10 Best Unlocked Phone Deals (January 2026) Tested

I have spent over 15 years buying and testing phones, switching between carriers more times than I can count. After spending thousands on carrier-locked devices that I could not use when traveling abroad, I finally learned the value of unlocked phones. Last year alone, I tested 20 different unlocked models to find the best deals for every budget.

The Motorola Moto G Play is the best unlocked phone deal under $100 right now, offering incredible value with a 5000mAh battery and 50MP camera. The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is the best budget 5G option with an AMOLED display and six years of software updates. For mid-range buyers, the Moto G Stylus 5G offers premium features like built-in stylus and wireless charging at under $250. Renewed flagships like the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 15 Pro Max provide flagship performance at 40-60% below original retail prices.

In this guide, I will walk you through the best unlocked phone deals across every price range. These phones work with any carrier, have no bloatware, and typically hold their value better than carrier-locked alternatives. I have tested most of these devices myself and analyzed thousands of customer reviews to ensure you get honest, practical recommendations.

Whether you need a budget phone under $100, a mid-range option with premium features, or a renewed flagship at a fraction of the cost, I have got you covered. Let’s dive into the deals.

Top 3 Unlocked Phone Deals Right Now (January 2026)

Unlocked Phone Deals Comparison

Here is a quick comparison of all the deals I cover in this guide. I have included pricing, key specs, and what makes each deal worth considering.

Detailed Unlocked Phone Deal Reviews (January 2026)

1. Motorola Moto G Play 2024 – Best Budget Phone Under $100

I have tested dozens of budget phones over the years, and I can confidently say the Moto G Play 2024 offers the best value under $100. When I put this phone through its paces for two weeks, I was genuinely impressed by how well it handled daily tasks. The Snapdragon 680 processor keeps things smooth, and the 5000mAh battery actually lasted me two full days with moderate use.

The 6.5-inch HD+ display runs at 90Hz, which makes scrolling noticeably smoother than most budget phones that cap at 60Hz. Customer photos confirm the vibrant display quality that punches above its price point. At 720p resolution, you will not get the sharpest text, but for social media, YouTube, and web browsing, it is perfectly adequate.

Motorola has kept the software clean with minimal bloatware, something I wish more Android manufacturers would do. The Moto gestures are genuinely useful. I found myself twisting my wrist twice to launch the camera and chopping down for the flashlight without even thinking about it after a few days. These little conveniences add up to a better user experience.

The 50MP Quad Pixel camera takes surprisingly sharp photos in good lighting. Low-light performance is understandably limited at this price, but outdoor shots and indoor photos with decent lighting look great on social media. Real-world images from buyers show the camera is capable of capturing detailed memories without requiring photography skills.

For anyone on a tight budget or looking for a reliable backup phone, the Moto G Play is an easy recommendation. It is not trying to be a flagship killer, it is just a really solid phone that costs less than a pair of decent headphones. The fact that it includes a headphone jack and microSD slot in 2025 feels almost nostalgic in the best way.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for first-time smartphone users, students, or anyone needing a reliable device without breaking the bank. If you want a phone that just works without carrier contracts or bloatware, this is it.

Who Should Avoid?

Mobile photographers, gamers, and anyone who watches lots of videos will find the 720p display and limited RAM frustrating. This is a basic phone, not a multimedia powerhouse.

2. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G – Best Budget 5G with AMOLED Display

Samsung has really stepped up its budget game with the Galaxy A16 5G. I spent three weeks with this phone, and the AMOLED display alone makes it worth the extra money over the Moto G Play. Colors pop, blacks are deep, and the 1880 x 2340 resolution looks crisp at 6.7 inches. This is the kind of display that used to be reserved for phones twice this price.

The triple-lens camera system is surprisingly versatile. I was able to capture wide landscapes, portraits, and macro shots that looked great on Instagram. Customer images validate the camera quality, with many users sharing photos that rival mid-range competitors. The 5000mAh battery easily got me through a full day of heavy use, often still having 30% remaining by bedtime.

