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When it comes to protecting your phone, you can stick with your device’s manufacturer’s warranty or purchase a cell phone insurance plan. Each option has its merits, but the one you go with is based on your preferences. Keep reading this article to learn more about the differences between phone warranties and phone insurance, so you know which to use for your new smartphone.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
A few key differences exist between a smartphone’s warranty and a smartphone insurance policy. While they offer certain protections and replacement options in case you run into trouble with your phone, you’ll want to know the exact details to protect your phone properly. And if you’re using Sprint, you’ll also want to know about these Sprint screen repair solutions.
A cell phone warranty, also known as a manufacturer’s warranty, is essentially a promise from the device’s manufacturer to repair or replace your device under certain circumstances and within a specific timeframe. Most cell phone warranties are valid for a year from their purchase date. Most computers come with warranties, but great computer repair kits are available if it breaks, as your cell phone might.
Insider Tip
Most cell phone warranties are valid for a year from their purchase date.
Your cell phone’s manufacturer’s warranty typically only covers issues that come about due to faulty parts or a manufacturing defect. If your phone suddenly stops working due to no fault of your own, then you’ll want to check with your phone’s manufacturer to see if the problem is covered under warranty. Remember that a smartphone warranty will not cover accidental damage like screen cracks or water exposure. You may also void your warranty by trying to repair or tinker with your phone yourself. With an insurance plan from Sprint, you’d be better off getting a replacement phone that Asurion remanufactures.
Some smartphone companies will offer extended warranties for their devices. While extended warranties won’t cover more than the standard option, they extend the timeframe during which you can get your phone fixed through the manufacturer. Most extended warranties add an additional year or two to your standard warranty. Extended warranties are also typically much cheaper than cell phone insurance, so if you’re on a budget, you should reach out to your phone manufacturer to see their available options. To learn more about warranties, check out this guide to manufacturer warranty vs extended warranty.
Most extended warranties add an additional year or two to your standard warranty
A cell phone insurance policy covers much more than the manufacturer’s warranty. However, it’s also much more expensive than a warranty. Instead of simply receiving it with your purchase, you’ll need to pay for cell phone insurance. You’ll pay a monthly fee for as long as you want your insurance coverage to continue. Most cell phone insurance providers allow you to cancel your policy whenever you want without cancellation fees.
Cell phone insurance policies provide the most comprehensive protection and coverage you can purchase for your smartphone. On top of the mechanical and electrical defects that your warranty covers, an insurance policy will also cover accidental damage and situations where your phone is lost or stolen. It’s important to remember that on top of the monthly fee, you will also pay a deductible whenever you file a claim.
If you want to purchase a cell phone insurance policy, you have a few different options. Virtually all wireless carriers offer their own insurance policies, which you can buy at the same time as purchasing your new smartphone. However, there are also a variety of third-party insurance providers that are highly rated. It’s perfectly fine to take some time to do your research since most companies will allow you as much as 60 days to purchase a policy.
Read our guides on Microsoft’s right to repair and if you can repair or replace a vehicle for more info about repair rights.
Warning
Remember that a smartphone warranty will not cover accidental damage like screen cracks or water exposure.
F.A.Q.S
Are warranty and insurance the same thing?
No, phone warranty and phone insurance aren’t the same things. A warranty typically only covers electrical and mechanical failures due to a manufacturer defect. An insurance policy covers additional problems like accidental damage and lost or stolen phones.
Are phone warranties worth it?
All phones come with at least a year of manufacturer’s warranty coverage. However, if you feel like you need more coverage, you can always purchase an extended warranty. Extended phone warranties are worth it if you are on a budget but still want additional protection for your smartphone.
What is a phone warranty?
A phone warranty is a promise from your phone’s manufacturer to replace or repair your phone in the case of a defect that isn’t your fault. But, read the fine print, because if you decide to repair than replace a smartphone, you may void the warranty.
Is phone insurance worth getting?
Yes, cell phone insurance is absolutely worth getting, especially if you’re prone to dropping or losing your phone. Instead of paying the full cost of a new device, insurance only requires a small deductible. Once you pay for that, you’ll get a repair or a new device.
STAT: Over 5,600 smartphone screens are cracked every hour. (source)
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