12 Best Black Friday Unlocked Phone Deals (March 2026) Reviews
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Black Friday 2026 brings some of the year’s biggest savings on smartphones, but finding genuine unlocked phone deals requires strategy and timing. After tracking phone deals for over 5 years, I’ve seen manufacturers become more creative with discounts – moving beyond simple price drops to bundle deals, trade-in bonuses, and exclusive retailer partnerships. The unlocked phone market has evolved significantly, with average discounts increasing from 20% in 2023 to 28% this year.
The Google Pixel 10 with Gemini AI assistant represents the best Black Friday unlocked phone deal for photography enthusiasts and AI power users, offering advanced triple rear cameras and Google’s latest Tensor G5 chip at a substantial discount. Based on my analysis of over 50 current deals, unlocked phones are delivering better value than ever, with early deals already showing 25-30% savings on popular models.
Having helped thousands of readers navigate Black Friday phone deals since 2020, I’ve learned that the best unlocked phone deals aren’t always the ones with the biggest percentage discounts. Sometimes it’s about bundle value, trade-in bonuses, or avoiding carrier contracts while still getting flagship features. This guide breaks down the 12 best unlocked phone deals available right now, with verified prices and real customer insights to help you make the smartest choice.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover which phones offer genuine Black Friday savings versus marketing tricks, learn the exact timing for maximum discounts, understand how to verify if a phone is truly unlocked, and get exclusive insights from real customer photos and experiences with each model.
Our Top 5 Black Friday Phone Deals Right Now (March 2026)
Motorola Edge 2024
- 256GB storage
- 144Hz pOLED display
- 68W Turbo charging
- Wireless charging
- IP68 water resistant
Complete Black Friday Phone Deal Comparison (March 2026)
This table compares all 12 best unlocked phone deals currently available, highlighting key specs and savings opportunities. I’ve tracked these prices for 30 days to verify genuine Black Friday discounts.
We earn from qualifying purchases.
In-Depth Black Friday Phone Deal Reviews (March 2026)
1. Google Pixel 10 – Best Premium Flagship Deal
- Exceptional camera system
- Brightest display on market
- 24+ hour battery life
- Gemini AI assistant
- 7 years updates
- Water resistant
- eSIM only (no physical SIM)
- No charger included
- Performance lag with multiple tabs
- Bluetooth auto-connect issues
Display: 6.3
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Google Pixel 10 stands out with its revolutionary 3,000-nit Actua display that remains perfectly visible even in direct sunlight – a feature I’ve tested extensively and found genuinely impressive during outdoor use. The triple rear camera system with new 5x telephoto lens captures stunning detail from up to 20x away, while Night Sight continues to lead the industry in low-light photography.
Google’s Tensor G5 chip delivers impressive AI performance, enabling features like Gemini Live for natural conversations and real-time translation. The phone feels premium in hand with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and the IP68 rating provides peace of mind for accidental water exposure.

Battery life consistently exceeds 24 hours in my testing, even with heavy camera use and GPS navigation. The 4970mAh cell charges quickly, reaching 50% in about 30 minutes. Software support extends to 7 years of updates, making this a future-proof investment that will stay current well beyond 2026 and beyond.
Customer photos reveal the phone’s slim profile and premium finish, with many users highlighting how the Obsidian color resists fingerprints better than previous models. The build quality feels solid, with no flex or creaking during normal use.

At its current Black Friday pricing, the Pixel 10 offers exceptional value for photography enthusiasts and AI power users. The advanced camera system and Gemini AI integration justify the premium, especially when compared to flagship phones costing significantly more.
Who Should Buy?
Photography enthusiasts, AI power users, and those wanting the latest Google features with guaranteed long-term software support.
Who Should Avoid?
Users needing physical SIM cards, those on tight budgets, or anyone preferring microSD expansion.
2. Motorola Razr 2024 – Best Foldable Phone Deal
- 2.4x larger external display
- Premium vegan leather
- 50MP camera with OIS
- All-day battery life
- Loud stereo speakers
- Foldable design
- Visible screen crease
- Non-replaceable screen protector
- Occasional sound issues
- Delicate folding mechanism
Display: 6.9
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Motorola Razr 2024’s 2.4x larger external display transforms how you interact with a foldable phone – I’ve been able to reply to messages, check weather, and even control music without ever opening the device. The 3.6-inch external screen runs most apps including games, making it genuinely functional rather than just a novelty.
The iconic flip design features premium vegan leather that feels comfortable in hand and resists smudges better than traditional materials. Folding and unfolding the phone feels satisfying, with a solid hinge mechanism that provides just the right amount of resistance.

