Can I Buy an Unlocked Phone and Use It with Verizon?

Nowadays, more and more phone manufacturers are offering unlocked cell phones that can work with any US carrier, including Verizon. With unlocked cell phones, people can enjoy the network of their choice. Also, you have the freedom to use any modern unlocked cell phone model. What’s more, many carriers offer a no-contract mobile phone plan for most unlocked phones. Thus, the best-unlocked cell phone can switch to any service provider. If you plan to switch to Verizon, there would be a question ‘can I buy an unlocked phone and use it with Verizon? So, it’s important to check which networks a device supports before you buy an unlocked phone.

What is an unlocked phone?

A few years back, phone carriers would significantly influence the phone you would buy. For example, you wouldn’t get any of Apple’s devices without being an AT&T customer during the iPhone’s first year. And if you insert a third-party SIM card on a locked phone, it won’t work.

But, today, you can buy any modern unlocked smartphones and use them with Verizon. It’s because unlocked phones are not tied to a specific phone carrier and can be used on any carriers that support the phones with swapped SIM cards.

If you’re thinking to switch to the Verizon network or upgrade your old Verizon phone, you can get an unlocked phone and bring it to Verizon. Verizon also has a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program if you want to keep your current smartphone.

Verizon Bring Your Own Device program

If you’re thinking of joining the Verizon network, but don’t want to give up your smartphone or don’t want to spend time getting a new phone, you can keep using a phone you already love using Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program.

Through the Verizon BYOD program, you can activate a Verizon wireless 4G LTE or compatible unlocked phone on a new Verizon prepaid or postpaid monthly plan. Make sure your device is unlocked and supports hardware and software Verizon Wireless network.

To check whether your unlocked phone compatible with the Verizon network, go to Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) page. You’ll be asked to provide some information:

Type of device

• Model name/number
• IMEI number

Can I use an unlocked phone with Verizon?

People may ask themselves this question ‘can I buy an unlocked phone and use it with Verizon?’ when they plan to switch to Verizon. Well, the answer is yes! However, not every device will work on the Verizon network. You must check the device specifications to ensure it supports the network technology and radio frequencies.

To start your unlocked phone working with Verizon, it will need a SIM card. You can contact Verizon with the make and model of the unlocked phone to get the corresponding SIM card.

Note that Verizon will lock all prepaid and postpaid devices for 60 days to combat theft and fraud. After that time, you can ask customer service to unlock your device. Check out the full unlocking policies in Verizon unlocking policy.

How to activate a new unlocked phone?

If you already Verizon compatible unlocked phone, you can activate your device with a new SIM card online or in stores. A postpaid plan can be activated at Verizon Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). Here’s what you need to know when you activate the unlocked phone to the Verizon network.

Identification

The unlocked phone won’t work with the Verizon network without an identification code (ID code). It’s called the IMEI code, which identifies the individual phone. You can’t find the code on the phone. Thus, you will have to request it from the original network provider through customer support.

SIM card

To activate an unlocked phone, you’ll also need a Verizon SIM card. You can order online, go to Verizon retail stores, or get it from authorized dealers. Once you receive a Verizon SIM card, remove the original SIM card in the unlocked phone and replace it with Verizon’s. Then, visit the Activate or Switch Device page in My Verizon.

Authorization

After your unlocked phone detects the new SIM card, it will ask for the IMEI code. Enter the IMEI code. Once the process is finished, you’re on the Verizon network!

Best unlocked phones compatible with Verizon

Shopping around for an unlocked phone that can be used on Verizon and multiple wireless operator networks is a great idea. This way, you’ll get the best price you can find on a device. Also, you have the option to switch to another operator if you’re not satisfied with your service.

Unlocked phones don’t always mean universal. Some unlocked phones are only compatible with GSM or CDMA networks, while many others are compatible with both.

So, if you want to switch to Verizon or upgrade your Verizon phone, you should get a compatible Verizon unlocked phone. There are plenty of phones on the markets, from budget-friendly phones to high-end smartphones.

Here are some of the best-unlocked phones that compatible with Verizon. See the complete list on our article of what phones can be used on Verizon network?

