Best Waterproof Smartphones
Best Waterproof Smartphones in 2026: ranked by real specs like camera hardware, battery capacity, and display refresh rate. Whether you're looking for a device with superior camera capabilities or exceptional processing power, our guide on the best waterproof smartphones will provide the insights you need. The main differences between our top picks include variations in display technology, camera systems, and overall performance capabilities. When choosing a waterproof smartphone, consider factors such as battery life, camera quality, and processing power to match your specific needs. Use the buttons above to check current prices and availability.
Top picks
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How to decide
Processor and Performance
The processing power of a smartphone is crucial for both everyday tasks and demanding applications. The Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro are equipped with the A19 Pro chip, offering a 3nm architecture with hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This makes them ideal for high-performance tasks and gaming. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, with its A18 Pro chip, still offers impressive performance but lacks the latest enhancements seen in the A19. The iPhone 17 Air also features the A19 Pro chip, ensuring it handles multitasking efficiently despite its ultra-thin design. When comparing performance, consider the RAM and chipset architecture as these directly impact speed and efficiency.
Display Technology
Display quality can significantly enhance your smartphone experience, particularly for media consumption and gaming. The iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts a 6.9-inch ProMotion OLED display with a peak brightness of 3000 nits, making it the brightest iPhone display to date. The ProMotion technology offers up to 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smoother animations compared to the standard 60Hz on the iPhone 16. The iPhone 17 Air, with its 6.6-inch OLED display, also features the ProMotion technology, providing an adaptive refresh rate for fluid motion. Consider the display size and technology when choosing a smartphone, as these factors affect both visual quality and battery consumption.
Camera Capabilities
Camera capabilities are often a deciding factor for smartphone buyers. The iPhone 17 Pro Max leads with its triple 48MP Fusion cameras and 8x optical-quality zoom, suitable for professional photography. The iPhone 17 Pro offers similar capabilities but with a slightly smaller form factor. The iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 5x optical zoom, making it a strong contender for photography enthusiasts. The iPhone 17 Air, while lacking multiple lenses, provides excellent main camera performance with a 48MP Fusion sensor. Evaluate your photography needs and consider the optical zoom range and sensor quality when selecting a device.
Battery and Charging
Battery life and charging capabilities are essential for users who are frequently on the go. The iPhone 17 Pro Max offers the longest battery life with up to 39 hours of video playback, supported by a 5088 mAh battery. Both the iPhone 17 Pro and 16 Pro Max provide substantial battery life with fast charging capabilities, reaching 50% in approximately 20 minutes with a 40W adapter. The iPhone 17 Air, while slimmer, sacrifices some battery capacity for its ultra-thin design. Consider your daily usage patterns and charging preferences when selecting a smartphone, as these will influence your overall experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right waterproof smartphone in 2026 involves balancing performance, display technology, and camera capabilities. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is recommended for those who prioritize top-tier performance and camera features, while the iPhone 17 Pro offers similar capabilities in a more compact design. The iPhone 16 Pro Max provides a large display and long battery life for media consumption. All models come with Apple’s standard warranty and are available in the US. Use the buttons above to see live pricing and stock.
