10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

The Moto G 5G 2024 is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable yet functional unlocked cell phone. Running on Android 14, it offers the latest software features and enhancements. The 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, whether you're watching movies or playing games. The 1612x720 resolution might not be as sharp as some higher-end models, but it is still adequate for most users.

The 50MP camera system, which combines pixels for better light sensitivity, delivers impressive photos in various lighting conditions and includes a Macro Vision lens for close-up shots. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM, provides decent performance for everyday tasks and 5G connectivity for fast internet speeds where available. With 128GB of internal storage and the option to expand further with a microSD card, you won't run out of space quickly.

The 5000mAh battery is a standout feature, offering long usage times and fast charging capabilities, although the charger might be sold separately. Design-wise, the phone's vegan leather back gives it a premium feel while being practical and fingerprint resistant. Additional features like stereo speakers, water resistance, and dual SIM support add to its versatility. Weighing 194 grams, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. While it may not match the power and camera capabilities of top-tier smartphones, the Moto G 5G 2024 provides excellent value for those looking for a reliable daily driver with modern features.

The Moto G Play 2024 is an attractive option for those seeking an affordable, unlocked cell phone. It runs on Android 13.0, making it up-to-date with the latest software. The phone features a sizeable 6.5-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth viewing experience, though the resolution is not the highest available. Its Snapdragon 680 processor paired with 4GB of RAM ensures decent performance for everyday tasks and entertainment.

The 50MP camera promises sharp and vibrant photos, although it effectively captures at 12.5MP due to the Quad Pixel technology. Storage-wise, the device offers 64GB which can be expanded up to 1TB via microSD, accommodating plenty of apps, photos, and videos. One of its standout features is the 5000mAh battery, which should keep you going through a full day of use without needing a recharge.

The phone is also designed with durability in mind, featuring a sleek matte finish and splash protection. On the downside, the display resolution is on the lower side compared to some competitors, and the phone might not handle high-end gaming as smoothly due to its mid-range processor and RAM. However, for its price point, it delivers good value with essentials like stereo speakers, expandable memory, and robust battery life. It’s a solid choice for users looking for a reliable and budget-friendly unlocked phone.

The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is an unlocked cell phone designed for versatile use and enriched with several notable features. It runs on the latest Android 14 operating system, ensuring you have access to the latest apps and updates. The 6.7-inch pOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate provides a smooth and vibrant viewing experience, enhanced further by Dolby Atmos for superior sound quality.

The standout feature is the built-in stylus, perfect for jotting notes, photo editing, and artistic endeavors, making it a great choice for creative users or professionals who need precise input functionality. The 50MP Ultra Pixel camera with Optical Image Stabilization allows for high-quality photos and videos, particularly in low light. With a robust 5000mAh battery, the phone promises substantial battery life, potentially lasting over a day with moderate use, and supports 30W TurboPower charging for quick power-ups.

Storage is ample with 256GB capacity, and the 8GB RAM with RAM Boost ensures smooth performance even with demanding apps. Additionally, the phone offers expandable storage via a microSD card slot, accommodating up to 2TB. Connectivity options include 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, and NFC, covering all the bases for modern connectivity needs. The design is visually appealing with a modern, soft vegan leather finish in Scarlet Wave color, making it visually unique and comfortable to handle. However, while the extensive features make it a strong contender, the build quality, though stylish, may not feel as premium as some high-end models. Also, the use of internal storage for RAM Boost can reduce available space, which potential users should consider. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) offers a well-rounded package suitable for a wide range of users, particularly those who value a good stylus experience and solid performance.