Water resistance differs significantly between iPads and iPhones, primarily due to their design and intended use.
iPads
iPads are not officially water-resistant or waterproof. They lack an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which is a standard used to measure a device's resistance to dust and water[2][4][5]. Although Apple has improved the durability of iPads through robust materials and design, they are not designed to withstand significant water exposure. While some newer models, like the iPad Pro (M4, 2024) and iPad Air (M2, 2024), have a splash-resistant IPX4 rating, this only protects against accidental spills and light rain, not prolonged submersion[5]. To safeguard iPads from water damage, users must avoid exposing them to liquids and consider using protective cases that can offer some degree of protection against splashes[5][11].iPhones
In contrast, iPhones have varying levels of water resistance depending on the model. Starting with the iPhone 7, all subsequent models have some degree of water resistance. The iPhone 7, 8, X, XR, and SE (2nd Gen) are rated IP67, meaning they can withstand immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes[1][3][7]. Later models, such as the iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone 11, have an IP68 rating, allowing them to survive submersion up to 2 meters for 30 minutes[1][3]. The iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max offer even better protection, withstanding up to 4 meters for the same duration[3][4]. The latest iPhone models, including the iPhone 12 through iPhone 16 series, have the highest water resistance, rated to withstand immersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes[1][3][4]. Despite these ratings, water resistance can decrease over time due to wear and tear, and liquid damage is not covered under warranty[7][10].In summary, while iPhones have a certified level of water resistance that varies by model, iPads do not have an official IP rating and should be kept away from water to prevent damage.
Citations:[1] https://www.moft.us/blogs/news/what-iphones-are-waterproof
[2] https://www.lifewire.com/are-ipads-waterproof-7552463
[3] https://12thmantechnology.com/dive-into-water-resistance-a-guide-to-keeping-your-iphone-high-and-dry/
[4] https://www.securedatarecovery.com/blog/fix-water-damaged-iphone-ipad
[5] https://www.simplymac.com/ipad/are-ipads-waterproof
[6] https://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/specs/
[7] https://9meters.com/technology/phones/is-the-iphone-waterproof
[8] https://www.letemsvetemapplem.eu/en/2021/07/01/vodeodolnost-iphone-co-udava-apple-a-jaka-je-realita/
[9] https://support.apple.com/en-us/108039
[10] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255129416
[11] https://geometricgoods.com/blogs/ipad-f-a-q/are-ipads-water-resistant