Tired of the restrictive carrier payment plans that come with new cell phones? The top unlocked phones we've tested aren't tied to a carrier, offer you more freedom, and carry less bloatware.
ByIyaz Akhtar
Iyaz Akhtar
Mobile Analyst
My Experience
I’m one of PCMag’s mobile analysts. That means I check out phones, hotspots, and mobile networks. Technology has been my passion and hobby since I was a child. I’ve covered tech professionally for over 15 years at outlets including The Apple Blog, This Week in Tech, and CNET.
Read Full Bio
UpdatedFebruary 16, 2024
Table of Contents
In the US, many carriers turn to software locks to prevent you from using a phone you buy from them on a competing network. Otherwise, they might try to force you into a payment plan that doesn't permit you to leave that carrier or enable hardware frequency restrictions. Unlocked phones—those you pay for in total upfront (and often from the manufacturer or third-party sellers)—are different. You can often use an unlocked phone on any carrier the phone’s bands support and, importantly, switch carriers at will. You might even be able to use an unlocked phone on an international carrier when traveling.
These are our choices for the best unlocked phones available in the US, followed by what to consider when you buy an unlocked device.
Our Experts Have Tested 49 Products in the Mobile Phones Category in the Past Year
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions.See how we test.
Our Top Tested Picks
Best iPhone for Creators Jump ToDetails Best for Artists and Note-Takers Jump ToDetails Most Affordable Pixel Phone Jump ToDetails Best Folding Phone Jump ToDetails Best Android Phone for Most People Jump ToDetails Best Affordable Android Phone Jump ToDetails Best iPhone for Most People Jump ToDetails Best Flip Phone Jump ToDetails Best Alternative to Google and Samsung Jump ToDetails Best Voice Phone Jump ToDetails 
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Google Pixel 7a
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Google Pixel 8
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Apple iPhone 15
Motorola Razr+
OnePlus 12
Nokia 2780 Flip
The Best Phone Deals This Week*
- Google Pixel 8 5G 128GB Unlocked Phone (Obsidian) — $549.00(List Price $699)
- Apple iPhone 14 128GB (Verified Refurbished by Back Market) — From $469.99(List Price $729)
- OnePlus Nord N30 5G 128GB Unlocked Phone (Chromatic Gray) — $249.99(List Price $299.99)
- Motorola Razr+ 256GB Unlocked Phone (2023 Model) — $649.99(List Price $999.99)
- Samsung Galaxy A35 5G 128GB Unlocked Phone (Navy) — $359.99(List Price $399.99)
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
- RELATED:
- Best Phones
- Best Android Phones
- Best Camera Phones
- Best Cheap Phones
- Best 5G Phones
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Best iPhone for Creators
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a lot going for it, including a large battery that lasts for over 20 hours of streaming HD video at full brightness. It also has the best camera system in an iPhone and a large screen that's terrific for creative types. Other highlights include a fast USB-C Gen 2 port, a powerful A17 Pro processor, a sturdy titanium frame, and a versatile Action button. Buying unlocked from an Apple Store is easy and you shouldn't face compatibility issues with any US carriers.
Who It's For
Photographers and videographers are the main audience for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, but it's also ideal for anyone who just wants the best, longest-lasting iPhone they can buy.
PROS
- Fast, smooth performance
- Excellent cameras
- Long battery life
- Useful Action button
- USB-C connectivity opens up new features
- Lighter than previous Pro Max
CONS
- Expensive
- Big
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS 17 |
| CPU | Apple A17 Pro |
| Dimensions | 6.29 by 3.02 by 0.32 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.7 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,796 by 1,290 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 48MP, 12MP, 12MP; 12MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 20 hours, 15 minutes |
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Learn More
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max Review
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best for Artists and Note-Takers
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra doesn't make any compromises. It's large and powerful, features one of the best camera systems, includes an S Pen stylus, and offers all the latest Galaxy AI features. If you buy the unlocked model from Samsung's website, it will work with all US carriers and you get to pick from some online-exclusive colors.
Who It's For
The S Pen stylus, along with Samsung's powerful multitasking software, make the Galaxy S24 Ultra a great phone for artists and mobile professionals who like to be productive on the go.
