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10 Best New Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, Triple Rear Camera System, 24-Hour Battery, and 6.8" Super Actua Display - Porcelain - 256 GB

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is an unlocked Android smartphone that promises flexibility with carriers and data plans. It operates on the latest Android 14, ensuring up-to-date features and security. The standout feature is its 6.8-inch Super Actua display with a high resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate, providing users with vibrant and smooth visuals.

The triple rear camera system, enhanced with Google's AI, offers exceptional photo and video capabilities, including Super Res Zoom Video and Night Sight Video for low light conditions. With a 24-hour battery life and a robust 5060 mAh battery, it supports prolonged usage without frequent recharging. The phone comes with a powerful 3.05 GHz processor and 16 GB of RAM, ensuring swift and efficient performance. Storage capacity is ample at 256 GB, allowing plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos.

Build quality is solid, with a sleek porcelain design that is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Connectivity options are extensive, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC, making it easy to connect with other devices. However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL does not feature a traditional audio jack, relying instead on a USB Type C port for audio output. While the phone boasts excellent specifications and features, its higher price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Operating System
The pure Android experience on this phone is intuitive and works seamlessly without bloatware.
Display Size and Quality
The screen is bright and clear, adapting well to different lighting conditions.
Battery Life
The battery life is impressive, lasting from early morning to late at night without needing a recharge.
Camera Quality
The camera is outstanding, capturing some of the best photos seen from a smartphone, with easy editing and enhancing features.
Storage Capacity
Despite missing an SD card slot and headphone jack, the 512GB storage and Bluetooth functionality compensate well.
Processor and RAM
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is incredibly responsive and fast, handling everything thrown at it with ease.
Build Quality and Design
The phone is well-made and feels premium, though a case is recommended to prevent it from slipping.
#2

Google Pixel 9 - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, 24-Hour Battery, Advanced Camera, and 6.3" Actua Display - Porcelain - 256 GB

The Google Pixel 9 is an impressive unlocked Android smartphone that stands out in several areas. Running on Android 14 and equipped with Google AI, it offers cutting-edge software enhancements that elevate the user experience. The 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals and clear picture quality, making it great for media consumption. However, the resolution details are somewhat inconsistent, listed as either '1080 x 2340' or '2160 x 1080', which might cause some confusion.

Battery life is robust with a 4700 mAh rating, promising up to 24 hours of talk time, suitable for heavy usage throughout the day without frequent recharging. The camera system is a standout feature, featuring a 50 MP main sensor and a 48 MP ultrawide camera, supported by various AI-driven editing tools that enhance photo quality and versatility. Storage capacity is ample with 256 GB, and the device is powered by 12 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and performance.

However, the CPU speed is relatively modest at 1800 MHz, and the specific model is not disclosed, which may leave some users questioning its processing power. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC, making it compatible with most modern wireless accessories and services. The build quality is solid, with a sleek Porcelain color and a weight of 6.7 ounces, offering a premium feel in hand. This phone is an excellent choice for those who value advanced camera capabilities, a high-quality display, and the flexibility of an unlocked device. Users seeking the most powerful processor may want to look elsewhere.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Operating System
The 7 years of promised software support from Google is a significant selling point for long-term users.
Display Size and Quality
The bright, clear screen and fast response times enhance the overall user experience, making it ideal for media consumption.
Battery Life
Battery life easily lasts a full day, providing around 5-6 hours of screen time for typical daily activities.
Camera Quality
The camera excels in everyday photography, making casual shots effortless and consistently impressive.
Processor and RAM
Despite lacking a 3.5mm audio jack and a microSD card slot, the Pixel 9's AI features and strong performance make up for it.
Connectivity
Wireless charging and improved Bluetooth connectivity over previous models have been particularly appreciated.
Build Quality and Design
The Pixel 9 stands out as the best phone for those seeking a compact device, with a premium design that feels great in hand.

Buying Guide for the Best New Unlocked Cell Phones

Choosing a new unlocked cell phone can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience due to the vast array of options available. Unlocked phones offer the flexibility to choose your carrier and plan, making them a popular choice for many. To make the best decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are some essential specs to consider when selecting an unlocked cell phone.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) is the software that runs the phone and manages its functions. The two main options are Android and iOS. Android offers more customization and a wider range of devices, while iOS is known for its smooth user experience and integration with other Apple products. Choose the OS that best fits your preferences and the ecosystem of devices you already use.
Display Size and QualityThe display size and quality determine how comfortable and enjoyable it is to use your phone. Larger screens are great for media consumption and multitasking, while smaller screens are more portable and easier to handle. Display quality, measured in resolution (e.g., Full HD, 4K), affects the clarity and sharpness of images and text. Consider your usage habits—if you watch a lot of videos or play games, a larger, high-resolution screen may be ideal.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long your phone can operate before needing a recharge. It's typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Higher mAh values generally mean longer battery life, but actual performance can vary based on usage and other factors. If you're frequently on the go or use your phone heavily throughout the day, look for a phone with a larger battery capacity and efficient power management features.
Camera QualityCamera quality is crucial for those who love taking photos and videos. Key factors include the number of megapixels, aperture size, and additional features like optical image stabilization and night mode. Higher megapixels can produce more detailed images, while a larger aperture allows better low-light performance. Consider what type of photography you enjoy—if you want professional-quality photos, look for phones with advanced camera systems.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity determines how much data your phone can hold, including apps, photos, videos, and files. Common options range from 64GB to 512GB or more. If you store a lot of media or use many apps, opt for higher storage capacity. Some phones also offer expandable storage via microSD cards, providing additional flexibility.
Processor and RAMThe processor and RAM affect the phone's performance and speed. The processor (CPU) handles tasks and operations, while RAM (random access memory) allows for smooth multitasking. Higher-end processors and more RAM result in faster, more efficient performance. If you use demanding apps or games, or multitask frequently, look for phones with powerful processors and ample RAM.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include support for various network types (e.g., 4G, 5G) and other features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. 5G offers faster internet speeds and better performance in crowded areas. If you rely on fast internet for streaming or online gaming, consider a phone with 5G capability. Additionally, ensure the phone supports the connectivity features you need for your daily activities.
Build Quality and DesignBuild quality and design affect the phone's durability and aesthetic appeal. Materials like glass, metal, and plastic can impact the phone's feel and sturdiness. Design elements such as color, shape, and weight also play a role in your overall satisfaction. Choose a phone that feels comfortable in your hand and matches your style preferences.

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