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 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.

The Google Pixel 9a is a strong candidate for anyone looking for an affordable unlocked smartphone with reliable features. It sports a 6.3-inch Full HD+ display with a 60-120 Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals that suit everyday use and media consumption. With 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, it offers enough memory and space for typical apps, photos, and some videos, which is generous for this price range.

Powered by Google’s custom Gemini AI assistant and running the latest Android 15, the phone stays current and secure with seven years of updates, a rare plus for budget phones. Photography is a standout feature here—the Pixel Camera lets you take great photos even in tricky conditions, enhanced by AI editing tools and features like Macro Focus and group photo aids. Battery life is impressive with a 4300 mAh capacity, lasting over 30 hours in regular use and up to 100 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode. This means fewer worries about daily charging. The phone also supports fast charging and wireless charging, adding convenience.

Durability is another strength; the Pixel 9a is water and dust resistant (IP68) and has a scratch-resistant display, making it tough enough for everyday mishaps. Being unlocked with 5G and compatible with major carriers gives great flexibility for your choice of network. Although the display size and resolution are good, the phone does not push beyond 120 Hz refresh rates, which some competitors offer at a higher cost. The camera is excellent for the price but may not match flagship-level detail or video capabilities. The single USB-C port replaces a headphone jack, which might require an adapter if you use wired headphones. Combining solid performance, exceptional camera features, long battery life, and robust security in an affordable package, the Pixel 9a is a smart choice for budget-conscious users seeking a dependable and up-to-date Android phone.