Google Preferred Care

Updated: Feb 13, 2024 2:31 PM
google preferred care guide

If you’re looking for the best cell phone insurance, you may be wondering whether Google Preferred Care is worth the cost. Well, it depends on a variety of factors, like what coverage you need and if you are fine with not having loss or theft protection.

To help you decide, let’s take a look at how you can make every future device repair much more manageable. Whether it’s due to electrical failures or having to make replacement claims, it’s always good to research an insurance plan before you take the leap.

Key Takeaways_

  • Google Preferred Care is an extended warranty and support policy you can have for any Pixel device that you own provided by Google.
  • There are a few pros to having Preferred Care phone coverage for your device, including being able to make replacement claims.
  • However, there are also a few cons that come with this type of extended warranty. For example, you’re not covered for loss or theft.

Is Google Preferred Care Worth Getting?

Most companies have their own form of device protection plans, like the Xfinity mobile protection plan. Google is no different, offering its Google Preferred Care plan to users.

Of course, just because you can buy it doesn’t mean it’s the right phone insurance for you. As with any insurance membership plan, it really comes down to the individual. In the end, you may end up researching if Asurion is worth it instead.

Should You Buy Coverage?

Before you buy, check out our list of the best phone insurance options. Our #1 pick is Akko, which offers great device coverage at a very competitive rate of just $5/month with the 1st month free.

You can view more about Akko directly here.

What is Google Preferred Care?

Google Preferred Care is an extended warranty and support program available to owners of Pixel devices, including their phones, watches, and laptops. Like any insurance, the intent is to provide peace of mind when accidents happen and lessen the impact of repair costs.

phone with a broken screen

For example, you can get a replacement device for a much lower price, or sometimes free, when things go wrong or if the phone is lost or stolen. Of course, always check the reviews of the company you’re looking into, such as Assurant reviews.

Pros of Google Preferred Care

There are quite a few pros to having this insurance plan. Those positive points include the coverage of accidental damages, such as liquid spills, drops, and cracks, as well as electrical or mechanical issues after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

They also offer low-cost screen repair and overnight shipping of replacement devices.

warning

Keep in mind that, in addition to your premium payments, there will be additional service charges when you file a claim for repair or replacement.

Cons of Google Preferred Care

Unfortunately, all plans have downsides, and the same is true of Google Preferred Care. For example, if you don’t pay for the plan in full upfront, it will add an extra monthly charge to your bill.

It should be noted that the Pixelbook Go in the US is only eligible for Preferred Care with an upfront payment, not monthly payments

In addition to this premium charge, other service fees will apply to each claim (anywhere between $29 to $149), and the amount of that service fee varies depending on the device being repaired.

Preferred Care also does not cover loss or theft as it is an extended warranty and not insurance. You’ll also be limited to approved services for repairs.

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