PROS
- Speedy performance
- Beautiful screen
- Terrific cameras
- Useful AI features
- Comes with S Pen stylus
- Long support commitment
CONS
- Big
- Expensive
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 14 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| Dimensions | 6.40 by 3.11 by 0.34 Inches |
| Screen Size | 6.8 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 3,120 by 1,440 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 200MP, 12MP, 10MP, 50MP; 12MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 14 hours, 10 minutes |
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Learn More
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review
Google Pixel 7a
Most Affordable Pixel Phone
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
The Pixel 7a isn't as powerful as the Pixel 8, but it still features many of Google's amazing photography software tricks like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Face Unblur. Smooth performance from the Tensor G2 chip, delightful AI-assisted tools, and support for wireless charging are also strong points.
Who It's For
If you like Google's version of Android, the Pixel 7a offers that experience for less money than its current flagship devices.
PROS
- Solid performance
- Above-average cameras
- Unique design
- Wireless charging
CONS
- Wi-Fi disconnection issue in testing
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 13 |
| CPU | Google Tensor G2 |
| Dimensions | 5.98 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.1 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,400 by 1,080 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 64MP, 13MP; 13MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 13 hours, 25 minutes |
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Learn More
Google Pixel 7a Review
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Best Folding Phone
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is Samsung's best folding phone yet. It's thinner and lighter than previous iterations and even closes without a gap. Both screens look beautiful, the performance is excellent, and the cameras take great pictures. The software experience continues to be top-notch as well, particularly for those who like to multitask.
Who It's For
If you value versatility, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is an excellent pick because it can serve as both your phone and tablet. We're also fans of the Dex feature for big-screen productivity tasks.
PROS
- Incredibly versatile
- Excellent productivity software
- Beautiful screens
- Slimmer, lighter design than previous generation
CONS
- Pricey
- Odd speaker placement
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 13 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Dimensions | 6.10 by 5.11 by 0.24 inches |
| Screen Size | 7.6 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,176 by 1,812 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 50MP, 12MP, 10MP; 10MP; 4MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 11 hours, 20 minutes |
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Learn More
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 Review
Google Pixel 8
Best Android Phone for Most People
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
Google's Pixel 8 is among the most future-proof Android handsets available. It also offers smooth software, good battery life, and excellent cameras with AI-enhanced editing tools. Available unlocked from Google's store, it works on all three US carriers and supports both eSIM and physical SIM cards.
Who It's For
If you want an Android phone with a great camera that will get updates for a long time, look no further.
PROS
- Competitively priced
- Advanced AI features
- Terrific cameras
- Compact
- Excellent build quality
CONS
- Unimpressive battery life
- No telephoto camera
- Storage capped at 256GB
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 14 |
| CPU | Google Tensor G3 |
| Dimensions | 5.93 by 2.79 by 0.35 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.2 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,400 by 1,080 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 50MP, 12MP; 10.5MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 10 hours, 20 minutes |
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Learn More
Google Pixel 8 Review
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Best Affordable Android Phone
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
A 5G phone with a high-resolution screen and a triple-camera setup for a quarter of the price of a Galaxy S24? That's the Galaxy A15 5G. Samsung also promises four OS upgrades, meaning you can keep it for years without worry.
Who It's For
If you want to get on a 5G network for not a lot of money, the Samsung A15 5G is an excellent and affordable pick that more than meets expectations.
PROS
- Affordable
- Long battery life
- Competent cameras
- Excellent software upgrade policy
CONS
- No IP rating
- Plastic build
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 14 |
| CPU | Mediatek 6835 |
| Dimensions | 6.30 by 3.02 by 0.33 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.5 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,340 by 1,080 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 50MP, 5MP, 2MP; 13MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 14 hours, 3 minutes |
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Learn More
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Review
Apple iPhone 15
Best iPhone for Most People
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
iPhones are the most easily available, universally unlocked line of phones in the US because of Apple's nationwide network of brick-and-mortar stores. Unlocked iPhones support every US carrier's frequency bands and you can easily switch them from carrier to carrier. Just remember, most iPhones sold in the US now use eSIMs.
Who It's For
The average consumer in the market for an unlocked phone should be comfortable with the mainstream iPhone 15. It's easy to use, powerful, and switches carriers easily.
PROS
- Good size and weight
- Solid performance
- Capable cameras
- USB-C port
- Dynamic Island
CONS
- No always-on display
- No telephoto camera
- Shorter battery life than other iPhones
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS 17 |
| CPU | Apple A16 Bionic |
| Dimensions | 5.81 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.1 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,556 by 1,179 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 48MP, 12MP; 12MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 16 hours, 15 minutes |
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Learn More
Apple iPhone 15 Review
Motorola Razr+
Best Flip Phone
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The Motorola Razr+ is appealing thanks to its bright, pixel-rich display, solid everyday performance, and capable set of cameras, but we picked it because it's a fun folding phone that changes things up. This device bends in half at the waist and flips down into a small, pocketable square that's easy to use even when closed.
