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Finding the Best Unlocked Cell Phones Under $100

Christopher Parkmond
person holding black android smartphone

Looking for a new phone can be a hassle, especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. Finding good unlocked cell phones under $100 might seem impossible, but it’s totally doable. This article will walk you through some solid options and where to find them, so you can get a great phone without breaking the bank. Forget those expensive carrier plans; we’re talking about real freedom here.

Key Takeaways

1. Apple iPhone 16

Okay, so the iPhone 16. It’s the newest thing from Apple, and everyone’s buzzing about it. Let’s be real, though – is it worth the hype, especially when you’re trying to keep things under a hundred bucks? Probably not brand new, but maybe you can snag a used one down the line.

The iPhone 16 has a lot going for it, including better battery life, a quicker processor, sharper cameras, and faster radios. It also has the same Action Button and Camera Control as the Pro models. It’s got that sleek Apple design, and the cameras are supposed to be a step up. But let’s get real, finding one for under $100 is gonna be tough. Maybe in a few years when the iPhone 20 is out, you might find a deal on a used one. For now, let’s just dream.

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Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:

Cons:

It’s an iPhone, so it’s going to be easy to switch carriers. Just remember, most iPhones sold in the US now use eSIMs. The new Apple iPhones support every US carrier’s frequency bands, and you can easily switch them from carrier to carrier.

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is definitely a contender if you’re looking for a phone that does pretty much everything. It’s not exactly cheap, but you get a lot for your money. I mean, a lot.

One of the biggest selling points is the S Pen. If you’re into drawing, note-taking, or just generally prefer a stylus, this phone is awesome. The camera system is also top-notch. You can take some really great photos and videos with it. Plus, it’s got all the latest Galaxy AI features, which, honestly, some are useful, and some are just kinda fun gimmicks. But hey, options are good, right?

Of course, there are a couple of downsides. It’s expensive, no getting around that. And some people might find it a bit too big. It’s definitely not a small phone. Also, apparently, the S Pen functionality isn’t quite as good as the previous generation, which is a bit of a bummer. But overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re willing to spend the cash. If you’re running a small business, you might want to check out the best Wi-Fi router to ensure you have a reliable connection for all those AI features.

Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

  1. Amazing camera system
  2. Includes S Pen stylus
  3. Long software support

Cons:

  1. Expensive
  2. Less S Pen functionality than previous generation
  3. It’s a big phone

3. Google Pixel 8a

Okay, so the Google Pixel 8a. It’s definitely a contender if you’re trying to keep things under budget. I mean, let’s be real, who isn’t trying to save a few bucks these days? The Pixel 8a is often called the most affordable Pixel phone, and it’s a solid choice if you’re already into the Google ecosystem.

It’s got that Google-y feel, you know? Clean Android, decent camera, and it won’t completely break the bank. It’s not going to blow you away with crazy features, but it gets the job done. Think of it as the reliable friend who always shows up when you need them. Plus, it comes in some fun colors, which is a nice change from the usual black or white. If you are looking for affordable housing options, you might have to make some sacrifices, but the Pixel 8a is a great phone for the price.

Here’s a quick rundown:

It’s a good all-around phone for the price. You can usually find it for around $499 at places like Amazon or the Google Store. Not bad, right?

4. Google Pixel 9

Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 9. I know, I know, it’s not even out yet, but that doesn’t mean we can’t speculate, right? From what I’ve seen floating around the internet, it’s shaping up to be a pretty interesting phone, especially if you’re looking for something that won’t completely break the bank.

I’m expecting Google to keep the price relatively competitive, maybe around the $799 mark, similar to what we’ve seen with previous models. The big question is what kind of upgrades we’ll see under the hood. Will they stick with the Tensor chip, or will they surprise us with something new? I’m personally hoping for some improvements to the camera – the Pixel line is already known for its amazing photo quality, but there’s always room to get better, right? Plus, a bigger battery would be a welcome addition. I’m constantly running out of juice by the end of the day.

And of course, there’s the software. One of the biggest draws of the Pixel phones is the clean Android experience and the promise of timely updates. I’m really looking forward to seeing what new features Google has in store for us with the Pixel 9. I’m also curious about the design. Will they stick with the same general look, or will they go for something completely different? I’m hoping for something sleek and modern, but not too flashy. I’m not a fan of phones that are too over-the-top. I’m also keeping an eye on the mobile tracking solution market, as it could influence some of the features we see in the new Pixel.

5. Samsung Galaxy S25

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25. It’s probably going to be a solid phone, building on what Samsung has already done. I’m expecting some pretty good improvements, especially in the camera and processor departments.

The Galaxy S25 will likely be a strong contender for the best Android phone of the year.

Here’s what I’m hoping to see:

I’m also curious about the price. Samsung’s been creeping up there, so hopefully, it stays somewhat reasonable. I’m not expecting it to be under $100, though. That’s just not realistic for a flagship phone. Maybe I should check out the Vodafone 5G SA Network to see if it will work well with the new phone.

6. Apple iPhones

When you’re looking for unlocked phones, iPhones are a pretty solid choice. They’re widely available and generally work with most carriers. Plus, you can usually walk into an Apple Store and get one without too much hassle.

One of the big advantages is that unlocked iPhones support a wide range of frequency bands used by different carriers in the US. This makes switching between carriers a breeze. Just keep in mind that many newer iPhones use eSIMs, so you’ll want to check compatibility with your carrier. If you ever find yourself with a disabled iPhone, there are guides available to help you unlock it.