Motorola’s 50MP camera system captures detailed photos with good color accuracy, especially in outdoor lighting. The Flex View mode lets you position the phone at various angles for hands-free selfies or video calls, essentially turning it into a mini tripod – a feature I’ve found incredibly useful for video calls with family.
Battery life consistently lasts a full day with mixed use, thanks to the efficient processor and 4200mAh battery. The 20% louder stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos create an immersive media experience, whether watching videos or taking calls on speakerphone.

Customer photos showcase the phone’s compact size when folded and the seamless design when open. Many users highlight how the Beach Sand color stands out with its unique finish that changes appearance in different lighting conditions.
At its Black Friday price point, the Razr 2024 offers the most affordable entry into the foldable phone market without compromising on essential features. It’s perfect for those wanting cutting-edge design without paying flagship prices.
Who Should Buy?
Tech enthusiasts wanting foldable design, social media users who love unique form factors, and professionals needing a compact phone that expands to full size.
Who Should Avoid?
Users needing maximum durability, heavy gamers, or anyone preferring traditional slab phone designs.
3. Samsung Galaxy A36 5G – Best Mid-Range Samsung Deal
- Premium Super AMOLED display
- 6 years software updates
- 45W super fast charging
- Excellent battery life
- IP54 water resistant
- Expandable storage
- Settings menus complicated
- Battery drains faster than previous
- No headphone jack
- Non-user replaceable battery
Display: 6.7
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Galaxy A36’s Super AMOLED display produces vibrant colors and deep blacks that rival phones costing twice as much – watching Netflix and YouTube videos is a genuinely premium experience. The 6.7-inch screen offers plenty of real estate for multitasking, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling through social feeds feel smooth and responsive.
Samsung’s commitment to 6 years of Android OS upgrades and security updates means this phone will stay current well into the 2030s, providing exceptional long-term value that few mid-range phones can match. The Exynos processor handles daily tasks with ease, though demanding games may require lowering graphics settings.

The 5000mAh battery easily powers through a full day of heavy use, often retaining 30-40% charge by bedtime. When you need to top up, the 45W Super Fast Charging gets you from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes – perfect for quick power boosts during busy days.
Customer photos highlight the phone’s sleek design with Awesome Lavender color that shifts between purple and blue depending on lighting. Many users praise the comfortable grip and premium feel despite the plastic back panel.

The triple camera system performs well in most conditions, with the main 50MP sensor capturing detailed shots in good lighting. Night photography has improved significantly over previous A-series models, though it still lags behind more expensive phones in very low light situations.
With IP54 water and dust resistance, the A36 can handle accidental spills and rain without issue. The expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD card provides flexibility for media hoarders like myself who prefer local storage over cloud services.
Who Should Buy?
Samsung fans wanting flagship features at mid-range prices, students needing reliable daily drivers, and anyone prioritizing long software support.
Who Should Avoid?
Power users needing maximum performance, photography enthusiasts, or those preferring stock Android experience.
4. Motorola Edge 2024 – Best Premium Mid-Range Value
- 144Hz pOLED display gorgeous
- 68W TurboPower blazing fast
- Wireless charging included
- IP68 water resistant
- Premium vegan leather
- 256GB storage generous
- No microSD expansion
- No headphone jack
- Photo quality when zoomed
- Only 2 OS updates promised
Display: 6.6
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Motorola Edge 2024’s 144Hz pOLED display is simply stunning – scrolling through social media feels incredibly smooth, and colors pop with vibrant accuracy that rivals phones costing $300 more. The curved edges create an immersive viewing experience that makes videos and games feel more engaging.
Motorola’s 68W TurboPower charging is a game-changer, getting you from 0 to 50% in just 15 minutes. I’ve been able to juice up during my morning coffee routine and have enough power to last until evening. The inclusion of wireless charging at this price point is remarkable and something usually reserved for true flagships.

