Whether you're a casual phone user or you live and breathe your mobile device, there's no denying that cell phones are expensive. The average cost of a new iPhone is now over $1,000, and that's not even counting the price of insurance. Wireless carriers typically offer cell phone insurance plans for an additional monthly fee, but is it worth it?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the right decision for you will depend on several factors. According to Consumer Reports, phone insurance can be a good idea if you're worried about losing your phone or damaging it beyond repair. However, they also warn that there are some potential downsides to consider before signing up for a policy. 

Downsides

For one thing, smartphone insurance coverage typically comes with a deductible that you'll have to pay in the event of a claim. The deductibles can be as high as $200 or more, which means it may not make financial sense to file a claim unless the damage to your phone is significant.

Additionally, most insurance policies won't cover either lost phones or stolen phones, meaning you'll still be on the hook for the full cost of a replacement phone if yours goes missing. And even if your policy does cover loss or theft, there's a good chance you'll have to pay a deductible and deal with a lengthy insurance claim process.

Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

How much does the phone cost?

If you have a relatively inexpensive phone, you may not need insurance. For example, if your phone is a few years old or if it's a budget model, it may not be worth spending the extra money on insurance

On the other hand, if you have a brand-new, high-end phone, insurance may be a good idea. These expensive phones can cost several thousand dollars to replace, so insurance can give you peace of mind in case something happens to your phone.

How often do you use your phone?

If you're someone who only uses their phone for occasional calls and texts, you may not need insurance. However, if you rely on your phone for work or you're constantly using it for social media, streaming, gaming, etc., insurance can be a good idea. A broken phone could not only be a major inconvenience, but it could also interrupt your business.

Basically, the more you use your phone, the greater the risk of something happening to it. So, if you're a heavy phone user, insurance may be worth the cost.

Do you have a history of accidents?

If you're the type of person who is always dropping their phone or spilling things on it, insurance may be a good idea. Accidents happen, and if you're prone to them, insurance can save you a lot of money in the long run.

On the other hand, if you're careful with your phone and you don't have a history of accidents, you may not need insurance.

What does the phone insurance cover?

When considering whether or not to get insurance for your phone, it's important to find out what the insurance covers. Some policies will only cover damage caused by accidents, while others will also cover damage loss and theft and loss.

It's also worth noting that some homeowners' insurance companies or renters insurance policies will cover your phone in case of damage or theft, so you may already be covered.

Some cell phone insurance policies also come with additional perks, such as coverage for cracked screens or water damage. These added features can make the policy more expensive, but they may be worth it depending on your needs.

At the end of the day, whether or not you need insurance for your own cell phone protection, is a personal decision. There's no right or wrong answer, as the best choice for you will depend on your circumstances. Consider your needs and make a decision that's best for you.

So, is the monthly cost of cell phone insurance even worth it? Let's take a look at the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Should you buy cell phone insurance

The Pros of Phone Insurance

1. Theft and loss Coverage:

Perhaps the biggest benefit of phone insurance is that it covers the cost of replacing your phone if it's lost, stolen, or damaged. Without insurance, you would have to pay the full price of a new phone out of pocket, which could set you back hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

2. Accidental Damage Protection:

Most phone manufacturers' insurance plans also cover accidental damage, such as cracked screens and water damage. Again, this type of damage can be expensive to repair without insurance, so it's nice to have that peace of mind knowing that you're covered in case of an accident.

3. Extended Warranty:

Some phone insurance plans also come with an extended warranty, which means you'll be covered for manufacturing defects that are not covered by the manufacturer's warranty or your standard warranty. This can be a lifesaver if your phone starts having problems shortly after your warranty expires.

The Cons of Phone Insurance

1. Monthly Premiums:

The biggest downside to phone insurance is the monthly premium that you have to pay. These premiums can add up over time, and they're often more than what you would pay to repair or replace your phone on your own.

How much does cell phone insurance worth really cost? It depends on the insurance company and the type of coverage you choose, but you can expect to pay around $7-10 per month for most plans.

But some can cost as much as $30 per month. Many credit card benefits include phone insurance if you pay your monthly installment plan with that credit card.

2. Deductibles:

In addition to monthly premiums, most phone insurance plans also come with a deductible that you have to pay when you file a claim. This deductible can range from $50 to $200 or more depending on the plan and the insurer.

