When investing in a new laptop, you’re likely thinking about the sleek design, powerful performance, and ample storage. But another crucial factor shouldn’t be an afterthought: the best laptop warranty. Most major hardware vendors offer some form of warranty, but the coverage can vary significantly depending on the brand and the type of device.
We’re here to explain the complexities of computer warranties, highlight what’s typically covered, and highlight the key differences between a standard manufacturer’s warranty and an extended laptop warranty. We’ll also touch on the limitations you should be aware of.
Looking for the best laptop warranty coverage before you make your purchase? You’ve come to the right place! We’ll explore the standard warranties from leading laptop brands like Apple, Dell, Microsoft, ASUS, HP, and more. While many of these companies also offer extended warranties at an additional cost, we’ll focus on what you get right out of the box – the length of coverage, what’s included, and who typically pays for shipping if repairs are needed.
Quick Look at Laptop Warranty Coverage by Brand:
| Brand: | Standard Warranty Period (Consumer): |
| Acer | One year limited |
| Dell | One year limited |
| Apple | Two-year limited + 90-day tech support |
| ASUS | One year |
| HP | One year limited |
| Lenovo | One-year base warranty |
| Dynabook (formerly Toshiba) | 1, 2, 3, or 4 years depending on the model |
| Microsoft | One year limited |
| Samsung | One year |
Understanding the Standard Product Warranty for Laptops
A product warranty is essentially a manufacturer’s promise to the customer regarding the condition of their new device. For laptops offered by companies like Dell, Apple, and HP, this guarantee outlines the manufacturer’s responsibility for repairs or replacements if the computer has a manufacturing defect or issue.
Generally, a typical laptop manufacturer’s warranty from brands like Apple, Alienware, Dell, and HP covers a standard period, often one year. After this initial period, any malfunctions usually become the owner’s responsibility and expense.
It’s important to understand that most standard laptop warranties have limitations. For example, they typically don’t cover accidental damage such as damage from drops, cracks, or liquid spills. That’s why carefully reading the terms and conditions of your laptop warranty is crucial to understand what’s covered and what’s not.
However, customer support is usually separate from the limited warranty conditions. You can generally contact manufacturers online, via email, or by phone for assistance, regardless of the warranty status.
Exploring Extended Laptop Warranties: Are They Worth It?
The average lifespan of a laptop is generally around four to five years, though this can vary based on usage and other factors. You might even want to research which laptop brands are known for longevity before considering an extended warranty. Remember that technology evolves, and you might consider upgrading your laptop every three years or so for demanding tasks.
This is where an extended warranty for your laptop comes into play. An extended warranty is essentially paid insurance that allows customers to access repair services from the manufacturer after the initial warranty period expires. This type of coverage can sometimes include accidental damage protection and extend your coverage for up to three years.
However, before you shell out for an extended warranty, consider these tips to avoid potential extra cost:
- Carefully Review the Manufacturer’s Warranty: Before purchasing, understand the standard warranty length and exactly what it covers. Also, clarify if the extended warranty offers repair, replacement, or even a refund.
- Check Your Credit Card Benefits: Surprisingly, some credit card companies offer extended warranty benefits for purchases made with their card, sometimes adding up to twelve months of extra coverage. Contact your bank to see if this is an option for you.
- Read the Fine Print of Any Warranty: Whether it’s the standard or extended warranty, thoroughly understand the terms and conditions. Be aware of any exclusions or limitations in the policy. Take your time to note what’s included and, more importantly, what’s not.
Which Laptop Brand Offers the Best Warranty?
Let’s dive into the specifics of the standard warranties offered by some of the leading laptop manufacturers:
Acer
Acer stands out with one of the more varied standard laptop warranty options. Their Aspire line of laptops typically offers one year of warranty against manufacturing defects. However, their business-focused TravelMate series often comes with 24 months (two years) of coverage. For Acer desktops, the standard warranty is usually three years. Additionally, Acer provides 90 days of software support across all its products.
Usually, the laptop must be registered with them to activate Acer’s standard warranty. This warranty generally covers product repair by Acer or an authorized service center, as well as replacement of defective products or parts with the exact or comparable specifications. In cases where repair or replacement isn’t possible, Acer may offer a refund based on the product’s original cost minus depreciation.
It’s important to note that with Acer’s standard warranty, the customer is typically responsible for the shipping costs and any applicable taxes when sending the product in for warranty service. Acer usually covers the return shipping to you.
Dell
Dell’s standard warranties vary depending on the type of computer. Most Dell laptops and PCs offer a twelve-month (one-year) limited warranty. Refurbished Dell products typically come with a 90-day warranty, but also have limitations.
