What Are Verizon Compatible Unlocked Phones?
Before we get any further with our today’s topic, we need to make sure that all of you know what do we mean by ‘Verizon compatible unlocked phones.’ This term refers to all unlocked phones that are then compatible with Verizon networks, which means they are CMDA devices for all 3G-operable devices or unlocked CDMA or GSM devices for all 4G or 5G-operable phones.
NOTE: With 4G LTE networks CDMA phones started operating based on SIM cards, which made interchangeability between CDMA and GSM devices possible.
By ‘unlocked’ we refer to phones that are no longer locked to specific networks (wireless carrier) and may freely be used with other networks. For phones that are 4G LTE-operable, that means that they can work with basically any SIM card in the world (comment: in some cases, there may be some limitations but more on that later on).
Now that you all understand what Verizon compatible unlocked phones are, we are ready to dig deeper and present you with all the information you need to make the most of Verizon compatible unlocked phones.
How Do I Know If An Unlocked Phone Will Work With Verizon?
That is a good question and quite an important one. It refers to our above-given comment that there are some limitations to unlocked devices and that not all unlocked phones will work with all networks. The ‘compatible’ word plays a very important role in the whole ‘Verizon compatible unlocked phones’ term.
So, is there a way to check if a phone is compatible with Verizon? How will Verizon Identify your unlocked phone?
Of course, there is a way. It is done online by visiting Verizon’s official website. Once on their home page, hover over the ‘Phones’ item in the top main menu, which will cause a drop-down menu to appear. In that drop-down menu click the ‘Bring your own device’ option.
This will take you to another page, where you will need to choose between ‘I’m with Verizon’ (if you are an existing Verizon user) and ‘Switch now’ (if you are not a Verizon user yet). Since most of you are not existing Verizon users, you will most likely click the second option, as such, we will focus on that one from here on.
After clicking the ‘Switch now’ button, you will get to another page, where you will first need to select the type of device (Smartphone, Tablet, Smart Watch, or other device types). Most likely, you are using a smartphone, so click the according option, then click the ‘Next’ button below.
On the next step, you will need to enter your phone model name. Simply enter it in the prompt box and click the corresponding hit that is offered in the drop-down list. Then click the ‘Next’ button below. If you don’t know your model, click the ‘I don’t know’ option below the prompt box.
Next, you will get to choose where you purchased your device. Click accordingly and then click ‘Next’.
This will finally get you to the ‘phone ID check’ step, where you will need to enter your phone’s ID also known as IMEI. If you have trouble obtaining your device’s IMEI, follow the instructions/help provided on the site.
Once you have entered your phone’s ID, click the ‘Check my device ID’ button. This will finally inform you if your device is compatible with Verizon or not.
How Do I Activate An Unlocked Phone On Verizon?
If you have a Verizon compatible unlocked phone on your hands (that means that phone’s compatibility has already been check as per the instruction in the above section) you may use it with Verizon services. To do so, you will need to obtain Verizon SIM card (for all 4G-operable phones) or just a Verizon account PIN (for 3G-operable devices) and choose one of Verizon’s plans (if you are Switching over to Verizon, the entire process will guide you and will include your selection of a plan).
NOTE: The activation can be done in person at one of the Verizon stores or local representatives, where local personnel will take full care of the activation for you. As such, we will focus on online activation herein.
In order to activate your Verizon account, you will need to already have your Verizon account, which you’ll create at the time of obtaining their SIM card or PIN code (part of the Switch now process).
Activate an Android Smartphone:
- If necessary, insert the SIM card into the new phone.
- If necessary:
- insert the battery
- replace the battery cover
- charge the phone
- turn it on
- Follow the on-screen Setup Wizard instructions to activate and set up your phone.
- Note Refer to Activate your device for additional info: https://www.verizonwireless.com/vzw/browse/devicechange/home.jsp?_requestid=403203#
- Restore your content to the new phone using the Transfer Content info: https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/content-transfer-help/
Activate an iPhone
- If necessary, insert the SIM card into the phone.
- Turn the phone on then follow the on-screen Setup Wizard instructions to activate and set up your new phone.
- Note Refer to Activate your device for additional info: https://www.verizonwireless.com/vzw/browse/devicechange/home.jsp?_requestid=403203#
- Restore your content to the new phone using the Transfer Content info: https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/content-transfer-help/
- NOTE: If you use iCloud or iTunes refer to how to Transfer Content Apple iCloud or Transfer Content Apple iTunes Contacts or Media for further assistance.
