Top 10 Best Unlocked Cell Phone Deals

Nowadays, unlocked cell phone deals have become indispensable devices. With the growing need to remain in touch with your friends and even do business more conveniently, most people have resulted to investing in high quality smart phones. This has in turn led to an increase in number of carriers providing different cell phone services. Some of the devices you might find out there are locked to one carrier. However, there are others that are not locked and can be used on different carriers.

Since most people want to have more freedom when it comes to how they utilize their phones, you can never go wrong by choosing an unlocked device. Here, you will enjoy the luxury of switching carriers the way you please. Besides this flexibility, you will not pay any early termination fees. This article will outline some of the best unlocked cell phone deals you should consider so that you can get the value for your money.

What is An Unlocked Phone?

Simply put, an unlocked cell phone deals is a device that is not tied to any species carrier. This means that the owner has the luxury to use the services of other carriers with the same device, by simply swapping the SIM card inside. This is because the SIM card is basically the physical pass that allows your phone to connect to a specific network.

What are the Benefits of Buying An Unlocked Phone?

There are many advantages of buying an unlocked cell phone deals. Some of these advantages include:

1. Allows You to Enjoy Carrier Freedom

Unlike other phones, unlocked phones users hardly encounter any restrictions or contracts. In fact, users of these phones are not tied to any carrier. Therefore, they have the liberty to shop for the best deal and even choose the carrier that suits their needs at a particular time. From T-Mobile to Verizon, there are many carriers that you can choose. Better still, you can choose other carriers whose deals are relatively cheaper. As long as your phone is compatible with the services of these carriers, you will be good to go.

2. Two Networks

Have you ever wanted to have a phone that accommodates two SIM cards? The flexibility that comes with such phones is unmatched. The good news is that there are some unlocked cell phone deals that come with this feature. Here, you can trust that you will use two different networks at the same time. For instance, you can use one carrier for call and texting and the other one for data. Better still, if you are a regular traveler, you might want to use a SIM card from your host country and so on.

3. No Monthly Payments

You will note that carriers normally offer phones on monthly payments. To some, they normally find this convenient. However, your bills are likely to escalate in the long run. To avert this, you should consider looking for an unlocked phone. By buying an unlocked cell phone deals you will be debt free as you will be able to choose a carrier that does not charge these monthly payments. Better still, if the carrier charged any payments, chances are that you will be rational enough and choose the one whose expenses are relatively low and thereby enable you save more on cost.

4. Helps You to Save Money

If you choose to buy a device that is locked to a particular carrier, be ready to spend more money in the long run. Remember that these companies are in business, just like everyone else. To save more, you need to reconsider your decision and choose an unlocked cell phone deals. The good news is that unlocked phones will allow you enjoy cheap deals offered by certain carriers. You can take advantage of this and save more money in the long run.

In addition, buying unlocked phones usually helps you reduce overspending if you are not considering the full cost of the phone. You will note that carrier device payments normally make most phone users to go for expensive phones which they could not have necessarily bought at full price.

5. No Carrier Bloatware

As we speak, American carriers are now incorporating unnecessary app in their phones. This might seem to be a good idea but some of these apps are somehow vestigial. In fact, some of them cannot be uninstalled and thereby consume more space that could be have been used by another essential app. This is the other reason why buying an unlocked cell phone deals makes sense as you will not incur such inconveniences.

6. Allows You to Get Quicker Updates

For your phone to own optimally, it has to be to be updated from time to time. You will note that carriers normally update their own handsets. However, before the phone gets all the necessarily updates, there are some protocols involved. Here, Google releases its software updates and then the manufacturer optimizes for all the handsets and finally hands over the updated to the carrier.

Upon getting these updates, the carrier then optimizes them for the phones and network as well. This is how your phone gets updated. However, all the above-mentioned steps might take a longer period. If you would like your phone to get these updates fast, you should instead choose an unlocked cell phone deals. This is because the carrier will not have optimized the updates for the phone. Instead, you will get the software updates from the manufacturer.

7. Increased Variety

When it comes to unlocked cell phone deals, there is a plethora of devices to choose from. All you have to do is to know your needs and choose the one that will work well with your network provider.

Top 10 Best Unlocked Cell Phone Deals

Unlocked Cell Phone Deals

1. Google Pixel 4a

Although this device gives users the liberty to settle for their most preferred network carries and data plans, it also exhibits other amazing features. First off, it comes with a very reliable 3140 mAh inbuilt battery which allows users to make use of their handset all day before having to recharge it again. In addition to that, this device can be charged wirelessly. Plus, it supports up to 18W speed charging when plugged in to a charger.

