While Apple products are known for their high-quality and durable materials, they aren’t immune to accidental damage and hardware malfunctions. To help mitigate any potential issues that customers might run into, Apple provides essential warranty coverage on all their products, as well as paid product protection for additional benefits and coverage.
Although AppleCare might seem like a great idea, it's important to be aware of all the terms before making a decision. For example, AppleCare plans make you pay extra for accidental damage coverage, and the coverage periods are often less than ideal. When you subscribe to Mulberry Unlimited, however, you can get comprehensive coverage on all your Apple devices and accessories under the same product protection plan, for just $9.99 a month. It's the best extended warranty coverage available on the market, with no hidden fees or deductibles.
Now, let’s get into how long AppleCare lasts, what it covers, and if you need to think about adding more protection.
Understanding the difference between AppleCare and AppleCare+
There are several differences between AppleCare and AppleCare+ that it's important to understand, so you know which plan is best for your needs.
Limited vs. inclusive coverage
AppleCare+ covers both hardware and accidental damage, whereas basic AppleCare only covers the hardware of the device itself. So, AppleCare+ protects you from accidental damage, such as drops, spills, and cracked screens. However, with AppleCare, you’re only entitled to hardware repairs and replacements due to manufacturer defects or failures.
Cost differences
AppleCare is free, and AppleCare+ pricing varies based on your device and plan. However, AppleCare+ covers more incidents and provides a much lower repair fee for any kind of accidental damage, and for a longer period of time.
Service fees vs. out-of-pocket payments
You won’t be liable for any service fees with basic AppleCare, but you also won’t be able to receive any repairs or replacements for anything accidental that isn't due to hardware and material defects. So, there’s no service fee for covered repairs, but you’ll be on the hook for any repair costs related to damage outside of manufacturing defects.
With AppleCare+, on the other hand, you'll just need to pay a service fee based on the repair you need.
Number of Incidents
AppleCare will provide you with as many hardware repairs as you need within your one-year period. However, AppleCare+ covers unlimited incidents of accidental damage within the time frame of the policy term.
AppleCare and AppleCare+ timelines
AppleCare and AppleCare+ each last for different periods of time. It's important to know where you stand, so that if something happens to your device, you know whether you're covered or not.
How long to add AppleCare?
As soon as you purchase an Apple product, your basic AppleCare coverage kicks in. If you want to opt for AppleCare+, you need to enroll within 60 days of your purchase date.
How long does AppleCare last?
Basic AppleCare coverage only lasts for one year from the purchase date of your product.
How long is AppleCare+ good for?
If you decide to invest in AppleCare+, you can choose a subscription-based plan or an annual plan. Depending on the specific product, you can get 1-year, 2-year, or 3-year coverage plans.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, both AppleCare and AppleCare+ are useful for their intended purposes. If something is wrong with your device through no fault of your own, you’re covered for free repairs and replacements for the length of your coverage period.
With AppleCare+, you can extend coverage and add in additional protection like accidental damage and theft or loss. However, some people aren’t fans of the prices and wind up opting out, which can put their productivity and finances at risk.
If you want to be sure you’re getting the best extended warranty on the market, subscribe to Mulberry Unlimited! The best part? You can protect almost anything, not just your Apple devices, under the same product protection plan. You'll get unlimited claims and coverage, without any deductibles or hidden fees, for just $9.99 a month.