For example, the iPhone 16 is a good option. It’s got a decent battery, a fast processor, and the camera takes nice pictures. It also has the Action Button and Camera Control features that used to be only on the Pro models. The iPhone 16 is a good choice if you want a reliable, unlocked phone that works with pretty much any carrier.

7. Amazon

Amazon is a huge marketplace, and you can find a ton of unlocked cell phones there. The prices can be really competitive, but it’s important to do your homework. You’ll want to check the seller’s ratings and read reviews carefully before you buy anything. Sometimes you can find really good deals, especially during sales events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday.

It’s also a good idea to make sure the phone is actually unlocked and compatible with your carrier. I’ve seen some listings that are a little unclear, so double-check the details before you click "add to cart." Amazon offers a wide selection, but due diligence is key to avoid any headaches later on.

Here’s a quick rundown of things to keep in mind when shopping for unlocked phones on Amazon:

8. Apple Store

Okay, so you’re thinking about hitting up the Apple Store for an unlocked phone, huh? Makes sense. They’ve got the iPhones, obviously, but finding something under $100? That’s where it gets tricky. Apple doesn’t exactly play in the super-budget phone arena.

They mostly deal in newer models, or maybe some certified pre-owned stuff. If you’re lucky, you might find an older iPhone model that someone traded in, and it’s been refurbished. But even then, $100 is a tough ask. You’re more likely to find pre-owned Apple iPhone 13 models at that price point elsewhere.

Here’s the deal:

9. Best Buy Mobile

Best Buy is a pretty good place to check for unlocked phones, especially if you want to see them in person before buying. They usually have a decent selection, and you can often find some good deals, especially on older models. It’s worth checking their website or stopping by a store to see what they have available. Sometimes they have exclusive deals or bundles that you won’t find anywhere else.

I remember one time I was looking for a cheap phone for my grandma, and Best Buy had a really simple unlocked flip phones on sale. It wasn’t anything fancy, but it was perfect for her. Plus, I got to talk to someone in the store who helped me figure out which one would be easiest for her to use. It’s that kind of personal service that makes Best Buy a good option.

They also have open box items sometimes, which can save you even more money. Just make sure to check the condition of the phone before you buy it. I’ve gotten some great deals on open box electronics there before, but you have to be careful and make sure everything is working properly.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping at Best Buy for unlocked phones:

10. OnePlus

OnePlus phones often get overlooked, but they shouldn’t be! They offer a great mix of features and performance, often at prices that undercut the bigger brands. I remember when OnePlus first came out; everyone was talking about the "flagship killer." While they’ve moved away from that super-budget space, they still provide a lot of bang for your buck. Let’s take a look at what they bring to the table.

OnePlus phones are known for their fast charging. You can go from zero to full in like half an hour, which is a lifesaver when you’re always on the go. They also have a pretty clean Android experience, which some people prefer over the heavily customized interfaces from other manufacturers. Plus, that alert slider is super handy for quickly silencing your phone.

Here’s a quick rundown of why you might consider a OnePlus:

If you’re looking for a phone that’s a bit different and offers great performance without breaking the bank, OnePlus is definitely worth checking out. You can find the OnePlus 13 at a reasonable price.

Wrapping It Up: Your Perfect Unlocked Phone Awaits

So, there you have it. Finding a good unlocked phone for under $100 might seem like a big task, but it’s totally doable. You just need to know what to look for and what matters most to you. Think about what you use your phone for every day. Do you take a lot of pictures? Are you always on social media? Or do you just need something reliable for calls and texts? Once you figure that out, picking the right phone gets a lot easier. There are some really solid options out there that won’t break the bank and will give you the freedom you want. Happy hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an unlocked phone?

An unlocked phone is a cell phone that isn’t tied to a specific phone company. This means you can use it with almost any phone service provider you choose. You can swap out SIM cards (the little chip that connects your phone to a network) to change carriers whenever you want.

Why should I get an unlocked phone?

Buying an unlocked phone gives you a lot of freedom. You’re not stuck in long contracts or payment plans with one phone company. You can switch providers to get better deals, or even use different SIM cards when you travel to avoid expensive roaming charges. Plus, it’s easier to sell or trade in your phone later.

Are there any downsides to unlocked phones?

While unlocked phones offer great flexibility, there are a few things to consider. If you switch SIM cards when traveling, your regular phone number won’t work. Also, some unlocked phones might not fully support all the features or network speeds (like 5G) of every phone company, especially overseas. It’s always good to check before you buy.

Where can I buy a new unlocked phone?

You usually can’t find unlocked phones at regular phone company stores. Instead, look online at big stores like Amazon, the Apple Store, or Best Buy Mobile. You can also buy them directly from the phone makers themselves, like Google, OnePlus, or Samsung, on their websites. Sometimes, you can even get your current phone unlocked, but that depends on your phone and your current service provider.

Can I easily switch phone companies with an unlocked phone?

Yes, many new unlocked phones, like the Google Pixel 9, Samsung Galaxy S25, and Apple iPhones, support something called eSIM. This means you don’t need a physical SIM card. You can just pick your phone company from a menu on your phone or scan a code, and you’re set. This makes switching phone companies super easy!

Can I have two phone numbers on one unlocked phone?

Yes, many unlocked phones now have something called ‘dual SIM’ or support eSIM. This lets you have two different phone numbers or plans on one phone. It’s really handy if you want to keep your work and personal calls separate, or if you have phone numbers for two different countries.

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