At the front it exhibits a corning gorilla glass 3 touch screens whilst the back is made of plastic. If you are the type that loves big displays, then this is the phone for you. This device boasts of a 5.8 inch OLED, HDR display. It is also powered with a screen resolution power of 1080 × 2340 pixels. Another merit associated with this device, is that it runs on android 10 which is upgradable to android 11.

Even though it lacks a micro SD slot for memory expansion, it has a large internal memory capacity. Facts have it that its internal capacity measures approximately 128 GB and is backed up by a 6GB RAM. With this handset, you stand the chance of taking very nice pictures. This is achieved through its12mp rear camera and its single 8mp front camera. On the downside, the latter is only available in two colors which are, Just black and barely blue.

Google Pixel 4a

Pros

  • It runs on an upgradable android system.
  • It’s has a very powerful RAM.
  • It has an amazing rear camera.

Cons

  • It lacks a micro SD slot for memory expansion.
  • It’s only available in two colors.

2. Samsung Galaxy S20

Currently ranked amongst the most prestigious devices from Samsung, this unlocked device is truly a force to reckon with. First, it gives you freedom to move to any carrier without restriction. It employs the latest technology in the smart phone sector. This makes it a very reliable and high performance handset. Unlike most cell phones, the latter features a very powerful 8GB RAM.

Additionally, it comes with a super large internal memory capacity of up to 128 GB and a micro SD slot is also inscribed to provide room for memory expansion. Pictures lovers are also greatly considered by this device thanks to its high quality and super powerful cameras.

At the back, it exhibits a triple 12 mp,64 mp and 12mp camera lenses for the best pictures. On the other hand, it exhibits a single 10 mp front camera. This makes is very convenient for pictures as well as face timing with allies.

It runs on android 10, One UI 2.5. When it comes to the display, it boasts of a crystal clear Dynamic AMOLED 2X 6 inch display. That is powered with a screen resolution power of 1440 × 3200 pixels. Additional features such as a finger print scanner and accelerometer are also included.

Also, it exhibits a very powerful 4000 mAh battery which is very convenient for power users. The battery supports both wireless and fast charging. Lastly, it comes in up to five colors. These colors are cosmic grey, cloud blue, cloud pink, cloud white and aurora red

Samsung Galaxy S20

Pros

  • It is unlocked.
  • Has very powerful rear cameras
  • Long battery life.
  • Has a very powerful screen resolution power.
  • Exhibits a memory card slot for memory expandability.
  • Has a very powerful RAM.

Cons

  • It is quite expensive to acquire.

3. Google Pixel 5

The above unlocked device comes in place as the improved version of the Google pixel 4 handset. This means, it has better features while allowing users to use network carries of their own preference. First of all, this handset is designed for ultimate power users.

This is so since it comes with a very powerful Li-Po 4080 mAh battery. Therefore the battery allows users to maximize and enjoy their phone for an adequate time before the need to recharge it again. Also, it allows 18 W fast charging as well as for a 12W wireless charging.

There is a finger print scanner inscribed on the device to give it an enhanced security whenever it lands on unwanted hands. When you buy this device, you will get nothing short of quality photos thanks to its super powerful camera. There is a double 12mp and 16 mp camera lenses at the rear, while at the front it has a single powerful 8 mp camera.

In addition, it comes with an internal memory capacity of 128GB. That is backed up by a powerful 8GB RAM. However, the latter does not exhibit a micro SD slot for memory expandability. Further, its large 6 inch display assures users nothing short of utmost clarity. This is achieved through its powerful screen resolution power of 1080 × 2340 pixels. Lastly, the above handset runs on android 11.

Google Pixel 5

Pros

  • It has a powerful rear camera.
  • Has an excellent RAM.
  • It has a very large battery capacity.
  • Has a great quality for price.

Cons

  • It lacks a micro SD slot for memory expansion.
  • Available in only two colors.

4. LG V50 Thinq

The LG V50 thinQ is an unlocked device that doesn’t limit users on the type of network carriers to use. Believe it or not, the latter comes in place as the first 5G phone ever produced by LG. Therefore, this means that with latter you stand a change of enjoying the fastest internet speeds.

