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An unlocked cell phone is a handset that does not have this proprietary information installed, and may therefore be used with any carrier within a network type. There are two types of cell networks, the GSM network that uses SIM cards, and the CDMA network that does not. The existence of these two different networks means that unlocked cell phones are not universal. For example, a phone that takes a SIM card will only work with a carrier that uses SIM cards and vice versa. The GSM network and its corresponding SIM cards allow for much more interchangeability than the CDMA network which doesn't currently use any type of card. However, R-UIM cards, which are already in use in some parts of Asia, are rumored to be coming into use with the CDMA network.
Using unlocked cell phones with the GSM networks means that switching phones is as simple as removing the SIM card from one phone and inserting it in another. Address book contacts and other information can be transferred between phones via the SIM card as well using phone settings to save this information to the card. It's more difficult to use an unlocked cell phone with the CDMA network since this involves actually taking the new phone into one of your carrier's retail stores, and having it programmed for use.
Which Network Am I In?
The following carriers in the United States are members of the GSM network:
AT&T®, Sprint®, Nextel®, and T-Mobile®.
The following carriers in the United States are members of the CDMA network:
Alltel® and Verizon®.
What Are Unlocked Cell Phones Used For?
Unlocked cell phones are used just like any other cell phone. The difference is that unlocked cell phones aren't normally sold through carriers. They are obtained from third party sources for use with any carrier within the same network. The availability of unlocked cell phones enables users to purchase and use multiple handsets if they desire. Many people find this interchangeability convenient since they may have reason to use a more durable model during working hours, and prefer a delicate, but feature-packed smart phone at other times - not to mention, the multitude of gadget fiends out there who enjoy trying all different models of phones. Buying unlocked cell phones from third party distributors makes them easy to get, but also a little on the expensive side since purchasing in this manner usually does not include contract discounts. Buyers usually end up paying the full retail price for the phone. There are also hundreds of places to buy unlocked cell phones, which will be discussed a little later on.
Who Makes Unlocked Cell Phones?
Cell phones come from their respective manufacturers unlocked. They are locked with proprietary software and information by cell carriers to allow exclusivity, and so the carriers can recoup the cost of the phone when they offer users discounts with new contracts. Many carriers will unlock cell phones free, or for a small fee after the initial contract is up. The demand for unlocked cell phones is so high that many third party vendors will unlock the phones free. The downside to this is that many times the phones do not function properly or some features are lost. The best way to utilize unlocked cell phones is to purchase the phones unlocked from the manufacturer to avoid defects.
Where Can Unlocked Cell Phones Be Found Online?
There are literally a million sites online where one can purchase an unlocked cell phone, and not just any unlocked cell phone. You will more than likely find the exact model you are looking for or be introduced to the phone with all the features you currently want.
Dell.com has a wide variety of unlocked cell phones for sale. While Dell® has a reputation for providing quality refurbished items, they do not distribute refurbished versions of their unlocked cell phone inventory. Dell® stocks many high-end smart phone models that aren't widely known from trusted manufacturers like Nokia® and Palm®. Buyers can find specialty models that are popular in Europe and Asia optimized for use in the United States by shopping Dell.com, as well. Prices are full retail unless you catch a sale.
Amazon.com is a wonderful site to find almost anything, and unlocked cell phones are no exception. In addition, the prices can't be beat. No matter if you're looking for a daily beater phone, or a savvy smart phone, Amazon.com will have what you are looking for a reasonable price. As always, you will get loads of information including features, user reviews, and ratings. With Amazon.com, there is also the option of buying new or used. Used items are sold through individual sellers and any defects are detailed in the description. It is very possible to get a cheap unlocked cell phone for the best possible price by checking out Amazon.com.
Overstock.com has a range of all kinds of unlocked cell phones for sale. Like Amazon®, their site is loaded with information including user reviews, price comparison information, and ratings. You can also see models that other users viewed when you select a phone to learn more. The phones from Overstock® are new, and the prices are very reasonable compared to other sites where you can only find new phones for the full retail price. Overstock® also offers warranties on most everything they sell, so users can buy with confidence knowing their investment is protected.
eBay.com also has a large selection of cheap unlocked cell phones. While eBay® isn't as information packed as other sites, there is still a treasure trove of goodies to be found for outstanding prices. If you already know the model of phone that you want to purchase, then eBay.com is definitely worth checking first. If you're not in a big hurry, you can always try bidding on a few phones to see if you can land a deal on your purchase. For those who are less patient, almost all sellers offer a Buy It Now option for instant gratification.
There is no doubt that finding the perfect phone for a price that is also perfect is very much within reach. Thanks to the Internet, cheap unlocked cell phones are only a few clicks away.
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