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10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 512GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Gray

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a high-end unlocked Android smartphone featuring a large, sharp 6.9-inch display with a 3200 x 1440 resolution, delivering clear and vibrant visuals. It runs on the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, providing a modern and user-friendly experience. Powered by a Snapdragon processor clocked at 3.5 GHz and paired with 12 GB of RAM, it ensures smooth multitasking and fast app performance, suitable for demanding uses. The phone offers a substantial 512 GB of storage capacity, ideal for storing numerous photos, videos, and apps without space concerns.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,230
Camera Quality
Processor and RAM
Operating System

Most important from
969 reviews

Camera Quality
The camera quality is outstanding, impressing even customers at a veterinary clinic and drawing requests for photos, showcasing its exceptional zoom and clarity.
Processor and RAM
The phone delivers more power than a one-year-old laptop, making even basic features feel impressive and providing endless customization and AI-driven capabilities.
Operating System
AI features, including the translation app and interactive assistants, add a fun and highly functional dimension to everyday use, enhancing the overall experience.
Connectivity
Data transfer and setup may require multiple attempts, indicating that initial device migration could be smoother despite the advanced technology.
Build Quality and Design
Protecting the device with a robust case and screen protector is recommended to safeguard the significant investment in this premium flagship.
#2
10.0 score

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 256GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Black

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerful unlocked Android phone that offers top-tier performance and features ideal for users wanting a premium device without carrier restrictions. It runs the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, making the interface smooth and user-friendly. The large 6.9-inch display boasts a sharp 3040 x 1440 resolution, delivering vibrant and clear visuals perfect for watching videos or browsing. The 12GB RAM combined with a fast Snapdragon processor ensures smooth multitasking and quick app response. Storage is generous at 256GB, enough for plenty of apps, photos, and videos. Battery life stands out with a 5000mAh battery, which supports fast and wireless charging, likely lasting through a full day of heavy use.

Rating
10.0
Battery Life
Camera Quality
Build Quality and Design

Most important from
969 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life stands out with extended usage and rapid charging, especially when paired with a 45W charger.
Camera Quality
The phone delivers amazing photo quality with advanced camera features that impress even users of other models.
Build Quality and Design
Its robust metal frame and ergonomic design provide a sturdy feel while maintaining a comfortable grip despite its size.
Display Size and Quality
The large, vibrant display combined with a fast processor makes the device highly responsive and smooth for multitasking.
Processor and RAM
The large, vibrant display combined with a fast processor makes the device highly responsive and smooth for multitasking.
#3
9.7 score

Motorola Moto G - 2025 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Forest Gray

The Motorola Moto G - 2025 is a solid choice if you want an unlocked phone compatible with all major US carriers, including Verizon and AT&T. Its large 6.7-inch screen offers a smooth viewing experience with a 120Hz refresh rate, although the HD+ resolution means the display won’t be as sharp as higher-end models. The phone runs on Android 15, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor paired with 4GB of RAM plus a RAM Boost feature, which helps with multitasking but isn’t quite as fast as phones with more physical RAM. Storage is generous at 128GB, and you can expand it by up to 1TB via microSD card, so there’s plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos.

Rating
9.7
Connectivity
Storage Capacity
Battery Life

Most important from
2033 reviews

Connectivity
The phone's eSIM capability offers a seamless and convenient experience, especially for international travel, eliminating the hassle of physical SIM cards.
Storage Capacity
Expandable storage and a headphone jack are standout features missing from many modern flagship phones, making this device a practical choice.
Battery Life
Battery life reliably lasts a full day on a single charge, matching expectations for everyday use without frequent recharging.
Camera Quality
The camera system shows significant improvement in both photo and video quality compared to previous models, enhancing the overall experience.
Operating System
Transitioning from older devices is effortless, with all apps, data, and home screen layouts transferring smoothly for a hassle-free setup.
Display Size and Quality
The large screen delivers a good viewing experience with sufficient performance for most users, balancing features and price effectively.
Build Quality and Design
This phone serves well as a starter device for young children or as a reliable unlocked phone for travelers, combining essential features in an affordable package.

Top 10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 512GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Gray

Operating System: One UI 7, Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.9 inches, 3200x1440 resolution
Battery Life: 5000 mAh, 37 hours talk time
Storage Capacity: 512 GB
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon 3.5 GHz, 12 GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, USB-C
Build Quality and Design: Titanium Gray, Water Resistant, 7.7 oz

Chosen by 1230 this week

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 256GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Black

Operating System: One UI 7, Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.9 inches, 3040x1440 resolution
Battery Life: 5000mAh, fast and wireless charging
Camera Quality: AI system, Audio Eraser, portrait
Storage Capacity: 256 GB
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon processor, 12 GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, USB-C
Build Quality and Design: Titanium Black, water resistant

Motorola Moto G - 2025 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Forest Gray

Operating System: Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.7", 120Hz, HD+ 1604x720
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Camera Quality: 50MP main, 16MP front
Storage Capacity: 128GB, expandable to 1TB
Processor and RAM: MediaTek Dimensity 6300, 4GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, jack
Build Quality and Design: Water-repellent vegan leather, Gorilla Glass

Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.6 Inches, 1612x720, 120Hz
Camera Quality: 50MP, Macro Vision lens
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Storage Capacity: 128GB, expandable
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, 4GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Vegan leather back, water resistant

