What is the difference between a general warranty deed and a special warranty deed?

A general warranty deed provides the greatest protection to the buyer by guaranteeing clear title against all claims, past and present, throughout the entire chain of ownership. The grantor warrants they have the right to convey, the title is free of encumbrances except those listed, and they will defend the title against all claims. A special warranty deed limits the grantor's guarantees to only the period during which they owned the property. The grantor does not warrant against defects that existed before their ownership.