As if not enough, it boasts of a super powerful 4000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging as well as a 10W Qi wireless charging. It also boasts if a triple 12mp, 12mp and 16mp camera lenses which give you crystal pictures. Its selfie camera exhibits a dual 8mp and 5mp camera lenses.

 A 3.5 mm jack is inscribed to allow users enjoy their music and videos even more. Nonetheless, it comes with 128Gb internal memory space and has a micro SD card slot for memory expandability. An 8GB RAM is also inscribed to give the latter fast response and quality performance. Moreover, it runs on android 9.0 pie which can be upgraded to android 10.

Unlike most smartphones, this one comes with a very large P-OLED, HDR10 6.4 inch display. Whether you want a single sim or a dual sim handset, this device is available in both versions. It only comes in a single color (New Aurora Black).

LG V50 Thinq

Pros

  • It has a powerful battery.
  • Has an excellent camera.
  • It has a micro SD a lot for memory expansion
  • It’s comes with an exceptionally large display.
  • It runs on an upgradable android system.
  • Supports 5G internet.
  • It is unlocked.

Cons

  • Available in just one color.

5. iPhone XS Max

If you like exploring, then this is another best unlocked deal for you. Unlike the vast majority of smartphones listed above, this unlocked device from apple runs on iOS 12 platform. As a matter of fact, its operating system can be upgraded to iOS 14.4.

On top of that, it comes with a dual 12 mp camera as well as dual 7mp selfie camera. Just like any other typical iPhone, the above handset does not have a micro SD slot for memory expansion. However, it is available in three versions based on its internal memory size. These versions include the 64GB 4RAM version, 256GB 4GB RAM version and the 512GB 4GB RAM version.

Nevertheless, it exhibits a large 6.5 inch super retina OLED, HDR10, 624 units display. This display is backed up by a screen resolution power of 1242 × 2688 pixels, hence its Crystal clear images. A standard 3174mAh non removable battery is also included. On top of that, this battery can be charged wirelessly and it supports up to 15 W fast charging.

Therefore, it gives users up to 16 hours of talk time and 65 hours of music play time. More also, it comes in three colors and these are space gray, silver and gold.

iPhone XS Max

Pros

  • Has a large display size
  • Has a powerful rear camera.
  • It runs on an upgradable iOS system.
  • It’s available in a variety of versions based on its internal memory capacity.

Cons

  • It lacks a micro SD slot for memory expandability.

6. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip

Are you tired of your service provider and wish to try a different one? With this amazing unlocked deal, that is so easy. It is an amazing deal that will ultimately leave you dazzled thanks to its outstanding foldable flip design. When unfolded, the latter measures 167.3 × 73.6 × 7.2 mm and 87.4 × 73.6 × 7.2mm when folded.

Additionally, it comes with an extra large 6.7 inch display which is backed up by a screen resolution power of 1080 × 2636 pixels. When it comes to operating system, this handset runs on android 10 which can be upgraded to android 11, one UI 3.0. You will definitely get adequate space to store all your data in this device as it comes with a large 256GB internal memory space. However, it lacks a micro SD sot for memory expandability.

In addition, it is equipped with a powerful dual 12 mp rear camera that gives you extra clear photos. Plus, it has a single 10 mp front camera. Other additional features such as a 3.5mm Jack and (accelerometer, gyro, proximity) sensors are also included.

In case you lose your device or perhaps it lands on unwanted hands, worry not. This is because it exhibits a finger print scanner for an advanced security level. This gadget is available in four different colors. These are mirror black, mirror purple, mirror gold and thome brown.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip

Pros

  • Has a large display size.
  • Has an excellent front camera.
  • It features a unique flip design.
  • It’s is available in a variety of colors
  • It is unlocked.

Cons

  • It has an average battery size.
  • It’s lacks a micro SD slot for memory expandability.

7. Moto G Stylus

Picture lovers!! If you haven’t bought this device then definitely it should be on your bucket list. This is so as this device comes with a powerful triple 48 mp rear camera as well as a 16mp low light selfie camera.

With this device, you will be able to take notes nicely as well as navigate around to your phone in style. This is achieved through its sleek built in stylus. This stylus is seamlessly integrated with moto note app. Therefore, it allows you to start writing without even having to unlock your phone.

As if not enough, this device gives users up to 22 days of standby time thanks to its super powerful 4000mAh battery. Being an unlocked device, the latter allows you to effortlessly settle for any carrier you want. Its display size measures precisely 6.4 inches and is backed up by a screen resolution power of 1080 × 2300 pixels.

