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

You might notice that we've made an exception in pricing here for the $599 iPhone 16e. If you're looking for an affordable new iPhone, it's the one to get. If you have only $200, consider trying a used model from a third-party reseller. Don't upgrade to the iPhone 13 earlier than the iPhone 13; older models will likely lose compatibility with new iOS versions within the next year or two. For more, see our in-depth explanation of which iPhone to buy.

Finally, visit our stories on the best cheap phone plans and how to get the best price on a new phone. We also have a few other affordable options in our story about the best phones for seniors. We continually update this roundup as we review new phones, so be sure to check back soon.

Yes, you can generally put any SIM card into an unlocked phone, as long as the phone and the carrier's network are compatible (GSM or CDMA). Some carriers may have restrictions or limitations on using their SIM cards in certain devices, even if they are unlocked. However, an unlocked device typically gives you the freedom to select the provider of your choice and choose the plan and pricing that fit your budget and needs. This flexibility allows you to switch carriers easily or use local SIM cards when traveling. Just make sure the SIM card is the correct size for your phone as different phone