When discussing modern smartphones, an important feature that often comes up is water resistance. This is especially significant in the context of foldable phones, which are relatively new to the market. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, one of the latest entries in the foldable phone category, has garnered attention for its advanced features, including its water resistance capabilities.
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 offers an IPX8 water resistance rating, indicating that it can handle being submerged in water to certain extents. While the phone can resist the ingress of water, it is not entirely waterproof. It’s essential for users to understand the limitations of the device’s water resistance feature to prevent any unintentional damage.
Is the Z Fold 4 Waterproof? Unveiling Its Water Resistance Features
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4 is a premium foldable smartphone with cutting‑edge design—but many users wonder how well it holds up against water. Is it truly waterproof, or just water‑resistant?
This guide breaks down what the Z Fold 4 can and cannot handle, how its water resistance works, and how to protect it from damage.
Short Answer: Is the Z Fold 4 Waterproof?
No, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is not waterproof.
However, it is water‑resistant and comes with an IPX8 rating, which offers strong protection against water—but not against dust.
Understanding the IPX8 Rating
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 has an IPX8 certification.
What IPX8 Means
- ✅ Protected against immersion in fresh water
- ✅ Can withstand up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) for 30 minutes
- ❌ No dust protection rating (the “X” means untested for dust)
What It Does Not Mean
- Not safe for saltwater
- Not designed for swimming, showering, or diving
- Not protected against sand or fine particles
How Samsung Made the Z Fold 4 Water‑Resistant
Despite its folding design, Samsung improved water resistance using:
- Corrosion‑resistant materials
- Water‑repellent internal coatings
- Sealed internal components
- Sweeper brushes to help block debris near the hinge
This makes the Z Fold 4 one of the most water‑resistant foldable phones available.
Can You Use the Z Fold 4 in the Rain?
✅ Yes, light rain or splashes are generally safe
❌ Avoid heavy rain or prolonged exposure
Dry the phone thoroughly if it gets wet, especially around the hinge and charging port.
Is the Z Fold 4 Safe Near Pools or the Beach?
⚠️ Not recommended
- Chlorine and saltwater can damage seals
- Sand can enter the hinge mechanism
- Water resistance does not cover corrosion
Water damage from these conditions is often not covered under warranty.
Does Water Resistance Wear Off Over Time?
Yes. Like all water‑resistant phones:
- Seals degrade with age
- Drops and hinge wear can reduce protection
- Repairs or screen replacements may affect resistance
Water resistance is not permanent.
What About Dust and Dirt?
The Z Fold 4 has no official dust resistance rating.
This means:
- Fine dust, sand, and lint can enter the hinge
- Beach or construction environments pose higher risk
Using a protective case and avoiding dusty areas is strongly advised.
Tips to Protect Your Z Fold 4 From Water Damage
- Avoid folding/unfolding the phone while wet
- Never charge the phone when wet
- Dry with a soft cloth immediately
- Avoid hot water, steam, and soap
- Keep away from saltwater and sand
What to Do If Your Z Fold 4 Gets Wet
- Power off the device
- Wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth
- Leave it in a dry, well‑ventilated area
- Do not use heat or compressed air
- Wait until fully dry before charging
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is water‑resistant, not waterproof. Its IPX8 rating offers strong protection against accidental water exposure, but it’s not built for swimming, beaches, or dusty environments.
Treat water resistance as a safety net—not an invitation to test its limits.
Key Takeaways
- The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is not waterproof but has an IPX8 water resistance rating.
- It can withstand submersion in freshwater for a limited period and depth.
- Understanding water resistance levels ensures proper usage of the Galaxy Z Fold 4.
Technical Specifications and Design Features
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 from Samsung brings together strong build quality and advanced technology. This section details its design robustness, system performance, and camera features.
Durability and Resistance
Samsung designed the Galaxy Z Fold 4 to be a durable and water-resistant device. It has an IPX8 rating which means it can survive submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for as long as 30 minutes. The structure benefits from Gorilla Glass Victus which helps protect it against scratches and drops. While the Z Fold 4 is water-resistant, it does not have a dust protection rating.
Performance and Usability
This foldable smartphone comes with a Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 processor and 12GB of RAM, making it powerful for multitasking. It runs on Android 12L with features that enhance productivity such as a taskbar and Samsung Notes. Users experience smooth transitions and less lag due to the adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz on its 7.6-inch main display. The cover screen allows access to apps and notifications without opening the device.
Photography and Camera Capabilities
Photography on the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is enhanced with a rear camera setup including a wide camera and an ultra-wide camera. It offers a 3x optical zoom for detailed close-ups. The camera system is designed for clear photos and videos. Built-in apps like Gallery enhance viewing and editing photos directly on the device.
