With an unlocked phone, you can trade up or sell your phone whenever you want without waiting for the end of a leasing or installment plan. You can also own multiple handsets and swap your SIM card between them. Keep in mind that the latest US models of the iPhone and Pixel support eSIM only, which can make switching phones a little more complicated than moving a physical SIM card. If you travel internationally, you can get an eSIM online or pop in a local, pay-as-you-go SIM card overseas and avoid horrendous international roaming charges. You can also take advantage of super-cheap prepaid plans from virtual operators in the US that piggyback on compatible networks.

If you go with a prepaid carrier, ensure it supports the phone you want; we've read reports about select MVNOs not supporting phones that theoretically should work on their networks.

Shopping for an unlocked handset can be tricky because carrier stores don't stock them. Amazon, the Apple Store, and manufacturers' online stores (Google, OnePlus, Samsung) are good bets if you're looking for one. Sometimes, you can even unlock the phone you already have, though the particulars depend on the handset and carrier.

If that large up-front payment is a concern, some retailers, including Apple, Best Buy, Google, and Samsung, will allow you to finance phones over two or three years to break down the cost.

Ready to break free? Pick up one of these handsets, and don't feel tied to your carrier any longer. 

And if you're looking for the best deal, check out our tips for getting the best price on a new phone and our picks for the best cheap phones.

Unlocked and locked phones differ in how they work with phone carriers. Unlocked phones can be used with any carrier that supports the phone's network, letting you change carriers or use different SIM cards when traveling. Locked phones work with a specific carrier, usually through a contract or payment plan. They often cost less upfront because carriers offer a better price in exchange for using their service. However, you can't switch carriers or use other SIM cards without unlocking the phone. To unlock it, you may need to contact the carrier, pay a fee, or wait for a certain time in your