You can use more affordable prepaid plans (like those from Mint Mobile or Visible ) that don't offer heavy phone subsidies.
Many "free" phone deals in 2026 require you to subscribe to a carrier's most expensive unlimited data plans. Experts at Android Authority suggest that if you leave the carrier before the 36-month period ends, you must pay the remaining balance of the phone's full retail price immediately. Benefits and Questions Before Getting an Unlocked Phone is it better to buy an unlocked phone
Large carriers often offer significant trade-in credits or "buy-one-get-one" deals if you're already committed to their service for several years. You can use more affordable prepaid plans (like
You prefer a "stock" software experience without unremovable carrier apps. When to Buy from a Carrier is it better to buy an unlocked phone