Apple Care: Expensive insurance or smart investment?
Your new iPhone costs a fortune. That MacBook even more. Adding Apple Care on top of that feels like stealing—another hundreds of euros extra for something you might never use. It's understandable that you're hesitant. But here's what no one tells you: that very hesitation could end up costing you thousands .
A cracked screen, broken AirPods , or defective MacBook battery without Apple Care means exorbitant repair costs. Or worse: buying a completely new device. While Apple Care covers that damage for a fraction of the cost.
The real secret? Combine Apple Care with refurbished devices and the right accessories for maximum protection. This way, you'll not only save money on purchases, but you'll also avoid that heartbreaking moment when your device breaks—and your wallet too.
Useful links
- View our complete range of refurbished Apple products
- Protect your iPhone with a screen protector
- Discover our iPhone collection
When Apple Care really makes a difference
A cracked screen can easily cost you €361 for an iPhone 14 Pro without Apple Care. With Apple Care? Then you're looking at €29. That bill quickly adds up. But the real value of Apple Care isn't just the lower repair costs.
It's about those moments when your device fails. Exactly when you need it most. That presentation tomorrow. That video call with family abroad. Your workday revolving entirely around your MacBook. You don't want to wait weeks for a repair or argue about warranty terms.
The real cost without Apple Care
Let's be honest about the prices. A new battery for your MacBook costs between €199 and €269 without Apple Care. A broken keyboard? Expect to pay at least €450. An iPhone with water damage can easily cost you €559.
With Apple Care, you pay a fixed deductible for these repairs:
- Screen damage: 29 euros
- Other damage: 99 euros
- Battery replacement: free if less than 80% capacity
The one-time investment for Apple Care ranges from €129 to €379, depending on your device. For an iPhone 15 Pro, for example, you pay €229 for two years of coverage. That's less than a single screen repair without coverage.
Smart combination: refurbished and Apple Care
Here's the interesting part. Many people think Apple Care is only useful for new devices. The opposite is true. Apple Care can be especially valuable for refurbished devices.
You can buy a refurbished iPhone at a significant discount. You can invest some of that savings in Apple Care. This gives you the best of both worlds: an affordable device with full coverage. Moreover, you can still purchase Apple Care for many refurbished devices, provided they meet certain requirements.
The combination works especially well because:
- Your total investment remains lower than a new device without Apple Care
- You receive the same warranty as with a new device
- Refurbished devices from reliable suppliers have been thoroughly checked
- You contribute to sustainability without compromising on security
Practical scenarios where Apple Care pays off
For those who travel a lot
Your MacBook goes everywhere. Coffee shops, trains, planes. The risk of damage increases exponentially. Apple Care offers worldwide coverage. Whether you're in Amsterdam or New York, you get the same service.
Families with children
iPads and iPhones in children's hands pose an extra risk. Falls, spills, and throws—it's all part of the game. With Apple Care, you can prevent every fall from becoming a financial drain.
Professionals and entrepreneurs
Your devices are your tools. Downtime means lost revenue. Apple Care not only covers damage but also prioritizes repairs and replacement devices if repairs take longer.
The fine print that matters
Apple Care doesn't cover everything. Theft and loss are excluded (for which there's Apple Care+, which includes theft and loss). Intentional damage is also not covered. But for most users, these aren't dealbreakers.
What is often overlooked:
- You can transfer Apple Care when you sell your device
- The coverage also applies to supplied accessories such as charging cables
- You get two years of software support included
- Express replacement is available on select models
When Apple Care is less useful
To be fair, Apple Care isn't necessary for everyone. Do you only use your device at home? Do you already have good home contents insurance that covers electronics? Are you extremely careful with your belongings? Then you might be able to bear the risk yourself.
Apple Care may also be less relevant for older refurbished models that you use as a second device. The investment in that case doesn't always outweigh the device's residual value.
The moment of decision: Apple Care or not?
Ultimately, the decision comes down to risk tolerance. Can you afford an unexpected €500 repair? Or would you prefer the security of a fixed, low deductible?
Consider these points:
- How intensively do you use the device?
- What are your experiences with previous devices?
- How important is the device for work or study?
- Do you have alternatives in case of failure?
Combining a refurbished device with Apple Care often offers the best balance. You save money on purchases and are insured against high repair costs. This is not only good for your wallet, but also for the environment.
The smartest approach to Apple Care
Apple Care feels like expensive insurance until your device breaks. Then suddenly that €229 seems like a bargain compared to a €361 screen repair.
The smartest move? Combine refurbished Apple products with Apple Care. You'll save a lot on purchases and avoid financial setbacks in case of damage . Not everyone needs it, but for heavy users, families with children, or professionals, it's often worth the investment.
Weigh your own risks and choose what suits your situation.
