Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S25 UltraBest overall | Google Pixel 9 ProBest camera | Google Pixel 9aBest value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Buy |
| Best for | Power users | Photography | Value seekers |
| Key feature | S Pen and long-range zoom | Excellent point-and-shoot camera | Flagship camera for less |
| Typical price | $1,200–$1,300 | $900–$1,000 | $450–$500 |
| Where to buy | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link |
9.0/10 research score
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
S Pen and long-range zoom. Our pick for power users.
- Buy it if
- You want the most capable Android phone with a stylus and long zoom.
- Skip it if
- You want a small, light phone.
Pros
- Excellent zoom cameras
- Built-in S Pen
- Bright display
- Long software support
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Very expensive
8.9/10 research score
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Excellent point-and-shoot camera. Our pick for photography.
- Buy it if
- You want great photos without fiddling with settings.
- Skip it if
- You want the fastest gaming performance.
Pros
- Superb photos
- Clean software
- Long update support
Cons
- Charging is slower than rivals
8.6/10 research score
Google Pixel 9a
Flagship camera for less. Our pick for value seekers.
- Buy it if
- You want a great camera and long updates at a mid-range price.
- Skip it if
- You want premium materials.
Pros
- Great camera for the price
- Long update support
- Good battery
Cons
- Plastic back
- Thicker bezels
Compare more unlocked phones on Amazon Paid link
How we chose
Unlocked Android phones compared on camera, battery life, software support and value. We compared specifications, manufacturer documentation, warranty terms and typical prices, then gave every product a clear verdict with the people who should skip it.
What to look for in unlocked phones
- Check how many years of software updates the phone gets; longer support means longer life.
- Camera quality varies most in low light and zoom.
- Confirm the phone supports your carrier’s bands before buying unlocked.
Frequently asked questions
Will an unlocked phone work on my carrier?
Most unlocked flagship phones work on major US and European carriers. Check band support for your carrier.
Samsung or Pixel?
Samsung offers more hardware features and zoom; Pixel offers clean software and excellent point-and-shoot photos.