Locked vs Unlocked Phone: Key Differences

When purchasing a phone, it’s important to understand the key differences between locked and unlocked devices. A locked phone is tied to a specific wireless carrier, meaning it can only be used with that carrier’s network until it’s unlocked. On the other hand, an unlocked phone can be used with any compatible network, providing greater flexibility and freedom for the user.

While many people buy locked phones as part of a service contract, unlocking the device or buying an unlocked phone outright offers several advantages. However, not all locked phones are equal. Some locks have more far-reaching effects, such as the blacklisting of phones that have been reported stolen.

Most people will never possess a blacklisted phone, though. As long as you do your due diligence and buy your electronics from trusted sources, you’ll never have to worry about coming into possession of a stolen device. If you have a standard carrier or SIM lock, then there are plenty of ways to unlock or replace your device.

Types of Locked Phones

There are several types of locked phones, each with its own restrictions and conditions. Here are the main types:

Carrier Locked Phones: These are tied to a specific network provider (such as Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile), and only function on that carrier’s network until you can get the phone unlocked. They are the most common type of locked phone.

Blacklisted/IMEI Locked Phones: These phones are typically reported as lost, stolen, or involved in fraud. Blacklisted devices are essentially unusable on any network until the issue is resolved.

The second kind of locked phone generally is highly limited and impossible to sell ethically or legally. As a result, comparisons of locked and unlocked phones tend to center on carrier locked phones.

Carrier Locked and Unlocked Phone Advantages

A carrier-locked phone is one purchased through a phone carrier as part of a service plan or financing agreement. These phones are often sold at a lower price or come with monthly payments, which makes them appealing for people who want to spread out the cost of a new phone.

However, the catch is that the phone can only be used with that carrier’s network. You can’t switch providers or use the phone abroad with a foreign service provider without unlocking it first.

Why People Accept Carrier Locked Phones

People often buy locked smartphones through carriers because of the attractive pricing, installment plans, or promotional deals offered by the carrier. Buying a Verizon phone, for example, allows the buyer to pay off the device over time rather than making a lump sum payment upfront.

However, the downside is that the phone remains locked to Verizon until the terms of the contract are fulfilled or the phone is unlocked.

Locked Versus Unlocked Phones: Advantages of Unlocking

An unlocked smartphone offers significant advantages over a locked phone. Here’s why:

Flexibility: You can easily switch carriers by simply swapping out the SIM card, which is especially useful if you’re traveling abroad or want to take advantage of better rates from other providers.

No Roaming Charges: With an unlocked phone, you can insert a local SIM card when traveling abroad to avoid costly roaming charges.

Resale Value: Unlocked phones generally have a higher resale value than locked ones, as they are not tied to a specific carrier.

Carrier Freedom: If you’re unhappy with your current service, you can easily switch to another cell service provider without being restricted by a locked device.

Unlocking a Carrier Locked Phone

There are several ways to unlock a carrier-locked phone. Here are some common methods:

1. Paying Off the Phone Plan

Most wireless carriers will allow you to unlock your phone once you’ve paid off your installment plan. For example, if you’ve financed a Verizon phone, you can request that it be unlocked once the final payment is made.

2. Requesting an Unlock From the Carrier

After paying off your phone or contract, you can contact your carrier’s network provider to request an unlock. Carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and others usually provide this service for free if you meet the eligibility requirements, such as completing your contract or meeting payment obligations.

3. Sell Your Device

It’s entirely legal to sell a carrier-locked phone before you pay off your plan. While you’ll still have to meet your financial obligation to the plan, you might use the proceeds to pay down part of the plan and finance a new phone.

Selling Your Locked Device to ecoATM

If unlocking your phone seems like too much hassle or if you need quick cash, selling your locked device to ecoATM can be a convenient solution. We buy carrier-locked phones for cash, so you can use the money toward purchasing an unlocked device or a new phone with a different provider. Even if your phone is still locked to a particular carrier, you can still get cash for it instantly.

Here are the key benefits of using ecoATM:

Instant Cash: Get immediate cash for your locked smartphone without waiting for a buyer.

Convenient Locations: Our kiosks are located in numerous locations, including malls and retail stores, making it easy to sell your phone.

Eco-Friendly: We ensure that phones are either resold, refurbished, or properly recycled, reducing e-waste.

No Haggling: Avoid the hassle of selling your phone online or dealing with lowball offers.

Safe and Secure: We also ensure that your phone is handled securely, with all personal data wiped before it’s processed.

Simple Process: Selling your phone to ecoATM takes just a few minutes. Simply visit a kiosk, follow the instructions, and receive your cash on the spot.

Sell Your Carrier Locked Phone to ecoATM

If you have a locked iPhone, android phone, or any other locked device, don’t let it gather dust. There’s a better option; free yourself from your contract by selling your locked device to ecoATM.

It’s a fast, convenient process that will get your carrier-locked device into the hands of someone who likes the service you want to change from. You get easy money and someone else gets a great phone at a low price.

When you’re ready to consider selling your locked phone, your next step is clear. Price your device on our website, or locate an ecoATM kiosk near you today. Find out how much your phone is really worth and close a sale in moments.

FAQs

Is it better to get a locked or unlocked phone?

An unlocked phone is generally better for people who value flexibility, as it allows you to use the device with any carrier and switch providers easily. Locked phones, however, are often more affordable upfront and may come with financing options from the carrier. The choice depends on your priorities — flexibility with an unlocked device or potential savings with a locked phone.

What is the difference between a locked vs unlocked phone?

A locked phone is restricted to work only with a specific carrier’s network, meaning you cannot easily switch providers. An unlocked phone, on the other hand, is not tied to any particular carrier and can work with multiple networks, allowing greater flexibility when choosing or switching carriers.

Is buying an unlocked phone a good idea?

Buying an unlocked phone is a good idea if you plan to switch carriers, travel internationally, or simply want the freedom to choose any network provider. While unlocked phones may be more expensive upfront, they often offer better long-term value and flexibility compared to locked phones.

What does it mean if your phone is locked?

If your phone is locked, it means it is restricted to a specific carrier’s network, usually because the device was purchased through that carrier on a financing plan or contract. A locked phone typically cannot be used with other carriers until it is unlocked, either by completing the contract terms or requesting an unlock from the carrier.