Buying a refurbished smartphone or laptop is a smart financial move, offering premium devices at a fraction of the cost. However, a refurbished device still represents a significant investment, and like all electronics, it’s vulnerable to life’s little mishaps—the accidental drop, the spilled coffee, or the sudden electrical surge.
While a standard warranty from the seller typically covers mechanical and electrical failures, it rarely includes accidental damage from handling (ADH). This is where a dedicated protection plan steps in, offering essential peace of mind. For refurbished devices, securing the right ADH coverage can be tricky, as many plans only cover new purchases.
Here is a breakdown of the best accidental damage protection plans to consider for your refurbished smartphones and laptops.
Manufacturer-Direct Plans: A Premium Option
When available, a protection plan directly from the original manufacturer often offers the best service, using genuine parts and certified technicians. However, eligibility can be a major hurdle for refurbished or “pre-owned” devices.
| Plan | Devices Covered | Refurbished Eligibility | Key Features |
| AppleCare+ | iPhones, iPads, MacBooks | Yes, but typically only if the device is a Certified Refurbished unit purchased directly from Apple or an authorized reseller, and the plan is bought within a set period. | Covers drops, spills, liquid damage, and often offers low-cost screen/back-glass repairs. May include theft/loss (AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss). |
| Samsung Care+ | Galaxy Smartphones, Laptops | Yes, often purchasable within a short period (e.g., 60 days) of buying a new or eligible refurbished device. | Covers accidental damage (drops, spills), mechanical breakdown, and often includes same-day cracked screen repair options and unlimited repairs. |
| HP/Lenovo ADP | Laptops | Varies by program. Some extended Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) plans may be purchasable post-sale for eligible models, but often the free ADP programs are for new purchases only. | Covers drops, spills, and electrical surges. Typically uses genuine parts. |
Pro Tip: Always check the terms and conditions for refurbished eligibility. A device purchased as “Certified Refurbished” from the original manufacturer has the highest chance of qualifying for their top-tier protection plan.
Third-Party & Independent Insurance: Greater Flexibility
Independent insurance providers and specialty gadget insurers are often the most flexible choice for refurbished devices, especially if you bought your phone or laptop from a third-party seller or a private market.
1. Worth Ave. Group (Progressive)
Often cited for its flexibility regarding device age and condition, Worth Ave. Group (sometimes offered via Progressive) is a strong contender for refurbished electronics.
- Refurbished Eligibility: Does not have an age limit for many devices and covers both new and used electronics, making it ideal for refurbished purchases.
- Coverage: Typically covers accidental damage (drops, liquid spills), theft, and standard perils.
- Cost & Claim: Policies are often for a 1 or 2-year term. They pay out the current market value if the device cannot be repaired.
2. Asurion
Asurion is a major player in the device protection space, often partnering with carriers (Verizon, AT&T) and retailers (Amazon, uBreakiFix).
- Asurion Home+: This is a comprehensive plan designed to cover all your eligible home tech, including laptops and phones, regardless of when or where they were purchased. It is especially useful if you have multiple devices to cover.
- Coverage: Accidental damage, mechanical failure, and technical support.
- Claim: Uses a network of certified repair locations (like uBreakiFix) for fast service.
3. Specialty Gadget Insurance (Varies by Region)
In markets like the UK, there are many standalone Gadget Insurance providers. These policies are designed to cover devices outside the home against accidental damage, loss, and theft.
- Refurbished Eligibility: Policies often have an age limit (e.g., device must be under 18 or 36 months old) and may require the device to be refurbished to a manufacturer’s specification.
- What to Check: Look closely at the excess fee (your deductible), the single-item limit (the maximum payout), and the terms for used or second-hand items.
Key Comparison Points Before You Buy
Accidental damage protection for refurbished electronics is not one-size-fits-all. Before committing to a plan, use this checklist:
- Refurbished Stance: Does the policy explicitly cover refurbished, used, or second-hand devices? Is there a maximum age limit?
- Accidental Damage Definition: Ensure it includes common mishaps like drops, cracks, and liquid spills. Some budget plans might exclude liquid damage.
- Deductible/Service Fee: How much do you have to pay each time you file a claim? A low monthly premium is less valuable if the deductible is prohibitively high.
- Repair vs. Replacement: Will they replace the device with a like-for-like equivalent (another refurbished unit) or the current market value?
- Claim Limit: Is there a limit on the number of claims you can make over the policy term? (e.g., AppleCare+ often allows unlimited accidental damage incidents, while some other plans limit you to one or two.)
A refurbished device is a smart investment, and protecting it with an ADH plan is an equally smart move. While manufacturer plans like AppleCare+ offer a gold standard of service (if eligible), independent options like Worth Ave. Group or a comprehensive plan like Asurion Home+ often provide the necessary flexibility to cover a pre-loved device, ensuring your budget-friendly tech stays protected for years to come.
