Should I buy an unlocked phone or one tied to a carrier?

Updated October 2026 · How we answer

Freedom and flexibility

An unlocked phone works with any carrier that supports its network bands, so you can switch providers whenever you want, use local SIMs when traveling, and take advantage of the best plan for your needs. You can also sell it more easily later. Carrier-locked phones are restricted to one network until you meet certain conditions (like paying off the device) to unlock it.

If you travel internationally or like to change carriers for better deals, an unlocked phone is the better choice. If you're happy with your carrier and don't plan to switch, a locked phone can be fine.

Cost and deals

Carriers often offer significant discounts or free phones when you commit to a contract or installment plan. That can make a locked phone much cheaper upfront. However, those deals usually require a qualifying unlimited plan, and the discount is applied as bill credits over 24 or 36 months. If you leave early, you may lose remaining credits and have to pay off the phone.

Unlocked phones are sold at full retail price, but you can find sales from manufacturers and retailers. Over time, the total cost of an unlocked phone with a cheaper prepaid plan may be lower than a carrier deal with an expensive plan. Do the math for your situation.

• Unlocked: works with any carrier, no bloatware, easier to resell
• Locked: often cheaper upfront, but tied to carrier and plan
• Unlocked: buy directly from manufacturer or retailer
• Locked: may come with carrier apps you can't uninstall

Bloatware and updates

Carrier-locked phones often come with preinstalled carrier apps and branding, which can be annoying and sometimes slow down updates. Unlocked phones typically have a cleaner software experience and receive updates directly from the manufacturer, sometimes faster. However, some carriers still control updates even on unlocked phones if you use their network.

If you value a bloat-free experience and timely updates, unlocked is preferable. But if you don't mind a few extra apps and want the lowest upfront cost, a carrier phone is a valid option.