1. Motorola One Action

Start enjoying strong cellular services with Verizon through this Motorola One Action. This One Action runs on the Android 10 operating system. Plus, it’s equipped with 4GB of RAM and an Octa-Core processor. Enjoy a cinematic experience on its ultra-wide 6.3-inch full HD+ display.

The triple camera (12MP, 5MP, 16MP) allows you not to miss any of your best moments. It also has excellent features, including Bluetooth 5.0, water and dust IP68 certification, 128GB internal storage, and a 3,000mAH lion battery.

2. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

Get the latest mobile feature with this high-end smartphone, the unlocked Galaxy S21 Ultra. It comes with Snapdragon and the integrated 5G modem for more experiences. Take your photos and videos to a whole new level like a pro-film-maker with its multi-lens camera. It features a rear wide-angle 108 MP camera, ultra-wide 12 MP camera, and front-facing 40 MP camera.

The 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display lets you watch your favorite content come to live. This flagship smartphone features a sleek design and a 5,000mAH intelligent battery. What’s more, it’s available in more color options.

3. Alcatel Go Flip V

If you’re looking for a basic phone, Alcatel Go Flip V should be the first one on your shortlist. It has large keys and a 2.8-inch external and 1.44 external display, making this an ideal phone for the elderly. Besides, it’s easy to use because it’s designed for making calls.

For hands-free calling, this flip phone comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack and a powerful speaker. Its 1,350mAH battery gives you up to 24 hrs. of usage time and 12.5 days of standby time. Other features include a 2MP camera, 8GB internal storage, and hotspot capability.

4. Apple iPhone 12

Another unlocked high-end phone you can use with Verizon is Apple iPhone 12. It supports superfast 5G speeds for more responsive, faster download, real-time interactivity. The large 6.1-inch OLED display gives you better qualify video streaming.

The iPhone 12 also comes with A14 Bionic, the fastest chip in a smartphone, and Ceramic Shield. Experience the next level of low-light photography with its dual 12MP camera system, ultra-wide and wide camera. The 2,815mAh battery allows you to use the device all day long.

5. Google Pixel 5

Looking for an unlocked phone that is compatible with Verizon? Google Pixel 5 can be your option for a mid-range phone. Runs on Android 11, it’s equipped with 8GB RAM, Snapdragon, and Octa-core. This phone is also 5G capable. It allows you faster download and smooth streaming.

The dual main camera (12MP wide and 16MP ultra-wide), plus an 8MP selfie camera let you take stunning photos in any light. Meanwhile, the 4,080mAh battery keeps you going all day. Keep all your files, photo, videos, and music in its 128GB internal storage.

6. OnePlus 8 Pro

OnePlus 8 Pro is another of Verizon’s certified unlocked phones for mid-range. Featuring 5G, it’s equipped with 8GB RAM or 12GB RAM and a Snapdragon™ 865 processor for fast speed performance. The Quad camera system (48 MP wide, 8 MP telephoto, 48 MP ultrawide, and 5 MP color filter camera) gives your shots a unique look.

Stream videos and play games on its ultra-responsive 6.78-inch Fluid Display. Meanwhile, the high-capacity 4,510mAH battery and Warp Charging technology get your phone from zero to 50% in just 23 minutes. It’s available in two options of internal storage, 128GB and 256GB.

Did you know that you can get these mobile phones free from the internet?

Conclusion

When you want to switch carrier to Verizon or upgrading your Verizon phone, you may ask yourself ‘can I buy an unlocked phone and use it with Verizon’. Now, you have the answer (the answer is yes!), after reading this article.

You can use unlocked phones through its program, BYOD. There are several Verizon-compatible unlocked phones, starts from basic to flagship phones. However, you must ensure that the phones are compatible and have approved software and hardware to work with Verizon’s network. The best-unlocked phone can work with any service provider. So, do some research and find the best that really suits your needs.

You can get a compatible unlocked phone from Verizon stores (both online and in-store) or from trusted suppliers. Don’t forget to check or ask for the unlock code (IMEI number) for your old phone before you activate it on the Verizon network.