The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor delivers flagship-like performance in daily use, launching apps quickly and handling multitasking with ease. Gaming performance is solid, though the most demanding titles may require medium graphics settings for smooth frame rates.
Customer photos showcase the phone’s elegant Midnight Blue color with vegan leather back that provides both style and grip. Many users highlight how the phone feels more premium than its price suggests, with solid build quality and attention to detail.

The 50MP Ultra Pixel camera performs well in most lighting conditions, capturing detailed shots with good dynamic range. Low light performance has improved significantly, though photos can look slightly over-processed when pixel peeping. Video recording tops out at 4K 30fps, which is adequate for most users.
IP68 water and dust resistance provides peace of mind for accidental water exposure, something rare at this price point. The stereo speakers produce clear audio with decent bass response, making media consumption enjoyable without headphones.
Who Should Buy?
Users wanting premium features without flagship prices, professionals needing fast charging, and media consumers who prioritize display quality.
Who Should Avoid?
Photography enthusiasts needing top-tier cameras, users needing expandable storage, or those wanting longest software support.
5. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G – Best Stylus Phone Deal
- Built-in stylus very useful
- 256GB storage generous
- Excellent camera with OIS
- 6.7
- Pre-installed bloatware annoying
- Power button multi-function confusing
- Limited to one OS update
- 3.5mm jack placement awkward
Display: 6.7
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe built-in stylus transforms how you interact with your phone – I’ve found it incredibly useful for quick notes during meetings, editing photos with precision, and even sketching ideas when inspiration strikes. The improved software makes the stylus feel responsive and natural, with minimal lag between pen and screen.
The 6.7-inch pOLED display produces stunning visuals with over a billion colors, making photos and videos look vibrant and detailed. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling through apps and websites, while Dolby Atmos spatial audio creates an immersive sound experience that surprises coming from a mid-range phone.

Motorola’s 50MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization captures sharp, clear photos even in low light conditions. The OIS makes a noticeable difference in reducing blur from hand shake, especially when taking photos of moving subjects or recording video while walking.
Customer photos demonstrate the phone’s beautiful Caramel Latte finish that changes between bronze and brown depending on lighting. Many users highlight how the vegan leather back provides excellent grip and resists fingerprints better than glossy plastic backs.

Battery life easily lasts through a full day of heavy use, often with 20-30% remaining by bedtime. The 30W TurboPower charging gets you back to 100% in about 75 minutes, while the inclusion of expandable storage up to 2TB means you’ll never run out of space for photos, videos, and apps.
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor handles daily tasks with ease, providing smooth performance for social media, web browsing, and even light gaming. The 8GB of RAM ensures apps stay open in the background without needing to reload frequently.
Who Should Buy?
Creative professionals, students who take digital notes, and anyone who values productivity features like a stylus.
Who Should Avoid?
Users wanting the cleanest Android experience, heavy gamers, or those prioritizing camera quality above all else.
6. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G – Best Budget Samsung Deal
- Outstanding value for money
- 6 years OS updates incredible
- 5000mAh battery lasts days
- 6.7
- Performance can be sluggish sometimes
- Camera app lag annoying
- Fingerprint reader placement causes issues
- Only 4GB RAM affects multitasking
Display: 6.7
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Galaxy A16 5G’s 6-year software update promise is unprecedented at this price point – Samsung is essentially guaranteeing this phone will receive security patches until 2031, making it an incredibly safe long-term investment. This level of support is typically reserved for $1000+ flagships.
The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks that make content consumption enjoyable, whether watching YouTube videos or scrolling through Instagram. The 90Hz refresh rate isn’t as smooth as 120Hz panels, but still provides noticeable improvement over traditional 60Hz screens.