Who It's For
This flip is for people tired of the same old slab-style smartphones looking for something different. It may not be as powerful as a Galaxy or a Pixel flagship, but it's got far more personality.
PROS
- Excellent display quality
- Highly functional external screen
- Portable, stylish design
CONS
- Unimpressive IP rating
- Dated processor
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 13 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 |
| Dimensions | 6.73 by 2.91 by 0.28 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.9 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2,640 by 1,080 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 12MP, 13MP; 32MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 14 hours |
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Learn More
Motorola Razr+ Review
OnePlus 12
Best Alternative to Google and Samsung
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
The OnePlus 12 is an off-the-beaten-path flagship that goes spec for spec against its top rivals. Moreover, its 5,000mAh battery charges faster than most: It goes from 0% to 100% in just 38 minutes with the included 80W charger.
Who It's For
A top-tier processor, super-fast charging, and a reasonable price make the OnePlus 12 an ideal Android phone for power users who don't want to spend too much.
PROS
- Bright, crisp display
- Excellent battery life
- Rapid wired and wireless charging
- Powerful processor
CONS
- Lacks mmWave 5G
- Not as waterproof as competing phones
- No special AI features
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 14 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| Dimensions | 6.47 by 2.98 by 0.36 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.82 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 3,168 by 1,440 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 64MP, 50MP, 48MP; 32MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 18 hours, 10 minutes |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
OnePlus 12 Review
Nokia 2780 Flip
Best Voice Phone
3.5 Good
Why We Picked It
The Nokia 2780 Flip phone is affordable, pocketable, and durable. It sounds good on calls and even has a camera for the occasional snapshot.
Who It's For
If you want your friends and family members to be able to reach you, but don't want to deal with any distractions, the Nokia 2780 Flip should suit your needs.
PROS
- Good call quality
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- FM radio
- Affordable
CONS
- Operating system is a bit clunky
- Group texting could be better
- Several key apps are missing
- Middling battery life
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | KaiOS |
| CPU | Qualcomm 215 Mobile Platform |
| Dimensions | 4.33 by 2.28 by 0.77 inches |
| Screen Size | 2.7 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 320 by 240 pixels |
| Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 5MP |
| Battery Life (As Tested) | 3 hours, 24 minutes (LTE talk time) |
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Learn More
Nokia 2780 Flip Review
Buying Guide: The Best Unlocked Phones for 2024
The Best Phones of the Year
What Is the Best Unlocked Phone to Buy?
With an unlocked device, you can trade up or sell your phone whenever you want without waiting for the end of a leasing or installment plan. You can also own multiple handsets and swap your SIM card between them. If you travel internationally, you can pop in a local, pay-as-you-go card overseas and never pay horrendous international roaming charges. You can also take advantage of super-cheap prepaid plans from virtual operators in the US that piggyback on compatible networks.
If you go with a prepaid carrier, ensure it supports the phone you want; we've heard several stories of MVNOs not supporting phones that theoretically work on their networks.
What Is 5G?
Can You Put Any SIM Card Into an Unlocked Phone?
There are a few downsides to going the unlocked route. If you change SIM cards overseas, you won't have your US phone number while you travel. Most of the phones on our list work on all three major US carriers, but you should check out our reviews before you buy because a few might not connect to all the carriers' 5G networks—or overseas networks.
Samsung Galaxy S24+ (Credit: Eric Zeman)
On the plus side, with the growing number of phones with electronic SIMs (eSIMs), changing carriers is easier than ever. Simply select your carrier from a menu on your phone or by scanning an online QR code, and you won't need to wait for a physical SIM to arrive in the mail.
On this list, the Pixel 8 series, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, and Apple’s iPhones support eSIM or dual SIM, which lets you attach two lines to one phone. Dual SIM is great for maintaining a work line and a personal line, or lines for two different countries, that ring a single device.
Google Pixel 8 (Credit: Eric Zeman)
Where Can You Buy a New Unlocked Phone?
Shopping for an unlocked handset can be tricky because carrier stores don't stock them. If you're looking for one, Amazon, the Apple Store, Best Buy Mobile, and manufacturers' online stores (Google, OnePlus, Samsung) are all good bets. Sometimes, you can even unlock the phone you already have, though the particulars depend on the handset and carrier.
