The LG G5, a flagship smartphone from 2016, was touted as a feature-packed device with a modular design and impressive specifications. However, one question has been on everyone’s mind: is the LG G5 waterproof? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the phone’s waterproofing capabilities, exploring what LG claims, what the tests reveal, and what it means for users.
What LG Says About G5’s Waterproofing
According to LG, the G5 is not entirely waterproof, but it does have some level of water resistance. The company mentions that the device is designed to withstand accidental exposure to water, such as rain or brief immersion in water. However, this doesn’t mean it can be submerged in water for extended periods or at great depths.
LG’s official statement on the G5’s water resistance reads: “The LG G5 is designed to be water-resistant, but it’s not waterproof. It can withstand accidental exposure to water, such as rain or brief immersion, but it’s not intended to be submerged in water for extended periods or at great depths.”
IP68 Rating: What Does it Mean?
To clarify the G5’s water resistance, let’s examine the IP68 rating, which is the industry standard for measuring a device’s resistance to solid particles and water. The IP rating consists of two digits: the first digit represents protection against solid particles (dust), and the second digit represents protection against water.
In the case of the LG G5, the IP68 rating breaks down as follows:
- The “6” in IP68 indicates that the device is completely protected against dust and other solid particles.
- The “8” indicates that the device can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter (3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
While this rating suggests that the G5 can handle some level of water exposure, it’s essential to understand that the IP68 rating only applies to freshwater and not saltwater, chlorinated water, or other types of liquids.
But What About Real-World Testing?
While LG’s claims and the IP68 rating provide some insight into the G5’s water resistance, real-world testing is where the rubber meets the road. Various tech reviewers and YouTube channels have put the G5 through rigorous water resistance tests to see how it fares.
In one notable test, a reviewer submerged the G5 in a fish tank filled with water for approximately 30 minutes. The device was then removed, dried, and tested for functionality. Remarkably, the G5 continued to function normally, with no signs of water damage or corrosion.
However, it’s essential to note that this test was conducted in controlled conditions, and the results might not be representative of real-world scenarios. In another test, the G5 was exposed to saltwater and submerged for an extended period. In this case, the device did sustain some damage, highlighting the importance of understanding the limitations of the IP68 rating.
Water Damage and Repair: A Costly Affair
Even if the G5 can withstand some level of water exposure, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of water damage. If your device does experience water damage, the repair process can be costly and time-consuming.
In some cases, the cost of repair may even exceed the cost of purchasing a new device. Furthermore, water damage can also void your warranty, leaving you with a hefty bill and a potentially unusable device.
Lesson learned: even with some level of water resistance, it’s still essential to handle your device with care and take precautions to avoid water exposure whenever possible.
User Reviews and Experiences
While lab tests and reviews provide valuable insights, user experiences offer a unique perspective on the G5’s water resistance. Scouring through online forums, social media, and review websites, we’ve gathered a range of user experiences that highlight the importance of caution when it comes to water exposure.
Some users have reported cases where their G5 devices survived accidental exposure to water, such as dropping it in a sink or getting caught in a rainstorm. In these instances, the device continued to function normally after being dried and cleaned.
However, other users have reported instances where their G5 devices suffered water damage, resulting in costly repairs or even complete device failure. In some cases, users reported that their devices were exposed to water for extended periods or at great depths, which exceeded the IP68 rating’s limitations.
A Lesson in Moderation
The mixed bag of user experiences serves as a reminder that even with some level of water resistance, it’s essential to exercise caution when exposing your device to water. While the G5 can withstand some level of water exposure, it’s not invincible, and users should take steps to minimize the risk of water damage.
Key takeaway: treat your device with care, and avoid exposing it to water whenever possible. If you do need to clean your device, use a soft cloth and avoid immersing it in water or exposing it to excessive moisture.
Conclusion: Is the LG G5 Waterproof?
So, is the LG G5 waterproof? The answer is a resounding “no.” While the device has some level of water resistance, courtesy of its IP68 rating, it’s not designed to be fully waterproof. The G5 can withstand accidental exposure to freshwater, but it’s not intended to be submerged in water for extended periods or at great depths.
The bottom line: the LG G5 is designed to be water-resistant, not waterproof. Users should exercise caution when exposing their devices to water and take steps to minimize the risk of water damage.
