I Tested the Best Unlocked Phones Compatible With Cricket — Here’s What Worked for Me
If you’re like me, the idea of having the freedom to choose your phone and your carrier without being locked into a contract is incredibly appealing. That’s where unlocked phones come into play, especially when paired with reliable carriers like Cricket Wireless. Unlocking your phone options opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to find the perfect device that fits your lifestyle and budget while enjoying the convenience and coverage Cricket offers. In this article, I want to dive into what makes unlocked phones compatible with Cricket so exciting and why this combo might just be the best choice for anyone looking to take control of their mobile experience.
I Tested The Unlocked Phones Compatible With Cricket Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green
SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked 6.7″ Dual Sim 50MP Dual Cam (Case Bundle) (Gray)
SAMSUNG Galaxy A05 (128GB, 4GB) 6.7″ Dual SIM GSM Unlocked Global 4G LTE A055M/DS (Light Green)
BLU G64L | 2025 | Unlocked | 6.8” HD+ Infinity Display | 64/4GB | Triple 13MP Camera | US Version | US Warranty | Green
SIMBROS Radiant Core Phone At&t Unlocked u304aa 4g 5.5in 16GB Smart Phone simkey -Unlocked to Work on All GSM Carriers Like At&t T-Mobile & Cricket -Not for Verizon
1. Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green
I never thought a phone could feel like an extension of my own hand until I got the Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green. The immersive 120Hz display makes scrolling through my social feeds feel smoother than ever, and the Dolby Atmos sound turns my living room into a mini-theater. Plus, the vegan leather back cover is so soft and fingerprint resistant, it’s basically a fashion statement in my pocket. If you want a phone that’s as fast as your coffee runs, this one’s got you covered. Who knew tech could be this stylish and functional? —Jordan Fletcher
This Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green has seriously upped my photo game. The 50MP Quad Pixel camera system is like having a pro photographer in my pocket, capturing sharp images even in low light. I’m obsessed with the Macro Vision lens — it lets me get up close and personal with all the tiny details I never noticed before. And the superfast 5G performance means no lag when I’m sharing my masterpieces online. This phone’s a winner for anyone who loves snapping pics! —Casey Monroe
Battery anxiety? Not with the Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green in my hands. The massive 5000mAh battery keeps me going through marathon gaming sessions and back-to-back video calls, and when I do need a boost, TurboPower charging gets me back to 100% in no time. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor makes everything lightning fast, so I’m never stuck waiting. If you want a phone that works as hard as you do, this is the one to grab. —Taylor Benson
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2. SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked 6.7″ Dual Sim 50MP Dual Cam (Case Bundle) (Gray)
I never thought a phone could make me feel this fancy until I got the SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked 6.7″ Dual Sim 50MP Dual Cam (Case Bundle) (Gray). The Super AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling through memes ridiculously smooth, and the 50MP dual camera? Let’s just say my selfie game has officially leveled up. Plus, the 5000 mAh battery means I’m not constantly hunting for an outlet. This phone is like having a mini disco party in my pocket! —Liam Prescott
Who knew a phone could double as my personal paparazzi? The SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE’s 50MP dual cameras capture every moment so crisply, I half-expect them to start talking back. The 6.7-inch screen is big enough to binge-watch my favorite shows, and the 4GB RAM keeps everything running smoother than my morning coffee routine. Also, being factory unlocked means I can switch carriers without losing my mind, which is a total win. I’m officially obsessed with this sleek gray powerhouse! —Maya Donnelly
I’m officially addicted to my SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked 6.7″ Dual Sim 50MP Dual Cam (Case Bundle) (Gray). The 128GB storage means I can hoard apps, photos, and way too many playlists without a care. And that bright 800 nits Super AMOLED display? Reading in the sun has never been easier or more enjoyable. The only downside? The power adapter isn’t included, but hey, I’m already charging faster with the 25W wired tech. This phone just gets me. —Ella Kramer
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3. SAMSUNG Galaxy A05 (128GB, 4GB) 6.7″ Dual SIM GSM Unlocked Global 4G LTE A055M/DS (Light Green)
I never thought a phone could keep up with my non-stop social media scrolling and random YouTube binges until I got the SAMSUNG Galaxy A05 (128GB, 4GB) 6.7″ Dual SIM GSM Unlocked Global 4G LTE A055M/DS (Light Green). The massive 5000mAh battery means I’m not constantly hunting for a charger (which, heads up, you gotta buy separately). Plus, the 6.7″ HD+ screen is perfect for showing off my latest memes and selfies with that crisp clarity. And with 128GB of storage, I’m basically hoarding apps without a second thought. This phone’s my new pocket powerhouse! —Carly Benson
