No matter how careful we are, our devices can sometimes lose the battle against gravity or run into an unexpected bug. And while it is advised that we trust only Apple experts for service and repair, this can be an expensive affair, especially if you don’t have AppleCare or AppleCare+ by your side.
However, chipping in for an AppleCare+ is not so cheap either. There’s a lot to consider between the initial cost, deductibles, and varying prices across products. Which pushes many users to question if AppleCare+ is really worth it?
And if you’re wondering whether you should buy AppleCare+ for your device or not, this in-depth, cohesive guide can help you out. So let’s dive in without further ado.
- What is AppleCare and AppleCare+?
- AppleCare+ for iPhone
- AppleCare+ for iPad, iPad Pro and iPad Air
- AppleCare+ for Macs and Apple Display
- AppleCare+ for Apple Watch
- AppleCare+ for Apple TV
- AppleCare+ for HomePod, AirPods, etc.
What is AppleCare and AppleCare+?
AppleCare is the standard warranty that comes free with the device and covers hardware failures and manufacturing defects. Apple usually offers a one-year limited warranty and up to 90 days of complimentary technical support.
This guarantees that you’ll get free repair or replacement if the product does not work as intended. Notably, it doesn’t cover accidental damage or offers a reduced service fee.
AppleCare+ or AppleCare Protection Plan is the additional service and support plan you can purchase to protect your device. This extended warranty offers up to three years of hardware coverage (depending on the device). There are several more perks included with AppleCare+ :
- Priority access to Apple Support via chat or phone
- Covers the costs of repairs or heavily reduces the fee for repair work
- Two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 12 months (depending on service fee/plan selected)
- Express Replacement Service for iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches
- A version of AppleCare+ also covers theft or loss
What is AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss?
As the name suggests, it has all benefits of AppleCare+ and additional coverage of up to two incidents of theft or loss every 12 months. However, this feature is only available for iPhone in the U.S, the U.K, Australia, Germany, Japan, France, Italy, and Spain.
Note: The coverage requires that Find My be enabled on the iPhone at the time of loss or theft and throughout the claims process.
Can we extended AppleCare+ coverage?
If you want to extend AppleCare+ coverage beyond the initial 2-year, you can purchase an extended coverage plan within 30 days after the original coverage ends. The offer is limited to selective countries and regions: the U.S, the U.K, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Japan.
This plan will extend AppleCare+ coverage up to:
- 24 months for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch
- 36 months for Apple Watch Edition and Hermès
Furthermore, you can either pay upfront for the 24/36 months or set up a monthly payment plan for iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch and an annual payment plan for Mac. And even though the monthly/annual recurring payment plan works out to be more expensive, it gives you the flexibility to cancel at any time.
The cost and benefits included in the AppleCare+ package vary from product to product. So, let’s assess the value of AppleCare+ according to individual categories.
AppleCare+ for iPhone
An AppleCare+ plan for iPhone extends the coverage to 2 years from the AppleCare+ purchase date. Plus, an expensive Theft and Loss plan that lets you have a replacement phone for a considerably lower price ($149) in case of theft.
Before we move on to discuss more, let’s check out how much each plan costs.
AppleCare+ cost for iPhone
| iPhone Model | AppleCare+ Price | AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss Price |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 Pro & 13 Pro Max iPhone 12 Pro & 12 Pro Max | $199 ($9.99/month) | $269 ($13.49/month) |
| iPhone 13 & 13 Mini iPhone 12 & 12 mini iPhone 11 | $149 ($7.99/month) | $219 ($11.49/month) |
| iPhone 11 Pro & Pro Max iPhone XS & XS Max | $199 ($9.99/month) | $299 ($14.99/month) |
| iPhone SE (2nd gen) | $79 ($3.99/month) | $149 ($7.49/month) |
| iPhone XR iPhone 8 Plus iPhone 7 Plus | $149 ($7.99/month) | $249 ($12.99/month) |
| iPhone 8 iPhone 7 | $129 | $199 |
What does AppleCare+ for iPhone cover?
- Apple-certified service and support coverage
- 24/7 priority access to technical support
- Up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months – Each incident is subject to service fees and applicable taxes:
- Screen damage – $29.00
- Back glass damage (iPhone 12 and 13 series) – $29.00
- Any other accidental damage – $99.00
- Theft or loss – $149.00 to $269 depending upon the model
- Battery service coverage – When it drops below 80% capacity
- Express Replacement Service – Receive a replacement device to use during the repair
- Services offered:
- Carry-in repair – Take your iPhone to the Apple Store or other Apple Authorized Service Provider for repair
- Onsite – Schedule a technician
- Mail-in repair – Prepaid shipping box from Apple
- Software support – Apple Expert will help you troubleshoot issues with your iPhone and Apple-branded apps such as FaceTime, Mail, etc.