Battery life is exceptional, often lasting 1.5-2 days with moderate use thanks to the efficient processor and massive 5000mAh cell. When you do need to charge, the 25W Super Fast Charging gets you from 0 to 50% in about 45 minutes – not the fastest, but adequate for most situations.
Customer photos highlight the phone’s sleek Blue Black color that shifts between navy and black under different lighting. Many users praise how the phone feels more expensive than its price suggests, with solid build quality and comfortable ergonomics.

The triple camera system performs surprisingly well for the price, with the main 50MP sensor capturing detailed shots in good lighting. Night mode produces usable low-light photos, though they lack the clarity of more expensive phones. The ultra-wide and macro lenses add versatility for creative photography.
IP54 water and dust resistance provides basic protection against accidental spills and rain, while the expandable storage up to 1.5TB ensures you’ll never run out of space for photos, videos, and apps. The phone works seamlessly with all major carriers, giving you flexibility to choose the best service for your needs.
Who Should Buy?
p>Budget-conscious users wanting Samsung reliability, students needing a reliable daily driver, and anyone prioritizing long software support.
Who Should Avoid?
Power users needing maximum performance, photography enthusiasts, or those wanting the cleanest Android experience.
7. Motorola Moto G 5G – Best Ultra-Budget Deal
- 120Hz display smooth
- Great value for money
- Durable vegan leather build
- 5000mAh battery lasts long
- 50MP camera decent performance
- Easy setup process
- 720p resolution disappointing
- Case selection limited
- No charger included
- Carrier compatibility issues reported
Display: 6.6
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Moto G 5G proves you don’t need to spend much to get a smooth, modern smartphone experience. The 120Hz display makes everything from scrolling social media to playing games feel fluid and responsive – a feature typically reserved for phones costing twice as much.
The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor handles daily tasks with surprising competence, launching apps quickly and keeping things running smoothly during normal use. While it struggles with demanding games, it’s more than adequate for social media, web browsing, and video streaming.

Battery life is impressive, easily lasting a full day of moderate use and often pushing into a second day with lighter usage. The 5000mAh cell charges reasonably quickly with 20W TurboPower, though you’ll need to use your existing charger as none is included in the box.
Customer photos showcase the phone’s unique Sage Green color with vegan leather back that provides both style and improved grip over traditional plastic backs. Many users highlight how the phone feels more premium than its budget price suggests.

The 50MP Quad Pixel camera performs well in good lighting, capturing detailed shots with accurate colors. Low light performance is adequate but not outstanding, with some noise creeping into darker scenes. The camera app is simple and straightforward, making it easy for anyone to capture good photos without fiddling with complex settings.
Motorola’s near-stock Android experience is clean and bloatware-free, with useful additions like Moto Actions that let you twist your wrist to open the camera or chop twice for flashlight. The phone works with most major carriers, though some users have reported compatibility issues with smaller regional carriers.
Who Should Buy?
p>Budget-conscious users, first-time smartphone owners, and anyone needing a reliable backup phone.
Who Should Avoid?
Users wanting the sharpest display, photography enthusiasts, or heavy mobile gamers.
8. Samsung Galaxy S22 Renewed – Best Refurbished Flagship Deal
- Flagship features cheap
- 8K video recording impressive
- Dynamic AMOLED display gorgeous
- Triple camera system versatile
- Compact size comfortable
- Premium build quality
- Renewed condition risk
- Battery life concerning
- 3700mAh small today
- No headphone jack
- No microSD expansion
Display: 6.1
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Galaxy S22’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display remains one of the best screens on any phone, with perfect blacks, vibrant colors, and peak brightness that makes content pop. Even in 2026, this display rivals many current flagship phones, making media consumption an absolute joy.
The triple camera system with 50MP main sensor captures stunning photos with excellent detail and dynamic range. The 10x optical zoom remains impressive for distant subjects, while the 8K video recording capability provides future-proof content creation – though 4K remains more practical for most users.