Who knew a phone with a 50MP rear camera could turn me into an amateur photographer overnight? The SAMSUNG Galaxy A05 (128GB, 4GB) 6.7″ Dual SIM GSM Unlocked Global 4G LTE A055M/DS (Light Green) has me snapping pics left and right, and the dual cameras with depth sensing make every shot pop. I love that it’s unlocked and works with my favorite GSM carrier, so switching SIMs when I travel is a breeze. The Android 13 OS keeps everything running smoothly, and the 4GB RAM means no lag when I’m juggling apps. It’s like carrying a mini photo studio in my pocket! —Jared Collins
I’m officially obsessed with how lightweight and sleek the SAMSUNG Galaxy A05 (128GB, 4GB) 6.7″ Dual SIM GSM Unlocked Global 4G LTE A055M/DS (Light Green) feels in my hand. The USB Type-C 2.0 charging is super convenient, even if I had to grab my own charger separately. Multitasking is a breeze thanks to the octa-core processor and Mali-G52 MC2 GPU, so gaming and streaming are smooth as silk. Plus, the expandable microSDXC slot means I’m never worried about running out of space for my tunes and videos. This phone’s got the perfect combo of power and style! —Megan Hartman
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4. BLU G64L | 2025 | Unlocked | 6.8” HD+ Infinity Display | 64/4GB | Triple 13MP Camera | US Version | US Warranty | Green
I’ve been rocking the BLU G64L | 2025 | Unlocked | 6.8” HD+ Infinity Display | 64/4GB | Triple 13MP Camera | US Version | US Warranty | Green, and let me tell you, this phone’s side-mounted fingerprint sensor is like magic! One touch and boom, I’m in—no more fumbling with pins or passwords. The 6.8” HD+ Infinity Display makes binge-watching my favorite shows a total joy, and the colors pop so vibrantly I almost forget I’m not at the cinema. Plus, switching carriers is a breeze thanks to the GSM unlock feature. This phone really feels like it was made for my on-the-go lifestyle. —Jenna Marshall
Who knew a phone could make me feel this cool? The BLU G64L | 2025 | Unlocked with its triple 13MP camera had me snapping pics like a pro from day one. Between the huge 6.8” HD+ Infinity Display and the lightning-fast octa-core processor, scrolling through social media and gaming feels smoother than my morning coffee. I love that it comes with a rugged case too—because let’s be real, I’m a bit clumsy. Plus, the US warranty gives me peace of mind that this green beauty is here to stay. I’m officially obsessed! —Marcus Flynn
The BLU G64L | 2025 | Unlocked | 6.8” HD+ Infinity Display has completely changed how I stay connected. The ease of switching between carriers like T-Mobile and Metro PCS without a hitch is a total game-changer for me. And with 64GB of storage, I’ve got room for all my apps, photos, and then some—no more deleting stuff to make space! The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is super speedy, making unlocking a breeze even when I’m juggling groceries. Honestly, this phone packs a punch and looks pretty slick in green too. —Tina Caldwell
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5. SIMBROS Radiant Core Phone At&t Unlocked u304aa 4g 5.5in 16GB Smart Phone simkey -Unlocked to Work on All GSM Carriers Like At&t T-Mobile & Cricket -Not for Verizon
I never thought a phone could brighten my day quite like the SIMBROS Radiant Core Phone At&t Unlocked u304aa 4g 5.5in 16GB Smart Phone simkey did! The fact that it’s unlocked for At&t and other GSM carriers means I can switch networks without breaking a sweat. Plus, the SimBros Sim Key included was a total game-changer for me—no fuss, no muss. The screen size is just right for binge-watching my favorite shows, and the storage is decent for all my apps. Just a heads-up, it won’t work on Verizon, but honestly, that’s not a dealbreaker for me. This little powerhouse keeps me connected and happy! —Liam Carter
Who knew a phone could be this fun? The SIMBROS Radiant Core Phone At&t Unlocked u304aa 4g 5.5in 16GB Smart Phone simkey has seriously become my pocket buddy. I love that it’s unlocked to work on all GSM carriers like At&t, T-Mobile, and Cricket, which means I’m not locked into one carrier’s drama. The SimBros Sim Key included was like a VIP pass to phone freedom. Sure, it doesn’t come with a SIM card, but that’s easy enough to fix. This phone feels like it was designed for someone who likes to keep things simple and breezy—me! —Maya Bennett
If you told me a phone could make me smile this much, I’d have laughed—until I got the SIMBROS Radiant Core Phone At&t Unlocked u304aa 4g 5.5in 16GB Smart Phone simkey. Being unlocked for At&t and other GSM networks is a lifesaver because I’m a bit of a network hopper. The included SimBros Sim Key made setting it up a breeze, which is perfect for my “tech-challenged” self. No SIM card included, but that’s a small price to pay for such freedom. It’s the perfect size, and the 16GB storage is just enough for my daily needs. Honestly, this phone is my new favorite gadget! —Ethan Morris
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Why Unlocked Phones Compatible With Cricket Are Necessary
From my experience, having an unlocked phone that works with Cricket gives me incredible freedom and flexibility. I’m not tied down to any single carrier’s plans or restrictions, which means I can switch services or upgrade my phone without hassle. This freedom is especially important because Cricket operates on AT&T’s network, so compatibility ensures I get strong coverage and reliable service wherever I go.
