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 Google Pixel 8a is an unlocked Android phone that offers flexibility with carriers, making it easy to switch between networks like Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and more. It runs on Android, powered by an A-Series processor with 8 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and app usage. The 6.1-inch display is bright and vibrant, providing a great experience for watching videos and browsing the web. With a resolution of 1080 x 2400, images and text appear sharp and clear.

The standout feature of this phone is its camera. The advanced Pixel Camera, enhanced by Google AI, allows for high-quality photos and videos, with features like Best Take and Photo Unblur to improve your shots. However, the phone’s storage is fixed at 128 GB with no mention of expandable storage, which might be a limitation for heavy users. The battery life is quite robust, with a 4492 mAh capacity offering up to 24 hours of usage on a single charge. It also supports 5G connectivity, ensuring fast internet speeds where available.

In terms of design, the Pixel 8a has a sleek and modern look with a solid build quality, weighing 6.7 ounces and fitting comfortably in hand. For those looking for security, the Pixel 8a includes top-rated security features to protect your data. On the downside, the phone doesn’t come with some premium features like wireless charging or water resistance, which might be expected at higher price points. The Google Pixel 8a is a well-rounded option for anyone looking for a reliable and flexible smartphone with a strong camera and solid performance, though it might not satisfy users seeking extensive storage or premium features.

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.