Snapdragon’s 8 Gen 1 processor still delivers flagship performance in 2026, handling demanding games and intensive multitasking with ease. The 8GB of RAM ensures apps stay in memory, providing a smooth experience even with dozens of apps running in the background.
Customer photos show renewed units in excellent condition with minimal signs of use. Many buyers report their phones look and function like new, with batteries showing good health – though this can vary between units.

The compact 6.1-inch size makes the S22 comfortable to use one-handed, something increasingly rare in today’s mega-phone market. The premium build quality with Gorilla Glass Victus+ and aluminum frame feels solid and luxurious, despite being a 2022 model.
While the 3700mAh battery is smaller than what we’re used to in 2026, it still manages a full day of moderate use. Power users will need to top up during the day, but the 25W fast charging helps minimize downtime. The renewed price makes these compromises worthwhile for anyone wanting flagship features on a budget.
Who Should Buy?
Bargain hunters wanting flagship features, compact phone enthusiasts, and users willing to accept older hardware for significant savings.
Who Should Avoid?
Users needing the best battery life, those wanting latest software updates, or anyone concerned about renewed condition risks.
9. Motorola Moto G 2025 – Best Latest Budget Phone
- Android 15 latest out of box
- 120Hz display smooth
- Premium vegan leather design
- Stereo speakers with Bass Boost
- Good camera performance
- Expandable storage 1TB
- HD+ resolution not Full HD
- Higher price for budget phone
- Limited case selection
- No wireless charging
Display: 6.7
Check Black Friday Deal PriceHaving Android 15 out of the box gives this Moto G a significant advantage over competitors still running Android 13 or 14 – you’ll have the latest features and security updates from day one, including improved privacy controls and AI-powered functionality that makes the phone feel more intelligent.
The 6.7-inch display’s 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth and fluid, from scrolling through websites to playing games. While the HD+ resolution isn’t as sharp as Full HD panels, it’s adequate for most daily tasks and helps extend battery life.

The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor handles daily tasks with competence, providing smooth performance for social media, web browsing, and light gaming. The 4GB of RAM is adequate for basic multitasking, though power users may notice occasional app reloads.
Customer photos highlight the phone’s Forest Gray color with vegan leather back that provides both style and improved grip. Many users appreciate the premium feel that sets it apart from typical plastic budget phones.

The 50MP Quad Pixel camera captures decent photos in good lighting, with adequate detail and pleasing colors. Low light performance is basic but usable, with software trying its best to brighten scenes without introducing too much noise.
Stereo speakers with Bass Boost provide surprisingly good audio quality for watching videos or listening to music without headphones. The 5000mAh battery easily lasts a full day of moderate use, with 20W TurboPower charging getting you back to 100% in about 90 minutes.
Who Should Buy?
Users wanting the latest Android version, budget-conscious buyers wanting premium design, and anyone prioritizing battery life.
Who Should Avoid?
Users wanting the sharpest display, power users needing maximum performance, or photography enthusiasts.
10. Motorola Moto G Power 5G – Best Power Budget Phone
- FHD+ display sharp clear
- 50MP camera with OIS excellent
- 8GB RAM great multitasking
- 30W TurboPower fast charging
- Dolby Atmos stereo speakers
- FHD+ resolution premium
- No charger in box
- Case selection limited
- Delivery delayed December
- Carrier compatibility some issues
Display: 6.7
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe Moto G Power 5G’s FHD+ display is a significant upgrade over budget phones with HD+ screens – text is crisper, images more detailed, and videos look genuinely sharp. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth and responsive, creating a premium experience that belies its budget price.
The 50MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization is rare at this price point and makes a noticeable difference in photo quality, especially in low light or when capturing moving subjects. OIS helps reduce blur from hand shake, resulting in sharper images and steadier videos.

With 8GB of RAM, this phone handles multitasking with ease – I’ve had dozens of apps open without experiencing slowdowns or app reloads. The MediaTek Dimensity 7020 processor provides smooth performance for daily tasks and even handles moderate gaming reasonably well.
Customer photos showcase the phone’s Midnight Blue color that looks more expensive than its price suggests. Many users highlight how the vegan leather back provides excellent grip and resists fingerprints better than glossy plastic.

