Applecare Vs Applecare For Iphone X Is The Plus Version Really Worth It

The iPhone X was a landmark device—introducing Face ID, an edge-to-edge OLED display, and a premium design that still feels modern years later. If you're still using one or recently picked up a used model, you might be weighing whether AppleCare or AppleCare+ is the smarter investment. While both offer support and service benefits, the differences between them are significant—especially when it comes to accidental damage protection and long-term cost savings.

Understanding what each plan covers—and how your usage patterns affect their value—is essential before making a decision. Let’s break down the key distinctions, real-world scenarios, and financial implications to help you determine if AppleCare+ is truly worth the extra cost.

Understanding AppleCare vs AppleCare+

First, it's important to clarify a common misconception: Apple does not offer two separate plans called \"AppleCare\" and \"AppleCare+\" for iPhones. What people often refer to as “AppleCare” is actually the standard warranty that comes with every new iPhone. AppleCare+ is the optional extended coverage plan available for purchase.

• Standard Warranty (often mistaken for “AppleCare”): Includes 1 year of hardware repair coverage and 90 days of free phone support from Apple.
• AppleCare+: Extends coverage to 2 years, adds unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection (subject to service fees), includes theft and loss coverage (on eligible models), and provides 24/7 priority access to Apple Support.

For the iPhone X, which launched in 2017, AppleCare+ could be purchased within 60 days of device activation. Although the original window has passed for most users, this analysis remains relevant for those who bought second-hand devices or are considering similar decisions for newer models.

Tip: Always check your device’s eligibility for AppleCare+ through Apple’s official website—some refurbished or international models may have different terms.

Coverage Comparison: What’s Really Included?

The core difference lies in protection scope. The standard warranty only covers manufacturing defects. It won’t help if you drop your phone in water, crack the screen, or sit on it accidentally. AppleCare+, however, explicitly includes coverage for these common mishaps.

Feature	Standard Warranty	AppleCare+
Duration	1 year	2 years
Phone & Chat Support	90 days	24/7, 2 years
Accidental Damage Coverage	No	Yes (up to 2 incidents per year)
Screen Repair Fee	N/A	$29
Other Damage Fee	N/A	$99
Theft/Loss Protection	No	No (added later for newer models)
Battery Service (if below 80% capacity)	Free after 1 year only if defective	Free anytime during coverage

Note: Theft and loss were not included in AppleCare+ for the iPhone X at launch. That feature arrived with iPhone 8 and later models. So for iPhone X owners, AppleCare+ offered only accidental damage and extended support—not peace of mind against theft.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is AppleCare+ Worth It?

The upfront cost of AppleCare+ for iPhone X was $149 at launch. For many, that felt steep for a two-year commitment. But the real value emerges when something goes wrong.

Consider this: replacing a cracked OLED display on an iPhone X without AppleCare+ could cost between $279 and $329 at an Apple Store. With AppleCare+, the same repair costs just $29—a savings of over $250 per incident. Even one screen crack pays for nearly the entire plan.

“Most consumers underestimate how often they’ll need repairs. One accident can make AppleCare+ pay for itself instantly.” — David Lin, Consumer Tech Analyst at GadgetWise

Additionally, battery degradation is a growing issue on older iPhones. After 18–24 months, many iPhone X users reported reduced battery life. Under AppleCare+, battery replacement is free regardless of cause. Without it, the out-of-warranty fee was $49—less than a screen repair but still an added expense.

Real-World Scenario: Sarah’s iPhone X Experience

Sarah bought an iPhone X in November 2017. She opted out of AppleCare+ to save money. Eight months later, she dropped her phone in a pool. After drying it, the device seemed fine—but within a week, the speaker failed and the touchscreen became unresponsive due to internal corrosion.

At the Apple Store, she was quoted $549 for an out-of-warranty replacement. Had she had AppleCare+, her cost would have been $99 for water damage (classified as “other damage”). She later admitted: “I thought I was being careful. But accidents happen fast.”

This case illustrates how quickly a single incident can outweigh the cost of protection—especially with a high-end device like the iPhone X.

When AppleCare+ Makes the Most Sense

Not every user needs AppleCare+. Your lifestyle, handling habits, and risk tolerance play a major role. Here’s a checklist to help decide:

📋 **AppleCare+ Decision Checklist**

• ✅ Do you frequently use your phone in high-risk environments (kitchens, outdoors, near water)?
• ✅ Have you broken or damaged a previous smartphone?
• ✅ Do you carry your phone loosely in pockets or bags without a protective case?
• ✅ Are you planning to keep the device for more than a year?
• ✅ Is replacing the phone outright financially difficult if damaged?

If you answered “yes” to two or more of these, AppleCare+ likely offers strong value. For cautious users with robust cases and stable routines, the standard warranty might suffice—especially if budget is tight.

Alternatives and Smart Risk Management

If AppleCare+ isn’t available or no longer cost-effective (e.g., for a used iPhone X), consider alternatives:

1. Third-party insurance: Providers like Asurion or carrier-backed plans (e.g., AT&T Protect, Verizon Mobile Protect) offer similar coverage, sometimes including theft. However, deductibles can be higher, and service quality varies.
2. Self-insurance: Set aside $150 in a dedicated fund. If nothing happens, you keep the money. If damage occurs, you’re prepared without paying Apple’s markup.
3. High-quality accessories: Invest in a rugged case and tempered glass screen protector. These can prevent up to 80% of common damage types, reducing reliance on any insurance.

Tip: Pairing a good case with regular software updates and battery health monitoring can extend your iPhone X’s lifespan significantly—regardless of coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still buy AppleCare+ for my iPhone X today?

No. Apple requires AppleCare+ to be purchased within 60 days of device activation. For iPhone X units released in 2017, that window has long closed. However, if you bought a used iPhone X and can verify it hasn't exceeded the 60-day limit from its original activation date (rare), you might still qualify.

Does AppleCare+ cover liquid damage?

Yes. For iPhone X, liquid damage is covered under “accidental damage” as long as the device shows no signs of prior unauthorized modifications. You’ll pay the $99 service fee for “other damage,” but it’s far cheaper than full replacement.

What happens when AppleCare+ expires?

You revert to the standard one-year warranty terms, even if your device is older. After that, all repairs become out-of-warranty and full-price. Apple may eventually stop providing service for discontinued models entirely.

Final Verdict: Was AppleCare+ Worth It for iPhone X?

For most users, yes—especially given the iPhone X’s fragile front and back glass, expensive OLED display, and premium price tag at launch ($999). The $149 investment provided meaningful protection against the two biggest risks: drops and liquid exposure.

Even if you never filed a claim, having immediate access to Apple-certified technicians and genuine parts ensured faster, safer repairs. And unlike third-party shops, Apple wouldn’t void remaining functionality or compromise water resistance during service.

🚀

Take action now: If you’re buying a current-generation iPhone, evaluate AppleCare+ at purchase time. Use the lessons from the iPhone X era—accidents are unpredictable, but protection doesn’t have to be optional. Your future self will thank you when a simple slip doesn’t turn into a costly emergency.