Best Unlocked Smartphones in the USA (2025 Buyer’s Guide)
Looking for unlocked smartphones that work with major U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile? This 2025 guide lists the best unlocked phones across premium, Android, and budget categories — with quick comparisons and direct “Buy on Amazon” buttons.
Why buy an unlocked smartphone in the USA?
- Carrier freedom: pick the plan you want and switch anytime.
- Better long-term value: unlocked phones often have higher resale value.
- Travel friendly: easier to use SIMs internationally.
- No bloat: many factory unlocked smartphones offer a cleaner experience.
Quick note: “Unlocked” means the phone is not tied to a single carrier. Always confirm network band compatibility and your plan details before purchase.
Comparison Table
A fast way to compare the best unlocked smartphones in USA by category, storage, and pricing tier.
| Phone | Category | Storage | Deal Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel 10 Pro XL | Best Overall (Unlocked) | 256GB | $899 | Buy on Amazon |
| Apple iPhone 16e | Best iPhone (Unlocked) | 256GB | $839.96 | Buy on Amazon |
| OnePlus 15 | Best Android Power (Unlocked) | 512GB | $999.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 FE | Best Value Flagship (Unlocked) | 256GB | $559.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Google Pixel 10 | Unlocked Android | 128GB | $599 | Buy on Amazon |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | Unlocked Android | 128GB | $749 | Buy on Amazon |
| Galaxy Z Flip7 | Foldable (Unlocked) | 256GB | $849.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| OnePlus 13 | Unlocked Android | 512GB | $849.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| OnePlus 10 Pro | Unlocked Android | 128GB | $319.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Galaxy A16 5G | Budget (Unlocked) | 128GB | $174.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Galaxy A36 5G | Budget (Unlocked) | 128GB | $298 | Buy on Amazon |
| OnePlus 7T | Budget (Factory Unlocked GSM) | 128GB | $199.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Google Pixel 4a | Budget (Unlocked) | 128GB | $500 | Buy on Amazon |
Prices, availability, and specs can change. Always confirm listing details on Amazon before purchase.
SECTION 1: Best Overall Unlocked Smartphones (Hero Picks)
These are the best unlocked smartphones in the USA for 2025 if you want premium performance, great cameras, and long-term reliability.
1) Google Pixel 10 Pro XL (256GB) – Unlocked
A flagship unlocked Android smartphone built around Gemini AI, a bright 6.8” Super Actua display, and a pro-level triple camera system. Ideal if you want “Pixel clean” Android with long-term security.
- Gemini AI Assistant for smarter everyday help
- Triple camera with advanced AI imaging and 8K video
- 6.8” Super Actua display (excellent outdoors)
- Unlocked & carrier-friendly: Google Fi, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile
Deal: $899 $1199 (25% off)
2) Apple iPhone 16e (256GB) – SIM Free / Unlocked
Want a future-ready unlocked iPhone with plenty of storage? iPhone 16e delivers a smooth iOS experience, 5G, and USB-C. Great for Apple ecosystem users who want carrier flexibility.
- SIM Free / Unlocked for major carriers
- 256GB storage for long-term use
- Up to 26 hours video playback
- USB-C for modern charging
Deal: $839.96 $899 (7% off)
3) OnePlus 15 (16GB RAM, 512GB) – Dual-SIM, Unlocked
If you want a performance monster, OnePlus 15 targets power users: heavy multitasking, gaming, and long battery life — a serious contender among the best unlocked Android phones.
- 16GB RAM + 512GB storage
- Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (as listed)
- 7300mAh battery (as listed)
- 6.78” AMOLED with 165Hz refresh rate (as listed)
- Dual-SIM flexibility
Price: $999.99
4) Samsung Galaxy S25 FE 5G (256GB) – Unlocked
Galaxy S25 FE is the “smart value flagship” choice in 2025: a big display, strong battery, and Samsung AI photo tools — perfect if you want a premium feel without the highest flagship pricing.
