Macintosh reliability

Apple reliability, warranty and customer service

All Apple computers come with one-year limited warranties. Apple provides free tech support only for 90 days, which is less than the industry norm of one year. Given the price of Apple computers, multiple reviewers say the 90-day limit is pretty stingy on Apple's part. You can buy an upgraded warranty from Apple (or another retailer) that extends tech support. The AppleCare Protection Plan, for example, extends global repair coverage and free phone support for three years (two years for the iPad) from the date of purchase. Retailers are likely to have lower prices on protection plans, giving you the added benefit of having two companies that may resolve your problems. On the other hand, Apple's tech support is extraordinarily good, according to all surveys that we've seen.

You can also get tech support at the in-store Genius Bar. You have to make a reservation for the Genius Bar, but Apple says it's "the place to go for advice, insight, and hands-on technical support for your Mac or iPod." You can find a complete list of stores at Apple.com.

According to one large consumer survey, Apple desktops have the lowest rates of repairs and serious problems compared to five other PC manufacturers. The survey was based on responses from nearly 20,000 people. The same survey showed slightly more repairs for laptops, though it still edges out other makers in that regard. Apple also continuously tops the Readers' Choice awards at PCMag.com for both laptops and desktops. In 2011, PCMag.com granted Apple Readers' Choice awards for desktops, laptops and tablets. Commenting on the company's desktop-category award, Ben Gottesman writes "No other company's satisfaction ratings come close to Apple," though he does note that Apple's ratings did take a drop this past year.