iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
In the US, Apple’s standard limited warranty generally covers defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the original retail purchase; it does not cover accidental damage. AppleCare+ is optional and can add accidental-damage service, subject to plan terms and fees. Exact coverage, duration, and price depend on the product and location.
What the standard Apple warranty covers
For eligible Apple-branded products covered by its US iOS warranty, Apple provides one year of coverage from the original retail purchase for defects in materials and workmanship when the product is used normally and according to Apple’s published guidelines. The warranty excludes accidental damage. See Apple’s US iOS limited-warranty terms; other product families have their own terms, so do not assume every detail applies to a Mac, Apple Watch, or another device.
Apple says most products come with one year of limited-warranty hardware coverage. The warranty is not the same as a promise to repair any problem at no cost: the cause of the issue and the product-specific terms matter.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What AppleCare+ adds
AppleCare+ is an optional service plan. Depending on the device and plan, it can extend hardware coverage, add accidental-damage protection, and provide priority support. The applicable plan document—not the general description—sets the actual benefits and exclusions. Apple’s AppleCare overview describes the broad offering.
#1 Best Overall
- Designed by Apple, the TechWoven Case with MagSafe offers beautiful personalization and protection for your iPhone 17 Pro Max.
- This case is crafted with a custom technical woven fabric that’s made from 100 percent recycled polyester.
- Multicolored yarns are woven together on a Jacquard loom, creating a tactile texture with a rich depth of color.
- The sides of the case are coated with a lightly textured TPU for a better grip.
- The refined anodized aluminum buttons provide precise feedback.
AppleCare+ terms provide no-charge hardware service for covered defects. For covered devices with integrated rechargeable batteries, they also provide service if battery capacity falls below 80% of its original specifications. Accidental damage from handling may be repaired or the device replaced subject to the applicable service fee and plan terms. Check the North America AppleCare+ terms and your plan confirmation; terms can vary by product and territory.
AppleCare+ vs. the standard warranty
| Comparison | Standard limited warranty | AppleCare+ |
|---|---|---|
| Covered cause | Defects in materials and workmanship under the applicable warranty terms; accidental damage is excluded. | Covered defects, plus accidental-damage service for eligible devices under the applicable plan and fee schedule. |
| Duration | One year for the eligible products described in Apple’s cited US iOS warranty; check the warranty for your product. | Varies by product, plan, and location; confirm the duration in the offer and plan documents. |
| What you pay for a covered repair | Covered defects are handled under the warranty terms; damage or other excluded issues are not covered by that warranty. | Accidental-damage service can carry a device- and damage-specific fee. Covered-defect and battery service are subject to plan terms. |
| Support and service features | Benefits are those in the applicable limited warranty. | May include extended hardware coverage and priority support; features depend on the plan. |
| Consumer-law rights | Warranty benefits are additional to rights under applicable consumer-protection laws. | The plan does not remove applicable statutory rights; local law and plan terms govern. |
What accidental-damage service may cost
Apple’s current US service-fee schedule lists $29 for eligible iPhone screen or back-glass damage and $99 for other accidental damage. These are US examples for eligible iPhone claims, not universal prices for every model, repair, or country. Fees and eligibility can change; check Apple’s current service-fee schedule and the terms for your plan before relying on an amount.
Rank #2
- DESIGNED BY APPLE — This Apple case is designed to fit iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- CAMERA CONTROL — This case features a sapphire crystal coupled to a conductive layer to communicate finger movements to the Camera Control.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND SMOOTH — Made from a 55 percent recycled silicone material, the case is lightweight and smooth to the touch, with a soft microfiber lining on the inside for even more protection.
- SCRATCH AND DROP PROTECTION — Not only does this case look great, but the raised edges protect your iPhone from scratches and drops.
- MAGSAFE CHARGING COMPATIBLE — With built-in magnets that align perfectly with your iPhone 16 Pro Max, this case offers a magical attach experience to other MagSafe accessories and is MagSafe charging compatible.
How to decide whether AppleCare+ is worth considering
The warranty-versus-plan distinction tells you what kinds of problems may be covered, but it does not by itself establish whether buying AppleCare+ makes financial sense. Compare the plan offered for your device with your likely repair exposure and your preference about unexpected costs.
- Identify the exact device and location. AppleCare+ availability, duration, benefits, and fees depend on product and territory.
- Check the plan price and duration. Use the offer and plan confirmation for your device rather than assuming a universal price or coverage period.
- Consider the repair scenarios that matter to you. A defect claim and an accidental-damage claim are treated differently; accidental-damage service can still involve a fee.
- Weigh predictable plan cost against repair-bill risk. Your decision depends on the plan’s local price, the applicable service fees, and how comfortable you are paying for a repair unexpectedly. The available terms do not establish how likely a particular owner is to need a repair or whether the plan will save money.
Consumer rights and the terms that govern your case
Apple says limited-warranty benefits are additional to rights and remedies under applicable consumer-protection laws, including laws where you bought or live. A written warranty or AppleCare+ plan should not be treated as replacing mandatory legal protections. Apple’s consumer-law rights page explains this distinction, while the warranty, plan confirmation, and local law determine the terms applicable to your situation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- DESIGNED BY APPLE — This Apple case is designed to fit iPhone 17 Pro
- CAMERA CONTROL — This case features a sapphire crystal coupled to a conductive layer to communicate finger movements to the Camera Control.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND SMOOTH — Made from a 55 percent recycled silicone material, the case is lightweight and smooth to the touch, with a soft microfiber lining on the inside for even more protection.
- SCRATCH AND DROP PROTECTION — Not only does this case look great, but the raised edges protect your iPhone from scratches and drops.
- MAGSAFE CHARGING COMPATIBLE — With built-in magnets that align perfectly with your iPhone 17 Pro, this case offers a magical attach experience to other MagSafe accessories and is MagSafe charging compatible.
Rank #4
- Designed by Apple to complement iPhone 14, the Silicone Case with MagSafe is a delightful way to protect your iPhone.
- The silky, soft-touch finish of the silicone exterior feels great in your hand. And on the inside, there’s a soft microfibre lining for even more protection.
- With built-in magnets that align perfectly with iPhone 14, this case offers a magical attach experience and faster wireless charging, every time. When it’s time to charge, just leave the case on your iPhone and snap on your MagSafe charger, or set it on your Qi-certified charger.
- Like every Apple-designed case, it undergoes thousands of hours of testing throughout the design and manufacturing process. So not only does it look great, it’s built to protect your iPhone from scratches and drops.
- Compatible with iPhone 14
Rank #3
- DESIGNED BY APPLE — This Apple case is designed to fit iPhone 17 Pro Max
- CAMERA CONTROL — This case features a sapphire crystal coupled to a conductive layer to communicate finger movements to the Camera Control.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND SMOOTH — A blend of clear polycarbonate and flexible materials come together to make the case lightweight and smooth to the touch.
- SCRATCH AND DROP PROTECTION — Not only does this case look great, but the raised edges protect your iPhone from scratches and drops.
- MAGSAFE CHARGING COMPATIBLE — With built-in magnets that align perfectly with your iPhone 17, this case offers a magical attach experience to other MagSafe accessories and is MagSafe charging compatible.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