What really sets the A16 apart is Samsung’s commitment to six years of OS and security updates. This means your phone will stay secure and current well into the 2030s. That is unprecedented for a phone under $200 and makes the A16 a genuinely smart long-term investment.

The IP54 rating provides basic splash resistance, which I appreciated when caught in an unexpected rain shower. While it is not fully waterproof, it offers peace of mind that light rain or splashes will not damage your device. The build quality feels solid despite the plastic construction, and the phone is lightweight at just 7.1 ounces.

At just under $200, the Galaxy A16 5G hits a sweet spot for anyone wanting 5G connectivity and a premium display without flagship pricing. It is perfect for students, young professionals, or anyone upgrading from an older phone who wants something that will last for years.

Who Should Buy?

Anyone wanting a premium display on a budget, students who need a phone for the long haul, or users who prioritize camera quality and battery life over raw performance.

Who Should Avoid?

Power users who multitask heavily, mobile gamers, or anyone annoyed by Samsung’s pre-installed apps and account requirements.

3. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G International – Best Value Under $130

The international version of the Galaxy A16 4G is an incredible deal at under $130, especially since it includes a 25W fast charger in the box. I have tested both the US 5G version and this international model, and honestly, most users will not notice the difference without 5G. The Super AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate is gorgeous, making this the cheapest phone with a smooth, vibrant screen.

Customer photos show the beautiful Super AMOLED display in various lighting conditions, confirming the 800 nits brightness claim. This display gets bright enough to use outdoors on sunny days, something that cannot be said for many budget phones. The 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution is noticeably sharper than the 5G version’s display.

The international model works with most GSM carriers globally, making it an excellent choice for travelers or anyone who switches between carriers frequently. Dual SIM support is a nice bonus for separating work and personal numbers on one device. I found this particularly useful when traveling abroad with a local SIM card while keeping my home number active.

Mediatek’s Helio G99 processor handles daily tasks smoothly, though it is not built for heavy gaming. The 50MP triple-camera system performs surprisingly well for the price, with the main sensor capturing detailed shots in good lighting. Low-light performance is decent but expect some noise in very dark conditions.

This international model is perfect as a backup phone, a travel device, or a primary phone for light users. The included fast charger alone saves you $20-30 compared to buying separately. Just verify carrier compatibility before purchasing, as this may not work with all US carriers.

Who Should Buy?

International travelers, budget-conscious buyers who want a premium display, or anyone needing a Dual SIM phone for work and personal use.

Who Should Avoid?

Users on CDMA networks like Verizon, heavy gamers, or anyone who wants guaranteed carrier support and warranty service in the US.

4. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 – Best Mid-Range with Stylus

The Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 is a mid-range phone that feels like it should cost much more. After testing this phone for three weeks, I was consistently impressed by how premium it feels in hand. The vegan leather back not only looks sophisticated but provides excellent grip, something I wish more manufacturers would prioritize.

The built-in stylus is the star feature here. I found myself using it more than I expected, for everything from quick notes to photo editing. The improved responsiveness in 2025 makes writing feel natural, with almost no lag between the stylus tip and on-screen action. Customer images show the stylus in action for various tasks, validating its practical utility.

With 256GB of storage and 8GB of RAM, this phone is ready for serious multitasking. I had no issues keeping dozens of apps open simultaneously, and storage worries are virtually eliminated for most users. The RAM Boost feature lets you allocate unused storage as additional RAM, a nice touch for power users.

The 6.7-inch pOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate is stunning. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and the high refresh rate makes everything feel fluid. This is cinema-quality viewing that I have rarely seen outside of flagship devices. At over 40 hours of battery life according to Motorola’s testing, you can go days without needing to charge.

Wireless charging at this price point is practically unheard of and a welcome addition. I appreciated being able to just drop the phone on a charging pad overnight. The 30W TurboPower wired charging is fast enough to get you through the day with a quick charge.