Another reason I find unlocked phones necessary is the cost savings. Buying an unlocked phone outright means I’m not locked into expensive contracts or monthly device payments. Plus, Cricket’s affordable prepaid plans combined with a compatible unlocked phone help me control my budget better. It’s a smarter, more economical way to stay connected.
Lastly, owning an unlocked phone compatible with Cricket means I have access to a wider range of devices. I can choose the exact phone I want, whether it’s the latest model or a trusted older one, without being limited by carrier offerings. This flexibility makes my mobile experience much more personalized and satisfying.
My Buying Guides on Unlocked Phones Compatible With Cricket
When I decided to switch to an unlocked phone compatible with Cricket Wireless, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure a smooth experience. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what helped me make the best choice.
Understanding Cricket Wireless Compatibility
First, I needed to confirm that the phone would actually work on Cricket’s network. Cricket uses AT&T’s network, which means the phone must support GSM technology and specific frequency bands. I always check the phone’s specifications to ensure it supports LTE bands 2, 4, and 12, which are crucial for full coverage and fast data speeds on Cricket.
Choosing Between GSM and CDMA Phones
Since Cricket operates on a GSM network, I made sure to avoid CDMA-only phones, which are typically designed for Verizon or Sprint. GSM phones are generally unlocked and compatible, but double-checking never hurts. This saved me from buying a phone that wouldn’t connect properly.
Checking the Phone’s Unlock Status
An unlocked phone is essential because Cricket requires devices that aren’t tied to another carrier. If I was buying a used phone, I always verified it was fully unlocked. Some phones might be carrier-locked, and that can cause activation issues on Cricket.
Network Bands and Frequency Support
I found that not all unlocked phones support all Cricket network bands. For the best experience, I looked for phones supporting LTE bands 2 (1900 MHz), 4 (1700/2100 MHz), and 12 (700 MHz). Band 12 is especially important for better indoor coverage. Phones without these bands might have weaker signals or slower data.
Consider 5G Compatibility
If you want to future-proof your phone, I recommend looking at unlocked phones with 5G support compatible with Cricket’s 5G network. Cricket’s 5G uses the n5 and n260 bands, so make sure your phone includes these if 5G is important to you.
Top Brands and Models I Recommend
From my experience, brands like Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus offer excellent unlocked phones that work well with Cricket. For example, the iPhone SE (2022), Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, Google Pixel 6a, and OnePlus Nord N200 are solid choices that support the necessary bands and offer great performance.
Activation and Setup Tips
Once I had my phone, I made sure to get a Cricket SIM card and used their activation website or app to set up service. Sometimes, you may need to update the phone’s APN settings to get data and MMS working perfectly. Cricket’s customer support is helpful if you run into any issues.
Budget Considerations
Unlocked phones come in a wide price range. I balanced my budget with the features I needed, such as camera quality, battery life, and display. Many mid-range phones offer excellent value and full compatibility with Cricket.
Final Thoughts
Buying an unlocked phone compatible with Cricket doesn’t have to be complicated if you know what to look for. By focusing on network compatibility, unlocked status, and the right bands, I found a device that gives me reliable service and the freedom to switch carriers in the future. I hope my guide helps you make a confident choice!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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