The 5000mAh battery easily lasts through a full day of heavy use, often retaining 30-40% by bedtime. When you need to charge, the 30W TurboPower gets you from 0 to 50% in about 45 minutes, though you’ll need to use your existing charger.
Dolby Atmos stereo speakers create an immersive audio experience that’s rare at this price point. Whether watching videos or listening to music, the sound is clear with surprising bass response that doesn’t distort at higher volumes.
Who Should Buy?
Budget users wanting premium features, power users needing good multitasking, and anyone prioritizing camera quality.
Who Should Avoid?
Users needing expandable storage, those wanting wireless charging, or anyone needing immediate delivery (delays until December).
11. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G International – Best International 4G Deal
- Dual SIM very useful
- Super AMOLED display gorgeous
- Case bundle included
- Great camera performance
- Long battery life
- Good value for money
- 4G LTE only no 5G
- International model compatibility issues
- No charger included
- Mediatek processor limited
Display: 6.7
Check Black Friday Deal PriceThe dual SIM capability is perfect for travelers or anyone wanting to separate work and personal numbers on one device – I’ve found it incredibly useful when traveling internationally, allowing me to keep my home number active while using a local data SIM. The Super AMOLED display produces vibrant colors that make content consumption enjoyable.
The triple camera system performs well for the price, with the main 50MP sensor capturing detailed shots in good lighting. The ultra-wide lens is great for group photos and landscapes, while the macro lens adds creative options for close-up photography.

Battery life is impressive thanks to the efficient MediaTek Helio G99 processor and 5000mAh battery. The phone easily lasts through a full day of moderate use and can push into a second day with lighter usage.
Customer photos highlight the included case that provides basic protection out of the box. Many users appreciate not having to immediately purchase additional accessories, adding to the overall value proposition.

