Asurion Portable Electronics Plan Review: Worth It?
Digging into the real-world performance of the ASURION Portable Electronic Protection Plan, user feedback paints a picture that’s equal parts dependable safety net and occasional source of frustration. Across platforms, it scores a strong 8.4/10 thanks to fast claims handling, broad coverage, and responsive customer service — but lingering complaints about refurbished replacements and denial disputes keep it from perfection.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Value
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast claims approval, often within minutes | Replacement devices may be refurbished, not identical |
| Coverage for drops, spills, and cracked screens from day one | Denials for “outside normal use” frustrate some users |
| 24/7 tech support included | Deductibles can feel steep for lower-cost items |
| No additional cost for repairs (parts, labor, shipping) | Occasional delays due to backordered stock |
| Covers mechanical/electrical failures after warranty | Marketing promises don't always match replacement quality |
| Option for Amazon gift card reimbursement | Limited enrollment window after purchase |
| Multi-device option via Complete Protect | Some users cite “runaround” in returns process |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing promises that “drops, spills, and cracked screens” are covered from day one and that repairs or replacements cost $0 beyond the plan fee. Amazon’s listing emphasizes “most claims approved within minutes” and an “easy claims process.”
While many users confirm this speed — a verified buyer on Amazon noted: “I was promised my replacement in 2 business days, it came in 1 day… fast service, thank you!” — others report friction. Reddit user u/lfn673q shared: “Two hours on chat… clear agenda of denying and delaying to avoid coverage.” Trustpilot reviews show a split: some praise “effortless way to file a claim… simplicity to the max,” while others warn of “big time scam… gave up a $900 phone for a $60 phone.”
The promise of expert tech help is also validated by users who received setup guidance, but some found the advice less relevant for niche or outdoor use cases. One Reddit commenter was told their porch-mounted indoor camera wouldn’t qualify for coverage if weather damaged it — illustrating how “normal use” definitions can narrow applicability.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Speed is the standout strength. Trustpilot reviewers frequently mention next-day replacements: “My replacement device arrived the very next day, in perfect condition,” wrote David. For families with heavy device wear, the plan is seen as a lifesaver. A Twitter/X user said, “My rowdy boys need insurance on all devices at all times… quick to handle claims.” Reddit user u/ksae2vb recounted getting a full refund for a leaking tent “after sending some pics,” and keeping the product.
The breadth of coverage — from accidental damage to mechanical failures — resonates with owners of high-value portable electronics. Verified buyers note peace of mind for laptops, tablets, and cameras, particularly when manufacturer warranties are short. Asurion’s Complete Protect option earns praise for covering multiple devices, with Reddit user u/kdhuthx stating: “Three claims… paid immediately. Totally worth it.”
Common Complaints
Refurbished replacements remain contentious. Trustpilot entries highlight disappointment when devices differ in brand, color, or condition. One ConsumerAffairs reviewer received “a quite dirty used phone… sent another one immediately, which was in great shape” — still, the mismatch can jar customers expecting new.
Claim denials often hinge on pre-existing damage or use outside normal parameters. Reddit threads document frustration when indoor devices used outdoors aren’t covered. Others mention procedural delays: “Three labels that never arrived… broken link to a shipping label,” reported on Reddit, leading to years-long disputes until Amazon intervened.
Deductibles, while lower than retail replacement costs, feel high for inexpensive gear. A ConsumerAffairs user lamented paying $150 for a tablet replacement despite long-term insurance payments.
Divisive Features
The Amazon gift card reimbursement option splits opinion. Some view it as flexible — allowing immediate re-purchase of a preferred model — while others prefer direct replacements to avoid shopping hassle. Coverage breadth in Complete Protect wins over frequent Amazon shoppers but is seen as overkill by minimalists who rarely buy tech.
Trust & Reliability
Scam concerns surface in isolated but vivid stories. One ConsumerAffairs reviewer claimed an Apple Store technician identified an Asurion-issued iPhone as “painted gold plastic… not a real iPhone.” While such extreme allegations are rare, they fuel skepticism.
Long-term users, however, report sustained reliability. A Trustpilot reviewer with decades of coverage noted that plans “finally evened out in the last 10 years” and delivered a replacement TV “with a very nominal fee” after a breakdown. Reddit users with multiple child-owned devices find Asurion indispensable despite occasional hiccups.
Alternatives
Quora comparisons pit Asurion against Mulberry, SquareTrade, and AppleCare. Mulberry offers unlimited online purchase coverage for $9.99/month, but lacks Asurion’s in-person repair network. SquareTrade is cheaper but limits claims. AppleCare costs more and is brand-specific, with less accidental damage flexibility. Asurion stands out for multi-brand, multi-device coverage and unlimited claims — appealing to tech-heavy households, though Apple loyalists may still prefer AppleCare’s OEM parts guarantee.
Price & Value
Current Amazon pricing for a 2-year portable electronics plan in the $500–$599.99 range sits at $44.99, with 4-year laptop plans ranging from $92.99 to $229.99 depending on value tier. For high-ticket items, users see clear ROI — replacing a $799 iPad for an $80 plan fee beats AppleCare’s higher rates.
Resale value isn’t directly impacted, but refurbished replacements can lower perceived worth. Community tips include buying plans for devices with high repair costs or short manufacturer warranties, and skipping them for low-value, durable goods.
FAQ
Q: Does Asurion cover cracked screens?
A: Yes, from day one for portable devices. Users report repairs “in a matter of hours” or next-day replacements once claims are approved.
Q: Are replacement devices always new?
A: No. Some replacements are refurbished but match original specs. This frustrates customers who expect identical new models.
Q: How fast is the claims process?
A: Many report approvals within minutes and delivery within 24 hours, though backorders or disputes can extend timelines.
Q: Can I cancel my plan?
A: Yes, anytime. Full refunds apply if canceled within 30 days; prorated refunds thereafter.
Q: What’s excluded from coverage?
A: Loss, theft, intentional damage, and use outside normal parameters — such as outdoor use of indoor-only devices.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a frequent tech upgrader, have kids or employees prone to accidents, or own multiple portable electronics with high repair costs. Avoid if you require OEM-new replacements or plan to use devices in ways that stretch “normal use” definitions. Pro tip from the community: document your device’s condition at arrival and keep receipts — it strengthens claim approvals and speeds resolution.
