In today‘s digital age, our electronic devices are more than just tools – they‘re extensions of ourselves that we rely on for everything from work and communication to entertainment and creative expression. But as much as we depend on our laptops, tablets, and smartphones, the unfortunate reality is that these complex machines are prone to all sorts of issues that can render them unusable, often at the worst possible times.
According to a 2022 study by the Consumer Electronics Association, the average U.S. household spends nearly $1,500 per year on new electronics products and services. At the same time, a 2021 report from CALPIRG Education Fund found that 1 in 3 Americans have a laptop, smartphone, tablet or other device that is currently broken – amounting to 100 million Americans with defunct devices.
These eye-opening statistics underscore two key points: 1) most of us have a significant amount of money tied up in our personal electronics, and 2) device failures are extremely common. This is where extended warranties, like the Asurion Protection Plans offered at Staples stores and Staples.com, can provide indispensable value and peace of mind.
Why Consider an Extended Warranty?
To understand the appeal of an extended warranty or service plan, let‘s consider the typical lifespan and failure rates of common consumer electronic devices:
| Device Type | Avg. Lifespan | Common Failure Modes | Avg. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laptop | 3-5 years | Screen damage, hard drive failure, motherboard issues | $300-$700 |
| Tablet | 3-4 years | Cracked screen, charging port failure, battery degradation | $100-$300 |
| Smartphone | 2-3 years | Screen damage, water exposure, battery failure | $100-$500 |
| Television | 4-7 years | Display panel failure, power supply issues, HDMI port failure | $200-$1000 |
| Wireless Earbuds | 1-2 years | Audio output failure, charging case malfunction, pairing issues | $30-$150 |
Sources: Southwest Network, Puls, New York Times
As you can see, the typical lifespan of most electronic devices is relatively short, and the cost of repairs for common failure modes can easily run into the hundreds of dollars. When you factor in the hassle and lost productivity of dealing with a broken device, it‘s easy to see how an extended warranty could pay for itself in short order.
But not all extended warranties are created equal. Some plans are riddled with exclusions and fine print that make it difficult to get your device repaired or replaced when you need it most. Others provide subpar customer service that leaves you feeling frustrated and unvalued as a customer.
This is where Asurion Protection Plans sold at Staples stand out from the crowd. As one of the leading providers of technology support and device protection services, Asurion has built a reputation for exceptional customer service, comprehensive coverage, and fast claims resolution that takes the sting out of device mishaps.
Inside the Asurion Staples Protection Plan Advantage
So what sets Asurion Protection Plans apart from other extended warranty offerings at retailers like Best Buy or Walmart? Let‘s take a closer look at some of the key features and benefits:
Comprehensive Coverage for the Most Common Failure Modes
While the exact coverage varies depending on the specific plan and device type, Asurion Protection Plans generally provide extensive protection against hardware failures, malfunctions, and defects that are not covered by the manufacturer‘s warranty. This includes things like:
- Mechanical and electrical failures due to normal wear and tear
- Power surge damage
- Screen failures and pixel burnout
- Button and port failures
- Battery replacements
- And more
In addition, many Asurion plans also cover accidental damage from handling, such as cracked screens, liquid spills, and drops. This is a crucial benefit, as accidental damage is one of the most common reasons for laptop, tablet, and smartphone failures.
Robust Repair and Replacement Infrastructure
One of Asurion‘s greatest strengths is its extensive network of certified repair facilities and partnerships with device manufacturers. Asurion operates five state-of-the-art repair depots across the U.S. that are equipped to handle everything from smartphones to high-end laptops.
Asurion repair technicians undergo extensive training and certification to ensure they can properly diagnose and fix a wide range of issues across various brands and models. And in cases where a repair is not feasible, Asurion maintains a large inventory of high-quality replacement devices that can be shipped out quickly.
Depending on your location and the specifics of your claim, Asurion may arrange for in-home or onsite service, or cover the cost of shipping your device to one of their repair centers. Throughout the process, you can check your claim status online or contact Asurion‘s award-winning customer support team for updates.
Flexible Service Options to Meet Your Needs
Asurion understands that when your device is out of commission, you need a fast and convenient resolution. That‘s why they offer a variety of service options to meet different customer needs and preferences:
- In-store service: Bring your covered device to a Staples store for evaluation and repair by a trained technician. Many common issues can be resolved same-day.
- Depot mail-in service: For more complex repairs, Asurion will provide a prepaid shipping label to send your device to one of their certified repair facilities. Repairs are typically completed within 3-5 business days.
- Onsite service: In select areas, an Asurion technician may be able to come to your home or business to perform a repair, usually within 1-2 business days.
- Advance exchange: With this option, Asurion will ship you a replacement device as soon as your claim is approved. When the replacement arrives, just return your original device using the provided prepaid label.
24/7/365 Access to Expert Tech Support
Another major perk of Asurion Protection Plans at Staples is that most plans include access to Asurion‘s award-winning tech support hotline. Staffed by knowledgeable, US-based electronics experts, this resource can be an indispensable ally in your battle against tech frustrations.
Whether you‘re trying to set up a new device, troubleshoot an error message, or optimize your system settings for peak performance, Asurion‘s support agents are standing by around the clock to lend a hand. They can even help with things like software installations, virus removal, and smart home device integration.
Having access to this type of expert guidance can help you get more value out of your devices and avoid issues that could lead to costly repairs down the line. And with the Asurion experts available anytime, you don‘t have to rearrange your schedule or take time off work to get the help you need.
Customer-Friendly Claims Process
The true test of any protection plan is how well it performs when you actually need to use it. This is another area where Asurion excels.
Filing a claim with Asurion is simple – just visit their website or give them a call to get the process started. Asurion‘s claims agents will walk you through the information needed and explain your repair or replacement options. In many cases, claims are approved instantly online or over the phone.
Once your claim is approved, Asurion takes care of the rest, arranging your repair or replacement according to your selected service option. They‘ll keep you updated on your device‘s status throughout the process and promptly return it to you or provide a replacement.
Crucially, Asurion Protection Plans have no deductibles or hidden fees, so you won‘t face any unexpected costs when you need to file a claim. And if your device can‘t be repaired, Asurion will either replace it or reimburse you for the original purchase price – whichever you prefer.
The Bottom Line: Are Asurion Staples Protection Plans Worth It?
When you consider the frequency of device issues, the high cost of repairs, and the indispensable role our electronics play in our daily lives, the value proposition of an Asurion Protection Plan from Staples becomes pretty compelling.
For a relatively small upfront investment – usually in the range of 10-20% of the device‘s purchase price – you can protect yourself against the potentially steep costs of unexpected failures or accidents. Asurion gives you peace of mind that you can get your devices repaired or replaced quickly, while also providing access to expert tech support to help you get the most out of your technology.
As an IT professional with over 15 years of experience in supporting and repairing a wide range of devices, I‘ve seen firsthand how valuable this type of protection can be. Whether you‘re a student relying on a laptop for schoolwork, a professional using a tablet for business on the go, or a household that‘s embraced smart home technology, protecting your devices with an Asurion plan from Staples is a smart strategy.
Of course, as with any warranty or insurance product, it‘s important to read the terms and conditions carefully to understand exactly what is and is not covered. But with Asurion‘s reputation for comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service, you can be confident that you‘re getting top-notch protection.
To learn more about Asurion Protection Plans at Staples or to get a personalized quote for your device, visit your local Staples store or check out the Staples Protection Plan page on the Asurion website. With the Staples Asurion phone number (1-866-551-5924) at the ready and a solid plan in place, you can enjoy your connected life with confidence, knowing your essential devices are protected.
