Is AppleCare+ still worth it in 2025? A complete guide

No matter how careful we are, our devices can sometimes lose the battle against gravity or encounter an unexpected bug. While it is advised that we trust only Apple experts for service and repair, this can be expensive, especially if we don’t have AppleCare or AppleCare+ by our side.

However, chipping in for AppleCare+ is not cheap either. Between the initial cost, deductibles, and varying prices across products, there’s a lot to consider, which pushes many users to question if AppleCare+ is really worth it.

If you’re wondering whether you should buy AppleCare+ for your device, this in-depth, cohesive guide can help. So, let’s dive in without further ado.

What is the difference between AppleCare and AppleCare+?

AppleCare is a basic service warranty that comes with the device for free 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+ :

• Unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection, each subject to a service fee.
• Repairs for accessories in the box.
• Battery service if the battery retains less than 80% of its original capacity.
• 24/7 priority access to Apple experts for technical support.
• 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?

AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is an enhanced version of AppleCare+ specifically for iPhones. It offers all the benefits of AppleCare+, including extended warranty and accidental damage protection, while adding coverage for theft and loss. This plan is ideal for users concerned about losing their device or having it stolen.

Key features of AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss:

• Coverage for up to two incidents of theft or loss every 12 months.
• A deductible fee for replacement, which varies by iPhone model.
• Includes accidental damage protection and battery service.

However, this feature is only available for iPhone in the U.S, the U.K, Australia, Austria, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Can we extend AppleCare+ coverage?

If you want to extend AppleCare+ coverage beyond the initial 2-year, you can purchase an extended coverage plan within 45 days after the original coverage ends. The offer is limited to selective countries and regions where AppleCare+ Theft and Loss is supported.

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 24/36 months or set up a monthly payment plan for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Apple Vision Pro and an annual payment plan for Mac. Although the monthly/annual recurring payment plan is more expensive, it allows you 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 device 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.

How much does AppleCare+ coverage cost for iPhone?

What does AppleCare+ for iPhone cover?

• Apple-certified service and support coverage
• Same-day service in most major metropolitan cities across the world
• 24/7 priority access to technical support
• Unlimited accidental damage protection – Each incident is subject to service fees and applicable taxes:
  • Screen damage – $29.00
  • Back glass damage – $29.00
  • Cracked screen and back glass damage – $58
  • Any other accidental damage – $99.00
  • Theft or loss – $149.00
• Battery service coverage – When it drops below 80% capacity
• Hardware coverage – Repair for the cable included in the iPhone box
• 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 your iPhone 16 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 16 Pro

• With AppleCare+ Theft and Loss, your new iPhone 16 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 there is 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 13 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.

How much does AppleCare+ coverage cost for iPad?

What does AppleCare+ for iPad cover?

• Unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection
• Each incident is subject to a service fee plus the applicable tax:
  • Front cracked screen – $29
  • iPad accidental damage – $49
  • Accessories (Apple Pencil, keyboard, included USB cable and power adapter) – $29
  • iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini screen damage – $29
  • iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini other accidental damage – $99
• 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 accidental damage repair for your iPad Pro, it can cost you up to $1049, depending on the model and damage type. However, with AppleCare+ insurance, you pay just $99 + taxes.

Final take – So, AppleCare+ would definitely come in handy, especially if you have the full setup complete with iPad Pro, 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 purchased at the same time.

How much does AppleCare+ coverage cost for Mac?

What does AppleCare+ cover?

• Apple-certified service and support coverage
• 24/7 priority access to technical support
• Unlimited 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 including guidance on connecting printers and wireless networks

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 the one hand, it saves you money. For instance, battery replacement typically costs around $249 for the MacBook Pro, while it’s free with AppleCare+.

However, Macs are quite robust, and typically, no major problems are observed in the first four-plus years of use. Now, add your usage to 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, the 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

All Apple Watch models come with one year of hardware repair coverage under a limited warranty and up to 90 days of complimentary support. 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.

How much does AppleCare+ coverage cost for Apple Watch?

What does AppleCare+ cover for Apple Watch?

• Unlimited accidental damage protection
• 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 10 is $299, and a Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 2 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 for three years from the purchase date.

How much does it cost, and what does it cover?

The AppleCare Protection Plan is available for Apple TV 4th gen and Apple TV 4K and costs $29. You will receive the following benefits:

• Unlimited incidents of accidental damage are subjected to a $15 service fee
• 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 include 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. So, the chances of accidental damage to the product are relatively low.

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 very useful. Also, some Siri remotes malfunction after extensive usage. With AppleCare+, you can get free battery replacement.

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 Pill
• Beats Solo 4
• Beats Solo3 Wireless
• Beats Studio Buds
• Beats Studio Buds+
• Beats Studio Pro
• Beats Studio3 Wireless
• Powerbeats
• Powerbeats Pro

How much does AppleCare+ coverage cost for HomePod and AirPods?

What does AppleCare+ cover?

• Unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection
• 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
• Coverage for charging cable included in the box
• 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 about $549 AirPods Max, you might not mind spending $59 for some peace of mind. However, investing $15 or $29 for a $99 HomePod Mini or $179 AirPods may not be in your best interests.

For one, Apple doesn’t make cheap, quality products. If the device has a defect due to bad luck, the one-year AppleCare easily covers the situation. Though I would have loved a Theft and loss feature added to this category, that would definitely be worth picking up.

It all comes down to this question: how many speakers, 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.

AppleCare+ for Apple Vision Pro

AppleCare+ for Apple Vision Pro is Apple’s extended warranty and service plan designed specifically for the mixed-reality headset. Given the Vision Pro’s premium price, AppleCare+ provides peace of mind by covering accidental damage, hardware issues, and technical support.

How much does AppleCare+ coverage cost for Apple Vision Pro?

AppleCare+ for Apple Vision Pro comes with a one-time payment for two years or a monthly subscription option. Here’s the latest pricing:

What does AppleCare+ cover for Vision Pro?

AppleCare+ for Vision Pro includes the following:

• Apple-certified service and support coverage
• Unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection, each subject to a service fee.
  • Damage for included accessories: $29
  • Other damage including cracked cover glass: $299
• 24/7 access to Apple experts for troubleshooting and guidance
• Battery service coverage
• Express replacement service
• Protection for included accessories like the cable
• Service offered: Carry-in repair and mail-in repair
• Software support

Should you buy or pass?

AppleCare+ for Vision Pro is a worthwhile investment for most users, considering the device’s high cost. If you’re new to VR headsets or frequently travel or use the device in active environments where damage is more likely, buying AppleCare+ will be a good choice.

Any damage other than a cracked screen costs $2399, which is huge. So, getting the plan will be a no-brainer unless you’re extremely careful with your devices and rarely encounter accidental damage or primarily use Vision Pro in a controlled home environment.

However, my only disappointment is that the coverage does not include theft or loss of your device or damage to corrective lenses used with it.

Is AppleCare+ worth it? 

In most cases, yes, AppleCare+ can actually save you more money than you would 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 greater risk and select a plan accordingly. Furthermore, the terms and conditions for the standard warranty may vary by 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:

• How to check if iPhone is original or not
• How to cancel subscriptions on iPhone, Mac or Apple Watch
• How to find an iPhone that’s lost or stolen