12 Latest and Best Verizon Unlocked Phones
By now you know that not all unlocked devices will work with Verizon. As such, we decided to present you with 12 latest and best Verizon compatible unlocked phones, which are officially presented directly at Verizon.
Motorola moto g fast – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Triple camera: ultra-wide lens, 16 MP rapid focus, Macro Vision
- 2 days of battery
- Stunning 6.4″ Max Vision HD+ display
- Moto Gametime – Make your gaming more immersive by blocking interruptions and giving easy access to tools and apps.
- Water-repellent design – Spills, splashes, and a little sweat won’t slow you down. The advanced water-repellent design keeps your phone protected.
- Moto Experiences – Exclusive Moto Experiences let you use natural gestures to navigate your phone’s features.
Specs:
- Operating System: Android™ 10 – with easy access to the Google apps you use most
- Memory (RAM): 3GB
- Internal Storage: 32GB built-in; up to 512GB microSD card expandable
- Sensors: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Ambient Light, Sensor Hub, Fingerprint reader
- Processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 665 Mobile Processor
- Battery: 4000mAh, 10W rapid charging
- Display: 6.4″ Max Vision display, HD+ (1560×720) | 268ppi, 19:9 aspect ratio
- Dimensions: 161.87 x 75.7 x 9.05mm
- Weight: 189.4g
- Camera: rear: 16MP (f/1.7, 1.12µm), 2MP (f/2.2, 1.75µm),8MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm); front: 8MP (f/2.0, 1.12µm)
Why Best?
Large display, solid camera, affordable, and solid battery life.
Samsung Galaxy Fold – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- The biggest breakthrough since the mobile phone
- The foldable Infinity Flex Display
- A stunning 7.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED display that defies expectations
- Galaxy Fold intuitively folds like a book
- Six pro-grade cameras
- 12GB of RAM for intensive multitasking
- The dual battery delivering smarter power
Specs:
- CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 855.
- Memory: 12GB.
- Storage: 512GB.
- Screen size: 4.6 inches (folded), 7.3 inches (unfolded)
- Resolution: 1680 x 720 (folded), 2152 x 1536 (unfolded)
- Connectivity: USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0.
- Battery: 4,380mAh (LTE model), 4,235mAh (5G model)
- Dimensions: 62.8 mm x 160.9 mm x 15.7 mm Dimensions Folded: 62.8 x 160.9 x 17.1 mm (Hinge)–15.7 mm (Sagging) Weight 276 g
- Cameras: Triple rear camera: 12 MP, f/1.5-2.4, 27mm (wide), 12 MP, f/2.4, 52mm (telephoto), 16 MP, f/2.2, 12mm (ultrawide); Dual selfie camera: 10 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 8 MP, f/1.9, 24mm (wide); Cover camera: 10 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide)
Why Best?
One of its kind – a hybrid between a smartphone and a tablet, a great set of cameras, extreme RAM.
Nokia 7.1 – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Nokia phones ranked #1 for software updates and security
- Triple camera setup including 48 MP main camera and ZEISS Optics
- Great design – Multilayer coating for a smooth metallic finish. The light-diffusing satin glass back.
- AI-assisted Adaptive Battery
- Honoree: CES 2020 Innovation Awards – Awarded under the Mobile Devices & Accessories category for its innovative features, aesthetic design, and engineering qualities.
- Winner: iF DESIGN AWARD 2020
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 3GB/4GB
- Internal Storage: 32GB/64GB
- Processor: Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636
- Battery: 3060mAh, 18W fast charging
- Display: 5.84″ (1080 xx 2280), 432ppi, 19:9 aspect ratio
- Dimensions: 149.7 x 71.2 x 8 mm
- Weight: 160g
- Camera: Dual rear: 12 MP, f/1.8, 1.28µm, 5 MP, f/2.4, (depth); front: 8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide) (Zeiss optics)
Why Best?
One of the greatest designs and solid performance.
