Ethan BrooksBy Ethan Brooks

Updated November 2026

Are Soundcore P20i earbuds waterproof? They carry a water resistance rating meant for sweat, rain and light splashes, but they are not designed for swimming or submersion. This guide explains what the rating means, how to tell whether your pair is protected, and how to keep them working through workouts and bad weather.

What the P20i Water Resistance Rating Means

Water resistance for earbuds is usually expressed with an IP code. The first digit covers dust and solid particles, and the second covers liquids. Soundcore lists its P20i earbuds with an IPX4 rating, which is the most common level for workout earbuds. Check the spec sheet or the product page for the exact figure, since rating details can vary between revisions.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 7 Best Waterproof Earbuds for Shower Use in 2026.

An IPX4 rating means the earbuds are protected against water splashed from any direction. In practical terms, that covers sweat during a run, light rain on a walk, and splashes at the gym. It does not cover immersion, so dropping the earbuds in a pool, a lake or a sink full of water is outside the design.

How IPX4 Compares to Other Ratings

Rating Protection Level Typical Use
IPX2 Dripping water when tilted 15 degrees Light sweat, very limited
IPX4 Water splashed from any direction Running, gym, light rain
IPX5 Low-pressure water jets Heavy sweat, rinsing
IPX7 Temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes Accidental drops in water
IPX8 Continuous immersion beyond 1 meter, per manufacturer terms Swimming-focused designs

For a deeper look at what these codes mean in everyday use, see Ipx7 Waterproof Rating Earbuds: What IPX7 Means and How to Choose (2026) and IPX8 Waterproof Bluetooth Earbuds: How to Choose and Use Them (2026).

Step-by-Step: Checking Whether Your P20i Is Protected

Before relying on water resistance, confirm what your specific pair supports. Follow these steps.

  1. Find the model number printed on the charging case or inside the case lid. Confirm it matches the P20i.
  2. Look up the official specification sheet on the Soundcore website and note the stated IP rating.
  3. Check the packaging or manual for any warnings about water exposure, cleaning or charging while wet.
  4. Make sure the charging case lid closes fully and the rubber seals (if present) are clean and undamaged.
  5. Store and charge the earbuds only when they are dry.

Tools and Supplies You May Need

  • A soft, lint-free cloth for drying the earbuds and case.
  • A dry cotton swab or a soft brush for clearing sweat and debris from the mesh grilles.
  • A clean, dry surface to set the case on while it dries.
  • Silicone or foam ear tips in the correct size, since a poor fit lets sweat collect around the nozzle.

Using the P20i for Workouts and Outdoor Activity

Water resistance works best when it is paired with good habits. Sweat is the most common source of moisture, and it often reaches the earbuds through the charging contacts and the speaker mesh rather than in one large splash.

Before a Workout

Seat the earbud fully in the ear canal and choose tips that seal well. A snug seal reduces the amount of sweat that can run down into the opening. Wipe your hands before inserting the earbuds, since salty residue on your fingers can transfer to the surfaces.

During a Workout

If you sweat heavily, pause occasionally and wipe the earbuds with a dry cloth. Avoid touching the grilles with wet fingers. In light rain, the IPX4 rating covers normal exposure, but you should avoid walking into heavy downpours with the earbuds in use over long periods.

After a Workout

Remove the earbuds, wipe them down and let them air dry for several minutes before placing them in the case. Charging with wet contacts can cause corrosion over time.

Care Routine to Keep the Seal and Speakers Working

Routine cleaning matters as much as the rating itself. Sweat contains salt, oils and skin cells, and these can build up in the mesh and around the charging contacts. Over months, buildup can reduce sound quality and interfere with charging.

  1. Power off the earbuds or let them sit unused during cleaning.
  2. Gently brush the speaker mesh with a dry, soft brush to remove debris.
  3. Use a cotton swab slightly dampened with water (wrung out well) on the outside of the earbud housing, avoiding the mesh openings.
  4. Wipe the charging contacts on both earbuds and inside the case with a dry swab.
  5. Allow everything to dry fully before closing the case or charging.

Never submerge the earbuds to rinse them, and do not use harsh solvents or alcohol-based cleaners on the housing or mesh.

Common Mistakes

  • Assuming IPX4 means swim-safe. Splash resistance does not hold up to pool use, surfing or submersion.
  • Charging while wet. Moisture on the contacts can cause corrosion and reduce long-term reliability.
  • Ignoring the case. The charging case also needs to stay dry, and a damaged or poorly closing lid lets moisture in.
  • Using a poor-fitting tip. Loose tips allow sweat to run deeper into the earbud and can push moisture toward the mesh.
  • Cleaning with liquid. Pouring water or spraying cleaner directly onto the earbuds can force liquid into openings.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Water Resistance

  • Keep a small cloth in your gym bag or running belt for quick wipe-downs.
  • Replace ear tips that show wear, since a worn tip seals poorly.
  • If the earbuds get wet from an unexpected source, dry them thoroughly and avoid charging until they are completely dry.
  • Check the Soundcore support resources for firmware updates, which sometimes improve connection stability in sweaty conditions.

A few simple accessories help protect a pair of workout earbuds. Choose items that are compatible with the P20i’s size and charging design.

  • Soundcore P20i Earbuds Replacement Ear Tips – Replacement silicone tips in multiple sizes help you achieve a snug seal that limits sweat intrusion. View on Amazon
  • Microfiber cleaning cloth for earbuds – A soft, lint-free cloth lets you dry the housing and case without scratching the finish. View on Amazon
  • Soft-bristle detail brush – A small, dry brush clears debris from speaker mesh without pushing it deeper. View on Amazon

FAQ

Can I wear the Soundcore P20i while swimming?

No. An IPX4 rating covers splashes and sweat, not swimming. Water pressure and submersion can force liquid past the seals, so remove the earbuds before entering a pool or open water.

Are the Soundcore P20i earbuds safe in the rain?

Light rain is generally within the design range for IPX4 protection. Avoid long exposure to heavy rain, and dry the earbuds promptly afterward.

Can I rinse the earbuds under the tap?

Rinsing is not recommended. Running water can enter the speaker openings and charging contacts. Clean with a dry or lightly dampened cloth instead.

Is it safe to charge the P20i right after a workout?

Wait until the earbuds and the contacts are fully dry. Charging with moisture present can cause corrosion over time.

Does sweat damage the earbuds?

Sweat itself is within the protection range for the rating, but salt and buildup can degrade the mesh and contacts if left uncleaned. Regular wiping helps.

Where can I find the official IP rating for my P20i?

Check the product specifications on the Soundcore website or the printed information on the packaging, since the stated rating is the most reliable source.

How do I know if my earbuds have water damage?

Signs include crackling or muffled sound, one earbud failing to charge, or moisture visible in the case. If you notice these symptoms, stop using the earbuds and contact Soundcore support or a qualified repair service.

Conclusion

The Soundcore P20i earbuds carry a splash and sweat-resistant rating suited to workouts and light weather, but they are not built for swimming or immersion. Confirm the exact IP rating for your model, keep the seals and contacts clean, and always dry the earbuds before charging. Following these habits will help the earbuds perform reliably for the long term.

Ready to choose one?

Ethan Brooks

About Ethan Brooks

Ethan Brooks is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our headphone tech & types guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.