What's the difference between a cell phone warranty and insurance?
A cell phone warranty typically covers mechanical and electrical failures resulting from a manufacturer defect, whereas cell phone insurance covers accidental damage, theft, and more. For example, if your phone's screen were to suddenly stop working due to a defect, the manufacturer would pay to repair or replace your phone (assuming the warranty hasn't expired). If the screen cracked after dropping your phone, your warranty wouldn't cover the repairs, but your insurance plan can.
Explore Progressive's editorial standards for Answers articles to find out why you can trust the insurance information you find here.
What does a phone warranty cover?
A phone's warranty only covers electrical or mechanical failures resulting from a manufacturing defect. A warranty doesn't cover things like cracked screens, a broken camera lens, or damage from liquid spills. Additionally, most manufacturer warranties are only good for one year, after which you would need to pay for any defect repairs yourself.
Some manufacturers or retailers may offer an extended warranty that lasts longer than a year, but these only cover manufacturer defects as well.
Is phone insurance the same as a warranty?
No, phone insurance provides coverage for accidental damage, and other losses, including theft and vandalism. And you can typically buy coverage for two years or longer. If you accidentally damage your phone or if it's stolen, you can file a claim with your phone insurance provider, who can pay to repair or replace it (minus your plan's deductible).
See how Progressive® Phone & Electronic Device Insurance provided by Worth Ave. Group can help keep your phone working.
Cell phone warranty vs. cell phone insurance
Here's a quick breakdown of what a phone warranty covers versus what a cell phone insurance plan covers:
| Cell phone warranty | Cell phone insurance | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer defects (electrical, mechanical defects) | Cell phone warrantyYes | Cell phone insuranceNo |
| Accidental damage (dropped phone, cracked screens, water/liquid damage) | Cell phone warrantyNo | Cell phone insuranceYes |
| Theft and vandalism | Cell phone warrantyNo | Cell phone insuranceYes |
Should I purchase phone insurance after my warranty expires?
If you're prone to accidents or concerned about repairing a cracked screen, you should consider buying a cell phone insurance plan regardless of your phone's warranty status. Remember, your phone's warranty won't cover accidental damage, only defects. Learn more about when cell phone insurance may be worth buying.
Get a free quote for insuring your phone or electronic device
Learn more about electronic device insurance plans.
