Applecare - An interesting question.
Yes, always buy your Applecare for your computer. Reasons are easy to state. Applecare cost is reasonable. It triples the warranty coverage (not just doubles like most extended warranties). It gives you unlimited support access for the entire three years. Perhaps most importantly, if YOU went the extra mile to buy the Applecare, the employees at the Apple Store are going to go the extra mile to get your problem solved/fixed/replaced/whatever at no cost to you. Without your Applecare, you're on your own after year one.
No, I'd think twice about buying Applecare for an of the smaller devices. You only get two years of coverage. The simpler devices require a lot less help support. It does not cover physical damage, loss, or theft which are the most common small device problems. And, the cost is high compared to the cost of the items. With small devices, I think relying on Apple's one year warranty, then considering the device to be disposable is a more reasonable approach.
Last word. Always be prepared to ask for a discount. Discounts on products AND Applecare are available for teachers, students, military, many corporate employees, and government employees. Just about any form of ID is acceptable. For example a university library card would work just fine. And, if you are buying as a gift for a qualifying family member you should be able to get the discount. I LOVE discounts, and so do the Apple sales people. They want to give you a discount so let them know if you qualify.