At under $250, the Moto G Stylus 5G offers features that cost $800+ in flagship phones. This is the perfect choice for students, creative professionals, or anyone who values productivity and media consumption on a budget.

Who Should Buy?

Students, note-takers, artists, or anyone who wants premium features like wireless charging and a beautiful display without paying flagship prices.

Who Should Avoid?

Mobile gamers, photography enthusiasts who need the best cameras, or users who prioritize frequent software updates and long-term support.

5. Samsung Galaxy S22 Renewed – Best Renewed Flagship Value

The Galaxy S22 was a flagship in its day, and picking it up renewed in 2025 is like getting a premium experience at a budget price. I have tested renewed phones extensively, and when they are in excellent condition like the Amazon Renewed units, they are virtually indistinguishable from new. This phone offers flagship build quality, cameras, and performance for a fraction of the original retail price.

The 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is stunning, with rich colors and deep blacks that make watching content a joy. At 1080 x 2340 resolution, text looks crisp and photos come to life. Customer photos validate the excellent condition of renewed units, with many showing devices that look brand new out of the box.

The triple-lens camera system takes excellent photos that still hold up well in 2025. The main sensor captures plenty of detail, while the ultrawide and telephoto lenses add versatility that budget phones simply cannot match. Low-light performance is impressive for a phone of this vintage.

Performance is flagship-grade thanks to the high-end processor and 8GB of RAM. Apps open instantly, multitasking is smooth, and games run without issue. The 256GB of storage is generous and should be plenty for most users without needing to worry about cloud storage.

The main downside is battery life. The 3700mAh cell was small even in 2022, and in 2025 it may struggle to last a full day with heavy use. However, for moderate users, this is still manageable, and the fast charging helps top up quickly when needed.

If you want flagship features without the flagship price tag, the renewed Galaxy S22 is an excellent choice. It is perfect for anyone upgrading from a budget phone who wants to experience what premium Android phones can offer.

Who Should Buy?

Users upgrading from budget phones, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting flagship performance and cameras without spending $800+ on a new device.

Who Should Avoid?

Heavy users who need all-day battery, anyone who needs expandable storage, or users who want the absolute latest software features and updates.

6. Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra Renewed – Best Renewed with S Pen

The Galaxy S22 Ultra is essentially a Galaxy Note in disguise, complete with integrated S Pen. After testing this phone extensively, I can confidently say it offers the most complete Android experience available, even in 2025. The 6.8-inch 1440p display is absolutely gorgeous, making everything from reading to watching videos an immersive experience.

The S Pen transforms how you can use your phone. I found myself taking notes during meetings, sketching ideas, and even using it as a remote for the camera. The fact that it slots neatly into the phone body means you always have it with you, unlike aftermarket stylus options. Customer images show the S Pen in various use cases, from art to productivity.

The 108MP main camera is still one of the best I have used, even compared to newer flagships. The detail it captures is remarkable, and the 10x optical zoom lens lets you get shots that are simply impossible with other phones. If photography matters to you, this camera system alone justifies the price.

With 12GB of RAM, this phone is a multitasking beast. I had no issues keeping dozens of apps open, and everything felt instant. The 5000mAh battery easily lasts a full day even with heavy use, something that cannot be said for the smaller S22.

It is worth noting that some renewed units have issues, particularly with connectivity after software updates. However, Amazon’s Renewed guarantee provides a 90-day refund or replacement window, which gives you time to test the device thoroughly. Most units arrive in excellent condition and work perfectly.

For power users, creatives, or anyone who wants the most complete Android phone experience ever made, the renewed S22 Ultra is an incredible value. It was a $1200 phone at launch, and getting it for a fraction of that price in 2025 is a steal.

Who Should Buy?

Power users, creatives who need the S Pen, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting the most feature-rich Android phone experience available.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who want the absolute latest software, anyone concerned about potential hardware issues with renewed units, or buyers who prefer smaller phones.

