10 Best New Unlocked Cell Phones 2026 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is a cutting-edge unlocked Android phone running the latest Android 16 with Samsung's OneUI 8, offering a fresh and intuitive user experience. Its standout feature is the large, 8-inch foldable display that lets you comfortably multitask with up to three apps visible simultaneously, making it great for productivity or media enjoyment. Despite the bigger screen, it remains slim and light, weighing just 216 grams, which is impressive for a foldable design.

The phone packs a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance whether you're streaming, gaming, or editing photos. Storage is generous at 512GB, providing plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos. Camera-wise, the Z Fold7 impresses with a sophisticated 200MP rear camera and Pro-Visual Engine, delivering detailed and vibrant pictures, which is among the best you’ll find on a foldable phone. The 4400mAh battery is designed to last through busy days, supporting long usage without frequent recharging. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB, guaranteeing broad compatibility with networks and accessories.

The build quality feels premium with an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, enhancing durability for daily use. Potential buyers should consider the relatively high price point typical for foldables and that the 4400mAh battery might be less than some larger-screen phones without foldable designs. Additionally, the foldable screen may be more delicate than traditional flat phones, demanding careful handling. This phone is ideal for users looking for a versatile device that combines a large tablet-like screen with phone portability, packed with top-tier specs and innovative features.

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ is a solid choice if you want a powerful, unlocked Android phone that feels modern and easy to use. It runs the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, which helps keep things smooth and user-friendly. The large 6.7-inch ProScaler display offers vibrant visuals, great for watching videos or browsing. With 256GB storage and 12GB RAM, it can handle plenty of apps and store lots of photos or files without slowing down. The Snapdragon processor inside is Samsung’s fastest yet, so multitasking and demanding tasks like photo editing or video playback work seamlessly.

Battery life is strong with a 4900mAh capacity, and it supports fast and wireless charging, so you won’t be tied down for long. The AI-powered camera is notable for improving low-light photos and videos and reducing background noise with its Audio Eraser feature, helping you capture clear, professional-looking portraits and videos. Connectivity is versatile, supporting 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB-C, plus it’s unlocked for all US carriers, giving you flexibility.

The phone is fairly lightweight at 6.7 ounces and has a water-resistant design, which adds durability. One minor consideration is the absence of a traditional headphone jack, which means you’ll need wireless or USB-C headphones. This phone suits users looking for a high-performance, future-proof device with excellent photo and video capabilities, and those who want the freedom to choose any carrier.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is a strong choice if you're looking for a new unlocked Android phone with a large, vibrant display and solid performance. Its 6.7-inch screen offers bright colors and smooth scrolling with a 120Hz refresh rate, making videos and apps look smooth and sharp. The phone runs on the latest Android 16.0, backed by a reliable Exynos 2400 processor and 8GB of RAM, so it handles everyday tasks and multitasking well. With 256GB storage, you get plenty of space for photos, apps, and files without worrying about running out.

One of its standout features is the camera system, especially the 12MP front camera with AI-enhanced photo editing, which helps improve selfies by removing distractions and resizing elements automatically. The 4900mAh battery promises long usage, offering up to 33 hours of talk time and quick charging when you need a fast boost.

The build is durable, with Armor Aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protecting against daily bumps and drops, and it's also water resistant, adding peace of mind. It’s lightweight at just 190 grams, making it easy to carry around. Connectivity options like Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, and USB-C cover all basics, and features like fingerprint sensor and wireless charging add convenience. While the Exynos 2400 chipset is solid, it may not match the fastest competitors in gaming or heavy multitasking. Additionally, the phone doesn’t include earbuds or a charger in the box, so those are extra purchases. If you want a large-screen phone that balances smooth performance, strong battery life, and camera enhancements in a durable, unlocked package, the Galaxy S25 FE is a model worth considering.