So you've got yourself a Kindle and can't wait to read by the pool, relax in the bath or take it to the beach. But wait, is your Kindle actually waterproof? The answer is maybe. Read on to find out which Kindles have an IP rating and which don't.

Is My Kindle Waterproof?

Kindle e-readers are electronic devices; traditionally, electronics and water don't mix. While some Kindle models do have an IP rating, others don't. Here's a list of Kindle models that, at the time of writing, have an IP Rating.

  • The Kindle Oasis (2nd iteration and later) - IPX8 rating
  • The Kindle Paperwhite (4th iteration, 2018 onwards) - IPX8 rating
  • The Kindle Paperwhite 5, Signature addition - IPX8 rating

You'll notice that the base model Kindle is missing from this list. Unfortunately, even the most recent base Kindle 10 doesn't have an IP rating. The first generation Kindle Oasis is also not waterproof, and neither are Kindle Paperwhites that came out before 2018. If you own one of these devices, keep it dry or risk severe damage.

Kindle IP Ratings Explained

Kindle Oasis Bathtub
Image Credit: Amazon

Having an IP rating is one of the reasons why you should buy a Kindle e-reader. But, just because your Kindle has an IP rating doesn't mean you can leave it underwater for extended periods of time. While the term 'waterproof' has been used throughout this article, it's important to realize that these devices are only waterproof to a certain extent.

All Kindle models sold as 'waterproof' have an IPX8 rating, which means that they meet the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard 60529 rating of IPX8 when tested in laboratory conditions.

In short, a Kindle with an IPX8 rating is designed to withstand full immersion in up to 2 meters of fresh water for up to an hour and 0.25 meters for up to 3 minutes in seawater. While this may offer them protection from accidents in the pool, or splashes from a saltwater wave, it doesn't make them underwater reading machines.

What's more, bath products, high-pressure water, and hot water are not tested during an IPX8 assessment. Therefore, you should still take care when reading in the bath and be sure to dry out your Kindle properly after any exposure to water to prolong its life and ensure it charges safely. If you want to get the most out of your Kindle e-reader, try to keep it dry, even if it has an IP rating.

Enjoying Your Kindle by the Water

If you have a newer Kindle Paperwhite or a 2nd-Generation Kindle Oasis, then enjoy your time by the water safe in the knowledge that your device isn't going to die if it gets a little wet. If you have an older Kindle Paperwhite or a basic Kindle, leave it someplace dry. Now you know whether your Kindle is waterproof or not; all that's left to do is download some new books and enjoy your e-reader.