pack
Best Budget Floating PouchCACOE Floating 2-Pack

Four-sided airbag design floats even with a phone inside

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Best for Budget Travel

Hiearcool IPX8 2-Pack

Hiearcool IPX8 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 8.9 inches
  • Price: Budget

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The double-lock seal on this pouch is its core differentiator — it’s the same mechanism found on pricier competitors and, based on the volume of feedback, it holds up under regular submersion at pool and beach depths. Water ingress is rare enough that most conversations revolve around the fit, not the seal.

Where the Hiearcool draws attention is in the loading process. The PVC pouch is cut tight to maximize waterproofing, which means inserting a modern phablet-sized phone requires some patience — especially if you keep a thick case on it. Once sealed, the pouch handles splashes, shallow swims, and even light snorkeling without issue. The touchscreen works well enough above water for quick camera shots or checking messages, though responsiveness drops noticeably once submerged.

This is the right choice for budget-minded travelers who want one pouch that will fit their oversized phone and survive a week at the beach or cruise. It does not float — if dropped in deeper water it will sink — and the touchscreen is unreliable underwater, so this is not for snorkelers expecting to frame shots below the surface. The tight fit is a tradeoff that matters most when you need to swap phones quickly; for casual daily use it’s a minor inconvenience.

Build quality holds up across multiple seasons — the PVC resists cracking and the seal clip stays stiff enough to keep closure tight. At this price point, the two-pack offers a low per-unit cost that makes it practical for families or as a backup. The main reason not to buy is if the tight fit is a dealbreaker; otherwise it’s hard to find a more cost-effective option that performs as consistently.

💡 Tip: Remove your phone’s case before inserting to reduce friction and make loading easier.

Pros

  • Delivers dependable waterproofing at a budget-friendly price point
  • High water resistance with very few reports of leakage even during snorkeling
  • Fits most large phones up to 8.9 inches, including phablets with slim cases
  • Durable build that withstands repeated use across multiple trips

Cons

  • Inserting or removing the phone can be a struggle, especially with larger hands or thicker cases

For travelers who can accept a snug fit during loading, the Hiearcool gives reliable water protection in a two-pack that costs less than many single pouches.

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Best for Beach Use

Lamicall IPX8 2-Pack

Lamicall IPX8 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Budget

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The Lamicall IPX8 2-pack uses an upgraded locking clip that opens and closes more smoothly than the top pick’s double-lock seal, making it easier to secure quickly. At a budget-friendly price, you get two pouches—perfect for sharing or keeping a spare on hand.

The clear front window allows reasonable touch control when dry, but underwater responsiveness drops noticeably. The IPX8 seal holds up well in shallow water, and the upgraded clip stays shut without accidental opening. The PVC material feels durable enough for regular beach use, and the locking clip provides a satisfying click when sealed.

This 2-pack suits cost-conscious shoppers who need occasional water protection at the beach or pool. It works best with phones that have slim cases or no case—removing a thick case ensures a secure fit. Touchscreen sensitivity decreases underwater, so it’s not ideal for frequent underwater navigation or photography. If you need consistent touch underwater, consider the top pick’s double-lock design instead.

💡 Tip: Removing your phone case ensures a secure fit and avoids stressing the seal.

Pros

  • Two-pack offers solid value for occasional water use.
  • Upgraded locking clip opens and closes smoothly without excessive force.
  • Clear front window captures decent photos and allows touch interaction when dry.

Cons

  • Underwater touchscreen response can be inconsistent, especially when submerged.
  • Fit is tight for phones with thick protective cases.

A cost-effective 2-pack that works well for beach, pool, and rainy days—best suited for phones without bulky cases and when underwater touch isn’t critical.

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Best for Cruise & Beach

Rynapac Large 10" 2-Pack

Rynapac Large 10" 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 10 inches
  • Price: Budget

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The Rynapac Large accommodates phones up to 10 inches, plus passports, cash, and even a small tablet in one pouch — a single carrier for all beach-day valuables. Unlike the top pick, which often requires removing the phone case for a tight fit, this pouch leaves room for bulky devices without extra effort.

