American Home Shield vs Choice Home Warranty
An honest side-by-side comparison of two of our top home warranty companies picks — pricing, strengths, weaknesses, and who each one is really for.
American Home Shield
Ranked #1 of 15 in this directory
The original home warranty company with the most plan flexibility
Choice Home Warranty
Ranked #2 of 15 in this directory
Affordable home warranty plans with competitive pricing
Our pick: American Home Shield. Our editors rank American Home Shield higher overall in Home Warranty Companies — but Choice Home Warranty can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| American Home Shield | Choice Home Warranty | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Combo Plans | Combo Plans |
| Editorial rank | #1 of 15 | #2 of 15 |
Strengths
American Home Shield
- ✓Largest and most established home warranty provider in the US
- ✓Three plan tiers allow customers to choose exact coverage level needed
- ✓Covers items regardless of age, make, or pre-existing conditions
- ✓Flexible trade service fee options from $75 to $125
- ✓Extensive contractor network across all 50 states
Choice Home Warranty
- ✓Among the most affordable monthly premiums in the industry
- ✓Straightforward claims process via phone or online portal
- ✓Multi-year discounts provide additional savings for commitment
- ✓Covers pre-existing conditions that pass visual inspection
- ✓Roof leak coverage included in comprehensive plan
Watch out for
American Home Shield
- !Monthly premiums are higher than many newer competitors
- !Coverage caps on certain items may not cover full replacement costs
- !Claims process can involve multiple service visits before resolution
- !Some customers report long wait times for contractor scheduling
Choice Home Warranty
- !Coverage caps per item can be lower than competitors
- !Not available in all 50 states
- !Some claims require multiple contractor visits
- !Optional add-ons increase costs to match competitors' base plans
Best use cases
American Home Shield
- →Homeowners with aging systems and appliances wanting comprehensive protection
- →Real estate agents including warranties in home sale transactions
- →Budget-conscious homeowners wanting predictable repair costs
Choice Home Warranty
- →Budget-conscious homeowners seeking the lowest monthly premiums
- →Home buyers wanting warranty protection during the first year of ownership
- →Homeowners willing to accept lower coverage caps for lower costs
About each tool
American Home Shield
American Home Shield is the pioneer of the home warranty industry and remains the largest provider in the US. AHS offers three plan tiers covering systems, appliances, or both, with flexible service fee options and coverage available regardless of the age or condition of covered items.
Choice Home Warranty
Choice Home Warranty offers competitively priced home warranty plans covering major systems and appliances. Known for straightforward pricing and responsive claims processing, Choice serves homeowners in 48 states with both basic and total plans, plus optional add-on coverage for items like pools and spas.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
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