Applecare: Better Than Carrier Insurance?

AppleCare and carrier insurance are two options for iPhone users seeking to protect their devices from damage, malfunction, or loss. AppleCare is Apple's own warranty programme, offering coverage for accidental damage, malfunctions, and other issues. On the other hand, carrier insurance, such as that offered by Verizon, provides total protection for devices and data, including coverage for loss, theft, and accidental damage. So, which one is the better choice for consumers?

AppleCare+ vs. Verizon Insurance: Which is Cheaper?

When it comes to protecting your iPhone, you have several options. AppleCare+ is Apple's comprehensive insurance plan, while Verizon Insurance is a mobile insurance provider that offers total protection for your device and data. So, which one is cheaper?

AppleCare+ Cost:

AppleCare+ offers two types of plans: a base plan that covers device repairs and a slightly more expensive plan that includes theft and loss coverage. The cost of AppleCare+ depends on the type of iPhone you have and whether you choose a two-year plan or a monthly plan. For example, for an iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max, the monthly plan costs $13.49 per month or $269 over two years. The base iPhone 14, iPhone 13, iPhone 12, and iPhone 13 Mini are $11.49 per month or $219 for two years. The cheapest plan is for the iPhone SE, at $7.49 per month or $149 for two years.

If you only need device repairs and are not interested in theft and loss coverage, AppleCare+ prices are slightly cheaper. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max plans are $10 per month or $199 for two years, while the iPhone SE comes in at $4 per month or $79 for two years.

AppleCare+ covers unlimited repairs for accidental damage to the iPhone, the battery, and the included USB-C to Lightning cable. However, a repair will incur a service fee or deductible, ranging from $29 for screen repairs to $99 for most other accidental damage incidents or $149 to replace a stolen device.

Verizon Insurance Cost:

Verizon Insurance, also known as Verizon Mobile Protect, offers a range of device insurance and phone protection plans. The most basic plan is the Wireless Phone Protection plan, which covers lost, stolen, or damaged devices. The Total Equipment Coverage plan includes an extended warranty, and the Mobile Protect plans can be purchased for a single device or as a multi-device bundle. The monthly rates for these plans vary depending on the iPhone model, starting at $7.25 per month for Wireless Phone Protection and going up to $17 per month for Verizon Mobile Protect Single Device and $50 per month for Verizon Mobile Protect Multi-Device.

Deductibles for Verizon Insurance also vary depending on the model, with the iPhone SE costing $129 per incident and the iPhone 14 Pro Max reaching $249 per incident. Starting April 27, 2023, Verizon reduced the deductibles for its Mobile Protect plan to $99 and removed the screen repair deductible, making screen repairs free.

Comparison:

In terms of monthly cost, AppleCare+ is generally cheaper than Verizon Insurance, especially when considering the two-year plan option. However, when it comes to deductibles, both AppleCare+ and Verizon Insurance have similar prices. AppleCare+ charges $99 for most accidental damage incidents and $29 for screen repairs, while Verizon Insurance has a $99 deductible for damage and offers free screen repairs. Device replacement deductibles are higher for Verizon, with a cost of $229 per incident, compared to AppleCare+'s $149.

While AppleCare+ is typically the cheapest option, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Verizon Insurance offers additional perks, such as same-day replacement or repair, and the option to have a technician come to your home or workplace. On the other hand, AppleCare+ provides the convenience of working directly with Apple and its authorized service providers for repairs and customer support.

Both AppleCare+ and Verizon Insurance offer comprehensive protection for your iPhone, but AppleCare+ is generally the cheaper option when considering the monthly cost. However, when it comes to deductibles, both options are comparable, and Verizon Insurance may even offer slightly better value with its free screen repairs. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and the level of coverage you require.

AppleCare+ vs. Verizon Insurance: Which Plan is Better?

Protecting Your Device

With the latest iPhone retailing for $1500 or more, getting one repaired is not cheap. Both AppleCare and Verizon offer insurance to offset repair costs or get a new phone if yours is lost or stolen. But which is better?

AppleCare+

AppleCare is an extended warranty program you can get for all Apple products. Most Apple devices include a limited one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects but not problems caused by customer negligence. With AppleCare, you can get two or more years of protection from defects, accidents, and other issues. It covers most problems aside from water damage, and you only have to pay a deductible. You’re allowed to file two claims during an AppleCare coverage period.

Apple also offers additional Theft/Loss coverage for iPhones for an extra $4.99 per month. However, you will have to pay between $200-$300 depending on your iPhone model.