Nonetheless, it has an internal memory capacity of 128 GB with a 4GB RAM. In case you want to expand its memory, there is a micro SD slot always on standby. It comes in a single color (mystic indigo) and runs on android 10.

Moto G Stylus

Pros

  • It comes with a modern built in stylus.
  • Has an excellent selfie camera
  • Has a micro SD slot for memory expansion.
  • Has a powerful rear camera.
  • Exhibits a large display size.
  • It has an excellent battery life.

Cons

  • Its has a very weak RAM.
  • It is available in single color.

8. Motorola Edge

This is another exquisite unlocked deal that is worth an investment. To begin with, this gadget is designed to fully suit power users. This is so since it exhibits a powerful 4500mAh Li-Po battery. This gives users up to 25 days of standby time. Plus, the battery supports both fast charging as well as wireless charging.

When it comes to its camera power, this device is literally on its own league. It has a quad 64mp, 16mp and 8mp rear camera lenses. On the other side, it has a single 25mp selfie camera that gives you nothing but crystal clear photos.

 The later comes in only two colors and these are solar black and midnight magenta. Similarly to IPhone X max, the latter comes in three versions based on its internal memory capacity. These include 64GB 4GBRAM version, 128GB 4GBRAM version and the 256GB 6GB RAM version.

It also comes with a micro SD slot for memory expandability and runs on a non upgradable android 10. Its 6.7 inch display size is backed up by a screen resolution power of 1080 × 2340 pixels. This gives you nothing short of high definition images.

Motorola Edge

Pros

  • Has a powerful front camera
  • Comes in a variety if versions based on its memory size.
  • It has a micro SD slot for memory expansion.
  • Exhibits an excellent battery life.
  • Has a large display size.

Cons

  • Has a weak RAM.
  • Available in two colors only.

9. OnePlus 8T

Here is another effective unlocked device built for the ultimate power user. It boasts of a Li-Po 4500mAh battery which allows both fast charging as well as wireless charging. On top of that, it comes with a very spectacular rear camera. Actually, it is a quad 48mp, 16mp, 5mp and 2mp rear camera lenses and single 16mp selfie camera. More also, it exhibits a large 6.5 inch fluid AMOLED display. This is backed up by a screen resolution power of 1080 × 2400 pixels.

The operating system inscribed on this device is Os android 11, OxygenOs 11.0.4. Also, it comes in two versions based on its internal memory capacity. There is the 128G 8GB RAM version and the 256GB 12GB RAM version. Plus, it has a micro SD slot for memory expansion.

OnePlus 8T

Pros

  • It has a large battery capacity.
  • Has a micro SD slot for memory expandability.
  • Comes in two version based on its memory capacity.
  • It comes with a very powerful RAM.

Cons

  • It comes in very few colors.

10. Samsung Galaxy Note 20

This closes our list of best unlocked deals to consider. Just like any other Galaxy note device, the Samsung Galaxy note 20 is built with bigger and better features. Launched on fifth August 2020, the latter comes with a 4300mAh battery.

Unlike other batteries, this one allows a 25W fast charging as well a Qi wireless charging. Some additional features likes a finger print scanner and a accelerometer scanner are included as well. On top of that, it comes with a triple 12mp, 64mp and 12mp rear camera lenses. There is also 10mp selfie camera inscribed at the front.

Sufficient 256GB internal memory capacity is employed to provide you with enough storage space. However, a micro SD slot is not included. It comes with android 10 which are upgradable to android 11, one UI 3.0. Apart from that, it has a sleek Bluetooth enabled stylus.

Last but not the least; it is powered with a large 6.7 inch super AMOLED display. This display gives nothing but high definition images, as it comes with a robust screen resolution power of 1080 × 2400 pixels.

Samsung Galaxy Note 20

Pros

  • Has an enormous battery 
  • Open to many service providers
  • Exhibits a large display size.
  • Has a large internal memory capacity.
  • Has a powerful rear camera.

Cons

  • It lacks a micro SD slot for memory expandability.

