You're interested in getting a new cell phone, but you're having trouble picking one out. You're trying to decide if a locked or unlocked phone is a better option for you. In this article, I'll explain the difference between locked and unlocked phones and help you decide which type of phone you should buy!
What Does It Mean If A Phone Is Locked?
A locked phone is one that's sold by a wireless carrier and can only be used on that carrier's wireless network. Carriers lock phones by installing software on the phone. This software prevents the phone from connecting to the wireless networks of other carriers. Even if you put a SIM card from a different carrier in a locked phone, it won't get service.
Locked phones are usually less expensive than unlocked phones because your wireless carrier is subsidizing part of the cost by locking you into using their network. Unlocked phones give you more freedom to switch carriers, so the price naturally goes up.
Carriers can also offset the cost reduction of locked phones by imposing early termination fees if you decide to break your contract before it's finished.
Locked phones are a great option for people who love their wireless carrier. If you don't plan on switching carriers, a locked phone is a good option. Just keep in mind that it'll be harder to resell a locked phone!
What Does It Mean If A Phone Is Unlocked?
The biggest difference between locked and unlocked cell phones is that an unlocked phone is not carrier-specific. Unlocked phones can be used on any carrier's wireless network.
Unlocked cell phones don't always have contracts, which make it easier to switch to a different carrier at any time. However, unlocked phones are usually much more expensive — sometimes two or three times, depending on where you purchase it.
It's important to keep in mind that unlocked phones can potentially save you more money in the long run. When you buy an unlocked phone, you won’t be trapped in a contract or bound to the terms, conditions, and fees that frequently accompany them. You'll also have an easier time reselling an unlocked phone when you're ready to upgrade again.
Locked Phones vs. Unlocked Phones
There are a few other key differences between locked phones and unlocked phones. Unlocked phones don’t typically come with the same pre-loaded carrier applications, which frees up a little extra storage space. However, if you have a locked phone, you can quickly delete those apps anyway.
If you've ever been unhappy with your cell phone plan's carrier, an unlocked phone could be a true wallet-saver. With an unlocked phone, you can easily transfer your device between wireless carriers as you see fit. It's also not impossible to have a locked phone become unlocked. In fact some companies, such as Verizon, even unlock your cell phone automatically after a certain amount of time.
Unlocked phones are better for people who travel. You can easily swap the SIM card and connect to the network in the place you're visiting. If you travel internationally with a locked phone, you could be subject to any amount of enormous fees depending on what kind of international features your plan includes.
Another perk to having an unlocked phone is that it can function with both GSM networks and CDMA networks. Generally, whether you access a GSM or CDMA network is determined by your carrier and location. With an unlocked phone you'll have the flexibility to opt for either depending on what suits your needs.
Where Can I Buy An Unlocked Phone?
Wireless carriers are often hesitant to sell unlocked phones because they don't want you to switch to one of their competitors. However, many carriers will help you unlock your phone once you've fully paid for it.
Contact your carrier to see if they'll unlock it for you:
You can also buy an unlocked phone from retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and Gazelle. Their prices might even be a little better than the deals offered by wireless carriers!
Where Can I Buy A Locked Phone?
Locked cell phones can be purchased directly from wireless carriers. Check out our cell phone comparison tool to find the best prices on every phone from every carrier. Amazon, eBay, and Gazelle also sell locked phones. It's not a bad idea to compare prices to make sure you get the best deal!
Another place to purchase a phone that comes unlocked out of the box is directly from Apple. Currently, you can buy an unlocked iPhone at retail prices directly from Apple's website or your local Apple store. By purchasing an iPhone directly from Apple you can minimize the complications you might run into with carrier locked phones.
Locking In On A New Phone
We hope this article gave you a better understanding of some of the differences between locked and unlocked phones. Make sure to share this article on social media to teach your friends and family about the differences too! Feel free to leave a comment down below if you have any other questions about locked and unlocked cell phones.
Thank you for info. I’m looking to upgrade from flip phone to a smart phone with Safe Link carrier. So, it doesn’t make a difference if new phone is “locked”, right (I believe the phone has to be a tracfone, though)?