The first iPhone had a starting price of $499. Since then, prices have gone up significantly. Now the latest top of the line iPhone can retail for $1500 or more. And getting them repaired is not cheap. To fix a broken screen costs up to $300. Even minor repairs can get expensive. Both AppleCare and Verizon offer insurance you can use to offset repair costs or get a new phone if yours is lost or stolen. But which is better?
We’ll break down the differences between AppleCare vs. Verizon Insurance to help you decide the best option for you.
What is AppleCare?
AppleCare has long been a part of Apple. It’s an extended warranty program you can get for all of its products. In general, most Apple devices do include a limited one-year warranty. However, these usually only covers manufacturing defects and not problems caused by customer negligence. So if you drop your phone and the screen breaks, you may not be covered.
With AppleCare, you can get two or more years of protection from defects, accidents, and other issues. Aside from water damage, it covers most problems. You only have to pay a deductible. Finally, you’re allowed to file two claims during an AppleCare coverage period.
Apple also released additional Theft/Loss coverage for iPhones a couple of years ago. This is an extra option for an additional $4.99 per month. However, don’t expect to get a new, free phone. You will have to pay between $200-$300 depending on your iPhone model.
AppleCare Deductible
Currently, AppleCare’s iPhone repair cost with AppleCare is:
- Screen Damage: $29.00
- Other accidental damage: $99
- Theft or Loss: starting from $199 (with Theft/Loss Plan).
What is Verizon’s 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. The plan is actually though Asurion, which is the biggest provider in mobile device insurance.
The coverage is solid, but there are a few additional perks. Like Apple, screen repair is $29. But you can get a same-day replacement at or repair store. Even better, you can arrange for a technician to come to your home or work! This means you don’t have to wait for days at the genius bar. Unlike Apple, it also covers liquid damage and other out of warranty repairs AppleCare doesn’t cover.
Verizon Total Mobile Deductible
- Screen Damage: $29.00
- Other repairs: Cost varies
- Lost or Stolen: $19-$199 depending on the device
SquareTrade vs. AppleCare: Which is Cheaper?
For the iPhone 11, AppleCare starts at $149. If you want to bump up coverage to include theft/loss, it goes up to $199. However, you can pay this monthly with Apple for $8.99 per month.
On the other hand, 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.
AppleCare vs Verizon Insurance: Which Plan is Better?
They are both good plans. And you definitely should get some form of phone insurance either through Apple, Verizon, SquareTrade or another retailer. Verizon’s plan is overall amazing.
It’s not just about the additional coverage, but the added convenience. You can get a technician to come to you and make same-day repairs. Compare that to standing in line at your local Apple Store or sending your phone to Apple.
However, when you work directly with Apple, you get the advantage of parts and services from the genius bar. There have been numerous complaints about the quality of Verizon’s parts. And if a non-Apple certified technician opens your phone, you void your warranty with Apple. Overall, this isn’t an extremely common problem, but if you plan on keeping your phone for 2-3 years or more, you may want to stay inside the Apple ecosystem.
Finally, with Verizon’s plan, you’re stuck with them until you finish your phone contract. This means if you need to switch carriers for any reason, you’ll likely incur additional fees and penalties.
Bottom Line: AppleCare vs. Verizon Insurance
If you have dedicated Verizon customer then the Verizon Total Mobile Plan can be a good fit for you. You can easily add to your existing phone contract and have great coverage in case of accidents. And, since you likely got the phone for free with your contract, it’s a pretty good value.
However, for most consumers, AppleCare is a better option. You not only have the freedom of choosing whatever career you like and having an unlocked phone, but you get repairs direct from Apple. And it’s cheaper monthly than Verizon. So when you purchase your next iPhone, make sure to get AppleCare along with it.
Ready for a New iPhone?
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