Sony Xperia 10 Plus – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Large and longer display – wider when watching movies
- High-Resolution Audio with DSEE HX™ and LDAC2
- Easy split-screen multitasking
- 21:9 movie recording
- Dual camera system with 2x optical zoom
- The Xperia 10 Plus is designed to fit your hand comfortably
- The Xperia® 10 Plus uses Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5 for toughness and durability
- Battery Care keeps your phone from overcharging, while Xperia® Adaptive Charging monitors your phone as it charges, to make sure the battery isn’t overworked
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 4GB/6GB
- Internal Storage: 64GB
- Processor: Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636
- Battery: 3000mAh
- Display: 6.5″ Full HD+, 1080 x 2520 pixels, 21:9 aspect ratio
- Dimensions: 6.5 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches
- Weight: 6.35 oz
- Camera: Dual camera system (12 MP + 8 MP) and 2x optical zoom; front 8 MP camera
Why Best?
21:9 display aspect ratio and great hand fitting for a 6.5-inch phone.
LG G7 Fit – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Lifelike Visuals on an All-Screen Device
- Super Bright Display: Extra Bright, Super Clear, and Power Efficient
- Boombox Speaker: Bigger Bass for Room-Filling Sound
- DTS:X 3D Surround Sound
- Faster Autofocus for Easier Capture
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 4GB
- Internal Storage: 32GB; MicroSD™ Memory Card Support up to 2 TB (cards sold separately)
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon™ 821 up to 2.35 GHz Quad-Core
- Battery: 3000mAh, fast charging 18W
- Display: 6.1″ QHD+ FullVision Display, 3120 x 1440 pixels, 19.5:9 aspect ratio, Corning Gorilla Glass 5
- Dimensions: 6.03 x 2.83 x 0.31 inches
- Weight: 5.50 oz
- Camera: 16 MP; front 8 MP camera
Why Best?
LG G7 Fit is best for its Super Bright Display and its great speakers.
OnePlus 8 – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Fluid Display flows seamlessly from one frame to the next, with a 90 Hz refresh rate that allows you to swipe, scroll, and navigate with ease
- Colors are more vivid and nuanced with a calibrated display that provides sensational color accuracy.
- Transfer photos, videos, and files in a snap with UFS 3.0 file management system
- Wi-Fi 6
- Smart 5G
- Refined Matte AG finish
- OxygenOS is smart, swift and efficient with intuitive features designed with you in mind
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 8GB/12GB
- Internal Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™865
- Battery: 4300mAh, Warp Charge 30T Fast Charging (5V/6A)
- Display: 6.5″ Fluid AMOLED, 2400 x 1080 pixels, 20:9 aspect ratio, 3D Corning Gorilla Glass
- Dimensions: 160.2mm x 72.9mm x 8.0mm
- Weight: 180g
- Camera: triple rear camera: 48MP (main), 2MP (macro) 16 MP (ultra wide); front 8 MP camera
Why Best?
OnePlus 8 is one of the best smartphones on the market for its overall performance, highly advanced cameras, solid battery life, and 5G operability.
NOTE: For those looking for even more edgy performance, OnePlus 8 Pro might be an even better fit; it packs an incredible 120Hz Fluid display, quad camera, an even larger display (6.78”), all packed in IP68 rating case.
Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- This military-grade phone is built to stand up to challenges the real world dishes out while providing an easy-to-use and familiar environment
- Withstanding repeated 1.5M drop tests
- IP68 rating giving them resistance to dust, dirt, sand, and water
- Edge-to-Edge Screen
- Enhanced Touch capabilities for use with gloves and in wet conditions
- The Galaxy XCover Pro features Push-to-Talk and Walkie Talkie integrations
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 4GB
- Internal Storage: 64GB; expandable with MicroSD (Up to 512GB)
- Processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™865
- Battery: 4050mAh; up to 31 hours of talk; Pogo Pin charging type
- Display: 6.3″ Fluid AMOLED, 2340 x 1080 (FHD+), 20:9 aspect ratio, 3D Corning Gorilla Glass
- Dimensions: 159.9 x 76.7 x 9.9mm
- Weight: 220g
- Camera: dual rear camera: 25MP + 8MP; front 13 MP camera
Why Best?
Best for rugged and harsh conditions. Probably the best military-grade smartphone on the market.