So, even with insurance, you're still going to have to pay something out of pocket if something happens to your phone.

3. Limited Coverage:

Another downside to phone insurance is that it typically only covers physical damage and theft/loss—it does not cover things like data loss or malware infections. And even if your own insurance plan does cover physical damage, there may be certain types of damage that are not covered (e.g., cosmetic damage). So it's important to read the fine print to know exactly what your phone insurance will cover before signing up for a plan.

Things You Can Do To Protect Your Phone From Damage

1. Keep your phone in a case or protective pouch when you're not using it, and use a screen protector.

It may seem like a nuisance to put your phone in a case or pouch before putting it in your bag, but protecting it from scratches and shocks can save you a lot of money and stress in the long run. While screen protectors won't prevent damage from a heavy impact, they can help prevent scratches and cracks from daily use. And investing in these safeguards now can save you from needing to replace your screen or even your entire phone later on. Plus, keeping your phone protected can also add years to its lifespan, resulting in fewer environmental impacts from constantly replacing devices. The small effort and cost of using cases and screen protectors is worth it to keep your phone looking (and functioning) like new.

2. Avoid exposing your phone to extreme temperatures.

Did you know that your phone can be significantly damaged by extreme temperatures? Exposing your phone to hot temperatures, such as leaving it in a car on a sunny day or near a heat source, can cause the battery to swell and potentially burst. On the other hand, exposing it to very cold temperatures can cause the battery to drain quickly and potentially damage the screen.

In order to ensure the longevity of your device, it's important to keep it at room temperature and avoid any extreme heat or cold. If you're heading out in strong sunlight or subzero temperatures, consider investing in a protective case or keeping your device close to your body to maintain a comfortable environment for it. Taking these precautions will help prolong the life of your phone and prevent costly repairs.

3. Don't drop your phone or subject it to other forceful impacts.

While it may seem like common sense, it's quite easy to accidentally drop and damage our phones. And we've all heard the horror stories of cracked screens and water damage. But it's important to remember that these small impacts can also affect the inner workings of our devices. Continuous drops and forceful impacts can loosen connections and cause internal malfunctions, leading to decreased performance or even complete breakdown.

So, take a little extra care with your phone – try using a case or grip to prevent accidental drops, or invest in a quality screen protector to cushion any falls. Trust us – it'll save you a lot of headaches (and potentially money) in the long run. Plus, taking care of our devices helps prolong their lifespan and reduce unnecessary waste. It's a win-win for both you and the environment!

4. Don't get your phone wet; keep it away from liquids of any kind.

Your phone may seem indestructible at times, but it's important to remember that it's actually quite sensitive. One easy way to ruin your phone is by exposing it to liquids. Whether it be a spilled drink or an accidental drop in the toilet, water damage can lead to malfunction and even permanent damage to your device. It's best to keep your phone away from any type of liquid, and if it does happen to get wet, don't try to turn it on or plug it in right away. Instead, dry it off with a towel and allow it time to air dry before attempting to use it again. A little caution can save you the headache (and expenses) of dealing with a water-damaged phone. So remember: when in doubt, keep your phone far away from liquids of any kind.

5. Keep your phone clean and free of dust and other foreign particles.

Keeping your phone clean not only preserves its aesthetics but also helps it run smoothly. Dust and other small particles can build up on the screen or the charging ports, causing the device to malfunction or decrease in speed. One way to prevent this buildup is to regularly wipe down the device with a microfiber cloth or lightly dampened cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they may damage the delicate components of your phone. Additionally, consider investing in a case or dust cover for added protection against dirt and grime. Taking a few minutes each week to clean your phone can significantly extend its lifespan and improve its performance. So don't forget to keep your device clean for optimal function!

6. Be careful what you put on or near your phone; some chemicals can damage it.

Many of us keep our cell phones within arm's reach at all times, but it's important to be cautious about what we expose them to. Certain chemicals, such as solvents and cleaning agents, can potentially damage the exterior or even the internal components of our precious devices. Even simple activities like applying lotion or spraying perfume can have damaging effects if they come in contact with the phone. It's best to err on the side of caution and avoid exposing your phone to any potentially harmful substances. Likewise, storing your phone in a bag or pocket with keys or other sharp objects can cause physical damage. Give your phone the love and care it deserves by keeping it safe from harmful chemicals and physical dangers. Taking these precautions will help ensure that you can continue to rely on your trusty sidekick for all your communication needs.

