Unlocked phones are growing in popularity compared to carrier-locked phones. Unlocked phones are not tied to any specific wireless carrier or network. This gives you the flexibility to easily switch between compatible carriers or networks at any time without being restricted to your original carrier. You can swap out SIM cards.
With a carrier-locked phone, you are limited to using that carrier’s services for a set period, usually 1-2 years. To unlock it early, you must pay an unlocking fee. Carrier-locked phones only work with that carrier’s SIM cards and networks.
Unlocked phones offer consumers more freedom and options. You can shop around for the best deals on wireless service plans from different providers since you aren’t tied down. If you travel frequently, you can buy a local SIM card and use it on your unlocked phone. Overall, unlocked phones provide more flexibility and control for the user compared to carrier-locked phones.
What is 5G?
5G stands for 5th generation cellular network technology. It is the latest generation of mobile internet connectivity, offering faster speeds and lower latency than previous 4G LTE networks.
5G delivers data speeds up to 20 Gbps, compared to peak speeds of 1 Gbps on 4G LTE networks. This enables near-instantaneous connectivity for tasks like streaming Ultra HD video or downloading large files.
Latency, or the time it takes for devices to communicate with wireless networks, is also greatly reduced with 5G. Latency could be as low as one millisecond, compared to around 50 milliseconds on 4G. Lower latency enables real-time communication for applications like online gaming, self-driving vehicles, and remote surgery.
5G networks started rolling out in 2019 and are still being built out and expanded. As of 2022, 5G is available in many major cities across the US from major carriers like Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. However, coverage is still limited and focused on dense urban areas. Rural 5G availability remains limited.
In the next few years, we will see a continuing expansion of 5G networks to enable faster speeds and new capabilities for more users. But for now, 5G coverage remains spotty, and 4G LTE continues to make up the bulk of cellular connectivity.
Best Unlocked 5G Phones Under $200
Finding an unlocked 5G smartphone for under $200 can be challenging, but there are some decent options available. Here are some of the top picks:
Samsung Galaxy A13 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G offers a big 6.5-inch LCD, a 50MP main camera, and a MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset.The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G is one of the best unlocked 5G smartphones available for under $200. It has a 6.5-inch HD+ display, 5000mAh battery, and quad-camera system. Here are some of the key features and benefits of this device:
- Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset for fast connectivity
- Large 6.5-inch display with a 90-Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and viewing
- Quad camera system with 50MP main lens, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP macro and 2MP depth sensor
- 5000mAh battery provides all-day power even with heavy use
- Supports 5G connectivity on major networks for faster downloads and streaming
- Fingerprint sensors and facial recognition provide secure biometric unlock options
- Runs the Android 12 operating system with Samsung’s One UI interface
- Expandable storage up to 1TB with microSD card slot
- Durable design with reinforced corners for added drop protection
For just under $200, the Galaxy A13 5G packs a punch with 5G connectivity, long battery life, and a quality camera system. The large display is great for watching videos and gaming while on the go. Overall, it’s an excellent value for an unlocked 5G smartphone for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros:
- Solid overall performance
- Large display
- Capable camera
- Headphone jack
- microSD card slot
Cons:
- Only 60Hz display
- No NFC
- Plastic build
TCL 30 XE 5G
With a 6.52-inch LCD, MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chip, and 50MP main camera, the TCL 30 XE 5G delivers solid specs for the price.The TCL 30 XE 5G is one of the most affordable 5G smartphones available today. It offers a nice mix of features and performance at a price under $200.
Some key specs and highlights of the TCL 30 XE 5G:
- 6.52″ HD+ LCD display
- MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- 50MP main camera, 2MP macro and depth cameras
- 5,000 mAh battery with 18W charging
- Android 12 operating system
For under $200, the TCL 30 XE 5G packs some impressive hardware, like the Dimensity 700 processor, which delivers fast 5G speeds. The large 5,000 mAh battery also provides excellent battery life on a single charge.