Samsung Galaxy S10 Lite – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Affordable advanced smartphone
- The edge-to-edge color and intense detail of a massive 6.7” Infinity Display that features a Super AMOLED Plus screen
- Hours of power from minutes of charging
- 48MP pro-grade camera
- Expand your base storage by up to an incredible 1TB with a microSD card
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 6GB/8GB
- Internal Storage: 128GB/512GB; expandable with MicroSD (Up to 512GB)
- Processor: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855
- Battery: 4500mAh; 45W fast charging
- Display: 6.7″ Super AMOLED Plus, 2400 x 1080 pixels, 20:9 aspect ratio
- Dimensions: 6.40 x 2.98 x 0.32 inches
- Weight: 186g
- Camera: Triple rear camera: 48MP, 12MP, 5MP; front 32MP camera
Why Best?
Excellence performance, pro-level cameras, impressive battery, and an extremely large display at a relatively affordable price.
Samsung Galaxy Note10+ (Star Wars Special Edition)
Features:
- Intelligent all-day battery
- Cinema-quality display
- The next generation of S Pen
- Pro-grade photo and video
- Effortless motion control
- Zoom-in mic
- Send an extra boost of battery to other Samsung smartphones, Galaxy Buds and more
- With a simple USB connection, the DeX gives the functionality of mobile and desktop apps and the ability to drag and drop freely between devices
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 12GB
- Internal Storage: 256GB/512GB
- Processor: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855
- Battery: 4300mAh; 45W fast charging
- Display: 6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED, 3040 x 1440 pixels, 19:9 aspect ratio, Corning Gorilla Glass 6
- Dimensions: 6.39 x 3.04 x 0.31 inches
- Weight: 196g
- Camera: quad rear camera: 12MP, 12MP, 16MP, and 0.3MP 3D depth camera; front 10MP camera
Why Best?
Extremely large display and high performance, make it great for the most advanced tasks and pro-level multitasking. The next generation of S Pen is also a nice and highly-useful gadget.
Sony XPERIA 5 – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- 3-camera, 3-lens array
- Perfectly precise Eye AF
- 21:9 CinemaWide FHD+ HDR OLED display
- Sony’s exclusive Game Enhancer addon makes it easy to manage notifications, swap performance settings and more
- CinemaPro by CineAlta gives you access to the same professional settings and tools used by real creators
- Dolby Atmos® adapts the premier cinema sound experience
- The latest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 855 Mobile Platform
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 6GB
- Internal Storage: 128GB
- Processor: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855
- Battery: 3140mAh; 18W fast charging
- Display: 6.1″ OLED capacitive touchscreen, 2520 x 1080 pixels, 21:9 aspect ratio, Corning Gorilla Glass 6
- Dimensions: 6.22 x 2.68 x 0.32 inches
- Weight: 164g
- Camera: Triple rear camera: 12MP, 12MP, 12MP; front 8MP camera
Why Best?
Impressive display and sound quality make it great for multimedia activities and gaming.
Motorola one action – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Record thrilling ultra-wide-angle videos that fit 4x more in the frame
- AI-camera helps you capture the best shot possible
- Google Assistant – the power of Google at your service
- Exclusive moto experiences – moto experiences make using your phone easier than ever. Preview notifications from the lock screen, or navigate with intuitive gestures
- Dolby Audio – Delivers amazing audio clarity, easy-to-hear dialogue, and realistic surround sound to make the entertainment you love even better
- Fast-charging, all-day battery
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 4GB
- Internal Storage: 128GB; expandable with MicroSD card support (up to 1 TB)
- Processor: Samsung Exynos 9609 processor
- Battery: 3500mAh; 10W fast charging
- Sensors: Fingerprint reader, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, Ambient Light sensor, Magnetometer, Gyroscope
- Display: 6.3″ FHD+, 2520 x 1080 pixels, 21:9 aspect ratio
- Dimensions: 160.1mm x 71.2mm x 9.15mm
- Weight: 176g
- Camera: 12MP rear camera; 12MP front camera
Why Best?
Great combination of affordable price and performance.
OnePlus 7T – Verizon unlocked phones
Features:
- Responsive 90 Hz refresh rate and the HDR10+ technology
- Spacious 20:9 aspect ratio
- Certified by world-renowned TÜV Rheinland for superior blue light reduction and viewing safety
- Triple Camera – A camera for every moment
- Top-tier hardware, refined software, and powerful optimizations come together for the ultimate flagship experience
- Improved vibration
- Warp Charge 30T provides a ~70% charge in just 30 minutes
- Remarkably solid, yet surprisingly thin
Specs:
- Memory (RAM): 8GB
- Internal Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Processor: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855+
- Battery: 3800mAh; 30W fast charging, Warp Charge 30T
- Display: 6.55″ Fluid AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 2400 x 1080 pixels, 20:9 aspect ratio
- Dimensions: 6.33 x 2.93 x 0.32 inches
- Weight: 190g
- Camera: Triple rear camera: 48MP, 12MP, 16MP; 16MP front camera
Why Best?
