Looking for a new phone but don’t want to spend a fortune? You’re in luck! This month, there are some seriously good deals on unlocked 5G phones, and many of them are coming in under $100. It might sound too good to be true, but with a little searching, you can find a capable 5G device without emptying your wallet. We’ll help you figure out where to look and what to watch out for.
Key Takeaways
- You can find unlocked 5G phones for under $100 this month, especially if you look at older models or refurbished options.
- Unlocked phones give you the freedom to choose your own carrier and plan, without being tied to a contract.
- Keep an eye on major online retailers and carrier promotions for the best deals on budget 5G phones.
- When buying a budget phone, check for decent battery life, acceptable camera quality for your needs, and enough performance for everyday tasks.
- Considering refurbished devices can significantly lower the cost of a 5G phone while still offering good value.
Finding Unlocked 5G Phones Under $100
It feels like just yesterday that 5G phones were super expensive, right? Now, you can actually find unlocked 5G phones for under $100, which is pretty wild. This means you get the faster speeds without being tied to a specific phone company. Plus, unlocked phones give you the freedom to switch carriers whenever you want, which is great if you find a better deal or need to change your plan. It’s a smart way to get a decent phone without spending a fortune.
The Appeal of Unlocked Devices
Buying an unlocked phone means you own it outright. You’re not paying it off over two years with a carrier contract. This gives you a lot more flexibility. You can hop between different mobile providers, picking the one with the best coverage or cheapest plan in your area. It’s also easier to use your phone when you travel internationally, just pop in a local SIM card. You can find a good selection of unlocked phones on eBay.
Why Now Is the Time to Buy
There are a few reasons why this is a good time to look for these deals. New phone models come out all the time, and when they do, the prices on older, but still perfectly good, phones drop. Companies want to clear out their inventory. Also, carriers are pushing 5G, so they’re often running promotions to get people onto their faster networks. This means more deals are popping up for phones that support 5G.
Navigating Carrier Deals
While this article focuses on unlocked phones, it’s worth mentioning that carriers sometimes have deals too. You might see offers like "buy one, get one free" or discounts if you trade in an old phone. However, these deals often come with strings attached, like requiring you to stay with the carrier for a certain amount of time or sign up for a specific plan. With unlocked phones, you avoid all that hassle. You just buy the phone and then choose the plan that works for you.
Top Budget-Friendly 5G Smartphone Picks
Finding a solid 5G phone that doesn’t cost a fortune is totally doable this month. You don’t need to spend a grand to get a device that can handle all your daily tasks and connect you to the fastest networks. We’ve looked at a few popular options that often pop up with good discounts, especially if you keep an eye out.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Deals
The Moto G Stylus 5G is a pretty interesting choice if you like having a stylus handy for notes or drawing. It usually has a nice, big screen that’s good for watching videos or just browsing. Plus, it often comes with a battery that lasts a really long time, sometimes over a full day of use, which is a big plus. Charging it up is usually pretty quick too. The camera is decent for everyday shots, though maybe not the best if you’re a photography buff. The built-in stylus is a standout feature for this price point. You can often find this model with a good chunk of storage, so you won’t run out of space too quickly.
Exploring Samsung Galaxy A Series Savings
Samsung’s Galaxy A series is known for offering a good balance of features and price. These phones usually have bright, colorful displays that make everything look sharp. They’re also built to be pretty reliable, so you can expect them to keep running smoothly for a while. Samsung often packs in decent cameras that can take good pictures in most lighting conditions. You’ll also find they have good battery life, so you’re not constantly searching for an outlet. Keep an eye out for deals on models like the A35 or A55, as they frequently see price drops.
Google Pixel A-Series Affordability
Google’s Pixel A-series phones are a fantastic option if you want a clean Android experience and great camera performance without the flagship price tag. These phones are famous for their camera software, which often makes even simple point-and-shoot photos look amazing, especially in low light. They also get software updates directly from Google, so you’ll have the latest features and security patches. Performance is usually snappy for everyday use, and the battery life is generally solid. The Pixel 7a or even an older Pixel 6a can be found for well under $100 if you catch a good sale.
