ATM Ratings in Rugged Smartwatches Explained

When buying a smartwatch, you might come across terms like ATM ratings. These ratings tell you how resistant or how rugged the watch is to water, which is crucial if you’re using it in various conditions. Let’s break down what ATM ratings mean, why they matter, and how to choose the right smartwatch based on these ratings.

What is an ATM Rating?

ATM stands for “atmosphere,” and in the context of watches, it measures how well a watch can handle water pressure. Each ATM rating corresponds to a specific level of water pressure that the watch can endure without damage.

Here’s a quick look at what each rating means:

• 1 ATM: Handles up to 10 meters of water pressure.
• 2 ATM: Handles up to 20 meters of water pressure.
• 5 ATM: Handles up to 50 meters of water pressure.
• 10 ATM: Handles up to 100 meters of water pressure.

So, a smartwatch with a 5 ATM rating should be fine in water up to 50 meters deep.

How ATM Ratings Affect Smartwatches

Smartwatches often face different types of water exposure, from rain to swimming. The ATM rating gives you an idea of how well the watch can handle these conditions. But it’s good to remember that the ratings are more of a guideline and may not always match real-world conditions.

Everyday Use vs. Swimming vs. Diving

Here’s what you can generally expect from different ATM ratings:

• 1-3 ATM: Suitable for everyday use like splashes or brief immersion. Not ideal for swimming or showering.
• 5 ATM: Good for swimming and showering. If you often engage in water-based activities, this is a solid choice.
• 10 ATM: Built for more intense water conditions, such as diving. Perfect for activities that involve deeper water exposure.

Examples of Smartwatches and Their ATM Ratings

To help you understand how these ratings work in real life, here are a few examples:

Garmin Forerunner 945 (5 ATM)

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is a great option for those who are into swimming or other water sports. With a 5 ATM rating, it’s built to withstand regular exposure to water, whether you’re swimming laps or caught in the rain.

Apple Watch Series 8 (5 ATM)

The Apple Watch Series 8 also has a 5 ATM rating. This means it can handle everyday water activities like swimming and showering. However, it’s not meant for deep-water activities like scuba diving.

Suunto 9 Baro (10 ATM)

If you’re into professional diving or need a watch that can handle deep-water conditions, the Suunto 9 Baro with a 10 ATM rating is a great choice. It’s designed to withstand the pressures of deep dives and other extreme water activities.

What Affects Water Resistance in Smartwatches?

While ATM ratings give you a good idea of a watch’s water resistance, several factors can influence how well it performs:

Seals and Gaskets

The seals and gaskets inside the watch play a big role in keeping water out. Over time, these parts can wear down, which might reduce the watch’s water resistance. Regular maintenance can help keep these components in good shape.

Temperature and Pressure Changes

Extreme changes in temperature or sudden shifts in pressure can affect the watch’s water resistance. For instance, wearing your watch in a hot spring or exposing it to very cold water might impact its performance.

Physical Damage

Any scratches, cracks, or other damage to the watch can affect its ability to resist water. Make sure to check your watch for any signs of wear and tear and address any issues promptly.

How to Choose the Right Smartwatch Based on ATM Rating

When picking a smartwatch, think about your usual activities and the environments you’ll be in:

• For Casual Use: A smartwatch with a 1-3 ATM rating is usually enough for everyday wear and occasional splashes.
• For Active Lifestyles: If you swim regularly or are often in the rain, look for a watch with a 5 ATM rating.
• For Professional Use: For diving or other high-pressure water activities, choose a smartwatch with a 10 ATM rating or higher.

Conclusion

ATM ratings are a helpful way to understand how well a rugged smartwatch can handle water. By knowing what each rating means and considering your own needs, you can pick a watch that suits your lifestyle.

But remember, while ATM ratings give a good indication of water resistance, taking care of your watch beyond these rating are essential to ensure it lasts.