Not all waterproof speakers are created equal. The key? Understanding their IP rating. Let’s take a look.
An IP rating—short for Ingress Protection—basically tells you how tough a device, for example a speaker, is when it comes to keeping out dust and water.
It consists of two numbers: the first represents protection against solids like dust, and the second reflects resistance to water. The higher the number of each, the more protection that is provided.
For instance, a speaker with an IP54 rating offers limited protection against dust (5) and is resistant to splashes of water from any direction (4).
This rating helps you understand how robust a speaker is for various environments for example if it is suitable for use in settings such as an ice arena, where you would expect condensation and dripping water. Alternatively, it could indicate suitability for a fully exposed outdoor area, such as a garden, where it may face varying weather conditions.
The following handy infographic provides a short summary of each level.
