10 Best Budget Unlocked Smartphone 2025 in the United States

The Moto G - 2025 offers a compelling package for anyone needing a budget-unlocked-smartphone. Its 6.7-inch HD+ display is quite large and includes a 120Hz refresh rate, making it good for smooth scrolling and media consumption, though the resolution is modest at 1604 × 720. The 50MP camera, with enhanced light sensitivity, promises decent photo quality for a budget device, and the 16MP front camera is solid for selfies. However, the actual effective photo resolution is 12.5MP due to pixel binning, which might not match the expectations set by the 50MP tag.

The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset and 5G support ensure fast performance, but the 4GB of RAM is on the lower side, especially with modern app demands; RAM Boost partially mitigates this by using internal storage as virtual memory. The 128GB storage is ample for most users, and the option to expand it with a microSD card allows for extensive media storage. Battery life is a standout with its 5000mAh capacity, and TurboPower charging is a plus, though the charger is sold separately.

The design is stylish with a vegan leather finish and offers some water-repellence, adding to its durability. Running on Android 15, users will benefit from the latest features and updates. This phone is particularly well-suited for users who need a reliable, feature-rich device without breaking the bank and are okay with some compromises in terms of RAM and screen resolution.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G offers a lot of value in the budget-unlocked-smartphone category. It features a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1880 x 2340, providing a vivid and clear viewing experience ideal for consuming content like videos and browsing the web. The phone is powered by a 2.4 GHz processor coupled with 4 GB of RAM, which should handle most everyday tasks smoothly, though it may struggle with heavy multitasking or high-end games.

With 128 GB of internal storage and the option to expand up to 1.5 TB, there's plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos. The triple-lens camera system is a standout for a budget phone, allowing for versatile photography options, though the quality might not match higher-end models in low light. Battery life is another strong point, with fast charging capabilities that ensure you can quickly top up when needed.

Running on Android 14 with Samsung's One UI, you'll benefit from a user-friendly interface and six years of OS and security updates, making it a long-lasting investment. The phone’s build quality is enhanced with an IP54 rating, providing some resistance to dust and splashes, but it may not withstand harsher environments. The Galaxy A16 5G is an excellent choice for those seeking a capable, feature-rich phone without breaking the bank.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro is a strong choice if you're looking for a high-quality unlocked smartphone that gives you freedom to choose your carrier. It has a bright and sharp 6.3-inch Super Actua display with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, making screen use pleasant whether indoors or outside. Powered by Google’s latest Tensor G5 chip and supported by 16 GB RAM, it offers smooth performance for everyday tasks and multitasking. Storage-wise, 256 GB is generous for apps, photos, and videos without needing extra memory cards.

The standout feature is its triple rear camera system, which uses advanced AI to deliver stunning 50 MP photos and can zoom up to 100x with impressive detail, plus 8K video recording for capturing high-quality footage. Battery life is solid with a 4870 mAh capacity and fast-charging support, comfortably lasting a full day on a single charge. It runs on the newest Android 16, ensuring a clean, up-to-date software experience with helpful AI features like the Gemini assistant for easier interactions.

This phone offers premium specs, with a price that may be higher than typical budget phones, making it ideal for those wanting near-flagship features unlocked rather than a basic budget device. Its size and weight might feel a bit bulky for users preferring smaller phones. The Pixel 10 Pro is well-suited for users who want a powerful, flexible unlocked phone with excellent cameras and battery life, without compromising on display or software experience.