10 Best New Unlocked Cell Phones 2026 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is a cutting-edge unlocked Android phone running the latest Android 16 with Samsung's OneUI 8, offering a fresh and intuitive user experience. Its standout feature is the large, 8-inch foldable display that lets you comfortably multitask with up to three apps visible simultaneously, making it great for productivity or media enjoyment. Despite the bigger screen, it remains slim and light, weighing just 216 grams, which is impressive for a foldable design.

The phone packs a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance whether you're streaming, gaming, or editing photos. Storage is generous at 512GB, providing plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos. Camera-wise, the Z Fold7 impresses with a sophisticated 200MP rear camera and Pro-Visual Engine, delivering detailed and vibrant pictures, which is among the best you’ll find on a foldable phone. The 4400mAh battery is designed to last through busy days, supporting long usage without frequent recharging. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB, guaranteeing broad compatibility with networks and accessories.

The build quality feels premium with an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, enhancing durability for daily use. Potential buyers should consider the relatively high price point typical for foldables and that the 4400mAh battery might be less than some larger-screen phones without foldable designs. Additionally, the foldable screen may be more delicate than traditional flat phones, demanding careful handling. This phone is ideal for users looking for a versatile device that combines a large tablet-like screen with phone portability, packed with top-tier specs and innovative features.

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.

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.