Is AppleCare+ Worth It for Your Apple Devices?

Recently, when I went to buy a MacBook for myself, the store representative asked if I would like to include AppleCare+ in my purchase. My total cart value was around $2,300, and the additional cost for AppleCare+ was $230 for a three-year subscription.

Initially, I was hesitant because spending $230 extra was a significant decision. After all, I could use that amount to upgrade my MacBook’s RAM. However, after discussing the benefits with the salesperson, I made an informed choice. In this article, I’ll break down the benefits of AppleCare+ and its cost across devices and help you answer the big question: is AppleCare+ worth it for your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook?

Let’s dive in!

What is AppleCare+?

AppleCare+ is an extended warranty and insurance service for Apple products. It goes beyond the standard warranty by offering additional coverage for hardware malfunctions, accidental damage, and even theft or loss (for certain devices). With AppleCare+, you also receive priority customer support.

AppleCare+ vs. Standard Warranty: What’s the Difference?

Apple’s standard warranty provides:

• 12 months of hardware coverage for most devices (24 months for Apple Watch).
• 90 days of complimentary technical support via phone or chat.

However, the standard warranty only covers hardware failures—not accidental damage.

In contrast, AppleCare+ includes:

• Coverage for accidental damage (subject to a service fee).
• Two incidents of theft or loss coverage for iPhones (with an additional fee).
• Priority access to Apple customer support.
• Express replacement service if your product cannot be repaired.

AppleCare+ is also available for other devices, such as Apple TV, headphones, and HomePod. In some countries, you can opt for a monthly subscription instead of a one-time payment.

AppleCare+ Benefits by Device

1. iPhone

AppleCare+ is highly recommended for iPhones due to its theft and loss coverage. It also covers accidental damage, such as cracked screens, for a minimal service fee.

2. MacBook

With repair costs for MacBooks often exceeding $600 for screen replacements or logic board repairs, AppleCare+ can save you a lot of money. It’s especially useful if you use your MacBook for professional work and can’t afford extended downtime.

3. iPad

AppleCare+ for iPads covers accidental damage and hardware issues, making it a practical option if you’re prone to drops or spills.

4. Apple Watch

If you own a high-end model like the Apple Watch Ultra, AppleCare+ offers peace of mind by covering accidental damage.

Is AppleCare+ Worth It?

Deciding whether to purchase AppleCare+ depends on your usage habits and risk tolerance. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Get AppleCare+ if:
  • You’re prone to accidental drops or spills.
  • You travel frequently and rely heavily on your devices.
  • You want theft and loss coverage for your iPhone.
  • You’re investing in a high-value device, like a MacBook Pro or Apple Watch Ultra.
• Skip AppleCare+ if:
  • You’re confident in your ability to take care of your devices.
  • You’re comfortable paying for repairs or replacements out of pocket.

Final Thoughts

While AppleCare+ is not essential, it offers significant value by reducing the stress and cost of unexpected repairs, replacements, or theft. Whether it’s worth, it depends on how much you value peace of mind and your ability to handle repair costs if something goes wrong.

For most users, especially those with expensive Apple devices, AppleCare+ is a wise investment. However, if you’re careful with your gadgets and willing to take the risk, you can save the extra money.

Still undecided? Consider how often you’ve damaged devices in the past and weigh that against the cost of AppleCare+.

Let us know in the comments if you think AppleCare+ is worth it for your Apple device. Also, read our guide AirDrop Not Working on Mac? 6 Quick Fixes You Need to Try!