The camera setup is also quite good for the price, with a 50MP main sensor for crisp, detailed shots. The macro and depth cameras allow you to take close-up and portrait photos.
While the TCL doesn’t have the highest resolution display or tonnes of storage, the overall combination of features and specs make it a standout 5G device at this price point. Performance is smooth and responsive thanks to the capable processor and adequate RAM.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to access 5G networks and don’t need top-of-the-line specs, the TCL 30 XE 5G is a great option to consider. You get a future-proof 5G device with solid performance and battery life at an affordable price point under $200.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- microSD card support
- Headphone jack
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Display only 60Hz
- No NFC
- Mediocre low-light camera performance
Motorola Moto G 5G
Motorola’s Moto G 5G packs a 6.5-inch LCD, Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G chip, 48MP main camera, and 5000mAh battery for under $200.The Motorola Moto G 5G is an excellent budget 5G smartphone option under $200. It has a 6.7-inch LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2520 pixels. Some key features and specs include:
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G processor
- 4GB RAM and 64GB storage
- microSD card slot for expandable storage
- 48MP main camera, 8MP ultra-wicamera, and 2MP macro camera
- 5000mAh battery with 20W TurboPower fast charging
- Android 11 operating system
For under $200, the Moto G 5G packs a lot of value. The Snapdragon 750G processor delivers fast 5G speeds and good performance for daily tasks and the large, 6.7-inch display is great for watching videos and playing games. With a 48MP main camera, you can capture decent photos and videos. The 5000mAh battery provides long battery life. You also get modern features like NFC for contactless payments.
The Moto G 5G works on all major US 5G networks. It’s an affordable way to access super-fast 5G speeds. The phone also has a clean software experience thanks to Motorola’s version of Android 11. With frequent software updates, you’ll get the latest security patches and improvements. If you’re looking for an unlocked 5G device on a budget, the Moto G 5G is a great choice.
Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- Smooth overall performance
- microSD card slot
- Headphone jack
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Display only 60Hz
- Underwhelming cameras
future-proof 5G device with solid performance and battery life at an affordable price point undeat 60 Hz00.
5g Mobile Phone List Under $200
OnePlus Nord N20 5G
The OnePlus Nord N20 5G is one of the best budget 5G smartphones available for under $200. It has a sleek and modern design with a large 6.43-inch AMOLED display featuring a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and visuals.
Inside, the Nord N20 5G is powered by a capable Snapdragon 695 5G chipset and 4GB of RAM, providing reliable performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and messaging. The phone comes with an ample 128GB of storage, and you can add a microSD card for additional space.
For photography, the phone has a solid triple camera system on the back: a 64MP main sensor, a 2MP depth lens, and a 2MP macro camera. This system allows you to take detailed shots in bright lighting conditions. The 16MP front camera captures good selfies and video chats.
The large 4,500 mAh battery delivers excellent battery life, easily lasting over a day of normal use on a single charge. And when you do need to top up, the phone supports fast 33W wired charging.
Additional handy features include a side-mounted fingerprint reader for quick unlocking, face unlock, dual SIM card slots, 5G connectivity, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC for mobile payments, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
At just $199, the OnePlus Nord N20 5G provides a premium design and user experience you would expect from more expensive phones. If you want future-proof 5G speeds without breaking the bank, this is one of the top devices to get.
Things to Consider
When choosing an unlocked 5G smartphone under $200, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Network Compatibility
- Make sure the phone is compatible with your carrier’s network bands. Unlocked phones should work on AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon’s 5G networks. Confirm the supported network bands before purchasing.
- Some budget 5G phones may lack support for mmWave, which provides the fastest 5G speeds. Sub-6GHz 5G will still give a speed boost over 4G LTE.
- International model phones may not get full network support if used in the US. Purchase US models when possible.
Display Quality
- Look for at least a 720p HD display, although 1080p Full HD is ideal. This will provide sharper image quality.
- Screen sizes around 6.5 inches are common in this price range. Larger displays are better for watching videos and gaming.
