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10 Best New Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Moto G Power 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 8+128GB | 50MP Camera | Pale Lilac

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,456
Battery Life
Display Size and Quality
Processor and RAM

Most important from
1889 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life is phenomenal, easily lasting all day and often requiring charging only every other day.
Display Size and Quality
The large, bright display with a 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations look smooth and fluid.
Processor and RAM
The phone delivers solid everyday performance with fast app handling and ample storage, making it perfect for practical use without overspending.
Camera Quality
Camera quality is good for casual photography, with a 50MP sensor that combines pixels for clearer shots, though it’s not aimed at advanced photo users.
Storage Capacity
The inclusion of a headphone jack and microSD card slot for expandable storage sets this phone apart from many modern competitors.
Connectivity
Cell reception is solid and generally better than some flagship phones, though not quite as strong as certain Samsung models.
Build Quality and Design
While the design with a pale lilac vegan leather back looks premium and resists fingerprints, the phone is a bit heavier than some might prefer.
Operating System
The phone comes with minimal bloatware, especially when unlocked, allowing for a cleaner, faster user experience.

The Moto G Power 5G (2024) is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable unlocked smartphone with a good balance of features. It runs on the latest Android 14, ensuring you have up-to-date software and security. The phone boasts a large 6.7-inch Full HD+ display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, which means scrolling and animations look fluid, and the Dolby Atmos stereo speakers enhance media and video watching experiences. Battery life is impressive thanks to its 5000mAh capacity, easily lasting a full day or more with typical use, and it supports fast 30W charging to quickly get you back to full power. The 50MP main camera uses technology to combine pixels for clearer shots, especially in low light, though the effective photo resolution is around 12.5MP, which may not match higher-end phones but should satisfy casual photography needs.

With 8GB of RAM and a MediaTek Dimensity 7020 octa-core processor, the phone handles everyday apps and multitasking smoothly, while 128GB of storage provides ample space for apps and media, and you can expand it further with a microSD card up to 1TB. Connectivity options include 5G for fast internet, plus Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS, covering all modern needs. The design stands out with a pale lilac vegan leather back that feels comfortable and resists fingerprints, giving it a premium look without the high price. At 201 grams, it’s a bit on the heavier side, which might feel noticeable during long use. This phone is well suited for users who want a large, vibrant display, long battery life, and decent everyday performance without spending too much, while advanced camera users or those wanting a very lightweight device might look elsewhere.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,456
Battery Life
Display Size and Quality
Processor and RAM

Most important from
1889 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life is phenomenal, easily lasting all day and often requiring charging only every other day.
Display Size and Quality
The large, bright display with a 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations look smooth and fluid.
Processor and RAM
The phone delivers solid everyday performance with fast app handling and ample storage, making it perfect for practical use without overspending.
Camera Quality
Camera quality is good for casual photography, with a 50MP sensor that combines pixels for clearer shots, though it’s not aimed at advanced photo users.
Storage Capacity
The inclusion of a headphone jack and microSD card slot for expandable storage sets this phone apart from many modern competitors.
Connectivity
Cell reception is solid and generally better than some flagship phones, though not quite as strong as certain Samsung models.
Build Quality and Design
While the design with a pale lilac vegan leather back looks premium and resists fingerprints, the phone is a bit heavier than some might prefer.
Operating System
The phone comes with minimal bloatware, especially when unlocked, allowing for a cleaner, faster user experience.
#3

SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 FE AI Phone, 128GB Unlocked Android Smartphone, High-Res 50MP Camera, Long Battery Life, Brighter Display Screen, US Version, 2024, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Graphite

Rating
9.6
Display Size and Quality
Battery Life
Camera Quality

Most important from
883 reviews

Display Size and Quality
Screen quality is excellent, providing a visually appealing experience.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE charges rapidly, reaching full battery within an hour using a fast charger.
Camera Quality
The camera quality is highly praised, capturing great photos.
Processor and RAM
Users appreciate the fast and responsive performance of the S24 FE.
Connectivity
The phone offers great flexibility with carrier options, working seamlessly with pay-as-you-go companies like Cricket.
Build Quality and Design
The phone is well-balanced in weight, neither too heavy nor too light.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE AI Phone offers several attractive features for users looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone. Running on One UI 6.1 with Android 14, it provides a modern and user-friendly operating system. The display is notably bright and large at 6.7 inches, with a high resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and an enjoyable viewing experience, even in bright conditions.

