As soon as you buy high-quality earbuds, such as the Beats Studio Buds, the first question that arises is: Waterproof? After all, most individuals wear their earbuds during their workout or running sessions, or even in the rain, and water damage is one of the largest fears of wireless earphones.
The waterproof and sweat-resistant earbuds are more popular than ever in 2025, and as there are many versions of Beats Studio Buds already, it is significant to understand the extent to which they can protect us.
In this guide, we will dissect the Beats Studio Buds water resistance rating, compare them to Beats Studio Buds+, which are newer versions of the same and discuss whether they can withstand rain, sweat, or accidental splashes. We will also point out what not to do with them, and a few alternatives in case you are in need of truly waterproof earbuds.
Are Beats Studio Buds Waterproof? — The Short, Honest Answer
The straightforward answer is no, Beats Studio Buds are not waterproof. Instead, they come with an IPX4 water resistance rating, which means they can handle light splashes, sweat, and a bit of rain, but they are not designed to survive full submersion in water.
Here’s what that means in practice:
- Safe For: Gym workouts, jogging in the rain, and daily sweat exposure.
- Not Safe For: Swimming, showering, or dropping into water.
- Important Note: The charging case has no water resistance, so even a small amount of water can damage it.
So while you can trust Beats Studio Buds for everyday use in slightly wet environments, they’re not built for extreme conditions. If you’re looking for something you can use at the pool or in the shower, you’ll need to consider waterproof earbuds with an IP67 or IP68 rating.
Beats Studio Buds IP Rating Explained
When it comes to electronics, the term IP rating (Ingress Protection rating) is the global standard that tells you how well a device can resist dust and water. The Beats Studio Buds carry an IPX4 rating, but what exactly does that mean?
- “IP” stands for Ingress Protection.
- The first digit after “IP” refers to dust protection. In the case of the Beats Studio Buds, it’s an X, which means dust resistance wasn’t officially tested.
- The second digit, here 4, tells you the water resistance level. A “4” means the earbuds can withstand water splashes from any direction.
The Beats Studio Buds are water- and splash-resistant with an IPX4 rating, which means that they can be used when it rains at least a little and during fitness routines. They are, however, not waterproof, hence cannot be underwater, such as in swimming pools, showers or accidental drops in sinks.
This protection is relatively average for the wireless earbuds as of 2025, including the mid-premium segment. Nevertheless, it also involves users to treat their buds delicately, particularly when transporting the charging case, which is not IP-rated at all.
Beats Studio Buds vs. Beats Studio Buds+
Apple expanded its Beats lineup with the launch of the Beats Studio Buds+ in mid-2023, and by 2025, they had become a popular choice among users who want better sound and durability. But when it comes to water resistance, how do they compare to the original Beats Studio Buds?
- Beats Studio Buds (2021): IPX4 water resistance (sweat and splash proof).
- Beats Studio Buds+ (2023): Also rated IPX4, offering the same level of splash resistance.
That means, in terms of water protection, both models are equal. Neither is fully waterproof, and both should be treated with the same care. The big upgrades in the Studio Buds+ come in areas like:
- Improved active noise cancellation (ANC)
- 3x larger microphones for clearer calls
- Longer battery life (up to 36 hours with the case)
- Better transparency mode for safer outdoor use
So, if water resistance is your main concern, there’s no difference between the two. But if you want better durability overall with enhanced features, the Studio Buds+ are worth considering.
Can You Wear Beats Studio Buds in Rain, Workouts, or the Shower?
Specs on paper are one thing, but what really matters is how the Beats Studio Buds perform in daily life. With an IPX4 rating, many users wonder: Can I wear them during workouts, in the rain, or even in the shower?
Here’s the reality:
- Workouts & Gym: Absolutely. The earbuds are built to withstand sweat and body moisture during intense sessions. Many athletes and fitness lovers use them daily without issues.
