Is AppleCare+ Worth It? Smart Investment or Unnecessary Expense?

If you're buying a new Apple device—whether it’s an iPhone, MacBook, iPad, or Apple Watch—you’ve likely come across the option to purchase AppleCare+, Apple's extended warranty and support service. But is AppleCare+ truly worth the extra cost, or is it just another way for Apple to make more money?

In this guide, we’ll break down what AppleCare+ includes, how much it costs, who should consider it, and whether it’s a smart move or a waste of money based on your usage, habits, and risk tolerance.

What is AppleCare+?

AppleCare+ is an extended service and support plan from Apple that goes beyond the standard 1-year limited warranty and 90 days of complimentary technical support that comes with every Apple device. It provides:

• Extended warranty coverage (typically 2-3 years depending on device)
  
• Coverage for accidental damage
  
• Priority customer support from Apple experts
  
• Battery service
  
• Theft and loss coverage (only on eligible devices like iPhones, with an additional fee)
  

It's important to distinguish between AppleCare (basic extended warranty) and AppleCare+ (which includes accidental damage protection). AppleCare+ is the more comprehensive of the two.

What Devices Can You Get AppleCare+ For?

AppleCare+ is available for most Apple products, including:

• iPhone
  
• iPad
  
• Apple Watch
  
• MacBook and iMac
  
• AirPods and Beats
  
• Apple TV
  
• HomePod
  
  

Each product has a tailored plan with unique pricing and coverage terms.

What Does AppleCare+ Cover?

Here’s a general breakdown of what you get with AppleCare+:

1. Extended Hardware Coverage

AppleCare+ covers:

• Display issues
  
• Logic board or motherboard failure
  
• Battery defects (if battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity)
  
• Power adapter failures
  
• Keyboard and trackpad malfunctions
  

2. Accidental Damage Protection

Depending on the device, AppleCare+ allows two to unlimited incidents of accidental damage every 12 months (varies by region or model). You’ll still need to pay a service fee:

• iPhone screen damage: $29 (USD)
  
• Other iPhone damage: $99
  
• Mac accidental damage: $99 to $299 depending on the part
  
• Apple Watch damage: $69 to $79
  

3. Theft and Loss Protection (Optional Add-On)

With iPhone, you can opt for AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss. This plan includes coverage for:

• Lost or stolen iPhones
  
• Replacements with a deductible (e.g., $149 for a stolen phone)
  
• This coverage is only applicable if Find My iPhone is enabled on the device.

How Much Does AppleCare+ Cost in India?

The cost of AppleCare+ in India depends on the device and can be paid either upfront or in monthly installments. Below is an approximate price chart (INR) based on common Apple products:

💡 Note: AppleCare+ pricing in India may include GST and can vary slightly depending on the model variant and purchase channel (Apple Store Online India or Authorized Reseller).

Monthly Plan Option

AppleCare+ is also offered on a monthly basis for select devices in India, such as iPhones and Macs. However, over time, monthly plans may cost slightly more than paying upfront. For example:

• iPhone 15: Approx. ₹689/month for AppleCare+
  
• MacBook Air: Approx. ₹729/month
  
• MacBook Pro: Approx. ₹1,359/month
  

Always check Apple India's official website or speak to an Apple Store executive for the most accurate and updated pricing for your device.

Pros of AppleCare+

✅ Peace of Mind

You don’t have to stress over accidents, cracked screens, or hardware malfunctions. Everything is covered for a flat service fee.

✅ Affordable Repairs

Out-of-warranty repairs are expensive. For example, a single screen replacement for an iPhone can cost anywhere between ₹25,000 to ₹42,000 depending on the model. However, with AppleCare+, the screen repair cost drops to just ₹2,500 approximately.

Other types of accidental damage (like back glass or water damage) that might normally cost ₹35,000 to ₹60,000 can be repaired under AppleCare+ for just around ₹8,000 to ₹8,500, depending on the device.

✅ Extended Life of Product

Frequent repairs or battery replacements keep your device running longer, which saves money in the long run.

✅ Better Resale Value

Devices under AppleCare+ tend to sell for more, as buyers know they’re protected and potentially repairable at lower costs.

✅ Global Coverage

AppleCare+ offers international service options, which is helpful for travelers.

Cons of AppleCare+

❌ Upfront Cost

The plan can be expensive, especially if you don’t end up using it.

❌ Service Fees Still Apply

Even with coverage, you're still paying out-of-pocket for repairs, albeit at a lower cost.

❌ No Coverage for Everything

AppleCare+ does not cover:

• Cosmetic damage
  
• Unauthorized repairs
  
• Lost accessories (unless you have Theft/Loss protection)
  
• Third-party damage
  

❌ Theft & Loss Plan Limitations

Theft/Loss coverage is only useful if Find My iPhone is activated. Claims require several steps and documentation.

When AppleCare+ Might Be a Smart Investment

You should consider AppleCare+ if:

• You’re accident-prone. If you’ve broken phones or spilled coffee on laptops in the past, the plan could save you hundreds.
  
• You travel a lot. Damage risk is higher when you’re frequently on the go.
  
• You have kids. Devices in a family setting often face more accidental drops, water exposure, and general wear.
  
• You plan to keep your device for several years. Long-term ownership increases the chance of hardware issues.
  
• You want to resell it later. Devices with active AppleCare+ sell faster and at better prices.

When You Might Skip AppleCare+

AppleCare+ may not be necessary if:

• You always use a strong case and screen protector. Minimal risk, especially with newer, more durable models.
  
• You upgrade frequently. If you get a new phone every year, the need for long-term coverage decreases.
  
• You have a credit card or insurance plan that offers device protection.
  
• You’re tech-savvy. If you can handle basic troubleshooting or repairs independently, AppleCare+ might feel redundant.

Alternative Protection Plans

AppleCare+ is not the only game in town. Consider these options:

• Third-party insurance (like SquareTrade, Asurion)
  
• Carrier protection plans (from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile)
  
• Credit card extended warranty protection (check if your card provider offers this)
  
  

Some of these plans offer broader coverage or better pricing, but be cautious about their service quality, deductibles, and repair processes.

How to Buy AppleCare+

You can buy AppleCare+:

1. At the time of device purchase
   
   

2. Within 60 days (USA) or 7–60 days (depending on region) after purchase via:
   
   

• Apple Store app
  
• Apple website
  
• Device Settings (e.g., Settings > General > About > AppleCare+)
  

Note: Apple may require a diagnostic check to ensure the device is in good condition before accepting AppleCare+ enrollment

Final Verdict: Is AppleCare+ Worth It?

The answer depends on your usage, habits, and financial comfort.

AppleCare+ is a smart investment if you:

• Tend to damage or drop devices often
  
• Want long-term support and easy access to Apple services
  
• Use high-value products like a MacBook Pro or iPhone Pro Max
  
• Want the highest resale value and minimal hassle during repairs
  
  

AppleCare+ might be unnecessary if you:

• Are very careful with your devices
  
• Upgrade frequently
  
• Already have alternate coverage
  
• Want to save on upfront costs and take the risk

Conclusion

AppleCare+ is not a scam, but it’s not essential for everyone either. It’s a calculated form of insurance, like any other. If the peace of mind, discounted repairs, and extended support feel worth the cost for you, then go for it.

But if you're careful, protected by a sturdy case, and financially comfortable with the risk of occasional repair bills, you might be just fine skipping it.

Before you decide, review your device usage, budget, and risk tolerance, because in the end, AppleCare+ is only worth it if it brings you real value.