7. Regularly back up the data stored on your phone so you don't lose it if something happens to the physical device.

Did you know that losing the data stored on your phone – photos, contacts, text messages – can be just as devastating as losing the physical device itself? In fact, recovering lost or stolen phone data can often be even more difficult and expensive. That's why it's crucial to back up your phone regularly. Many cloud storage services offer automatic backups, so all you have to do is set it and forget it. And even if you prefer to save your backups locally, setting a reminder for yourself once a month or so can go a long way in protecting your important information. Don't let a lost or damaged phone ruin all your memories and valuable contacts – make sure to regularly back up the data stored on your device.

Conclusion:

So, is phone insurance worth it? That depends on several factors, such as how much you're willing to pay in monthly premiums and deductibles and whether you need coverage for things like accidental damage and data, loss and theft.

You should also take into consideration the type of phone you have and how likely it is to be lost, stolen, or damaged. If you have an expensive phone and you're worried about losing or damaging it, then phone insurance may be a good option for you.

But if you have a cheaper phone and you're not as worried about losing or damaging it, then you may not need insurance. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.

If you decide that no cell phone insurance plan is right for you, be sure to shop around and compare plans from different insurers to find the best coverage at the best price.

Now that you know all about cell phone insurance, make the switch to H2O!

What makes H2O Wireless better than the overpriced wireless providers?

Why H2O Wireless?

H2O’s premium wireless plans start at just $25 a month!

Just $25 a line. No kidding.

At just $25 a line, H2O Wireless gives you great coverage, more than enough data, and unlimited international talk and text (plus a $5 international talk credit), so you can keep in touch with family and friends around the globe and they can keep in touch with you! Plus, we offer a tremendous selection of the latest iPhones and Androids at prices that let you get the phone you love.

Enjoy Multi-Line Savings

Connect your friends and family to get Multi-Line savings with 2 lines for $50 or 4 lines for $100. Each line comes with 6 GB of LTE data so you can stream, listen, and do what you do at $25 per line.

Here’s Exactly What Every Line Gets...

• 6 GB of LTE Data
• Unlimited Data, Talk & Text
• Unlimited International Talk to 70 Countries
• Unlimited International Text
• $5 International Talk Credit

Here’s Exactly What You Don’t Get…

• Contracts
• Hassles
• Headaches!

What our customers are saying…

 “I have been using H2O prepaid service for more than 3 years. I get a good connection in the mid-west and other places I have visited in the US, with no dropped calls. I only recharge when my balance is low and never had any issue with their customer service. I have contacted their customer service on few occasions, and they’ve been most helpful.”

With H2O Wireless, you get the best cell phone coverage for less and the best unlimited plans – not to mention the most cost-effective, realistically priced unlimited plans – anywhere.

Or, choose our 12 month plan for just $8.33 a month!

With H2O Wireless’ 12 Month Plan, you purchase service once and you’re done for the year. No worrying about missing a payment or tracking the expense. You simply make a one-time payment of $100 using your credit or debit card, and that’s it. Our 12 Month Plan breaks down to crazy low $8.33 a month, and gives you an entire year of unlimited talk and text, as well as 1GB of high-speed data every month. There are no other payments to make or additional steps to take. Plus there’s no contract and no hidden fees.

Let’s look at “unlimited data”

With so many cellular phone businesses vying for your money, it’s difficult to tell which you can trust. The overpriced services clamber, “Pick me!” with promises of low cost, unlimited data plans. But do you really need an unlimited amount of data? Will you use all of that data? Maybe. But if you don’t, guess what? You still have to pay for it.

If you’re on a $70 a month plan which gives you up to 23GB of data it means you’re paying $3.04 per GB of data. And if you’re using just 4GB a month (which is what most people typically use), you’re paying $57.40 per month for data you’re not using. Ouch.   

The truth is…

Most people use just 2-5GB of data per billing cycle, and that’s because you’d have to spend every waking moment, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week online to exceed that amount. The average consumer doesn’t do that, and that’s why the average consumer doesn’t need a $50, $60 or $70 a month unlimited plan!