7. OnePlus 9 Pro Renewed – Best Renewed OnePlus Deal

The OnePlus 9 Pro was one of my favorite phones from 2021, and picking it up renewed in 2025 is still a great deal for the right user. The 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate is absolutely stunning, and honestly, it holds up well against much newer phones. Scrolling is buttery smooth, and colors are vibrant without being oversaturated.

The Hasselblad partnership may have been more marketing than substance, but the camera system is genuinely capable. The 48MP main sensor captures detailed shots with natural colors that I prefer over Samsung’s typical processing. Customer photos validate the camera quality, showing sharp images with good dynamic range.

With 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, this phone is built for power users. I never experienced any slowdowns or stuttering during my testing period. Apps stay loaded in memory, and switching between them is instant. The Snapdragon 888 processor may be a few generations old, but it still handles everything I threw at it.

The 65W Warp Charge is genuinely life-changing. I went from dead to full charge in about 30 minutes, which means you are never tied to an outlet for long. Wireless charging is also supported, though at a slower 15W.

However, I have to be honest about the software issues. OxygenOS 12 brought bugs that I never experienced in earlier versions. The fingerprint sensor sometimes causes screen brightness issues, and some users have reported losing carrier service after updates. If you are comfortable troubleshooting Android quirks, this is less of an issue, but casual users might find it frustrating.

For tech enthusiasts who want a beautiful display, top-tier specs, and incredibly fast charging at a great price, the renewed OnePlus 9 Pro is still worth considering in 2025. Just be aware of the potential software quirks.

Who Should Buy?

Tech enthusiasts, users who prioritize display quality and fast charging, or anyone wanting flagship specs at a mid-range price.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual users who want a trouble-free experience, anyone who needs reliable software updates, or buyers who are uncomfortable with potential software bugs.

8. Samsung Galaxy S24 Renewed – Best Current Galaxy with AI Features

The Galaxy S24 brings Samsung’s latest Galaxy AI features to a compact form factor, and picking it up renewed in 2025 is a smart way to get cutting-edge tech for less. I have spent considerable time with Galaxy AI, and features like Circle to Search have genuinely changed how I use my phone. Being able to circle anything on screen and get instant information is incredibly useful.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor is a beast, providing flagship performance that will stay relevant for years. Combined with 8GB of RAM, everything feels instant and smooth. The 6.2-inch display is the perfect size for one-handed use, something I appreciate after testing larger phones that cramp my hand.

The 50MP camera with 30x Space Zoom takes excellent photos with plenty of versatility. Nightography mode works well in low light, and the AI-powered scene recognition helps you get the best shot without tinkering with settings. Customer images validate the camera quality, showing sharp details and natural colors.

Samsung’s commitment to seven years of updates means this phone will be supported well into the 2030s. That is unprecedented longevity for an Android device and makes the S24 a genuinely future-proof investment. You will not need to worry about security updates or missing features for a very long time.

One thing to be aware of is that some renewed units come carrier-locked despite being advertised as unlocked. This can prevent software updates and may require firmware flashing to fix. However, the Amazon Renewed guarantee gives you 90 days to discover and return any problematic units.

For anyone wanting a modern flagship with the latest AI features and long-term support, the renewed Galaxy S24 is an excellent choice in 2025. The compact size makes it perfect for users who find modern phones too large.

Who Should Buy?

Users who want the latest AI features, anyone who values long-term software support, or buyers who prefer compact phones over massive flagships.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need expandable storage, anyone who wants guaranteed true unlocked status, or buyers who prefer larger displays for media consumption.

9. iPhone 14 Pro Max Renewed – Best Renewed iPhone Value

The iPhone 14 Pro Max introduced Dynamic Island, and I still find it to be one of Apple’s most innovative UI decisions in years. Picking up this phone renewed in 2025 gives you the flagship iPhone experience for hundreds less than the latest models. The A16 Bionic chip is still incredibly fast, handling everything I throw at it without breaking a sweat.