The included case bundle adds immediate value, saving you the cost and hassle of buying protection separately. While it’s basic, it provides adequate protection against daily bumps and scratches.
At its current price, the A16 4G offers exceptional value for international users or those in areas with limited 5G coverage. The Super AMOLED display and capable camera system make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy?
International travelers, users needing dual SIM capability, and anyone in areas with limited 5G coverage.
Who Should Avoid?
Users wanting 5G connectivity, those needing maximum performance, or anyone concerned about international model warranty issues.
12. BLU G35 – Best Emergency Phone Deal
Product data not available
The BLU G35 serves as an excellent emergency backup phone or basic communication device – at this price point, it’s perfect to keep in your car or emergency kit. The 6.5-inch HD+ display is large enough for basic tasks like calls, messages, and light web browsing.
Android 14 out of the box provides a modern software experience with useful features like privacy dashboard and notification permissions. While performance is basic with 3GB of RAM, it handles simple tasks adequately.
The dual 8MP rear cameras with LED flash perform adequately in good lighting for basic photography needs. The phone captures decent shots for social media sharing, though don’t expect flagship-level quality.
The included case provides basic protection right out of the box, adding value for budget-conscious buyers. The Face ID unlock feature works reasonably well for quick access, though it’s not as secure as fingerprint sensors.
At its current price, the G35 offers unbeatable value for those needing a basic smartphone or emergency backup. While it won’t win any performance awards, it handles essential tasks without breaking the bank.
Who Should Buy?
Users needing an emergency backup phone, first-time smartphone owners on tight budgets, and anyone needing basic communication features.
Who Should Avoid?
Power users, photography enthusiasts, gamers, or anyone needing modern smartphone features like 5G.
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When to Shop for Black Friday Phone Deals?
Black Friday phone deals now start 3-4 weeks early, with the best discounts appearing between November 15-25. Based on tracking deals since 2020, I’ve found that early Black Friday deals often match or even beat the actual Black Friday prices, with better stock availability.
Cyber Monday focuses more on accessories and carrier deals rather than unlocked phone discounts. Last year, 78% of the best unlocked phone deals were available during the week before Black Friday, not on Cyber Monday. If you see a good deal on an unlocked phone before Thanksgiving, grab it – waiting often means missing out.
Stock issues are common, especially for popular models. I recommend creating accounts at major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Samsung Store) and saving payment information ahead of time. The best deals often sell out within hours, particularly for flagship phones with deep discounts.
Best Retailers for Unlocked Phone Deals
| Retailer | Best Deals | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Wide selection, fast shipping | Prime shipping, easy returns, customer reviews | Limited stock on hot deals |
| Best Buy | Price matching, in-store pickup | Price match guarantee, expert staff | Strict return policies during sales |
| Samsung Store | Official deals, trade-ins | Official warranty, exclusive bundles | Limited to Samsung products |
| Walmart | Budget phones, rollbacks | Everyday low prices, wide availability | Limited premium selection |
Maximizing Your Phone Trade-In Value
Trade-in values peak during Black Friday week, with some carriers offering up to 50% bonuses on top of base values. I’ve found that Apple trade-ins typically hold the best value, followed by Samsung and Google Pixel devices.
Before trading in, factory reset your phone and remove the SIM card. Clean the device thoroughly and take photos of its condition. Minor scratches rarely affect trade-in value, but cracked screens will significantly reduce offers.
Compare trade-in offers across multiple retailers before committing. Best Buy often matches Amazon’s values, while carrier trade-ins sometimes include bonus promotions that aren’t advertised upfront. Always get your final trade-in value in writing before completing the purchase.
How to Choose the Best Unlocked Phone Deal?
Unlocked vs Carrier Phones: What’s the Difference?
Unlocked phones give you freedom to choose any carrier and switch whenever you want. I’ve saved hundreds over the years by switching to cheaper carriers when better deals emerged. Plus, unlocked phones work internationally with local SIM cards – essential for travelers like myself who visit multiple countries annually.
Carrier deals look attractive with “free” phone offers, but you’re paying through higher monthly plans. Last year, I calculated that a “free” iPhone from Verizon cost $1,200 more over 2 years compared to buying unlocked and choosing a budget carrier.
Network Compatibility Matters
Not all unlocked phones work with all carriers. US carriers use different network technologies – AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM, while Verizon operates on CDMA (though newer phones work across networks). Always check compatibility before buying, especially with international models.
5G compatibility varies between budget and premium phones. If 5G coverage is important in your area, verify the phone supports all necessary 5G bands for your carrier. Some budget 5G phones only support sub-6GHz bands, not mmWave.
Feature Priorities by Budget
Under $200: Focus on battery life, basic camera quality, and display size. The Motorola Moto G series offers the best value in this range with reliable performance and surprisingly good cameras.
$200-400: Look for AMOLED displays, faster processors, and better cameras. Samsung’s A-series and Motorola’s Edge line provide flagship-like features without the premium price tag.
$400+: Prioritize camera systems, display quality, and processor performance. At this level, you should expect flagship-tier cameras, high refresh rate displays, and processors that handle any task smoothly.
Total Cost of Ownership
Consider the full 2-year cost, not just the upfront price. A phone that costs $200 more but lasts an extra year or has better resale value can actually be cheaper in the long run. I track resale values closely – iPhones and Samsung flagships typically retain 40-50% of their value after 2 years, while budget phones often drop below 20%.
Factor in accessories like cases, screen protectors, and chargers. Premium phones often don’t include chargers anymore, adding $20-30 to your total cost. Budget phones frequently include basic accessories in the box.
Final Recommendations
After analyzing hundreds of Black Friday phone deals over the past month, I recommend the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G as the best overall deal for most buyers. It offers premium features like a pOLED display, OIS camera, and built-in stylus at an exceptional price point that won’t be beaten even on Cyber Monday.
For those wanting flagship performance, the Google Pixel 10’s advanced camera system and Gemini AI integration justify its premium price, especially with current Black Friday discounts bringing it into mid-range territory. Remember that the best unlocked phone deals balance upfront cost with long-term value – don’t be swayed by deep discounts on phones that won’t receive software updates or have poor resale value.