The standard Dell warranty for laptops and PCs includes repair and replacement for manufacturing defects. However, it explicitly excludes accidental damage from drops, spills, floods, or other natural disasters. The standard service is usually mail-in.
Interestingly, Dell’s Alienware laptops often include on-site service, where a remote technician can diagnose manufacturing defects. However, this still doesn’t cover accidental damage or issues caused by customer use. Dell also provides online chat support as part of its standard warranty, allowing certified representatives to remotely access your device for diagnosis and potential repair.
Regarding shipping costs, Dell typically covers both the shipping to their service center and the return shipping for repairs or replacements under the standard warranty, though you’ll usually need to provide your own packaging.
Apple
Apple is another major player in the laptop market. Their standard warranty offers a streamlined experience, though you’ll likely handle the initial shipping. You can also benefit from direct support from Apple technicians at any Apple retail location.
Apple’s standard warranty includes:
- There is a one-year limited warranty on iMacs, Mac Pros, Mac minis, MacBooks, iPads, iPad minis, and iPad Airs.
- 90 days of complimentary technical support.
- Protection against manufacturing defects.
Apple’s standard warranty excludes accidental damage such as fire, liquid damage, or damage caused by unauthorized repairs. Cosmetic damage and external forces are also not covered.
However, if you need to mail your Apple device for service, Apple provides a prepaid shipping label free of charge and even sends you packaging materials to ensure your device is protected during transit.
ASUS
ASUS generally offers a one-year limited standard warranty for their Desktops, Laptops, Chromebooks, Hybrids, and tablets. This warranty typically covers parts and labor for product repair. They also offer a three-year limited warranty for some high-end desktops, particularly business and gaming computers.
Notably, their ROG (Republic of Gamers) line often includes a one-year warranty that covers accidental damage (drops and spills) and features two-way shipping for warranty service.
The shipping cost policy for standard ASUS products can vary depending on the device. For higher-end or more expensive ASUS products, the company may cover shipping both ways for warranty repairs.
HP
HP typically provides a one-year standard warranty on its products, including PCs, laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets. It generally covers the shipping costs for sending products in for warranty service.
The standard HP warranty covers repairing or replacing parts with manufacturing defects. It excludes coverage for accidental damage or any use of the HP product outside its standard intended use.
Lenovo
Lenovo offers a range of standard warranty options depending on the specific device:
- One-year limited mail-in warranty for mainstream consumer laptops.
- One-year depot warranty for premium consumer and mainstream business laptops.
- Three-year depot warranties are standard for premium ThinkPad configurations like the Mobile Workstation and X1 Carbon lines.
These warranties generally cover parts and labor for repairs due to manufacturing defects. Accidental damage is typically not included.
Interestingly, Lenovo may offer to send you replacement parts with instructions for self-repair in some cases.
Regarding shipping costs:
- With the limited mail-in warranty, the consumer is responsible for the shipping fees to send the device for service.
- For the depot warranty, Lenovo pays for the shipping costs and usually provides the packaging box.
Dynabook (Toshiba)
Like many of its competitors, Dynabook typically offers a one-year standard warranty. This guarantee covers parts and labor but does not include accidental damage. If you need to send your Toshiba device in for repair under warranty, you should expect to pay the shipping fees.
Microsoft
Microsoft provides a one-year limited warranty for its Surface and Surface Pro products and 90 days of software support. The Microsoft warranty covers the cost of repairing products sent in for service, including accessories like Touch Covers, Type Covers, Surface power supply cords and adapters, and Surface Pens. It excludes accidents and damage caused by third-party services.
For shipping costs, Microsoft typically sends you a prepaid shipping label for sending in your device and also covers the return shipping.
Samsung
In the United States, Samsung usually offers a one-year standard warranty for its PCs, laptops, Chromebooks, Laptop Hybrids, and tablets. This warranty covers repairs for manufacturing defects and replacement parts. However, you will generally need to pay the shipping cost if your device requires service under warranty. It’s also important to note that the warranty does not cover spills or other accidental damage caused by users.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right computer involves more than just specs; understanding the manufacturer’s warranty is crucial for peace of mind. By carefully considering the length of coverage, what’s included, and the shipping policies, you can make a more informed decision and protect your investment. Remember always to read the fine print and explore all your options, including potential extended warranty benefits from your credit card.
Lastly, even if the warranty has ended, don’t despair: Though repairs may not be cost-effective, you can always sell a non-working laptop at GadgetSalvation.com. That way, you can still recover its residual salvage value and reduce the upgrade cost. Furthermore, we will make sure your broken notebook lives on and that no part of it gets in the landfill.