Samsung Galaxy A16 5G A Series Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Blue Black

Operating System: Android 14 with One UI
Display Size and Quality: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 1880x2340 resolution
Battery Life: Super fast charging
Camera Quality: Triple-lens system
Storage Capacity: 128 GB, expandable to 1.5TB
Processor and RAM: 2.4 GHz CPU, 4 GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, unlocked for all carriers
Build Quality and Design: IP54 rating, blue black color

Google Pixel 9 Pro - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, Triple Rear Camera System, 24-Hour Battery, and 6.3" Super Actua Display - Hazel - 128 GB

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.3 in, 3040x1440 px, 120Hz
Battery Life: 24 hours
Camera Quality: Triple rear, 20x zoom, 8K video
Storage Capacity: 128 GB
Processor and RAM: CPU 3.1/2.6/1.92 GHz, 16 GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Sleek, light, Hazel color, Slate

Motorola Moto G Play | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/64GB | 50MP Camera | Sapphire Blue

Operating System: Android 13.0
Display Size and Quality: 6.5 Inches, 1600 x 720, 90 Hz
Camera Quality: 50MP (12.5MP effective)
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Storage Capacity: 64GB, expandable to 1TB
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon 680, 4GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Cellular
Build Quality and Design: Sleek matte finish, splash protection

Google Pixel 9 - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, 24-Hour Battery, Advanced Camera, and 6.3" Actua Display - Obsidian - 128 GB

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.3-inch, 120 Hz
Camera Quality: 50 MP main, 48 MP ultrawide
Battery Life: 24-hour
Storage Capacity: 128 GB
Processor and RAM: 3.1 GHz, 12 GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Sleek, obsidian finish

Motorola Moto G Stylus - 2025 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Pantone Gibraltar Sea

Operating System: Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.7", 2712x1220, pOLED, 120Hz
Battery Life: 5000mAh, all-day, fast charging
Camera Quality: 50MP Sony, optical stabilization
Storage Capacity: 256GB
Processor and RAM: 8GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Vegan leather, military water/drop resistant

Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Scarlet Wave

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.7-inch pOLED, 120 Hz
Camera Quality: 50MP Ultra Pixel with OIS
Battery Life: 5000mAh, 30W TurboPower charging
Storage Capacity: 256GB, expandable to 2TB
Processor and RAM: 8GB RAM with RAM Boost
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Soft vegan leather, Scarlet Wave
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Buying Guide for the Best Unlocked Cell Phones

Choosing the right unlocked cell phone can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can find a device that perfectly suits your needs. Unlocked cell phones offer the flexibility to choose your carrier and plan, and they often come without the bloatware that carrier-locked phones have. When selecting an unlocked cell phone, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your lifestyle and usage habits.
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 tight integration with other Apple products. Choose Android if you prefer flexibility and customization, and iOS if you value simplicity and seamless integration with other Apple devices.
Display Size and QualityThe display size and quality determine how comfortable and enjoyable it is to use your phone. Display sizes typically range from around 5 inches to over 6.5 inches. Smaller screens are more portable and easier to handle with one hand, while larger screens are better for media consumption and multitasking. Display quality, measured in resolution (HD, Full HD, Quad HD, etc.), affects how sharp and clear the visuals are. Choose a size and resolution that match your usage habits, whether you prioritize portability or media viewing.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long your phone can operate before needing a recharge. It is usually 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 use your phone heavily for gaming, streaming, or multitasking, look for a phone with a larger battery capacity. For lighter use, a smaller battery may suffice.
Camera QualityCamera quality is crucial for those who love taking photos and videos. It is determined by factors like megapixel count, aperture size, and additional features like optical image stabilization and night mode. Higher megapixels can produce more detailed images, while larger apertures allow better low-light performance. Consider your photography needs—if you are a casual snapper, a mid-range camera will do, but if you are a photography enthusiast, look for advanced camera features.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of internal space available for apps, photos, videos, and other data. Common options range from 32GB to 512GB or more. If you store a lot of media or install many apps, opt for higher storage capacity. Some phones also offer expandable storage via microSD cards, which can be a cost-effective way to increase space.
Processor and RAMThe processor and RAM determine the phone's performance and ability to handle multitasking. The processor (CPU) is the brain of the phone, and RAM is the memory that helps run apps smoothly. High-end processors and more RAM (typically 4GB to 12GB) provide better performance, especially for gaming and intensive applications. If you use your phone for basic tasks, a mid-range processor and moderate RAM will be sufficient.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include support for various network bands, Wi-Fi standards, Bluetooth versions, and other features like NFC. Ensure the phone supports the network bands used by your carrier for optimal performance. Advanced Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions offer better speed and connectivity. NFC is useful for contactless payments and quick pairing with other devices. Choose connectivity features based on your usage needs and carrier compatibility.
Build Quality and DesignBuild quality and design affect the phone's durability and aesthetic appeal. Materials like glass, metal, and plastic are commonly used. Glass and metal offer a premium feel but can be more fragile, while plastic is more durable but may feel less luxurious. Consider how the phone feels in your hand and its overall durability. If you prioritize a sleek design, opt for premium materials; if durability is more important, choose a sturdier build.

FAQ