At H2O Wireless, we don’t think you should pay for data you don’t need and aren’t going to use.

That’s why we’re proud to offer you plans starting as low as $18 a month (with auto pay) for unlimited talk and text and 2GB of data.

Need more data one month? Simply go into your account portal and add more. When next month rolls around, if you need less data, you can go right back into your portal and reduce it. Simply log onto PureTalk.com, click on My Account, and select Manage My Data. Make your changes, save them, and log out. It’s that simple.

Plus, H2O Wireless Connects You to the World

Each H2O Wireless Monthly Unlimited Plan includes unlimited international talk to 70 Countries (including China and Mexico), unlimited text to any country in the world, and up to $5 international talk credit depending on the plan you select. 

Purchase these features whenever you need:

International Talk

You can purchase International Talk for your plan for $5 or $10. Simply log into your account to make this purchase.

International Roaming

You can purchase International Roaming for your plan. This can be used for talk minutes, text, or MMS.

5G / 4G Data

You can purchase additional high speed data for your plan. Get 2GB for $10 or 5GB for $20.

Hotspot Data

Share your cellular data via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB using laptops, tablets, and more by purchasing Hotspot Data for your plan. Get 2GB for $10, 5GB for $20, or 10GB for $30.

What our customers are saying:

“I have had H2O monthly unlimited for a few years now. I use WIFI and Data interchangeably, and don't even think about it. My data is unlimited, and even if I stream videos or the news to my phone any time I want, I have never had it slow down.”

More reasons to love H2O Wireless: Refer a Friend

When you join H2O Wireless, you can take advantage of our Refer a Friend (RAF) referral program. It enables you to share the H2O love and lower your bill! Share the H2O love with enough friends, and you might not even have a bill.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Spread the Word

Get your unique referral link, then send it to friends and family.

Step 2: Sign Them Up

Help your friend select an H2O Wireless Plan.

Step 3: Get Rewarded

Once your friend activates their H2O service, you each get rewarded with $50 in RAF rewards points.

RAF Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Refer a Friend Program?

Refer a Friend is the H2O® Wireless referral program in which you and a friend get $50 of H2O points for each activated referral.

When are H2O points applied to my account?

When the person referred activates their H2O Wireless service your rewards points will be applied. Please note: For Port-Ins, points will be received within 1-5 business days.

Do I get referral points if I just tell a friend about H2O?

No. They need to use your referral link.

How many people can I refer?

You can refer up to 10 people per month, which is a total of 120 referrals per year, for thousands of dollars’ worth of reward points. So many rewards points they might pay for your H2O service!

More reasons to love H2O Wireless: Bring Your Own Phone

Have a phone you love? H2O Wireless makes it easy to bring it with you. Simply join H2O Wireless and, at checkout, choose eSIM. Like a physical SIM card, but without the 3-5 day wait for a physical card to arrive, eSIM enables you to use your new service much faster. In fact, you can activate your service right after checking out. Of course, before you select eSIM, make sure your phone is eSIM compatible by reviewing the list below.

Is my phone eSIM compatible?

eSIM compatible phone models include:

• iPhone XS series
• iPhone XR
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone SE 2nd gen
• iPhone 12 series

What our customers are saying…

 “I have been using H2O prepaid service for more than 3 years. I get a good connection in the mid-west and other places I have visited in the US, with no dropped calls. I only recharge when my balance is low and never had any issue with their customer service. I have contacted their customer service on few occasions, and they’ve been most helpful.”

“I have had H2O monthly unlimited for a few years now. I use WIFI and Data interchangeably, and don't even think about it. My data is unlimited, and even if I stream videos or the news to my phone any time I want, I have never had it slow down.”

“My phone is an unlocked, international version Samsung. I pay $28 a month at H2O and get a service that is literally unlimited in every way. A special bonus with this plan, is that I get international texting - which I was unable to achieve with T-Mobile, Sprint or AT&T.”

With H2O Wireless it’s easy to stay connected to your family, friends, work, your favorite shows, podcasts, news outlets – your whole world – for less. That’s what makes us refreshingly. different. wireless.

See for yourself today!