The 50MP high-resolution camera equipped with Galaxy AI offers advanced photo enhancement options, making it easier to take and edit stunning photos, including low-light portraits thanks to Night Portrait mode. With 5G connectivity and unlocked compatibility for all carriers, users can expect fast internet speeds and flexibility with carrier choice. The phone’s battery life is another strong point, supported by intelligent app management to extend usage time, which is particularly useful for heavy users.

Storage capacity is decent at 128GB, and the 8GB RAM combined with a capable processor ensures smooth performance for most applications and tasks. The build quality and design are refined, with a stylish graphite finish and durable construction. However, there are some drawbacks. While 128GB storage is sufficient for many users, those who require extensive storage for apps, photos, and videos may find it limiting without expandable memory options. The 50MP camera, while high-resolution, may not match the versatility offered by multi-lens setups found in other flagship models. Additionally, the large display size could be cumbersome for users with smaller hands. The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a solid choice for users seeking a well-rounded smartphone with advanced features and good performance across key areas.

Rating
9.6
Display Size and Quality
Battery Life
Camera Quality

Most important from
883 reviews

Display Size and Quality
Screen quality is excellent, providing a visually appealing experience.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE charges rapidly, reaching full battery within an hour using a fast charger.
Camera Quality
The camera quality is highly praised, capturing great photos.
Processor and RAM
Users appreciate the fast and responsive performance of the S24 FE.
Connectivity
The phone offers great flexibility with carrier options, working seamlessly with pay-as-you-go companies like Cricket.
Build Quality and Design
The phone is well-balanced in weight, neither too heavy nor too light.

Buying Guide for the Best New Unlocked Cell Phones

Choosing a new unlocked cell phone can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience due to the vast array of options available. Unlocked phones offer the flexibility to choose your carrier and plan, making them a popular choice for many. To make the best decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are some essential specs to consider when selecting an unlocked cell phone.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) is the software that runs the phone and manages its functions. The two main options are Android and iOS. Android offers more customization and a wider range of devices, while iOS is known for its smooth user experience and integration with other Apple products. Choose the OS that best fits your preferences and the ecosystem of devices you already use.
Display Size and QualityThe display size and quality determine how comfortable and enjoyable it is to use your phone. Larger screens are great for media consumption and multitasking, while smaller screens are more portable and easier to handle. Display quality, measured in resolution (e.g., Full HD, 4K), affects the clarity and sharpness of images and text. Consider your usage habits—if you watch a lot of videos or play games, a larger, high-resolution screen may be ideal.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long your phone can operate before needing a recharge. It's typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Higher mAh values generally mean longer battery life, but actual performance can vary based on usage and other factors. If you're frequently on the go or use your phone heavily throughout the day, look for a phone with a larger battery capacity and efficient power management features.
Camera QualityCamera quality is crucial for those who love taking photos and videos. Key factors include the number of megapixels, aperture size, and additional features like optical image stabilization and night mode. Higher megapixels can produce more detailed images, while a larger aperture allows better low-light performance. Consider what type of photography you enjoy—if you want professional-quality photos, look for phones with advanced camera systems.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity determines how much data your phone can hold, including apps, photos, videos, and files. Common options range from 64GB to 512GB or more. If you store a lot of media or use many apps, opt for higher storage capacity. Some phones also offer expandable storage via microSD cards, providing additional flexibility.
Processor and RAMThe processor and RAM affect the phone's performance and speed. The processor (CPU) handles tasks and operations, while RAM (random access memory) allows for smooth multitasking. Higher-end processors and more RAM result in faster, more efficient performance. If you use demanding apps or games, or multitask frequently, look for phones with powerful processors and ample RAM.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include support for various network types (e.g., 4G, 5G) and other features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. 5G offers faster internet speeds and better performance in crowded areas. If you rely on fast internet for streaming or online gaming, consider a phone with 5G capability. Additionally, ensure the phone supports the connectivity features you need for your daily activities.
Build Quality and DesignBuild quality and design affect the phone's durability and aesthetic appeal. Materials like glass, metal, and plastic can impact the phone's feel and sturdiness. Design elements such as color, shape, and weight also play a role in your overall satisfaction. Choose a phone that feels comfortable in your hand and matches your style preferences.

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