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Let’s be honest: smartphones are expensive. And with Samsung pushing the limits of mobile tech—foldables, glass-on-glass slabs, titanium frames—it only takes one accidental drop to turn that $1,300 Galaxy S25 Ultra into a very expensive paperweight. That’s where Samsung Care+ comes in, Samsung’s own version of an extended warranty-slash-damage protection plan. But as with most add-ons, the real question is: is it actually worth it, or is it just another way to squeeze a little more cash out of your purchase?

Let’s break it down.

Galaxy-S25-Ultra-iFixit
Credit: iFixit

1. What is Samsung Care+, exactly?

Samsung Care+ is Samsung’s in-house device protection program that covers a wide range of repair needs—everything from cracked screens and liquid spills to hardware breakdowns and battery issues. It’s offered at the time of purchase or within 30 days of activating your device, and it can cover your phone for up to two years, depending on the plan.

In the U.S., Care+ plans are structured into tiers based on the device. For example, for something like the Galaxy S25 Ultra (which would likely fall under Tier 4), you have a few options:

Samsung Care+ with Theft and Loss (Tier 4)

  • Monthly: $18
  • One-time (24 months): $349
  • Deductible for lost/stolen: $199
  • Cracked screen or back glass: $0 repair fee
  • ADH (accidental damage from handling): $99

Samsung Care+ (without Theft and Loss)

  • Monthly: $13
  • One-time (24 months): $259
  • Cracked screen or back glass: $29 repair fee
  • ADH: $99
  • No coverage for loss or theft

Each plan includes up to three claims per 12-month period, and all repairs are handled by Samsung-authorized technicians using original parts—which is a significant step up from some third-party options.

2. What’s covered—and what’s not?

Here’s what Samsung Care+ includes:

  • Cracked screen or back glass? Covered.
  • Water damage from a splash or accidental drop? Covered.
  • Battery issues and hardware failures? Covered.
  • Software glitches and mechanical breakdowns? Also covered.

Repairs are always done by Samsung technicians, using genuine parts and often including doorstep pickup or local walk-in service, depending on your area.

But the coverage has limits. Theft and loss are only included if you specifically opt for the Samsung Care+ with Theft and Loss plan. Even then, it’s not available in all states—New York, for instance, has its own separate plan. Cosmetic damage, loss due to negligence, and accessories like cases or chargers aren’t covered either.

3. So… is it worth it?

Let’s get to the core of the debate. If you’re using a foldable like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 or Flip 6, Samsung Care+ is a no-brainer. These phones are as delicate as they are futuristic, and the cost of a single screen repair can be sky-high. The plan easily pays for itself with one incident.

For standard flagships like the S25 or even the A-series, it depends. If you’re clumsy, live dangerously (looking at you, bikers and content creators), or just have bad phone luck, Care+ is the peace of mind you’ll be glad you bought. If you’ve never cracked a screen in your life and always rock a rugged case? It might feel like paying for something you’ll never use.

That said, Samsung does make the service experience relatively painless. You can file a claim via the Samsung Members app, visit an authorized service center, or even use the mail-in option. No third-party back-and-forth. No “gotcha” clauses in tiny fonts.

4. The final word

Samsung Care+ is not essential for everyone, but for the right user—and especially for foldable device owners—it’s the kind of backup plan you’ll be thankful for when disaster strikes. It’s less about saving money and more about saving the experience of using a premium device without constantly stressing about damage.

If you’re spending well over $1,000 on a phone, Samsung Care+ is essentially insurance for your digital life. Just keep in mind: theft and loss coverage requires the right plan, and it still doesn’t make your device theft-proof. You’ll still need to be cautious—and maybe a little lucky.

Because accidents will happen. And when they do, it’s better to be prepared than panicked.

We recently did a deep dive into AppleCare as well. Check out our article to see if it’s the right choice for you.

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