You must know the differences of walmart protection plan vs manufacturer warranty when purchasing electronics, appliances, or other valuable items from Walmart, where you may be offered both a manufacturer warranty and the option to buy a protection plan.
While both provide coverage for your product, they differ significantly in what they cover, how long they last, and how claims are handled.
Understanding these differences helps you make the best decision for your purchase and ensures you’re not left unprotected when issues arise.
What is Manufacturer Warranty?
A manufacturer’s warranty is a guarantee provided by the product’s manufacturer, typically included at no extra cost with your purchase.
This warranty usually lasts between 90 days and one year, depending on the product and brand, and covers defects in materials and workmanship that occur under normal use.
Key Features:
- Coverage: Mechanical or electrical failures due to manufacturing defects.
- Duration: Usually 90 days to 1 year, though some brands offer longer terms (eg: Samsung TVs may have a 3year warranty).
- Exclusions: Does not cover accidental damage, misuse, or normal wear and tear.
- Claims: Must be filed directly with the manufacturer, often requiring proof of purchase and sometimes product registration.
What is Walmart Protection Plan?
The Walmart Protection Plan is an extended service contract you can purchase at checkout or shortly after your Walmart purchase.
It is administered by third-party providers (such as Allstate or SquareTrade) and is designed to supplement or extend the manufacturer warranty.
Comparison Table for Walmart Protection Plan vs Manufacturer Warranty
| Feature | Manufacturer Warranty | Walmart Protection Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Who Provides It? | Product Manufacturer | Walmart (administered by Allstate or SquareTrade) |
| Duration | 90 days – 1 year (brand dependent) | 1 – 3+ years (user selected) |
| What’s Covered? | Defects in materials/workmanship | Defects, power surges, accidental damage (if ADH), battery (if purchased) |
| Accidental Damage? | No | Yes, if ADH coverage is purchased |
| Power Surge Coverage? | No (usually) | Yes |
| Battery Replacement? | Rarely | Yes, if battery coverage is purchased |
| Claims Process | Through manufacturer | Through Walmart plan administrator |
| Cost | Included in product price | Additional fee at checkout |
| Transferable? | Sometimes | Yes, can be transferred at no charge |
| Cancellation / Refund | Not applicable | Pro rated refund if canceled after 30 days. |
When Should You Consider a Walmart Protection Plan?
- You want coverage beyond the manufacturers warranty: Walmart plan kicks in after the manufacturer warranty ends, ensuring continued protection.
- You need accidental damage coverage: Manufacturer warranties rarely cover drops, spills, or cracked screens, Walmart ADH option can fill this gap.
- You want a streamlined claims process: Filing with Walmart plan administrator can be faster and more user-friendly than dealing with some manufacturers.
- You want to protect high use or high value items: For electronics, appliances, and other expensive products, extended coverage can provide peace of mind.
Limitations and Considerations
- Walmart’s plan requires you to keep your receipt and register your product for some plans.
- Some accidental damage coverage is not available for all product categories (eg: TVs may not be eligible for ADH).
- Walmart plan is not always the cheapest or most comprehensive option compare with other third party providers if you want the best value.
Conclusion: The Walmart Protection Plan and manufacturer warranty serve different but complementary purposes. While the manufacturer’s warranty offers basic protection against defects for a limited time, the Walmart Protection Plan extends and enhances your coverage, especially for accidental damage and power surges.
By understanding these key differences between the Walmart Protection Plan and manufacturer warranty, you can make an informed choice and ensure your purchase is protected for years to come.