How To Protect Your Apple Device (And How Not To) - MacBook

Note: This is about protecting the hardware of your device from drops, scratches, fumbles, and splashes- not from malware or other software related threats. Regarding that, see this excellent User Tip - Effective defenses against malware and other threats - Apple Community

After getting your Apple device, you'll likely want to jump right in and start using it. However, it's not only prudent, but necessary, to take measures to protect your device. A small amount of "insurance" money spent on a case or other protector can make a big difference if you damage it, as it may save you from much more expensive repairs to the actual device.

How To Protect Your MacBook

MacBook computers are generally less prone to damage then iPhone. They aren't carried around as much (though are still portable) and generally aren't used on the go. As such, protection for your MacBook doesn't need to be as stringent. However, there are still some things you can do to minimize expensive repairs.

MacBook has a reasonably strong chassis, but if you believe your device may be subject to falls, a rugged case for it may be appropriate. If you use MacBook on a flat, hard, level surface, you'll almost certainly be all right. However, for more adventurous endeavors that require protection while moving, you may appreciate the extra security in a stronger case. When choosing a case, the most important thing to check is that it doesn't obstruct either the cool air intakes nor the hot air exhaust ports. Heat kills your computer much faster than it normally would when it can't be flushed out. Most cases for MacBook are cosmetic and provide no real protection, so do keep that in mind if you're looking for a case that will actually make a difference.

Keyboard protectors, screen protectors, camera covers, and anything else that goes in-between the keyboard and screen should NEVER be used while MacBook is closed. You can read more about this below, under 'How Not To Protect Your MacBook'. An exterior skin is generally safe, but will leave a sticky residue on the device after removal.

As the MacBook is a portable computer, it stands to reason that you'll want to protect it while you do move. A carrying sleeve is ideal for this, as it completely covers your MacBook while in transit. For extensive protection, a hard-sided case is ideal (but be sure to let your computer cool before putting it in, as the built-up inside the case heat can also crack your screen). Thin sleeves are good to protect your Mac from scratches and dings, but won't do much against a blunt impact. A soft, thick (but not extensively so) case will be just fine for most users.

How NOT To Protect Your MacBook

As mentioned earlier, putting a screen protector, camera cover, or keyboard cover on your MacBook is the worst way to protect it. While it may seem fine initially, MacBook laptops are engineered to be as thin as possible, and so they can't tolerate even a small space filler in-between the lid and body. Because of this, it only takes a small bump or jostle- much less than it would normally take- to crack your screen and require repair. While silicon keyboard covers are less stressful on the screen than, ironically, a screen protector, they still have the potential to exacerbate damage to the glass, while leaving display-damaging, unsightly marks that won't clean off. Screen repair isn't cheap- depending on the extent of the damage, you could pay anywhere from $450 to $750 and even more for a screen replacement.

The only acceptable way to use these accessories is by putting them on during use and taking them all completely off before closing it. This may be practical if you are prone to spilling your drinks, and want to protect your computer from this possibility, but a closed-top lid is almost certainly a better investment. Apple will not cover instances of screen breakage as a result of accessories (considered accidental damage and subject to the fees).

When cleaning your MacBook, be very careful with the screen. You should never use a cleaner containing acetone, window cleaners, household cleaners, aerosol sprays, solvents, ammonia, abrasives, or cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide to clean the screen. Doing so can ruin the anti-reflective coating or scratch the screen. For nearly every situation, the screen can be cleaned with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth lightly moistened with water- and never spray liquid directly on the screen. Dedicated screen cleaner or lens cleaner can be used, too. Apple's official cleaning instructions for Mac can be found here.

AppleCare+

AppleCare+ is a relatively cheap way to protect your device from the hazards of everyday life. Costs range from $199 to $399 for a three-year coverage plan, depending on the model of MacBook. With AppleCare+, you receive two incidents of accidental damage per year (12 months), subject only to a small deductible- a fraction of the standard costs for repair. Screen/external enclosure repair is now a flat $99, with everything else costing $299. If your MacBook sees risky situations on the regular (and even if it doesn't), AppleCare+ is a good choice.

Protect your device, and you'll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it.

How To Protect Your Other Devices

How To Protect Your iPhone - Apple Community

How To Protect Your iPad - Apple Community

How To Protect Your Apple Watch - Apple Community