- LCDs are more common than AMOLED in budget phones. AMOLED provides richer contrast and colors.
Camera Quality
- Expect decent but not amazing camera performance. Many phones have dual rear cameras with a main and depth or macro lens.
- Look for at least a 13MP main camera for sharper image quality. However, extra megapixels don’t always mean better real-world results.
- Software processing can improve image quality. AI scene optimization, night mode, and portrait modes are nice bonuses.
Storage Capacity
- Opt for at least 64GB of internal storage, with 128GB being ideal. This provides space for apps, photos, videos, and files.
- Make sure there is a microSD card slot to allow for the expansion of storage. Cards up to 1TB can be used.
Battery Life
- Battery capacities of around 5,000 mAh are common and provide an all-day battery with moderate use. High-refresh displays impact this.
- Fast charging support helps offset average battery life. Look for 18W charging or better.
- Actual battery life depends on usage. Gaming and streaming drain it faster than lighter use. Manage expectations accordingly.
Where to Buy
When looking for an affordable 5G smartphone under $200, you have several options for where to shop. Here are some of the best places to find unlocked 5G phones at this price point:
Online Retailers
- Amazon: Amazon carries a wide selection of unlocked phones, including budget 5G models. Brands like Samsung, Motorola, TCL and more are available. Amazon frequently discounts phones and runs promotions.
- Best Buy sells unlocked phones both online and in stores. They often run sales on older models. You can find 5G phones for under $200 when they are on promotion.
- eBay: On eBay, you can find new, used, and refurbished phones. Sort by new to see the latest models. eBay is worth checking for discounted prices.
- Back Market: This site specialises in refurbished tech. They offer a good selection of refurbished, unlocked phones, including colour models under $200.
- Swappa: Buy and sell gently used phones on Swappa. Individual sellers list their devices. Swappaas them for quality.
Carriers
- Metro by T-Mobile: Metro sells phones optimised for their network, many of which are priced under $200. You can use them on T-Mobile, too, after unlocking.
- Cricket Wireless: Croptimisation,ordable Android phones, including some 5G options under $200. Their phones are locked at first.
- Boost Mobile: Boost Mobile offers budget phones under $200, some with 5G. You’ll need to get them unlocked after purchase.
Retail Stores
- Walmart: Check Walmart for unlocked phones from brands like Samsung, Motorola and Straight Talk. They have in-store deals.
- Target: Target has a selection of unlocked phones for under $200, especially when on sale or clearance.
- Best Buy: Visit Best Buy stores to see their latest unlocked phones. Associates can check for additional models that are not on display.
The Bottom Line
When looking for an unlocked 5G smartphone under $200, you have some decent options to consider. The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G, TCL 30 XE 5G, Motorola Moto G 5G, and OnePlus Nord N20 5G stand out as top picks.
The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G is a great budget 5G phone that doesn’t skimp on features. It has a large 6.5-inch LCD, a MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset, 64GB of storage, and a 5,000 mAh battery. The quad-camera setup and fingerprint scanner make this a well-rounded: device.
For even less, the TCL 30 XE 5G costs around $150 unlocked. You get a 6.52-inch LCD, a MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chip, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery. It’s a basic but useful 5G smartphone.
Those wanting a clean Android experience should consider the Motorola Moto G 5 G. It runs a near-stoc version of Specialty and has a 6.5-inch LCD, a MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor, RAM, 64GB of storage, and a 5,000 mAh battery. The 48M camera takes decent shots.
Lastly, the OnePlus Nord N20 5G impresses, given its price. It has a 6.43-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 695 5G:ip, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of optimised storage, a 4,500 mAh battery, many of which are fast charging, and a capable camera system. OxygenOS offers a great software experience.
When choosing an unlocked 5G smartphone for under $200, prioritise the features that are most important to you. Look at: the display quality, processor performance, battery life, camera setup, and software experience. Buying from reputable retailers ensures you get a new and legitimate device. With some compromises, you can get solid 5G performance without breaking the bank.