Cruise and beach travelers who want to keep documents and a tablet dry alongside their phone will appreciate the spaciousness. The clasp mechanism requires some force to open — a coin edge or flat tool helps. Underwater, the touchscreen remains responsive but less precise than a dedicated underwater case, making it suitable for basic interactions like answering calls rather than detailed photo framing.

The double-seal closure keeps water out effectively during typical submersion at the pool or shore. The two-pack brings the per-pouch cost down, making it a budget-friendly option for couples or as a backup.

💡 Tip: Use a coin edge to pry the clasp open — fingernails may strain.

Pros

  • Extra-large capacity for phones up to 10 inches, plus passports and tablets
  • Secure waterproof seal that withstands submersion
  • Two-pack offers budget-friendly per-pouch cost

Cons

  • Clasp can be difficult to open, sometimes requiring a tool
  • Touchscreen responsiveness may drop underwater — works best for basic interactions

For travelers who need to keep a tablet and documents dry alongside their phone, the Rynapac Large delivers consistent water protection at a budget-friendly price — accept the stiff clasp as a tradeoff.

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Best for Style Seekers

Case-Mate Soap Bubble Floating

Case-Mate Soap Bubble Floating

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IP68
  • Buoyancy: Yes
  • Max Phone Size: 6.7 inches
  • Price: Mid-Range

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The Case-Mate Soap Bubble stands out with its iridescent finish and included crossbody lanyard, making it a fashionable choice for poolside or cruise excursions. It floats reliably in water, adding peace of mind when near the water.

This pouch suits cruise passengers and style-minded travelers who need a floating case for occasional shallow water use. However, the water resistance may degrade after repeated submersion, so it works best for light, infrequent dips rather than daily beach trips.

Above water, the touchscreen remains responsive through the TPU cover. Underwater, the touch function becomes unusable – a common limitation across most pouches. The floating performance holds up well with a standard phone, though adding extra items can reduce buoyancy.

💡 Tip: Rinse the pouch with fresh water after saltwater use and dry the seal thoroughly to help maintain its waterproof integrity.

Pros

  • Striking iridescent finish that draws compliments on the beach or pool deck.
  • Detachable crossbody lanyard provides hands-free convenience and quick access.
  • Floats reliably and offers good water protection for pool and light snorkeling.

Cons

  • Underwater touchscreen response is limited, making it unsuitable for operating the phone or taking photos below the surface.
  • The waterproof seal can weaken after repeated use, potentially allowing water to enter.

A fashionable floating case that works well for occasional poolside use – its long-term seal durability and underwater touch performance are average, making it best for style-conscious travelers who prioritize looks over repeated heavy submersion.

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Best for First-Time Users

JOTO IPX8 2-Pack

JOTO IPX8 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Budget

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The JOTO 2-pack offers solid waterproofing for phones up to 7 inches at a budget price. Its vinyl construction and IPX8 rating keep water out when the seal is properly engaged. However, the locking clip demands noticeable force to operate — a design trade-off that prioritizes sealing pressure over ease of use.

This case suits first-time waterproof case buyers who need a low-cost, low-risk option for occasional pool, beach, or rain exposure. The stiff clip may be challenging for users with limited hand strength, and the snug fit typically requires removing a phone case. These boundaries define its audience: someone willing to trade a bit of effort for affordability.

Once the clip is mastered, the pouch seals consistently. The two-pack adds value for couples or backup use. For the price, it holds up well in shallow water, though the stiff mechanism and tight fit remain constant — not a flaw, but a clear limitation of the low-cost design.

💡 Tip: Open the clip by pressing the release tab firmly with both thumbs while pulling the sides apart — it requires deliberate force.

