Applecare plan... is it necessary?

I'm planning on purchasing a macbook pro and was wondering if i should get the applecare plan... any suggestions or comments?

 

I'd say you should get AppleCare, especially for a laptop. Hard drives fail, RAM sometimes fails. AppleCare covers that. And many times if there's a problem with your MacBook Pro AppleCare might replace it with a higher model; I've heard this happen many times.

Considering many issues such as a Logic Board replacement will be costly, and a hard drive costs at least $100, the money you spend on AppleCare will be worth it, especially when you think that AppleCare lasts for three years (a long time for electronics, lots of chances for failures or issues).

Also, AppleCare will increase the value and level of trust in your MacBook Pro if you decide to sell it later on.

 

YES! The standard warranty is pitiful and only works if your computer is dead before you get it, a normal laptop doesn't die within 90 days

 

i say, get it, as the computer usually show the first sign of problem (build defect) within 1 to 2 years. yes i know applecare is expensive, but still... think of the peace of mind for 3 years! doubly true if ur mobile a lot, as moving around in the notebook cause more wear and tear.

 

I would say if you can afford it, get it. A notebook is much more susceptible to breaking down than a desktop due to the small enclosure and constant g forces.

 

If you purchase your laptop with an AMEX credit card, you'll get an extended 1 year warranty for free. The first year will be covered under AppleCare and the second will be by AMEX. Obviously on the second year, if your laptop needs to be repaired, you won't be sending it to Apple. You'll most likely have to send it to a small computer repair shop in your area and AMEX will pay for the fees.

 

If you plan to keep the laptop the full 3+ years. Yes.

I usually sell at 18 months or so and just buy a new one.

At $350, Applecare is pretty expensive, so not buying it helps pad the depreciation.