10 Best Budget Unlocked Smartphone 2025 in the United States

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.

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 Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is an appealing budget unlocked smartphone with several standout features. It boasts a large 6.7-inch pOLED display, offering vibrant colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making it great for media consumption and everyday use. The built-in stylus is a unique addition in this price range, facilitating note-taking, photo editing, and other tasks with ease. Additionally, the phone’s design is quite attractive, with a modern aesthetic and soft, vegan leather finish in Caramel Latte color.

Performance-wise, it packs an 8GB RAM which is sufficient for multitasking, and 256GB of internal storage that can be expanded, providing ample space for apps, photos, and media. The 50MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization is a solid performer, especially in low-light conditions, though it may not be the best in its class in terms of photo quality. The 5000mAh battery ensures you can go through more than a day on a single charge, and the 30W TurboPower charging is handy for quick top-ups.

Running on Android 14, the phone offers a modern and smooth software experience. The build quality is robust but the use of plastic components in this budget device may feel less premium compared to higher-end models. This phone is an excellent option for users looking for a versatile and stylish budget smartphone with added functionalities like a stylus and strong battery life.