Pros

  • Watertight seal when properly closed
  • Great value for a basic no-frills case
  • Comes with two pouches for sharing or backup

Cons

  • Locking clip requires significant hand strength to operate
  • Snug fit for phones with cases; larger devices may need case removal

The JOTO 2-pack is a cost-effective choice for occasional water protection, but only if you can manage the stiff lock and don’t mind a snug fit.

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Best for Occasional Use

CACOE Floating 2-Pack

CACOE Floating 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: Yes
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Budget

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Two floating pouches at a budget price – the CACOE 2-pack is one of the cheapest ways to keep a phone dry and afloat. The airbag design does keep the pouch bobbing on the surface, reducing the chance of losing your phone in the water. Waterproofing holds up for most pool and beach trips, with the TPU seal keeping contents dry.

This set suits occasional users who need a simple floating pouch for a vacation or a family outing where multiple phones need protection. The included lanyard adds convenience. But the plastic clips that secure the seal can loosen or become stiff after several openings – not a problem for a single trip, but worth noting if you plan to reuse the pouch regularly. A more durable option like the Pelican floating pouch (pricier) would be a better fit for frequent use.

The price for two pouches is hard to beat, and the floatability gives extra peace of mind. Just inspect the clips before each use and consider bringing the second pouch as a backup for a full day of swimming.

💡 Tip: Test the clip seal before first use and avoid over-tightening; pack the second pouch as a backup.

Pros

  • Two pouches for the price of one competing single pouch
  • Airbag design keeps the pouch floating on the water surface
  • TPU seal keeps phones dry in shallow water and rain

Cons

  • Plastic clips can loosen or become difficult to close after repeated use

The CACOE 2-pack is a sensible choice for a vacation or a single trip where multiple phones need basic waterproofing – just keep an eye on those clips.

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Best for Water Sports

Pelican Marine IP68 Floating

Pelican Marine IP68 Floating

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IP68
  • Buoyancy: Yes
  • Max Phone Size: 6.1 inches
  • Price: Mid-Range

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The Pelican pouch floats reliably and provides solid waterproof protection in ocean and pool environments. The lock mechanism feels well-engineered, and the bright lanyard improves visibility during water sports. However, the clasp can break on first use in some units, and the fit is tight for phones with thick cases—users with bulky cases will need to remove the phone case. These limitations, paired with a premium price, mean the pouch trails behind cheaper floating alternatives that offer comparable protection for snorkeling, kayaking, and beach days.

Pros

  • Floating design prevents phone loss in open water during kayaking or swimming.
  • Waterproof seal keeps phone dry in pools and shallow ocean submersion.
  • Build quality feels sturdy with a secure locking mechanism.

Cons

  • Fit is tight for phones with thick cases, and may require removal of the phone case.
  • Clasp can break on first use in some units, which may affect the seal.

Suitable for buyers who prioritize brand recognition and a floating guarantee over cost savings and clasp consistency.

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Best for Organized Travel

TORRAS Double Space Floating

TORRAS Double Space Floating

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IP68
  • Buoyancy: Yes
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Mid-Range

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The double-space design is genuinely useful for keeping cards and keys separate from a phone, and the pouch floats easily even with a phone and a few cards inside. Water resistance has held up in early use with no reported leakage. However, the clasp mechanism’s durability over many cycles of opening and closing in sandy or wet conditions hasn’t been established, and the pouch’s larger footprint may be more than some buyers want to carry.

Pros

  • Separate compartment for cards and keys keeps valuables organized and accessible without exposing phone to water.
  • Floats reliably even with phone, cards, and keys inside, up to 500g capacity.
  • No water ingress reported in initial use, confirming IP68 seal holds under submersion.

Cons

  • Larger than many pouches, which can feel bulky when worn around the neck or stuffed in a small bag.
  • Clasp durability over extended use in saltwater or sand has not been widely verified across many cycles.

Best suited for travelers who want to keep phone and valuables together in one floating pouch and are willing to accept a larger size and a shorter track record.