AppleCare’s iPhone repair costs are:

• Screen Damage: $29.00
• Other accidental damage: $99
• Theft or Loss: starting from $199 (with Theft/Loss Plan)

Verizon Insurance

Verizon customers have the option of Verizon’s “Total Mobile Protection” plan. For $13 per month, your phone is covered against theft, loss, and damage, including liquid damage. The coverage is solid, and there are a few additional perks. Like Apple, screen repair is $29. But you can get a same-day replacement at a repair store or have a technician come to your home or work.

Verizon Insurance deductibles are:

• Screen Damage: $29.00
• Other repairs: Cost varies
• Lost or Stolen: $19-$199 depending on the device

AppleCare+ vs. Verizon Insurance: Which is Cheaper?

For the iPhone 11, AppleCare starts at $149. With Theft/Loss coverage, it goes up to $199, or $8.99 per month.

Verizon Total Mobile costs $13 per month. On a pure cost basis, Apple is cheaper. However, some repairs with Verizon are cheaper than Apple. Also, Verizon provides more comprehensive coverage.

They are both good plans, and you should get some form of phone insurance, especially if you have a newer phone. Verizon’s plan is amazing if you are a dedicated Verizon customer. You can easily add it to your existing phone contract, and it has great coverage in case of accidents.

However, for most consumers, AppleCare is a better option. You have the freedom to choose your carrier and have an unlocked phone, and you get repairs directly from Apple. It’s also cheaper monthly than Verizon. So when you purchase your next iPhone, make sure to get AppleCare along with it.

AppleCare+ vs. Verizon Insurance: Bottom Line

When it comes to insurance for your iPhone, there are a few options to consider, including AppleCare+ and Verizon Insurance. Both plans offer protection for your device in case of accidental damage, theft, or loss, but there are some key differences to note.

AppleCare+ is Apple's comprehensive insurance plan that covers accidental damage, such as a broken screen or water damage. It extends the standard one-year warranty to two years and offers phone support for those two years. You can make up to two claims during the coverage period, but you'll need to pay a deductible, which varies depending on the type of damage. AppleCare+ also offers an additional Theft and Loss coverage option, which allows you to replace your iPhone if it is stolen or lost for an additional fee.

On the other hand, Verizon Insurance is a mobile insurance provider that offers total protection for your device and data. Verizon's plan covers theft, loss, and accidental damage, and it includes additional security and privacy features. One advantage of Verizon Insurance is that it offers same-day repairs or replacements, and you can even arrange for a technician to come to your home or office. However, one drawback is that it is only available to Verizon customers, and you are locked into the plan until the end of your phone contract.

So, which plan is better? It depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are a dedicated Verizon customer and want the convenience of adding insurance to your existing phone contract, then Verizon Insurance could be a good choice. It offers comprehensive coverage and the added benefit of same-day repairs. However, it is more expensive than AppleCare+ and has higher deductibles for some repairs.

For most consumers, AppleCare+ is the better option. It offers similar coverage to Verizon Insurance but at a lower price point. With AppleCare+, you have the freedom to choose any carrier you like and you can get repairs directly from Apple. Additionally, AppleCare+ does not require you to lock into a long-term contract, giving you more flexibility.

In summary, both AppleCare+ and Verizon Insurance are solid choices for protecting your iPhone. Verizon Insurance offers the convenience of same-day repairs and additional security features, but it is more expensive and locks you into a contract with Verizon. AppleCare+ provides similar coverage at a lower cost, gives you the flexibility to choose your carrier, and allows you to get repairs directly from Apple. For these reasons, AppleCare+ is the better choice for most consumers.

AppleCare+ vs. Verizon Protection Plan Fine Print

AppleCare+ and Verizon's Protection Plan are both insurance options for your iPhone, but which one offers the best coverage?

AppleCare+

AppleCare+ is Apple's extended warranty plan that covers accidental damage and hardware failures for their products. The coverage starts on the date of purchase and extends to two years of coverage for hardware repairs and accidental damage, subject to a service fee. AppleCare+ includes customer support for iOS issues and offers unlimited repairs for accidental damage to the iPhone, the battery, and the included USB-C to Lightning cable.

AppleCare+ comes in two varieties: a base plan that covers device repairs and a more expensive plan that includes theft and loss coverage. The cost varies based on the iPhone model and whether you choose a two-year plan or monthly payments. For the iPhone 14 Pro Max, the monthly plan is $13.49, or $269 for two years. The base iPhone 14 model is $11.49 per month or $219 for two years.

