Looking to protect your new investment? In this article, we compare Walmart Protection Plan vs AppleCare vs Best Buy Geek Squad, highlighting their coverage, costs, and unique benefits to help you choose the best protection for your devices.
When purchasing electronics, extended warranty and protection plans can offer peace of mind against unexpected repairs or accidents.
The most popular options in the USA are the Walmart Protection Plan (by Allstate/SquareTrade), AppleCare+ and Best Buy’s Geek Squad Protection.
Each plan differs in coverage, cost, and unique features, making it important to compare them side by side for the best fit.
Walmart Protection Plan Vs AppleCare Vs Best Buy Geek Squad Comparison Table with Key Features
| Feature/Provider | Walmart Protection Plan | AppleCare+ | Best Buy Geek Squad Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who Sells | Walmart (via Allstate/SquareTrade) | Apple & Authorized Resellers | Best Buy |
| Coverage Types | Mechanical/electrical failure, accidental damage (for select products) | Hardware, software, accidental damage, theft/loss (select products) | Mechanical/electrical failure, accidental damage, battery, power surges |
| Accidental Damage | Yes (Accident Plan only: drops, spills, cracked screens) | Yes (with deductible) | Yes (select categories) |
| Theft/Loss | No | Yes (with AppleCare+ Theft & Loss for iPhone only) | No |
| Length of Coverage | 2-3 years (varies by product) | 2-3 years, renewable monthly | Up to 24 months (extendable) |
| Deductibles | Usually none for repairs/replacement | Yes (varies by repair type) | Sometimes (service fee per claim) |
| Where to File Claims | Online, walmart phone number, or in-store | Apple Support, stores, online | In-store, phone |
| Repair/Replacement | Repair, replacement, or reimbursement | Repair/replacement by Apple | Repair, replacement, or store credit |
| Support | General customer service | Priority Apple support, global | Geek Squad support, in-store |
| Price Range | Lower upfront, varies by item | Higher, varies by device | Included with Totaltech, or separate |
Walmart Protection Plan (Allstate/SquareTrade)
- Coverage: Offers protection for mechanical and electrical failures, power surges, and accidental damage (Accident Plan only), such as drops and spills for portable electronics. Does not cover theft or loss.
- Claim Process: Walmart Claim can be filed online and are often approved instantly. Repairs, replacements, or reimbursements are provided.
- Cost: Generally more affordable upfront than AppleCare+ and Best Buy plans, especially for longer terms (e.g., 3 years for less than AppleCare+ 2 years).
- Limitations: No coverage for theft/loss. Some accidental damage coverage is product-specific (e.g., available for laptops, tablets, phones, but not TVs).
AppleCare+
- Coverage: Extends Apple’s standard warranty, providing hardware and software support, accidental damage (with deductible), and, for iPhone, optional theft and loss coverage.
- Claim Process: Repairs handled directly by Apple or authorized service providers. Express replacement service for some devices.
- Cost: Higher than Walmart/SquareTrade, but includes premium services like global repair, priority support, and coverage for Apple-branded accessories.
- Deductibles: Applies to accidental damage and theft/loss claims (e.g., $29 for screen, $99 for other damage, $199+ for theft/loss).
- Flexibility: Can be renewed monthly after the initial term, up to the end of Apple’s support for the device.
Best Buy Geek Squad Protection
- Coverage: Hardware failures, accidental damage (select categories), battery replacement, power surges, and normal wear and tear.
- Claim Process: Claims can be filed in-store or by phone. Repairs, replacements, or store credit provided.
- Cost: Included with Totaltech membership for 24 months, or can be purchased separately. Service fees may apply per claim.
- Limitations: No theft/loss coverage. Accidental damage not available for all products.
Key Differences and Which to Choose Between Walmart Protection Plan Vs AppleCare Vs Best Buy Geek Squad
- Best for Apple Devices: AppleCare+ offers the most comprehensive and seamless coverage, especially if you value priority support, software help, and global repair options. Only AppleCare+ offers theft/loss protection for iPhones.
- Best for Cost Savings: Walmart Protection Plan and SquareTrade are usually more affordable, offering solid coverage for accidental damage and mechanical failures, but lack premium support and theft/loss protection.
- Best for In-Store Convenience: Best Buy’s Geek Squad Protection is ideal if you prefer in-person service and buy from Best Buy, but coverage is limited to certain categories.
- Flexibility: AppleCare+ can be renewed monthly after the initial term, while Walmart and SquareTrade plans are fixed-term.
Final Words: Choosing between Walmart Protection Plan, AppleCare+, Best Buy, and SquareTrade depends on your device, budget, and whether you need premium support or theft/loss coverage.
For Apple devices, AppleCare+ is the gold standard for comprehensive protection, but Walmart and SquareTrade offer excellent value for general electronics and shoppers seeking lower upfront costs. Best Buy is best for those who want in-person service and shop there regularly.
For the best balance of cost and coverage, Walmart Protection Plan and SquareTrade are strong contenders, but if you want the most complete protection and support for Apple devices, AppleCare+ is unmatched. Consider your usage habits, risk tolerance, and support preferences before choosing a plan that fits your needs and budget.