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Best for Clear Photos

UNBREAKcable Floating 2-Pack

UNBREAKcable Floating 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: Yes
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Mid-Range

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The UNBREAKcable Floating 2-Pack delivers clear underwater photos and buoyancy via a sponge airbag, making it a suitable companion for kayaking or paddleboarding where visibility matters. However, the waterproof seal can be inconsistent across units—some pouches have allowed water ingress, which means this pouch suits those who can accept a small chance of leakage rather than those needing absolute protection for a high-value phone.

Pros

  • Floats on water with sponge airbag buoyancy
  • Crystal-clear front and back windows for photos and video
  • Two pouches at a cost-effective price

Cons

  • Requires removing phone’s protective case due to tight fit
  • Water ingress has been noted in a minority of units

A practical option for water activities where floating and photo quality are priorities, but buyers should verify the seal before trusting it with a valuable phone.

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Best for Tech Enthusiasts

TORRAS Underwater Touchable

TORRAS Underwater Touchable

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: Yes
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Mid-Range

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The TORRAS pouch offers a floating IPX8 case with a novel air-button system intended to let you use the touchscreen underwater. For snorkelers who primarily rely on the volume button shutter, the floating capability and solid waterproof seal are practical benefits. However, under water the touchscreen often remains unresponsive, and the plastic window can distort photos, making the promised touch function a gamble. This case fits best when you accept the underwater touch as experimental and focus on the volume button trigger.

Pros

  • Air-button design allows limited underwater touchscreen use.
  • Floating case with IPX8 waterproofing keeps phone dry in submersions.
  • Clear screen on land for sharp photos and sensitive touch.

Cons

  • Underwater touchscreen responsiveness can be inconsistent.
  • Photos taken underwater may appear blurry due to plastic distortion.

Consider this pouch if you want a floating case and are willing to treat the touchscreen as a bonus that may not work – for reliable underwater shots, stick with the volume button.

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Best for Budget Shoppers

Rynapac Basic 8.5" 2-Pack

Rynapac Basic 8.5" 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 8.5 inches
  • Price: Budget

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This two-pack offers a generous 8.5-inch opening for larger phones at a budget-friendly price, and the IPX8 seal keeps water out for most beach or pool sessions. The tradeoff comes in the form of a tight fit that almost always requires removing your phone case, and the PVC plastic can grow brittle with repeated use, leading to occasional seam splits. For someone needing a spare pouch for light, occasional submersion and willing to handle the phone carefully, this is a workable low-cost option — but it doesn’t match the durability or ease-of-use of similarly priced competitors.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly price for two large-capacity pouches
  • Reliable waterproofing for shallow submersion scenarios
  • Accommodates phones up to 8.5 inches

Cons

  • Fits tightly – phone case removal may be needed for many devices
  • Plastic can become brittle over time, increasing risk of seam splits

A cost-effective backup pouch for travelers who don’t mind removing phone cases and treat the plastic gently — best for occasional use rather than daily outings.

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Best for Clear Window

SYNCWIRE IPX8 2-Pack

SYNCWIRE IPX8 2-Pack

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Mid-Range

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The SYNCWIRE 2-pack balances cost and performance: its clear windows capture sharp underwater photos, and the IPX8 seal keeps water out consistently. However, durability is inconsistent—some pouches may tear after a few outings. The snug fit works best when you remove your phone case. This makes it a practical option for light, occasional use where you’re willing to replace sooner than expected, but not for heavy daily or extended submersion.

Pros

  • Clear windows produce sharp, undistorted underwater photos.
  • Good water resistance keeps phone dry in shallow water.
  • Two pouches included for sharing or backup.

Cons

  • Snug fit requires removing thick phone cases before use.
  • Some pouches may develop tears after limited use.

Best suited for occasional pool or beach trips where you can remove your case and don’t need long-term durability.

