Laptop Insurance - Is It Worth It?

There is suitable insurance for almost everything - including the new laptop. Here you can find out whether the protection is worthwhile.

When is laptop insurance worthwhile?

Mobile devices are subject to a higher "accident risk" than, for example, the computer at home. Anyone who buys a new laptop should consider whether insurance is worthwhile.

Defects on the laptop

In Germany, you are on the safe side with production-related damage and errors thanks to a statutory two-year dealer warranty. If, for example, the hard disk says goodbye during this time, you are covered even without insurance.

• The guarantee is often confused with the manufacturer's guarantee. This is not a legal requirement, but a voluntary benefit. The scope for duration and scope is correspondingly large:
• As a rule, manufacturers give a two-year guarantee. Apple is an exception here: the cult objects are only guaranteed for one year. In any case, you should also read the fine print here.
• Basically, the statutory dealer warranty takes precedence over the manufacturer's warranty.

Insurance against theft and water damage

It happened quickly: the laptop fell on the floor or the morning coffee ran into the device. Insurance can help you here:

• If you break into your home and the thief pulls your laptop under the nail, the household contents insurance is liable - if you have taken out one.
• If the laptop is stolen from you on the way - in a café or on the train - appropriate insurance could cover the damage. Provided you have not acted negligently.
• Once caught on the cable, the expensive laptop is already lying on the floor. This damage is just as little covered by the guarantee as lightning or overvoltage. Insurance makes sense here, especially for very expensive and new laptops.

The problem of negligence

Unfortunately, insured does not mean that the insurance will also cover the damage.

• The insurer can be held responsible if you act negligently and cause damage.
• However, the term is stretchy: some insurance companies consider it negligent if you drink coffee while working on a laptop. If you spill it over the keyboard, stay seated at the expense.
• Other providers are a bit more accommodating and also cover such damage. You should definitely read the fine print here before buying. User reviews will also help you in these cases.

The cost of laptop insurance

There is of course no laptop insurance for nothing. But when does the investment pay off?

• If you expect monthly costs of five to fifteen euros for insurance, this is only worthwhile for laptops with a high purchase price. With older devices, the costs no longer pay off.
• Also note that the insurance usually extends automatically after one year. During this time, your device will lose value. So cancel the contract in good time.

Conclusion: laptop insurance in check

In summary, one can say that a laptop insurance - if at all - is really only worthwhile for new and expensive devices and if you are often on the go. Much is already covered by household insurance.

• Pay attention to the small print in the contracts and it is best to inquire in advance about the respective definition of negligence.
• Due to the loss in value, insurance usually only pays off in the first year. So think of a timely termination.

The situation is similar with other mobile devices. In another practical tip, you can read, for example, whether iPhone insurance is worthwhile.