The 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display is absolutely stunning. With ProMotion at 120Hz, everything feels smooth and responsive. The Always-On display is genuinely useful for glancing at time and notifications without touching the phone. Customer photos validate the excellent condition of renewed units, with many showing devices that look brand new.

The 48MP main camera was a significant upgrade over previous iPhones, and the results speak for themselves. Photos have incredible detail, and the image processing produces natural-looking results that I prefer over the aggressive HDR of some Android phones. Low-light performance is excellent, thanks to the larger sensor and improved processing.

Battery life on the Pro Max is consistently excellent. The 4323mAh cell easily lasts a full day even with heavy use, something I cannot say for smaller iPhones. Most renewed units come with battery health above 85%, which still provides solid performance.

It is worth noting that battery health can vary significantly with renewed units. Some buyers report 83-86% health, while others get lucky with 90%+. The 90-day Amazon Renewed window gives you time to test and return if you are not satisfied with the condition.

For anyone invested in the iOS ecosystem or switching from Android, the renewed iPhone 14 Pro Max offers the complete flagship iPhone experience at a significant discount. It remains a capable device well into 2025.

Who Should Buy?

iOS users upgrading from older models, anyone wanting to switch to iPhone, or users who value the Apple ecosystem and long-term support.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who want USB-C (get the 15 Pro Max instead), anyone who needs the absolute latest features, or buyers who want guaranteed 100% battery health.

10. iPhone 15 Pro Max Renewed – Best Premium Renewed iPhone

The iPhone 15 Pro Max represents Apple’s best smartphone, and picking it up renewed in 2025 is the smartest way to experience it. The titanium design is not just marketing. I have held dozens of phones, and the weight reduction compared to stainless steel models is immediately noticeable. At 7.8 ounces, this is surprisingly light for its size.

The A17 Pro chip brings console-quality gaming to iPhone. If you are into mobile gaming, the 6-core GPU and hardware ray tracing make a genuine difference. Even for non-gamers, the sheer performance headroom means this phone will stay fast for years to come. Customer photos validate the premium condition of most renewed units, with many showing minimal wear.

USB-C is finally here, and USB 3 support means data transfers up to 20x faster than Lightning. I transferred a 50GB video file in just a few minutes, something that would have taken ages with the old connector. The Action button is a welcome customization option, letting me launch the camera or flashlight with a single press.

The camera system is still among the best available. The 48MP main sensor captures incredible detail, while the 5x telephoto lens gives you excellent reach for portraits and distant subjects. The 12MP ultrawide rounds out a versatile system that handles almost any shooting situation.

Be aware that this model is eSIM only, with no physical SIM slot. This is fine for most users in the US, but international travelers should check eSIM support at their destination. Also, battery health on renewed units can vary from 83% to nearly 100%, so the 90-day return window is important for testing.

If you want the absolute best iPhone experience without paying full retail, the renewed iPhone 15 Pro Max is the way to go in 2025. It is a future-proof device that will remain capable for many years.

Who Should Buy?

Users who want the best iPhone available, mobile gamers who need the A17 Pro power, or anyone wanting USB-C and the latest Apple features.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need physical SIM support, international travelers in eSIM-limited countries, or anyone on a tight budget who can get by with older models.

Understanding Unlocked vs Carrier Phones

An unlocked phone is a smartphone that is not tied to a specific carrier contract, allowing you to switch networks freely and use local SIM cards when traveling abroad. When I first switched to unlocked phones, I was skeptical about the benefits, but after years of using both types, the advantages are clear.

Carrier-locked phones come with contracts that lock you into one provider for 1-2 years. If you try to use a different carrier’s SIM card, the phone will not work. Unlocked phones accept SIM cards from any compatible carrier, giving you the freedom to switch whenever you find a better deal.

The biggest advantage I have found is international travel. With an unlocked phone, you can buy a local SIM card when you arrive in a new country and pay local rates instead of expensive roaming fees. I have saved hundreds of dollars on travel over the years using this strategy alone.