Smart Strategies for Scoring Deals
Finding a great deal on an unlocked 5G phone under $100 this month is totally doable if you know where to look and when to buy. It’s not just about finding the cheapest option, but the smartest one.
Leveraging Older Model Discounts
When new phones come out, the older ones usually get a price cut. It’s like when a new car model is released, the previous year’s version becomes a lot more affordable. This is a prime time to snag a perfectly good phone that might be a year or two old. These devices often still have great features and 5G capability, but at a much lower price point. Don’t dismiss a phone just because it’s not the absolute latest release.
Timing Your Purchase for Maximum Savings
Certain times of the year are just better for phone shopping. Think about big sale events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or even Amazon Prime Day. Retailers and carriers often drop prices significantly during these periods. Even smaller, holiday sales can offer surprising discounts. Keep an eye out around major holidays; sometimes stores have special promotions that aren’t tied to a specific shopping event.
Considering Refurbished Options
Buying refurbished can be a fantastic way to get a high-quality phone for way less. These are typically devices that were returned, maybe had a minor issue fixed, or were just opened and then sent back. They’re usually tested, cleaned, and come with a warranty, so you’re not taking a huge risk. It’s a good middle ground between brand new and used. You can often find phones that were originally much more expensive now available at a fraction of the cost.
Essential Features to Look For
When you’re hunting for a new phone, especially one that won’t break the bank, it’s easy to get lost in all the specs. But let’s focus on what really matters for everyday use. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to figure out what’s good.
Battery Life and Charging Capabilities
This is a big one. Nobody likes being tethered to a charger. Look for phones that promise all-day battery life. This usually means a battery capacity of at least 4,000mAh, though some phones can stretch that further with smart software. Also, consider charging speed. Fast charging can be a lifesaver when you’re in a rush. Some phones come with a charger in the box, while others expect you to buy one separately. It’s worth checking if the phone supports USB Power Delivery (PD) or Qualcomm Quick Charge, as these are common fast-charging standards.
Camera Quality on a Budget
Don’t expect professional-grade photos from a sub-$100 phone, but you can still get decent shots. Pay attention to the main camera’s megapixel count, but remember that’s not the whole story. Sensor size and software processing play a huge role. Look for reviews that show actual photo samples. Many budget phones now offer multiple lenses, like an ultrawide or macro lens, but often the main camera is the only one worth using regularly. For great photos on a budget, consider models like the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G.
Performance and Storage Needs
For basic tasks like browsing, social media, and texting, most phones under $100 will be fine. If you play games or use more demanding apps, you’ll want to check the processor and RAM. More RAM (4GB or more is good) means smoother multitasking. Storage is also important. 64GB is a minimum these days, but 128GB is much better if you take lots of photos or download apps and music. Many phones offer a microSD card slot, which is a cheap way to add more storage later on.
Where to Find the Best Prices
Finding a good deal on an unlocked 5G phone can feel like a treasure hunt, but there are definitely some prime spots to check. You don’t always need to wait for a big holiday sale, though those can be great. Sometimes, the best deals pop up when you least expect them.
Major Online Retailer Sales
Big online stores are often the first place to look. They get a lot of foot traffic, so they tend to run sales pretty regularly to move inventory. Think of places like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg. They often have specific sections for deals or refurbished items. Keep an eye on these sites, especially around major shopping events like Prime Day or Black Friday, but also check them weekly. You might find a phone you like marked down significantly, sometimes by a couple hundred dollars, especially if it’s a model that’s a year or two old.
Carrier Promotions and Bundles
While you’re looking for unlocked phones, don’t completely ignore carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Sometimes, they have special promotions where you can get a discount on an unlocked phone if you sign up for a new service plan or bundle it with other services. It’s not always the cheapest route if you’re trying to avoid contracts, but it’s worth checking their websites. They might have deals that aren’t advertised everywhere, especially if you’re willing to commit to a plan.