- 256GB storage + 8GB RAM (as listed)
- 6.7” large smooth display (as listed)
- 4900mAh battery + Super Fast Charging (as listed)
- Unlocked & 5G ready for major US carriers
- Samsung Knox security (as listed)
Deal: $559.99 $709.99 (21% off)
SECTION 2: Best Unlocked Android Phones (High Intent)
If you searched “unlocked android phones” or “factory unlocked smartphones,” this section is for you. These are excellent picks for performance, camera quality, and everyday reliability.
5) Google Pixel 10 (128GB) – Unlocked
Pixel 10 is a strong “daily driver” unlocked smartphone: Gemini AI, triple rear camera with 5x telephoto, and a bright 6.3” Actua display.
- Gemini built-in for smarter help
- 5x telephoto + up to 20x Super Res Zoom (as listed)
- IP68 water/dust resistance (as listed)
- 24+ hour battery + fast charging (as listed)
Deal: $599 $799 (25% off)
6) Google Pixel 9 Pro XL (128GB) – Unlocked
A premium unlocked Android phone with a large 6.8” Super Actua display, Gemini AI features, and a triple camera system tuned for sharp results in any light.
- Tensor G4 + Gemini AI (as listed)
- 6.8” OLED Super Actua display (as listed)
- Unlocked for major US carriers (as listed)
- All-day battery + fast charging (as listed)
Deal: $749 $1099 (32% off)
7) Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 (256GB) – Unlocked Foldable
If you want a phone that feels different (and fun), the Flip7 offers flagship performance in a compact foldable design with Galaxy AI features.
- Foldable flip design (compact + immersive)
- 50MP camera + FlexCam for hands-free shots (as listed)
- 12GB RAM + 256GB storage (as listed)
- Unlocked for major US carriers (as listed)
Deal: $849.99 $1099.99 (23% off)
8) OnePlus 13 (16GB RAM, 512GB) – Unlocked
OnePlus 13 is built for speed: flagship chipset, big battery, fast charging, and a Hasselblad-tuned camera system — a strong pick in the unlocked Android category.
- 16GB RAM + 512GB storage
- 6000mAh battery + 80W fast charging (as listed)
- 120Hz ProXDR display (as listed)
- Hasselblad camera collaboration (as listed)
Deal: $849.99 $999.99 (15% off)
9) OnePlus 10 Pro 5G (8GB RAM, 128GB) – U.S. Unlocked
A more budget-friendly entry into premium Android: a smooth 120Hz QHD+ display and Hasselblad co-developed triple cameras — solid value among unlocked smartphones for sale.
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (as listed)
- 6.7” QHD+ 120Hz LTPO display (as listed)
- Hasselblad triple camera system (as listed)
- U.S. Unlocked (works with major networks as listed)
Price: $319.99
SECTION 3: Best Budget Unlocked Phones (Under $300)
If you’re searching “unlocked phones under 300” or “cheap unlocked smartphones,” these picks offer excellent value for everyday use. (Note: Pixel 4a is priced higher in your listing, but it’s still an unlocked option worth considering.)
10) Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (128GB) – Unlocked (US Version 2025)
A budget-friendly unlocked smartphone with a large AMOLED display, 5G connectivity, expandable storage, and long-term update promise — excellent for everyday users.
- 6.7” AMOLED display (as listed)
- Unlocked for major US carriers (as listed)
- 128GB storage + up to 1.5TB expandable (as listed)
- Super Fast Charging (as listed)
- Up to 6 years OS & security updates (as listed)
Deal: $174.99 $199.99 (13% off)
11) Samsung Galaxy A36 5G (128GB) – Unlocked (US Version 2025)
A strong mid-budget pick with an AMOLED display, 5G, and a modern One UI experience. Great for people who want a reliable unlocked phone without flagship pricing.
- 6.7” AMOLED display (as listed)
- 5G connectivity (as listed)
- 128GB storage (as listed)
- Super Fast Charging (as listed)
- Unlocked for all major carriers (as listed)
Deal: $298 $399.99 (25% off)
12) Google Pixel 4a (128GB) – Unlocked
Pixel 4a is a compact unlocked Android smartphone with a clean UI, great computational photography, and dependable battery management. (Your listing shows a higher price; check for seller variations.)
