10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a solid choice if you're looking for a modern unlocked smartphone that works with any carrier. It runs on the latest Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7, making navigation smooth and user-friendly. The 6.2-inch ProScaler display offers a sharp 2340 x 1080 resolution, which means colors and details look vibrant and clear on a compact screen size that's easy to handle. Under the hood, it has a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor paired with 12GB RAM, so multitasking and running apps happens without lag. Storage is generous at 256GB, providing plenty of space for photos, apps, and videos.

Battery life is decent with a 4000mAh capacity and supports fast and wireless charging, so you won’t be tethered to a charger for too long. The phone’s AI-enhanced camera stands out, especially in low light with its Night Mode and Audio Eraser that reduces background noise in videos. Portrait shots come out natural and polished thanks to advanced skin tone adjustments. Connectivity-wise, you get all the essentials like 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and GPS, keeping you well connected wherever you go.

The build quality feels premium yet lightweight at just under 6 ounces and it's water-resistant, adding durability. The battery size, while adequate, may not last as long as some larger phones if you’re a heavy user. The screen size might feel small if you prefer larger displays for media consumption. Also, the absence of a traditional headphone jack means you'll need USB-C or wireless headphones. If you want a powerful, versatile phone in a compact form with great camera features and up-to-date software, the Galaxy S25 fits the bill nicely.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerful unlocked Android phone that offers top-tier performance and features ideal for users wanting a premium device without carrier restrictions. It runs the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, making the interface smooth and user-friendly. The large 6.9-inch display boasts a sharp 3040 x 1440 resolution, delivering vibrant and clear visuals perfect for watching videos or browsing. The 12GB RAM combined with a fast Snapdragon processor ensures smooth multitasking and quick app response. Storage is generous at 256GB, enough for plenty of apps, photos, and videos. Battery life stands out with a 5000mAh battery, which supports fast and wireless charging, likely lasting through a full day of heavy use.

The AI-enhanced camera system excels in capturing detailed photos and videos, especially with features like Audio Eraser to reduce background noise and advanced portrait settings that keep skin tones natural and clear. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and USB-C, supporting fast data and easy accessory connections. The phone’s build in titanium black gives it a sleek, modern look, and includes water resistance for added durability.

The phone is relatively large and heavier than some may prefer, which could affect one-handed use or pocket comfort. Also, while packed with features, the price point may be high for budget-conscious buyers. This makes the Galaxy S25 Ultra well-suited for users looking for a feature-rich, high-performance unlocked phone with excellent display, camera, and battery life, but those preferring a smaller or more affordable device might want to consider alternatives.

The Motorola Moto G - 2025 is a solid choice if you want an unlocked phone compatible with all major US carriers, including Verizon and AT&T. Its large 6.7-inch screen offers a smooth viewing experience with a 120Hz refresh rate, although the HD+ resolution means the display won’t be as sharp as higher-end models. The phone runs on Android 15, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor paired with 4GB of RAM plus a RAM Boost feature, which helps with multitasking but isn’t quite as fast as phones with more physical RAM. Storage is generous at 128GB, and you can expand it by up to 1TB via microSD card, so there’s plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos.

The camera system is a highlight, featuring a 50MP main sensor that combines pixels for better low-light shots, alongside a 16MP front camera for clear selfies. Battery life is impressive thanks to a large 5000mAh battery, and TurboPower charging lets you quickly regain power when needed. The design feels premium with a water-repellent vegan leather back and Gorilla Glass 3 screen for durability, although it’s not waterproof. Connectivity options include 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and a headphone jack, covering most user needs.

While the screen resolution and mid-range processor may not satisfy power users or those seeking the sharpest display, this phone achieves a good balance of performance, long battery life, and a versatile camera package, making it ideal for everyday users who want a reliable unlocked phone without a high price tag.