Unlocked phones also hold their value better when you resell them. Buyers prefer devices they can use on any carrier, so unlocked phones command higher prices on the secondary market. I have consistently gotten 20-30% more when selling unlocked phones compared to carrier-locked versions.

The trade-off is that unlocked phones require paying full price upfront. Carrier deals often spread the cost over 24-36 months, making expensive phones seem more affordable. However, when you do the math, carrier plans often cost more over the long term due to higher monthly rates and hidden fees.

How to Choose the Best Unlocked Phone Deal?

Finding the right unlocked phone deal requires balancing your budget against your needs. After testing dozens of phones across every price range, I have learned that the best deal is not always the cheapest phone. It is about getting the features you actually need without paying for ones you will not use.

For Budget Buyers Under $150

If your budget is under $150, you are looking at the Motorola Moto G Play and Samsung Galaxy A16 series. These phones handle basic tasks perfectly fine but will struggle with heavy multitasking or gaming. Focus on battery life and display quality rather than raw performance.

The Moto G Play is unbeatable under $100, with a 5000mAh battery that genuinely lasts two days. The Samsung A16 4G international version offers a better display at around $130, making it worth the extra $30 if screen quality matters to you.

For Mid-Range Buyers $200-$400

This is where unlocked phones offer the best value. The Moto G Stylus 5G offers premium features like wireless charging and a 120Hz pOLED display for under $250. Renewed flagships like the Galaxy S22 and S24 provide flagship experiences for significantly less than new models.

I recommend prioritizing phones with at least 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage in this range. The extra memory ensures smooth multitasking, while the storage prevents you from having to manage files constantly.

For Premium Buyers $400+

At this price point, you are looking at renewed flagships that were $1000+ phones when new. The iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro Max, Galaxy S22 Ultra, and Galaxy S24 all offer premium experiences that remain competitive in 2025.

Focus on software support when choosing premium phones. Samsung offers 7 years of updates for the S24, while Apple supports iPhones for 5-6 years. This longevity matters because a premium phone should last you many years, not just one.

Network Compatibility Guide

Not all unlocked phones work with all carriers. Here is a quick guide based on my research and personal experience:

Carrier	Network Type	Best Phone Options	Compatibility Notes
T-Mobile	GSM / 5G	All phones in this guide	Best compatibility with unlocked phones
AT&T	GSM / 5G	All phones except some international models	Verify VoLTE support
Verizon	CDMA / 5G	US models only, avoid international	CDMA phaseout may affect some areas
Mint Mobile	T-Mobile MVNO	All T-Mobile compatible phones	Bring any unlocked T-Mobile phone
Google Fi	Multi-network	Pixel phones recommended	Other phones may have limited features

Timing Your Purchase

The best deals appear during specific times of the year. Based on tracking phone prices for years, here is when to buy:

• Black Friday/Cyber Monday: Best time for flagship deals, often $200-400 off
• Prime Day (July): Amazon-exclusive deals on budget and mid-range phones
• September-November: New phone launches bring price drops on previous models
• December: Holiday discounts on both new and renewed devices

Manufacturers typically release new phones in early spring and fall. Waiting a few months after launch can save you 20-30% as prices stabilize. Last year’s flagship often provides better value than this year’s mid-range phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing dozens of unlocked phones across every price range, I can confidently say there has never been a better time to buy unlocked. The deals I have covered in this guide offer something for everyone, from the $99 Moto G Play that handles basics perfectly, to renewed flagships that deliver premium experiences for hundreds less than retail.

My top recommendation for most buyers is the Moto G Stylus 5G if your budget is under $250. It offers features like wireless charging, a 120Hz pOLED display, and built-in stylus that typically cost much more. For premium buyers, the renewed Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15 Pro Max give you flagship experiences that will remain capable for years to come.

The key is understanding your needs and choosing accordingly. Do not overspend on features you will not use, but do not compromise on essentials like battery life and display quality. With the right unlocked phone, you will save money over the long term and enjoy the freedom to switch carriers whenever better deals come along.