10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2026 in the United States

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.

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 Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is a solid choice for anyone looking for a powerful unlocked Android smartphone with a large, vibrant display. Its 6.7-inch screen offers bright colors and smooth scrolling thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate, making it great for watching videos or browsing. Running on Android 16.0 with Samsung’s One UI 8, it’s user-friendly and keeps up well with daily tasks thanks to the fast Exynos 2400 processor and 8GB of RAM. With 256GB of storage, there’s plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos.

The camera setup is impressive, especially the 12MP front camera with AI-powered features that let you edit photos easily by moving or removing objects, which is perfect for casual photography and social media. Battery life is a strong point here—the 4900mAh battery can last through a busy day and supports fast charging, so you spend less time plugged in.

In terms of design, the phone is lightweight and sleek, weighing just 190 grams, and built tough with an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ for durability. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, and Wi-Fi, so it’s compatible with most accessories and networks. The phone also supports wireless charging and has a fingerprint sensor for security. The Galaxy S25 FE delivers a strong mix of performance, display quality, and battery life in an unlocked package that works with all US carriers, making it a good fit for users who want a reliable, everyday smartphone with some cool AI photo features.