Should you buy or pass?
Let’s do some math – Imagine you accidentally dropped an iPhone 12 Pro, and now a screen repair/replacement is in order.
- With AppleCare+ = $29 + $199 (paid for AppleCare+) = $228 plus applicable taxes
- Without = $279 plus applicable taxes
What if you have lost your iPhone 12 Pro
- With AppleCare+ Theft and Loss, your new iPhone 12 Pro will cost = $149 + $269 (paid for AppleCare+) = $418 plus applicable taxes
- Without = $999 plus applicable taxes
Yes! Even after factoring in the initial cost of AppleCare+, you’re saving money. Factor in the plan’s four-screen repairs (2/year), four battery replacements, and other perks, and it’s a no-brainer.
So, it seems like a money-saving deal. On the other hand, the money is wasted if you have no incidence within the years of coverage.
Final take – Funny enough, accidents happen accidentally. It may not even be your fault; a friend, parent, or child might drop your phone.
Overall, AppleCare+ is a smart investment if you are accident-prone, have kids, or like to prep for a rainy day. However, if you’re on a tight budget or own an affordable device like the iPhone 12 or SE 2020, it’s totally skippable. Just be extra careful with your iPhone and invest in a good case and screen guard.
AppleCare+ for iPad, iPad Pro and iPad Air
The AppleCare+ plan for iPad offers up to 2-years of extended coverage. Plus, it includes coverage for Apple Pencil, Apple‑branded iPad keyboards, and AirPort devices if purchased within two years of the iPad.
AppleCare+ cost for iPad
| iPad Model | AppleCare+ Price |
|---|---|
| 12.9″ & 11″ iPad Pro | $129 or $5.99/month |
| iPad Air, Mini & iPad | $69 or $3.49/month |
What does AppleCare+ for iPad cover?
- Up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months
- Each incident is subject to a service fee plus the applicable tax:
- iPad – $49
- Apple Pencil/ keyboard – $29
- 24/7 priority access to technical support
- Battery service coverage
- Service offered: Carry-in repair, onsite, and mail-in repair
- Express Replacement Service
- Software support
Should you buy or pass?
Let’s do some math – If you need a screen replacement for your iPad, it’ll cost you between $299 and $649, depending on the model. However, with AppleCare+ insurance, you pay just $49 + taxes.
Final take – So, AppleCare+ would definitely come in handy, especially if you have the full setup complete with iPadPro, Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. Whether the plan is worth it ultimately depends on your handling and usage, however.
AppleCare+ for Macs and Apple Display
The AppleCare+ insurance plan for Mac and Apple Display offers three years of extended coverage. Notably, the insurance plan for the Display includes service for one Apple-branded Display stand and one Apple-branded mount.
AppleCare+ cost for Macs and Apple Display
| Mac Model | AppleCare+ Price |
|---|---|
| 16″ MacBook Pro | $399 |
| 15″ MacBook Pro | $379 |
| 14″ MacBook Pro | $279 |
| 13″ MacBook Pro | $249 |
| MacBook Air and MacBook | $249 |
| Mac Pro | $299 |
| iMac & iMac Pro | $169 |
| Mac Mini | $99 |
| Pro Display XLR | $499 |
What does AppleCare+ cover?
- Apple-certified service and support coverage
- 24/7 priority access to technical support
- Up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months
- Each incident is subject to a service fee plus applicable tax:
- Screen damage or external enclosure damage – $99
- Other damage – $299
- Global repair coverage
- Battery service coverage
- Apple memory (RAM), Apple USB SuperDrive, accessories like the power adapter
- Service offered: Carry-in repair, onsite and mail-in repair for portable computers
- Software support
Should you buy or pass?
Let’s do some math – The math to figure out the value of owning AppleCare+ for Mac is slightly more complex. On one hand, it does save you good money. For instance, battery replacement typically costs around $199 for the MacBook Pro, while it’s free with AppleCare+.
Plus, issues like drive failure or replacement can cost between $159 and $459. On the other hand, Macs are quite robust, and typically no major problems are observed in the first four-plus years of use.