- 128GB storage (as listed)
- Up to 24-hour adaptive battery (as listed)
- Night Sight for low-light photos (as listed)
- Titan M security chip (as listed)
Price: $500
13) OnePlus 7T (8GB RAM, 128GB) – Factory Unlocked (GSM, US Model)
A classic value pick if you want a factory unlocked smartphone with a smooth 90Hz AMOLED display. Important: this model is listed as GSM (works with AT&T/T-Mobile and compatible MVNOs; not ideal for CDMA-based networks).
- Snapdragon 855+ (as listed)
- 8GB RAM + 128GB storage
- 90Hz AMOLED display (as listed)
- Triple rear cameras (as listed)
Price: $199.99
SECTION 4: iPhones for USA Buyers (Important Carrier Note)
Note for buyers: Some iPhones listed in this section are offered with a carrier plan. These options can be ideal if you prefer monthly payments, bundled data plans, or carrier promotions. If you want full carrier freedom with no plan attached, choose a SIM-free unlocked iPhone like the iPhone 16e.
14) Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max (128GB) – Carrier Locked + Subscription
A premium iPhone experience with a large Super Retina XDR display and Pro camera system — listed as a locked device with carrier subscription.
- 6.7” Super Retina XDR display (as listed)
- A15 Bionic chip (as listed)
- Pro triple camera + LiDAR (as listed)
- Up to 28 hours video playback (as listed)
Deal: $842.44 $899.99 (6% off)
15) Apple iPhone 12 Pro (128GB) – Carrier Locked + Subscription
iPhone 12 Pro still offers a premium camera system and sharp OLED display — but your listing indicates it is carrier locked with subscription.
- A14 Bionic chip (as listed)
- Pro camera system + LiDAR (as listed)
- 5G capable (as listed)
- MagSafe compatible (as listed)
Price: $320.80
16) Apple iPhone 12 (64GB) – Carrier Locked + Subscription
A good entry into iOS for users who prefer a carrier bundle. Your listing indicates it’s locked and included with a subscription plan.
- 6.1” Super Retina XDR display (as listed)
- A14 Bionic chip (as listed)
- Dual 12MP cameras + Night Mode (as listed)
- 5G capable (as listed)
Deal: $313.70 $599 (48% off)
How to choose the best unlocked phone (USA checklist)
If you’re comparing unlocked smartphones, use this checklist to avoid buyer regret.
- Carrier compatibility: confirm the listing supports your carrier bands (Verizon / AT&T / T-Mobile). “GSM-only” phones are not ideal for all networks.
- Battery needs: heavy users should prioritize larger batteries and fast charging.
- Camera priorities: Pixel is strong for computational photography; Samsung for AI edits; iPhone for consistent video & ecosystem.
- Storage: choose 256GB+ if you keep phones 3–5 years or record lots of video.
- Updates & security: look for long-term OS/security updates (especially for factory unlocked smartphones).
FAQs about unlocked smartphones
What does “factory unlocked” mean?
A factory unlocked smartphone is sold without being tied to one carrier. You can insert a compatible SIM and activate it on your preferred network (subject to band support).
Do unlocked phones work with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile?
Many unlocked phones do, but it depends on the exact model and supported bands. Always check compatibility details in the Amazon listing and your carrier’s requirements.
Are unlocked phones better than carrier locked phones?
If you value flexibility, yes — unlocked smartphones are typically better. Carrier locked phones can be good deals if you prefer a bundled subscription plan.
What are the best unlocked phones under $300?
In this guide, strong “under $300” picks include the Galaxy A16 5G and Galaxy A36 5G. They offer 5G and modern displays at a budget price point.
Final Verdict: Which unlocked smartphone should you buy?
- Best overall unlocked phone: Google Pixel 10 Pro XL
- Best unlocked iPhone: Apple iPhone 16e (SIM Free / Unlocked)
- Best performance Android: OnePlus 15
- Best value flagship unlocked: Samsung Galaxy S25 FE
- Best budget unlocked phones: Galaxy A16 5G / Galaxy A36 5G
Want the latest deals on unlocked smartphones for sale? Browse the full collection on As-Mart and hit “Buy on Amazon” when you’re ready.