The best processor on the market, great for gaming and other advanced tasks.
Check out more for Verizon Compatible Phone And Verizon Wireless Free Government Phone And Verizon Phone and Plan Deals for Existing Customers
Verizon Phone Unlocking Process
Verizon compatible unlocked phones are typically purchased elsewhere and then brought to Verizon, however, of course, the ‘Verizon compatible unlocked phones’ term also refers to all Verizon devices that have been unlocked. In this section, you will learn how to unlock Verizon devices. We will stick to the official method offered by the Verizon directly.
“Unlocking” a device refers only to disabling software that would prevent a consumer from attempting to activate a device designed for one carrier’s network on another carrier’s network. Due to differing technologies, an unlocked Verizon Wireless device may not work – or may experience limited functionality – on another carrier’s network.
Postpay Device Unlocking Policy
Devices that you purchase from Verizon directly or Verizon retail partners are locked for 60 days after activation. After 60 days, they will automatically remove the lock. Following the 60 day lock period, they do not lock our phones at any time.
Prepaid Device Unlocking Policy
Devices that you purchase from Verizon and certain devices purchased from their retail partners are locked for 60 days after activation. After 60 days, they will automatically remove the lock. Following the 60 day lock period following device purchase, they do not lock our phones at any time.
If you purchase a 4G Phone-in-a-Box from Verizon retail partners, you should review the back of the box to determine the lock period applicable to that device.
Unlocking Policy for Deployed Military Personnel
If you are a Verizon Wireless customer in the military and receive relocation orders outside of the Verizon Coverage Area, they will unlock your device at your request, even during the 60-day-lock period following the purchase of your device. Call Verizon support for more info or to request unlocking.
Read More for How to Unlock Verizon Phone Easily
Where to buy Verizon unlocked phones?
The safest way to get maximum compatibility with the Verizon network is to buy Verizon compatible unlocked phones via the Verizon website. They have a special section Phones>Unlocked Phones, where each of the presented models comes with detailed instructions on where should it be purchased. In most cases that is directly from the manufacturer’s official store, either online or in-person in one of their local stores.
In addition to the above safest option, there are limitless places, where one can buy Verizon compatible unlocked phones. These include Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, eBay, and many other online and local sellers.
Whenever you decide to buy a phone through any other method than via official phone manufacturer’s sites, make sure to pay extra caution. Check the reviews to determine that the seller is reputable. Moreover, if possible ask for the phone’s IMEI and use it on Verizon’s website to check compatibility prior to the purchase. The last thing you want is to buy an unlocked phone to be used with Verizon, just to learn that is not fully compatible with their network later on.
FAQs
Are all Verizon phones unlocked?
No. All Verizon phones are looked for 60 days after the activation.
How good are Verizon unlocked phones?
They can be as good as your budget. Verizon compatible unlocked phones come in many brands, models, and ranges of capabilities. So you can get the latest smartphone or the most basic flip phone in a form of Verizon compatible unlocked phones.
Does Verizon charge to activate unlocked phones?
No. Verizon specifically promotes ‘no-charge’ activation for their Bring your own device option. However, keep in mind that you will need to purchase a plan a SIM card (for all 4G operable phones).
Can you put any SIM card into a Verizon unlocked phone?
Generally speaking, yes. However, there is a prerequisite that the carrier offers the ‘Bring Your Own Phone/Device’ option. A compatibility check must also be performed.
Can I unlock my Verizon phone myself?
Legal, you should wait for 60 days for your Verizon phone to be unlocked automatically, however, there are ways for you to unlock it on your own sooner.
Are Verizon unlocked phones legal?
Of course. Thanks to the unlocking policy all carriers are now obligated to officially offer to unlock their devices after certain conditions have been met. Moreover, phone manufacturers offer unlocked phones directly.
What is the advantage of buying a Verizon unlocked phone?
The main advantage of buying a Verizon compatible unlocked phone is the same as with any unlocked phone – it gives you complete freedom. In addition, with ensuring that the phone is compatible with Verizon, you get to use the best wireless provider (Verizon has been voted as the best wireless provider for the past few years).
