Search results
Why an unlocked phone is a smart choice. Unlocked phones aren’t tied to a specific carrier so you have the freedom to shop for the latest phones and plans as often — or as infrequently — as you like. Also, they aren’t saddled with long, 36-month contracts that come with most carrier-specific phones.
- The History of Carrier-Sold Phones
- The Modern Dilemma
- Why You Might Want to Buy from Your Carrier
- Things to Consider Before Buying Unlocked
- When to Buy Unlocked
- How to Unlock A Carrier-Locked Phone
In the early days of cellular devices, there was only one real option for buying a phone in the US: from your carrier. This involved getting a phone for a small payment—$50 or $100 in most cases, or even free for the "non-flagship" handsets of the day. In return, you'd sign a two-year agreement with your carrier saying that you'd stick with them. S...
However, there's still a big catch to buying a phone from your carrier: it's locked to that carrier. That means you can't take it to another carrier unless it first gets unlocked by the original one. And even then, your phone may only be compatible with another carrier that has compatible network bands. That means if you buy a phone from the Verizo...
So why, if carriers lock you in, would you ever want to buy a phone from them? Well, there are a few cases.
If you've decided buying from your carrier isn't for you, then you're going to want to buy an unlocked handset—one that isn't tied to a specific carrier. That can, of course, also come with its own set of issues.
Okay, so we've talked about when it's probably okay to buy from your carrier and things to consider before buying unlocked. At this point, it may actually sound like buying unlocked is worse than buying from your carrier—but that's not true at all. As long as you do your research, buying unlocked is great.
Lastly, if you have a carrier-locked phone (or plan on buying one), you can unlock it, as we mentioned earlier. It just requires a few things. This varies by carrier, but there are some general rules you might run into. First, you have to pay the phone off completely. Most carriers should offer the option to pay it off early, though in a few rare c...
- Cameron Summerson
Feb 7, 2022 · Go to any Best Buy or Best Buy Mobile Mall location to for help and an upgrade check—we’ll show you what options are available. Postpaid, prepaid & unlocked Postpaid – If you’re someone who loves having the latest smartphone as soon as it’s available, explore postpaid plan options.
- Best Buy
Best Buy Mobile locations now support Quick and Easy Store Pickup, which allows you to reserve your new device from the web and get confirmation within 20 minutes (during regular store hours). To reserve your mobile device: Click the “Reserve in Store” button in your cart or as you browse the site.
Nov 11, 2022 · Compare plans and find what gives you the best bang for the buck. With an unlocked phone and several years of “loyalty” with one carrier, you may have room to negotiate a good deal that works best for you. Having an unlocked phone allows you to shop around without making the kind of commitment required for a two-year payment plan.
- Best Buy
Why you should choose Best Buy Mobile. Here are 4 reasons why Best Buy is the perfect place to get your new phone. Learn more
People also ask
Why should you buy a new phone at Best Buy?
Why should you choose Best Buy Mobile?
Where can I find a Best Buy mobile phone?
Where can I get a phone at Best Buy Express?
Sep 29, 2023 · Have your eye on a new phone from Apple, Samsung, or another manufacturer? These days, it’s not hard to find smartphones with big, gorgeous screens; an assortment of cameras; and long battery...