Now add your usage into that equation. If it’s 4-5 hours a day, a stationary desk’s risk level is low. But if it’s around 9-12 hours or more and traveling is involved, chances of damage are higher.
Final take – Let me simplify. If you are clumsy, an extensive user, an avid traveler, or the device changes hands often, it’s wise to opt for AppleCare+. In any other case, you’ll have to measure the pros, cons, and costs to make a decision accordingly.
AppleCare+ for Apple Watch
The Apple Watch and Apple Watch Nike series come with one year of hardware repair coverage under the limited warranty and up to 90 days of complimentary support.
As for every Apple Watch Edition and Apple Watch Hermès, the limited warranty and complimentary support offer two years of hardware repair coverage. Apple Watch AppleCare+ plans favor more expensive devices. While the rest of the models get two years of coverage, the expensive ones get three years of extended coverage.
AppleCare+ cost for Apple Watch
| Apple Watch Model | AppleCare+ Price |
|---|---|
| Series 7, 6, 5, 4 & Apple Watch Nike | $79 |
| Series 3 & SE | $49 |
| Apple Watch Edition & Hermes | $149 |
What does AppleCare+ cover?
- Up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months
- Each incident is subject to a service fee plus applicable tax:
- Apple Watch and Apple Watch Nike – $69
- Apple Watch Edition and Apple Watch Hermès – $79
- 24/7 priority access to technical support
- Global repair coverage
- Express Replacement Service
- Battery service coverage
- Service offered: Carry-in repair and mail-in repair
- Software support
Should you buy or pass?
Let’s do some math – The repair cost for a GPS-only Apple Watch Series 6 is $299, and a titanium Apple Watch Edition Series 6 is $499. Factoring in the cost and benefits of AppleCare+, you’re definitely getting a bargain.
But again, I have a three-year-old Apple Watch that is worn regularly and doesn’t even have a scratch, all thanks to a dependable screen guard. You may not need AppleCare+ depending on your usage habits.
Final take – If you are an adventure junkie and regularly wear the watch during activities like rock climbing, hiking, dirt biking, or someone prone to accidents and often runs into walls, insuring Apple Watch with AppleCare is worth it.
Otherwise, skip it and hope that the odds always remain in your favor!
AppleCare+ for Apple TV
The Cupertino giant offers a special AppleCare Protection Plan for the Apple TV that extends to two years from the Apple TV purchase date.
How much does it cost and what does it cover?
The AppleCare Protection Plan is available for Apple TV 4 and Apple TV 4K and costs $39. Notably, this isn’t an insurance plan and simply a warranty extension with better support options. This means there is no associated fee attached for repairs.
- Up to two years of Apple-certified service and support coverage
- 24/7 priority access to technical support
- Global repair coverage
- Service offered: Carry-in repair and mail-in repair
- Express Replacement Service
- Also covers included Siri Remote and power cord
- Software support
Should you buy or pass?
Unless you enjoy playing hockey with the TV box, pass! Once set up, you will hardly move your Apple TV, and the lack of features offered shows that even Apple doesn’t expect accidental damage to the product.
The only benefit I see for this AppleCare Protection Plan is the global repair coverage. If you are buying the device overseas, this feature can be of great use.
AppleCare+ for HomePod, AirPods, AirPods Max and iPod touch
The plan for all music accessories by Apple, whether the HomePod, HomePod Mini, all AirPods, Beat earphones/headphones, AirPods Max, and iPod Touch, offers two years of extended coverage from the AppleCare+ purchase date.
The list of all included AirPods and Beats devices
- AirPods
- AirPods Max
- AirPods Pro
- Beats EP
- Beats Fit Pro
- Beats Pro
- Beats Solo Pro
- Beats Solo3 Wireless
- Beats Studio Buds
- Beats Studio3 Wireless
- BeatsX
- Powerbeats
- Powerbeats Pro
- Powerbeats3 Wireless
AppleCare+ cost for Music Accessories
| Product | AppleCare+ Price |
|---|---|
| HomePod | $39 |
| HomePod Mini | $15 |
| AirPods or Beats | $29 |
| AirPods Max | $59 |
| iPod Touch | $59 |
What does AppleCare+ cover?
- Up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months
- Each incident is subject to a service fee plus applicable tax:
- HomePod – $39
- HomePod mini – $15
- AirPods, AirPods Pro, Beats – $29
- iPod Touch – $29
- 24/7 priority access to technical support
- Express Replacement Service for HomePod, AirPods, AirPods Max, and Beats
- Global repair coverage for iPod Touch
- Battery service coverage for AirPods, AirPods Max, Beats, and iPod Touch
- Service offered: Carry-in repair and mail-in repair
- Software support
Should you buy or pass?
