10 Best New Unlocked Cell Phones 2026 in the United States

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.

The Motorola Moto G Power (2026) is a solid unlocked smartphone choice for users looking for long battery life and a large, sharp display. It runs on Android 16, which is current and user-friendly. The 6.8-inch Full HD+ screen with a 120Hz refresh rate offers smooth visuals and good clarity, great for browsing and media. One of its standout features is the 5200 mAh battery, which can last up to nearly two days on a single charge, and TurboPower charging lets you quickly add hours of use with a short charging time.

The phone's 50MP camera system with AI enhancements and optical image stabilization aims to produce clear photos and videos, especially in low light, though the effective resolution is 12.5MP due to pixel combining. Performance-wise, it uses a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor paired with 8GB of RAM, expandable virtually up to 24GB with RAM Boost, which helps with multitasking and running apps smoothly. Connectivity includes fast 5G speeds compatible with all major US carriers, ensuring good network performance.

The phone also stands out for its durability, with military-grade build quality, Gorilla Glass 7i for better drop and scratch resistance, and IP68/69 water and dust resistance, adding extra peace of mind. However, the large size and weight (over 11 ounces) might feel bulky for some users, and while the camera is good, it may not rival higher-end phones for professional photography. This model is well-suited for those prioritizing battery life, a big vibrant screen, and ruggedness in an affordable unlocked smartphone.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a powerful unlocked Android smartphone. It runs on the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, offering a smooth and user-friendly experience. The 6.2-inch ProScaler display delivers sharp visuals, making daily tasks and media viewing enjoyable without being overly large. With 12GB of RAM and a fast Snapdragon processor, the phone handles multitasking and demanding apps with ease, ideal for users who want speed and reliability. Storage is generous at 256GB, providing plenty of space for photos, apps, and files.

The camera system shines with AI-powered features like Audio Eraser to reduce background noise in videos and advanced portrait modes, making it great for casual photography and video calls. Battery life is decent thanks to a 4000mAh capacity and fast charging support, which should get most users through a day comfortably. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G support, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and USB-C, ensuring compatibility with most accessories and networks. The phone’s build quality is sturdy and stylish in a sleek Silver Shadow color, with water resistance adding extra durability.

A slight drawback might be the smaller battery compared to some competitors, which could matter for heavy users who want longer endurance without charging. Also, the lack of a traditional headphone jack means you’ll need USB-C or wireless headphones. The Galaxy S25 successfully balances performance, camera capabilities, and modern features, making it a great fit for those wanting a premium unlocked smartphone that stays current for years.