Accidental damage service fees start at $29 for screen repairs and $99 for other damage. Theft and loss will cost you a deductible of $149.

Verizon Protection Plan

Verizon offers device protection through its Total Mobile Protection plan, provided by Asurion. For $13 per month, your phone is covered against theft, loss, and damage, including liquid damage. Verizon also offers same-day replacements and repairs, and you can even arrange for a technician to come to your home or workplace.

Verizon's deductibles are similar to AppleCare+. Screen repairs cost $29, while other repairs vary in cost. Lost or stolen devices range from $19 to $199, depending on the model.

Comparison

While AppleCare+ is typically cheaper, Verizon's plan includes additional perks like same-day repairs and no additional cost for screen repairs after April 27, 2023. However, AppleCare+ offers the advantage of working directly with Apple for repairs and customer support.

Verizon's plan may be more convenient for those who want quick repairs and don't mind paying a slightly higher monthly cost. On the other hand, AppleCare+ provides better value with its lower prices and the option to work directly with Apple.

Ultimately, both plans offer solid protection for your iPhone, but the decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

AppleCare+ vs. Verizon: Parts and Services

AppleCare+ and Verizon's insurance plans offer different features and benefits for iPhone users. Here is a detailed comparison of the two, focusing on their parts and services:

AppleCare+

AppleCare+ is Apple's extended warranty program available for all Apple products. It offers protection against defects, accidents, and other issues, excluding water damage. AppleCare+ includes two types of plans: a base plan covering device repairs and a plan that includes theft and loss coverage for an additional cost. The cost of AppleCare+ varies depending on the iPhone model and the chosen plan.

#### Parts

AppleCare+ provides coverage for parts, including the iPhone itself, the battery, and the included USB-C to Lightning cable. It offers unlimited repairs for accidental damage to these parts, with a service fee or deductible for each repair.

#### Services

AppleCare+ offers several convenient services for iPhone users:

• On-site technician: Apple can send a technician to your home or office to repair your screen.
• Same-day service: Your device can be fixed on the same day of your appointment.
• IPhone Express Replacement Service: Apple will send you a replacement iPhone overnight, placing a hold on your credit card until they receive your old device.
• Mail-in repairs: You can mail your device for repair using a prepaid shipping box, with no charges held on your credit card.
• Technical support: Apple provides 24/7 prioritized technical support for iOS issues, such as assistance with iOS, Wi-Fi connections, and other Apple services.

Verizon Insurance

Verizon offers multiple insurance plans for mobile devices, including Total Mobile Protection, Wireless Phone Protection, Extended Warranty, and Verizon Mobile Protect. These plans vary in terms of coverage and cost.

#### Parts

Verizon's insurance plans cover loss, theft, and damage to devices. They also offer coverage for post-warranty manufacturer device defects, such as battery issues, unresponsive screens, and malfunctioning hardware.

#### Services

Verizon's insurance plans provide the following services:

• Same-day or next-day replacement: Verizon offers same-day replacement at a repair store or through a technician who comes to your location. They can also provide next-day device replacement.
• Technical support: Verizon includes access to the Tech Coach support team for help with device setup, optimisation, and ongoing support.
• Cybersecurity apps: Verizon bundles its insurance plans with cybersecurity apps, such as Verizon Digital Secure and Call Filter service.

Comparison

When comparing AppleCare+ and Verizon's insurance plans, there are several key differences to consider:

• Original parts: AppleCare+ guarantees that all replaced parts will be original Apple parts. In contrast, Verizon uses a third-party company, Asurion, which may use non-original parts for repairs.
• Cost: AppleCare+ is generally cheaper than Verizon's insurance plans, especially when considering the monthly rates for the iPhone. However, Verizon's plans may offer better value if you have multiple lines or are concerned about saving money.
• Convenience: Verizon's plans offer added convenience, such as same-day repairs and on-site technician visits, which AppleCare+ may not always provide.
• Coverage: AppleCare+ focuses solely on the iPhone, while Verizon's plans can cover multiple devices, including smartwatches and tablets.
• Customer service: Apple is known for its excellent customer service and support, which may be a deciding factor for some users.

In conclusion, both AppleCare+ and Verizon's insurance plans offer comprehensive protection for iPhone users. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the level of convenience and coverage desired. AppleCare+ is ideal for those who want direct support from Apple and assurance of original parts, while Verizon's plans may suit those seeking multi-device coverage, added convenience, and potential cost savings.

Frequently asked questions