10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

The Google Pixel 9 is an unlocked Android smartphone that runs on the latest Android 14, offering you the flexibility to switch carriers with ease. Its 6.3-inch Actua Display with a 120 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth and vibrant visuals, making it great for both everyday use and media consumption. The phone excels in camera quality, featuring a 50 MP main sensor and a 48 MP ultrawide camera, backed by advanced AI features like 'Add Me,' 'Best Take,' and 'Magic Editor' for impressive photo editing capabilities.

Additionally, the built-in AI assistant, Gemini, enhances user experience by simplifying tasks and providing quick information access through voice commands. The Pixel 9 boasts a robust 24-hour battery life, suitable for users who are frequently on the go. With 128 GB of storage and 12 GB of RAM, it handles multitasking efficiently, though the absence of expandable storage might be a limitation for some. The phone’s processor speed of 3.1 GHz enables smooth performance, although the specific CPU model is unspecified.

This device supports connectivity with major carriers, including Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. In terms of design, the Google Pixel 9 has a sleek and modern look, available in an obsidian finish. Potential buyers should consider the fixed storage capacity and may need to manage their storage carefully. It is ideal for users who prioritize camera quality, smooth performance, and AI integration in their smartphone experience.

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.