With up to $800 you can get near-flagship speed, excellent cameras, and long software support. Below are the best unlocked phones in 2025 that balance value and performance — plus how to buy the safest way and where to find verified unlocked stock.
Shop Unlocked Phones Under $800
Quick winner list — act fast
- Google Pixel 9a — Best overall for camera and software updates
- OnePlus 13 (base) — Flagship-level speed and charging
- Samsung Galaxy S24 (standard) — Strong display and reliable camera
- iPhone 15 (refurbished or discounted unlocked) — Best long-term iOS support
Each of these regularly appears under $800 in unlocked or certified-refurbished listings. Read on for details and buying tips. When you are ready to buy, start at our curated deals page: UsedPhonesUSA Shop.
How we chose these phones
We prioritized devices that offer the best mix of sustained performance, camera quality, software support, and resale value. For each model we considered typical unlocked pricing in 2025, battery life, and the availability of certified used or refurbished units that meet modern safety checks.
Top picks in detail
Google Pixel 9a — Best camera and software value
Why buy: Pixel image processing and regular Android updates give excellent long-term value. The Pixel 9a is a great choice for photo-first buyers who want the best computational camera without paying flagship prices.
Who it suits: Photographers on a budget, people who want a clean Android experience, buyers who prioritize software longevity.
Quick specs: Modern mid-to-high tier chipset, capable camera hardware, solid battery life.
OnePlus 13 (base) — Flagship speed for less
Why buy: OnePlus consistently packs powerful chips and ultra-fast charging into phones priced below traditional flagships. If responsiveness and fast charging matter to you, this is a strong option under $800.
Who it suits: Power users, mobile gamers, anyone who wants flagship-class performance without flagship pricing.
Samsung Galaxy S24 (standard) — Balanced and familiar
Why buy: The S24 offers a best-in-class display and reliable camera system. Standard S-series models drop into the under $800 band when discounted or purchased refurbished.
Who it suits: Users who want a great screen, dependable cameras, and broad accessory support.
iPhone 15 (refurbished or discounted unlocked) — iOS longevity
Why buy: iPhones tend to receive iOS updates for many years. If you can find a refurbished or discounted unlocked iPhone 15 under $800, you get long-term software updates and strong resale value.
Who it suits: iOS users who want long-term support and a predictable user experience.
Find unlocked iPhone 15 models
Buying checklist — what to verify before checkout
- Carrier compatibility: Confirm the phone supports your carrier’s bands. Use our compatibility checker at Check Compatibility.
- Battery health: For used devices, aim for battery health around 85% or higher, or look for battery replacement options.
- Condition and photos: Review high-resolution photos and the seller’s grade description (Grade A, B, C).
- Warranty and returns: Prefer listings with at least a 30-day return window and a limited warranty. See our warranty details at Warranty & Returns.
- IMEI checks: Ensure the device is not blacklisted or reported lost or stolen before buying.
- Seller reputation: Buy certified unlocked units from sellers who provide inspection reports and clear contact details.
Where to buy — why choose UsedPhonesUSA
We know you could shop at big retailers, but if your goal is to get a properly inspected unlocked phone under $800 and keep the buying experience smooth, here is why UsedPhonesUSA should be your first stop:
- Certified inspections: Every device we sell passes a 40+ point inspection so you know it works as described.
- Unlocked and carrier-ready: We list unlocked devices and provide carrier compatibility guidance so the phone works on your network.
- Clear condition grading: Grade A, B, and C descriptions with multiple photos so there are no surprises.
- Warranty and returns: We include a 30-day return window plus a limited warranty on most phones. Details: Warranty & Returns.
- Trade-in and deals: Trade in your old phone for credit and browse rotating deals to bring flagship value under $800. Visit our deals: Shop Deals.
- Fast support: Live support to help with compatibility, setup, or returns.
Shop Certified Unlocked Phones Now
Suggested images (prompts)
Generate 2–4 images to break up the text and increase engagement. Use these prompts in your image generator and replace the placeholder images above:
- Pixel 9a prompt: “Front-and-back product photo of a Google Pixel 9a in Twilight, clean studio lighting, white background, 3:2 crop, high resolution.”
- OnePlus 13 prompt: “OnePlus 13 flat-lay angled shot, focus on curved display and matte back finish, studio lighting.”
- S24 prompt: “Samsung Galaxy S24 on a wooden surface, close-up of rear camera cluster, natural light.”
- Comparison prompt: “Comparison grid photo: Pixel 9a, OnePlus 13, Samsung S24, iPhone 15 side-by-side, white background, product cards style.”
Video — quick review roundup
FAQ
Are unlocked phones under $800 worth it?
Yes. With $800 you can secure near-flagship performance, very good cameras, and long software support — especially if you buy certified unlocked or refurbished units. Make sure to verify condition, battery health, and carrier compatibility.
How can I be sure an unlocked phone will work on my carrier?
Check band support or use an IMEI checker. We offer a compatibility tool at Check Compatibility to make this easy.
Do refurbished phones come with warranty?
Certified refurbished phones usually include a warranty. At UsedPhonesUSA we provide a 30-day return window plus a limited warranty on most devices. See full details at Warranty & Returns.
Ready to buy?
Browse our hand-picked unlocked phones under $800 and use our filters to find the model, grade, and price you want. Shop certified unlocked phones or check compatibility first.