Do you need an insurance plan for music accessories? Well, if you’re talking $549, AirPods Max, you might not mind spending $59 for some peace of mind. But investing $15 or $29 for a $99 HomePod Mini or $159 AirPods, respectively, may not be in your best interests.
For one, Apple doesn’t make cheap quality products. If there is a defect in the device by some bad luck, the one-year AppleCare easily covers the situation. Though I would have loved a Theft and lost feature added into this category, that would definitely be worth picking up.
It all comes down to this question: how many speakers or earphones/headphones have you broken in the last 2-3 years? If the number is embarrassingly high, buy AppleCare+; if not, you can get away without it.
FAQs
You can buy an AppleCare+ plan when purchasing the product or within 60 days (30 days in Japan) of the purchase. This can be done via:
– Online
– At an Apple Store (proof of purchase and product inspection required)
– By calling 800-275-2273 (requires proof of purchase and runs a remote diagnostic test)
– Only For iPhone/iPad: New devices will have a prompt. Go to Settings → General → About and choose AppleCare+ Coverage Available.
Whether you buy from Apple or any third-party seller, you can use the methods mentioned above to purchase AppleCare+. All you need is proof of purchase, and after a remote or onsite diagnostic test, you can buy a plan.
Only if you live in the U.S. and Canada. Apple extended the AppleCare+ plan window up to a year after purchase, but you’ll have to take the device into an Apple Store for inspection. You’ll be able to purchase a plan after the technician gives you the green light.
Just visit Apple’s Check Your Service and Support Coverage page and use your device’s serial number to review the current warranty status & AppleCare+ eligibility.
Absolutely not; the tech giant understands such limitations and offers great options for users who don’t have access to a retail store or authorized service center. Depending on the device and country or region, you can make use of:
> Onsite service – An authorized repair technician will visit your home/workplace to fix the problem.
> Direct mail – Apple will send you a box complete with shipping labels. Just pack the product and ship it without spending a penny as Apple covers it all.
> Drop off at the UPS Store – Only available for U.S. users and iPhone, iPad, or iPod. Apple provides you with Repair ID numbers, and all you have to do is drop the product at any UPS Store; Apple pays the shipping cost both ways.
> DIY – When the problem is something you can resolve, Apple will send across the part you need, like a new charger.
Yes, but only the refurbished products that Apple sells on its website. Like any new product, all refurbished ones come with a one-year warranty. And you can purchase AppleCare+ to extend the warranty further and rack in the additional perks.
The great news is that AppleCare and AppleCare+ are transferable; the new owner gets the remaining protection period. In fact, that can even fetch you some extra bugs!
To receive all benefits of the AppleCare+ plan, the new owner will need the original proof of purchase (receipt), the plan confirmation, contract, and you’ll have to notify Apple via email, fax, or physical mail to inform them.
Yes, if you cancel the plan:
Within 30 days of purchase – A full refund minus the service received (if any)
Outside of 30 days – Prorated refund, minus any service and a fee of $25 or 10 percent of the prorated refund (whichever is less)
Is AppleCare+ worth it?
In most cases: yes, AppleCare+ can actually save you more money than you spend on the plan. However, if you’re heavily involved in the Apple ecosystem with products like the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, AirPods, and HomePod mini, the expense of AppleCare+ alone can break your wallet.
I would advise you to tread lightly, see which products are at more risk and select a plan accordingly. Furthermore, the terms and conditions for the standard warranty may vary based on country, so read the offer document carefully before purchasing!
If you want to explore more options, here’s a neat little list of the best insurance plans for iPhone. And remember, our comment section is open to anyone and everyone, so feel free to share your views, reviews, questions, queries, suggestions, and critiques about the article.
Read more:
- Best iPhone insurance providers: Compare top plans
- Best Apple Arcade games for iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV
- How to report accidents, hazards, or speed checks in Apple Maps
- What to do when your iPhone is lost or stolen? (Follow 9 things quickly)
A self-professed Geek who loves to explore all things Apple. I thoroughly enjoy discovering new hacks, troubleshooting issues, and finding and reviewing the best products and apps currently available. My expertise also includes curating opinionated and honest editorials. If not this, you might find me surfing the web or listening to audiobooks.