10 Best Budget Unlocked Smartphone 2025 in the United States

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 Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-unlocked smartphone with commendable features. It offers a 6.7-inch brighter display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth and vibrant visuals. The phone operates on One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, providing a user-friendly experience with the latest software updates. Its 5G capability ensures fast connectivity across all carriers, making it versatile for different users.

The phone's performance is bolstered by 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which should be sufficient for most daily tasks and media storage needs. Notably, the 50MP high-resolution camera with AI enhancements promises impressive photo quality, especially in low light conditions with the Night Portrait feature. Additionally, the Instant Slow-Mo feature allows for creative video captures, and the built-in AI tools offer handy photo editing and real-time translation functionalities.

Battery life is another highlight, thanks to the 4700mAh battery that intuitively manages power consumption, and support for wireless and fast charging adds to the convenience. However, there are some downsides to consider. The phone weighs 209 grams, which might feel a bit hefty for some users. Moreover, it lacks a traditional audio jack, relying on USB-C for wired audio. Also, the phone comes with only a charging cable in the box, so you might need to purchase a charger separately. The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE stands out with its robust features and modern capabilities, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious users who need a reliable and feature-rich smartphone.

The Moto G 5G 2024 is a solid choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly, unlocked smartphone with a good balance of features. The 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers smooth visual performance, making it suitable for watching movies and playing games. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM, provides adequate performance for everyday tasks and some light multitasking, though it may struggle with more intensive apps or heavy multitasking.

The 128GB of internal storage is generous for this price range, and the option to expand via microSD up to 1TB is a bonus for users with large media libraries. The 50MP camera system, with Quad Pixel technology, promises better low-light performance and detailed shots, though the actual resolution is 12.5MP due to pixel binning. The Macro Vision lens is a nice touch for close-up photography. Battery life is a standout feature, with a 5000mAh capacity ensuring long-lasting use, and the TurboPower charging capability can quickly recharge the device, though the charger may need to be purchased separately.

The build quality is commendable, featuring a vegan leather back that not only looks premium but is also fingerprint-resistant and comfortable to hold. However, the 720p resolution might be a letdown for users expecting crisper visuals typically found in higher resolutions. The Moto G 5G runs on Android 14, offering the latest software experience with the usual customization Motorola is known for. With stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, the audio experience is immersive and enjoyable. This phone is a good fit for users who need a reliable, feature-rich device without breaking the bank, though power users might find its performance and display resolution somewhat limiting.