Everywhere we go, including the pool, beach, and on boats, we carry our cell phones, putting these expensive gadgets at danger of water damage. A waterproof case shields your phone from unforeseen rain, spillage, and splashes whereas a standard phone case just guards against scratches and fractures. Despite claims to the contrary, some cases are just splash or spill proofs even if they may advertise as waterproof. When buying a waterproof case, there are a few factors to take into account. If you must have the best, there are specific materials or attributes to watch out for.

Look for a waterproof phone cover with an Ingress Protection (IP) certification of at least IP67 when purchasing one. These are requirements for durability. For particles like dust, use number one, and for liquids, use number two. Solids are rated 0-6, whereas water is rated 0–9, therefore an IP67 certification would be appropriate for a tough water-exposed equipment. A device with an IP67 certification can be immersed in water for 30 minutes up to one meter deep. With an IPX8 rating, the case can endure environments with more impact on the device, such as deeper water. Waterproof cases seldom get a grade of 9, which indicates that it can withstand jet spray and other high intensity cleaning techniques. For the best waterproofness, go for an IP certification with a number of 7 as well as 8.

To avoid losing your phone when participating in aquatic sports, watch out for those with buttons that are simple to push and that float. Here are the top waterproof cases that meet each of these requirements.

Universal Waterproof Pouch

This pouch is ideal for vacations to the beach since it protects your phone from sand and is lightweight and simple to carry. It comes with a lanyard and is offered in 13 distinct hues. It can accommodate phones with a maximum height of 6.8 inches and has a weather resistance grade of IPX8.

Floatable Waterproof Phone Case

This waterproof pouch will prevent your phone from sinking if dropped while capturing swimming-related images since it will float to the surface. The case has an arm band and audio jack so you can listen to music while working out. A lanyard is also included for ease of carrying. It has an IP68 certification for weather resistance. This is a pouch you should take into account if you want to spend time in lakes or rivers or other deeper bodies of water.

Accident Proof Waterproof Case

The Catalyst Waterproof Case has your back whether you’re prone to accidents or simply want to live dangerously. It can endure depths of up to 33 feet of water (about the height of a telephone pole) and includes a wrist lanyard to prevent it from drifting away, making it the perfect tool for use when snorkeling. It can resist a fall of 6.6 feet to the ground without getting hurt.