- Light Rain & Outdoor Runs: Yes, they can handle drizzle or light splashes, making them safe for jogging outdoors or commuting in unpredictable weather.
- Shower or Swimming: Not recommended. Continuous water flow or submersion will damage the earbuds since IPX4 only protects against splashes. Even a short exposure in the shower can shorten their lifespan.
- Accidental Spills: A quick splash of water from washing hands or a dropped drink won’t immediately kill your buds, but drying them off quickly is crucial.
In short, the Beats Studio Buds are fitness- and lifestyle-friendly, but not designed for extreme wet environments. If you need earbuds that survive water immersion, you’ll need a pair with an IP67/IP68 waterproof rating.
Care, Cleaning & Dos and Don’ts
Even with an IPX4 rating, proper care can extend the life of your Beats Studio Buds. Many users damage their earbuds not because of workouts or rain, but due to small mistakes that are avoidable. Here’s how to keep your Beats safe:
Do’s:
- Wipe them after use: Always clean sweat and moisture with a soft, dry cloth.
- Store properly: Keep the earbuds dry before placing them back in the charging case.
- Use protective covers: Silicone earbud tips or third-party waterproof pouches add extra safety.
Don’ts:
- Never submerge them in water: Avoid showers, swimming, or rinsing under a tap.
- Don’t expose the case to moisture: The case has zero water resistance; even small splashes can cause charging issues.
- Avoid extreme heat and humidity: Saunas, steam rooms, and prolonged sun exposure can degrade seals and battery life.
By following these small but important steps, you’ll ensure your Beats Studio Buds’ water resistance stays intact and you get maximum value out of them in 2025 and beyond.
Need Fully Waterproof Earbuds? Best Alternatives If Beats Aren’t Enough
While the Beats Studio Buds are excellent for fitness and daily use, their IPX4 rating may fall short if you’re looking for earbuds that can handle swimming, heavy rain, or shower use. If waterproofing is your top priority in 2025, here are some great alternatives:
- Sony WF-SP800N – With IP55 water and dust resistance, they offer more durability for workouts and outdoor conditions.
- Jabra Elite 8 Active (2024 Edition) – Marketed as one of the world’s toughest earbuds, these carry an IP68 waterproof rating, meaning they can survive full submersion and dusty environments.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro – Rated IPX7, these buds can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, making them safer for rain and accidental drops.
- Bose Sport Earbuds – With an IPX4 rating similar to Beats, but enhanced sweat-proof technology and better grip, making them a solid competitor for athletes.
- Anker Soundcore Spirit X2 – Budget-friendly yet powerful, with IP68 waterproofing, making them one of the most rugged earbuds available in 2025.
If you’re often around water, earbuds with IP67 or IP68 certification will give you the peace of mind that Beats cannot.
Conclusion
So, are Beats Studio Buds waterproof? The short answer: No — they are water-resistant, not waterproof. Their IPX4 rating protects them against sweat, splashes, and light rain, making them perfect for gym sessions and everyday commuting. However, they’re not built for swimming, showering, or submersion in water.
For most users, the Beats Studio Buds and Studio Buds+ are more than capable for workouts and daily life, especially when paired with proper care. But if your lifestyle demands full waterproof protection, you’ll need to explore alternatives with IP67 or IP68 ratings.
By understanding their limits and proper care methods, you can enjoy your Beats Studio Buds for years to come without worrying about water damage.
FAQs
What happens if Beats earbuds get wet?
They can handle light splashes or sweat, but heavy water exposure may cause damage to the speakers or battery.
Is it okay for Beats to get wet?
Yes, light rain and sweat are fine due to the IPX4 rating, but full submersion or showers are not safe.
How to fix the Beats that got wet?
Immediately dry them with a soft cloth, leave them in a dry place, and avoid charging until fully dry.
How to make Beats waterproof?
You can’t upgrade them to waterproof, but protective waterproof cases or covers can add extra safety.