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Best for Slim Design

wellhouse 3D TPU Pouch

wellhouse 3D TPU Pouch

Key Features

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX8
  • Buoyancy: No
  • Max Phone Size: 7 inches
  • Price: Budget

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The wellhouse 3D pouch uses injection-molded TPU to create a slimmer profile than many waterproof pouches, making it less cumbersome for everyday use. However, reports indicate that water ingress can occur if the seal is not perfectly closed, and occasional tearing or lock failure has been noted after limited use. This pouch works best for users who prioritize a trim form factor and accept that it may not match the consistent seal performance of a double-lock design like the Hiearcool.

Pros

  • Slim 3D-molded design reduces bulk on the phone
  • Waterproof performance holds up when the seal is fully secured
  • Lightweight and portable with detachable lanyard for easy carrying

Cons

  • Seal must be closed with care to avoid water ingress
  • Some units may develop tearing or lock failure after limited use

A reasonable choice for those who value slimness over maximum protection, but for consistent waterproofing the Hiearcool is a safer bet.

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How to Choose

The IP rating on a pouch only tells part of the story — real-world waterproofing depends on the seal mechanism, material thickness, and how the pouch handles repeated flexing.

Waterproof Rating

IPX8 and IP68 both indicate the pouch can be submerged, but the depth and duration differ. IPX8 typically guarantees protection to 1–30 meters for 30 minutes, while IP68 often tests to 1 meter for the same time. In practice, most pouches labeled IPX8 use a double-lock seal that holds up better under pressure.

Buoyancy

Floating pouches use air pockets or foam to stay on the surface. They are essential for kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling where dropping the phone could mean losing it to the bottom. The trade-off is extra bulk: floating designs are thicker and may not fit in a pocket.

Max Phone Size

Measure your phone with any case you intend to keep on. Most pouches list a max screen size, but internal dimensions vary. A 7-inch rating often means a 6.7-inch phone fits tightly. For oversized phablets up to 10 inches, only a few pouches (like the Rynapac Large) accommodate them without forcing.

Touchscreen Responsiveness Underwater

Capacitive touchscreens rely on your skin’s conductivity — water blocks that signal. Most pouches become unusable below the surface. Some use air-button designs that compress a pocket of air to register a press, but results are inconsistent. Plan to use the volume button as a shutter for underwater photos.

Lock Mechanism Durability

Plastic clips and roll-top seals are the weakest points. Clips made from thin plastic crack after repeated opening, especially in salt water. The most durable designs use a rigid double-lock bar or a thick TPU roll-and-clip system. Avoid pouches where the lock feels flimsy or has sharp edges that can fatigue the material.

Common Mistake: Testing a new pouch with a paper towel before trusting it with your phone catches seal failures before they ruin a vacation — yet most people skip this step and learn the hard way.

FAQ

Why does my waterproof phone case leak after a few uses?

Leaks usually come from two places: the lock clip fatigues and loses its tight seal, or the plastic near the weld develops micro-cracks from repeated bending. Salt water accelerates this degradation. Stick with pouches that use a thick double-lock mechanism (like the Hiearcool or JOTO) and rinse them with fresh water after every saltwater trip.

Can I use a waterproof phone pouch while snorkeling?

Yes, as long as the pouch has an IPX8 rating rated for at least 1–3 meters depth and you test the seal beforehand. Touchscreens rarely work underwater, so use the volume button or a waterproof Bluetooth shutter remote to take photos. Floating pouches are recommended so you don’t lose the phone if it slips out of your hand.

How do I take underwater photos with a phone in a waterproof pouch?

Since touchscreens don’t respond underwater, the workaround is to use the hardware volume button as a shutter. Set your camera app to ‘volume button as shutter’ in settings. If your pouch has an air-button feature, press the button gently to trigger the shutter — but test first, as response can be inconsistent.

What’s the difference between IPX8 and IP68 waterproof phone cases?

Both ratings mean the device can be submerged. IPX8 (International Protection) tests to depths beyond 1 meter — often 30 meters for pouches — while IP68 specifies a maximum of 1 meter for 30 minutes. For snorkeling and pool use, IPX8 is usually the safer bet because the depth tolerance is higher.

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