If that large upfront payment is a concern, some retailers including Apple, Best Buy, Google, and Samsung will allow you to finance devices over two or three years to break down the cost.
Recommended by Our Editors
How to Unlock Your Phone
9 Tips to Get the Best Price on a Cell Phone
Ready to break free? Pick up one of these handsets, and don't feel tied to your carrier any longer.
And if you're looking for the best deal, check out our tips for getting the best price on a new phone and our picks for the best cheap phones.
Dave LeClair and Sascha Segan contributed to this story.
Compare SpecsThe Best Unlocked Phones for 2024
Our Picks | Apple iPhone 15 Pro MaxSee It$0.01 at Amazon | Samsung Galaxy S24 UltraSee It$1,299.99 at Amazon | Google Pixel 7aSee It$499.00 at Amazon | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5See It$1,519.99 at Amazon | Google Pixel 8See It$549.00 at Amazon | Samsung Galaxy A15 5GSee It$162.95 at Amazon | Apple iPhone 15See It$0.01 at Amazon | Motorola Razr+See It$649.99 at Amazon | OnePlus 12See It$699.99 at Amazon | Nokia 2780 FlipSee It$109.00 at Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Editors'Rating | Editors' Choice 4.5Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.5Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.5Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.5Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.0Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | 3.5Editor Review |
Operating System | iOS 17 | Android 14 | Android 13 | Android 13 | Android 14 | Android 14 | iOS 17 | Android 13 | Android 14 | KaiOS |
CPU | Apple A17 Pro | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy | Google Tensor G2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Google Tensor G3 | Mediatek 6835 | Apple A16 Bionic | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Qualcomm 215 Mobile Platform |
Dimensions | 6.29 by 3.02 by 0.32 inches | 6.40 by 3.11 by 0.34 Inches | 5.98 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches | 6.10 by 5.11 by 0.24 inches | 5.93 by 2.79 by 0.35 inches | 6.30 by 3.02 by 0.33 inches | 5.81 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.73 by 2.91 by 0.28 inches | 6.47 by 2.98 by 0.36 inches | 4.33 by 2.28 by 0.77 inches |
Screen Size | 6.7 inches | 6.8 inches | 6.1 inches | 7.6 inches | 6.2 inches | 6.5 inches | 6.1 inches | 6.9 inches | 6.82 inches | 2.7 inches |
Screen Resolution | 2,796 by 1,290 pixels | 3,120 by 1,440 pixels | 2,400 by 1,080 pixels | 2,176 by 1,812 pixels | 2,400 by 1,080 pixels | 2,340 by 1,080 pixels | 2,556 by 1,179 pixels | 2,640 by 1,080 pixels | 3,168 by 1,440 pixels | 320 by 240 pixels |
Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 48MP, 12MP, 12MP; 12MP | 200MP, 12MP, 10MP, 50MP; 12MP | 64MP, 13MP; 13MP | 50MP, 12MP, 10MP; 10MP; 4MP | 50MP, 12MP; 10.5MP | 50MP, 5MP, 2MP; 13MP | 48MP, 12MP; 12MP | 12MP, 13MP; 32MP | 64MP, 50MP, 48MP; 32MP | 5MP |
Battery Life (As Tested) | 20 hours, 15 minutes | 14 hours, 10 minutes | 13 hours, 25 minutes | 11 hours, 20 minutes | 10 hours, 20 minutes | 14 hours, 3 minutes | 16 hours, 15 minutes | 14 hours | 18 hours, 10 minutes | 3 hours, 24 minutes (LTE talk time) |
Where to Buy | $0.01 at Amazon $1,399.99 at Best Buy | $1,299.99 at Amazon | $499.00 at Amazon $499.00 at Best Buy | $1,519.99 at Amazon $1,799.99 at Samsung | $549.00 at Amazon $549.00 at Best Buy | $162.95 at Amazon $199.99 at Best Buy | $0.01 at Amazon $829.00 at Walmart | $649.99 at Amazon | $699.99 at Amazon $699.99 at Best Buy | $109.00 at Amazon $89.99 at Best Buy |
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I’m one of PCMag’s mobile analysts. That means I check out phones, hotspots, and mobile networks. Technology has been my passion and hobby since I was a child. I’ve covered tech professionally for over 15 years at outlets including The Apple Blog, This Week in Tech, and CNET.
Read Iyaz's full bio
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