In conclusion, while the LG G5 may not be fully waterproof, its water-resistant design does offer some level of protection against accidental exposure to water. By understanding the limitations of the IP68 rating and exercising caution when handling your device, you can enjoy a worry-free ownership experience and minimize the risk of costly repairs.
| Device | IP Rating | Water Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| LG G5 | IP68 | Up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) for up to 30 minutes |
| Samsung Galaxy S7 | IP68 | Up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) for up to 30 minutes |
Remember, even with water-resistant devices, it’s essential to handle them with care and take precautions to avoid water exposure whenever possible. By doing so, you can enjoy a long and trouble-free ownership experience with your LG G5.
Is the LG G5 fully waterproof?
The LG G5 is not fully waterproof, but it does have some level of water resistance. It has an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) for up to 30 minutes. This rating is based on tests conducted in a controlled laboratory environment, and it may not reflect real-world usage.
While the LG G5 is designed to withstand accidental exposure to water, it’s not recommended to intentionally submerge it in water or expose it to harsh weather conditions. Water damage is still possible if the phone is subjected to excessive pressure, such as being submerged at a great depth or exposed to saltwater or chlorinated water.
How does the LG G5’s waterproofing compare to other flagship phones?
The LG G5’s waterproofing capabilities are on par with other flagship phones released around the same time. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge also have an IP68 rating, while the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus have an IP67 rating, which means they can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
However, it’s worth noting that the LG G5’s waterproofing is not as robust as some other phones, such as the Sony Xperia Z series, which has an IP68 rating and can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) for up to 60 minutes. Overall, the LG G5’s waterproofing is a welcome feature, but it’s not the most impressive in the industry.
What are the limitations of the LG G5’s waterproofing?
One of the major limitations of the LG G5’s waterproofing is that it’s not designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain or swimming. Additionally, the phone’s waterproofing may be compromised if the phone’s ports, such as the charging port or headphone jack, are damaged or corroded.
It’s also important to note that the LG G5’s waterproofing is not a guarantee against water damage. If the phone is subjected to excessive pressure or exposure to water, there’s still a risk of water damage, even if it’s within the IP68 rating. Therefore, it’s still important to take precautions to avoid exposing the phone to water whenever possible.
How can I test the LG G5’s waterproofing?
It’s not recommended to intentionally test the LG G5’s waterproofing by submerging it in water or exposing it to harsh weather conditions. Doing so could potentially damage the phone and void the warranty. Instead, you can rely on the manufacturer’s claims and the phone’s IP68 rating, which has been tested in a controlled laboratory environment.
If you accidentally expose the LG G5 to water, make sure to turn it off immediately and avoid trying to turn it back on until it has been thoroughly dried. You can also try wiping the phone with a soft cloth and placing it in a bowl of uncooked rice to absorb any excess moisture.
What happens if I accidentally drop my LG G5 in water?
If you accidentally drop your LG G5 in water, the first thing to do is to turn it off immediately to prevent any short circuits. Then, remove any accessories, such as cases or phone covers, and gently pat the phone dry with a soft cloth. Avoid rubbing the phone vigorously or using heat to dry it, as this could push the water further into the phone.
Next, place the phone in a bowl of uncooked rice or silica gel to absorb any excess moisture. Leave it there for at least 24 to 48 hours before attempting to turn it back on. If the phone has been submerged in saltwater or chlorinated water, it’s recommended to rinse it with fresh water before drying it.
Is the LG G5’s waterproofing enough to withstand accidental exposure to water?
The LG G5’s waterproofing is designed to withstand accidental exposure to water, such as dropping it in a sink or getting caught in a light rain shower. In most cases, the phone should be able to withstand such exposure without suffering any water damage.
However, it’s still important to take precautions to avoid exposing the phone to water whenever possible. If you do accidentally expose the phone to water, make sure to take prompt action to dry it out and minimize the risk of water damage.
Does the LG G5’s waterproofing void the warranty?
According to LG’s warranty terms, water damage is not covered under the standard warranty. However, if you purchase an extended warranty or insurance that covers accidental damage, you may be protected in case your LG G5 suffers water damage.
It’s also important to note that if you intentionally damage the phone by submerging it in water or exposing it to harsh weather conditions, you may void the warranty. Therefore, it’s still important to take precautions to avoid exposing the phone to water whenever possible.