Independent Retailer Bargains
Don’t forget about smaller, independent retailers or even manufacturer-specific outlets. Sometimes, these places have unique deals or clearance stock. You might find a great price on a phone that’s been sitting on the shelf for a bit. It’s also worth checking out manufacturer websites directly, like Motorola or Samsung, as they sometimes offer direct discounts or special bundles on their unlocked devices. If you find a local shop with a good deal, don’t hesitate to grab it. Plus, having a real person to help with setup can be pretty handy.
Maximizing Your Unlocked 5G Phone Investment
So you’ve found a great deal on an unlocked 5G phone, awesome! But before you get too excited, there are a few things to think about to make sure you’re really getting the most bang for your buck. It’s not just about the initial price, you know?
Understanding Network Compatibility
This is a big one. Just because a phone is unlocked doesn’t automatically mean it’ll work perfectly with every single carrier out there. Carriers use different network bands, and if your phone doesn’t support the ones your chosen carrier uses, you might have spotty service or, worse, no service at all. Always check the phone’s specifications against your carrier’s supported bands. You can usually find this info on the phone manufacturer’s website or by asking your carrier directly. It’s a good idea to check the device’s IMEI number with the carrier to make sure it’ll run without issue. This simple step can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Evaluating Trade-In Value
Got an old phone lying around? Don’t just toss it in a drawer! Many places offer trade-in programs, but the value they give you can vary wildly. Some might offer a decent amount towards a new phone, while others might lowball you. It’s worth shopping around to see who offers the best deal for your old device. Sometimes, selling it yourself online might get you more cash, but that takes more effort. Consider if you owe money on the device you’re trading in, as that can affect the overall value you receive.
Checking Device Condition
If you’re looking at refurbished options, which can be a fantastic way to save money, condition is key. Most reputable sellers will grade their refurbished phones. Look for descriptions like ‘excellent,’ ‘very good,’ or ‘good.’ ‘Excellent’ usually means it’s practically like new, with maybe a few minor cosmetic blemishes. ‘Very good’ might have some light scratches, and ‘good’ could have more noticeable wear. Don’t be afraid to ask for more details or even pictures if you’re unsure. Also, check the return policy – a good one gives you peace of mind if the device isn’t quite what you expected. You can often find great deals on smartphones right now, so it pays to be thorough. Purchasing your device from reputable retailers can often lead to better deals.
Don’t Miss Out on These Deals!
So, there you have it. Finding a great 5G phone for under $100 this month is totally doable. We’ve seen some really good prices on phones that still pack a punch, whether you’re looking for something from a big name or a solid performer that won’t empty your wallet. Remember, these deals can change fast, so if you see something you like, it’s probably a good idea to grab it. Happy phone hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘unlocked’ mean for a phone?
An unlocked phone isn’t tied to a specific phone company, like AT&T or Verizon. You can switch between different companies easily because the phone isn’t locked to just one network. It’s like having a phone that’s free to roam!
Why are unlocked 5G phones a good deal right now?
When new phone models come out, the prices for older, but still great, phones often drop. This means you can find super capable 5G phones for much less money. Plus, 5G is becoming more common, so getting a 5G phone now is a smart move for the future.
Can I really get a good unlocked 5G phone for under $100?
Yes, you absolutely can! While the newest, top-of-the-line phones might cost more, there are many excellent unlocked 5G phones, especially from brands like Motorola and Samsung’s A-series, that frequently go on sale for under $100. You might be looking at slightly older models or ones with a bit less storage, but they still work great.
Are refurbished phones worth considering?
Definitely! Refurbished phones are pre-owned devices that have been checked, fixed if needed, and cleaned up. They often work just like new but cost a lot less. It’s a fantastic way to save money and still get a good quality phone.
What are the best ways to find these deals?
Keep an eye on big online stores like Amazon and Best Buy, as they often have sales. Also, check the websites of phone companies (carriers) for special deals, especially if you’re willing to sign up for a plan. Sometimes, smaller, independent shops have hidden gems too!
What features should I look for in a cheap 5G phone?
Even on a budget, try to find a phone with good battery life so you don’t have to charge it all the time. A decent camera is nice for taking pictures, and enough storage space (like 128GB or more) is important so you can download apps and save photos. Make sure it supports 5G!