Key Features You Should Look Out For When Looking for When Buying Unlocked Phones

Since you have decided to buy an unlocked cell phone, chances are that you do not know the exact features to pay attention to. This is usually the case if you this is your first time to buy an unlocked phone. You will note that this handset come with different features and capabilities. Knowing the critical elements to look at can greatly help you get the value for your hard-earned money. Some of the features you should look at include:

1. Is Your Carrier A GSM or CMDA Provider?

You will realize that unlocked devices normally work well with the GSM service providers. However, there are some that wok both on both network standards, only that a handful of them have these capabilities.GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is basically a worldwide cell standard that ties all the cell service to a SIM card. Therefore, you will have the liberty to change these SIM card whenever you want to switch from one carrier to another. In fact you can buy several SIM cards and use them at different instances depending on your needs.

However, if the carrier is a CMDA (Code Division Multiple Access) provider, your phone will be locked to it only. Since you are seeking flexibility, you should consider the carrier that is a GSM provider. However, there are some carriers that work with both GSM and CDMA networks such as StraightTalk.

2. Your Budget

Unlike locked phones that are always under a contract, unlocked ones are different as they are not under any contract from a specific provider. Therefore, you will be buying the phone at full price. This is always the case unless you are buying from a store that offers a discount to its clients. To save more, you should consider those unlocked cell phone deals that come with discounts. Better still, you can compare prices from different retailers and choose the prices that are budget-friendly to you.

3. Features of the Phone

Besides the carrier services and the budget, you should be keen to look at the features that come with the phone. Since you are not tied to a contract; you will be at liberty to choose the phone that comes with incredible features. Be it just basic texting and calling features or advanced features, you will have the advantage of choosing from a plethora of devices, the one that fits you. From the quality of the camera to the size of the screen display, there are many features you should check when buying unlocked phones.

4. Consider Phones That Will Work With the Carriers You Please

As we speak, more and more carriers are now offering their services to those customers who want to bring their own devices into the network. These actually include both prepaid companies such as TracFone, Verizon or T-Mobile. Such companies normally offer Bring Your Own Phone programs. Since you are not tied to ant contact, some of these plans can work well for you.

Here, you will be able to choose how many calls, minutes and even SMS text messages you will enjoy. Also, you will have the liberty to choose how much data limit you will enjoy when it comes to video streaming or for social media.

5. Is it A Dual SIM Phone?

If you like travelling, a dual SIM phone is the best option for you. Here, you will have the luxury to insert one SIM card from the country that you are travelling to and the one can just remain with your provider’s SIM. By having two SIM cards operating simultaneously, you will be able to manage your persona and work in a better way.

6. Check Customer Reviews

When buying an unlocked phone, you should be keen to check what other customers says about the phone. Fortunately, platforms such as Amazon normally allow customers to comment about the different unlocked phones sold there. If the unlocked phone has many positive reviews, chances are that the phone will not disappoint you.

7. Warranty

Your Unlock phone of choice should come with a warranty from the manufacturer. This allows you to enjoy free repair services in case the phone gets faulty within the warranty period. Have in mind that the longer the warranty, the better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you put any SIM card into an unlocked phone?

Yes. Since the device is unlocked, it means that the device does not have the lock software that hinders the phone from connecting to other carrier services. Therefore, you will be at liberty to remove the SIM card and then put in a different SIM card from other carrier and then enjoy the cell service.

Should I buy a locked or unlocked phone?

Ideally, you should consider buying an unlocked phone. With this phone you will be able to switch wireless operators seamlessly. You will save more and even have an easy time when using the phone abroad.

Are unlocked phones safe?

Yes. By buying an unlocked phone you will have the chance to get the latest and safest software updates that will guarantee more security as far as virus and other malware are concerned.

How do you tell if a phone is locked to a carrier?

To determine whether your phone is locked to a particular carrier, you should try to insert a SIM card from another carrier and see if you will be able to make a call. If you are able to make a call successfully, then your device is unlocked and therefore it can work optimally with other SIM cards.

How much would it cost to unlock a phone?

If you want to unlock your phone the price that you will be charged will vary anywhere from a few dollars to about $50.However, there exists other options, such as third-party services which might seem to be a good idea but can be risky. This is because most of them normally require you to pay upfront and you might not necessarily get the services that you ever wanted in the first place.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing as pleasant as having the freedom to use the carrier that meets your needs. By buying an unlocked phone, you will enjoy this luxury and also save more money in the long run. You will have an easy time abroad as you will be able to switch between your local carrier services to the one found in the host country. The convenience that comes with unlocked phones is unmatched. Consider the best unlocked cell phone deals the guide mentioned above and you will be able to get the value for your hard-earned money.