Are you looking for a great deal on a new smartphone? Clearance unlocked cell phones offer amazing value for money. These devices pack powerful features at budget-friendly prices. Let’s dive into the top 10 best clearance unlocked cell phones you can grab in 2024!
1. Samsung Galaxy S22
The Samsung Galaxy S22 might be last year’s model, but it’s still a powerhouse. Now available at clearance prices, it’s a steal for anyone wanting flagship features without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display
- Triple rear camera setup (50MP main)
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor
- 8GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 3,700mAh battery with fast charging
Why it’s great: The Galaxy S22 offers top-tier performance, an excellent camera system, and a premium build quality. It’s perfect for users who want a compact yet powerful device.
2. iPhone 13
Apple’s iPhone 13 remains a solid choice, especially now that it’s available at clearance prices. It delivers the smooth iOS experience users love, coupled with impressive hardware.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display
- Dual 12MP rear cameras
- A15 Bionic chip
- 4GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 3,240mAh battery
Why it’s great: The iPhone 13 boasts excellent battery life, a powerful processor, and a user-friendly interface. It’s ideal for those who prefer the Apple ecosystem.
3. Google Pixel 6
The Google Pixel 6 offers a pure Android experience with some of the best camera software in the business. At clearance prices, it’s an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- 6.4-inch AMOLED display
- Dual rear cameras (50MP main + 12MP ultrawide)
- Google Tensor chip
- 8GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 4,614mAh battery
Why it’s great: The Pixel 6 shines with its camera capabilities and clean Android interface. It’s perfect for those who want great photos and timely software updates.
4. OnePlus 9
OnePlus has made a name for itself with phones that offer flagship features at more affordable prices. The OnePlus 9, now on clearance, continues this tradition.
Key Features:
- 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED display
- Triple rear cameras (48MP main)
- Snapdragon 888 processor
- 8GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 4,500mAh battery with 65W fast charging
Why it’s great: The OnePlus 9 offers blazing-fast charging, smooth performance, and a great display. It’s ideal for power users who need their phone to keep up with them.
5. Motorola Edge (2021)
Motorola’s Edge (2021) brings 5G capabilities and a large display to the mid-range market. At clearance prices, it’s an even more attractive option.
Key Features:
- 6.8-inch LCD display
- Triple rear cameras (108MP main)
- Snapdragon 778G processor
- 6GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 5,000mAh battery
Why it’s great: The Motorola Edge (2021) offers a massive screen and battery, making it perfect for media consumption and long days away from a charger.
6. LG Velvet
Although LG has exited the smartphone market, the LG Velvet remains a solid choice, especially at clearance prices. It offers a unique design and 5G capabilities.
Key Features:
- 6.8-inch P-OLED display
- Triple rear cameras (48MP main)
- Snapdragon 765G processor
- 6GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 4,300mAh battery
Why it’s great: The LG Velvet stands out with its sleek design and balanced feature set. It’s a good option for those who want a stylish device with 5G support.
7. Sony Xperia 5 III
Sony’s compact flagship, the Xperia 5 III, is now available at clearance prices. It’s a great choice for those who want a smaller phone without compromising on features.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch OLED display
- Triple rear cameras (12MP each)
- Snapdragon 888 processor
- 8GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 4,500mAh battery
Why it’s great: The Xperia 5 III offers a compact form factor, excellent camera capabilities, and a 21:9 aspect ratio display that’s great for watching movies.
8. Nokia 8.3 5G
The Nokia 8.3 5G brings the reliability of Nokia to the 5G era. Now available at clearance prices, it’s a great option for those who want a no-frills 5G experience.
Key Features:
- 6.81-inch IPS LCD display
- Quad rear cameras (64MP main)
- Snapdragon 765G processor
- 6GB RAM and 64GB storage
- 4,500mAh battery
Why it’s great: The Nokia 8.3 5G offers clean Android software, good battery life, and 5G support at an affordable price point.
9. TCL 20 Pro 5G
TCL might be better known for its TVs, but the TCL 20 Pro 5G shows they can make a solid smartphone too. At clearance prices, it’s an excellent value proposition.
Key Features:
- 6.67-inch AMOLED display
- Quad rear cameras (48MP main)
- Snapdragon 750G processor
- 6GB RAM and 256GB storage
- 4,500mAh battery
Why it’s great: The TCL 20 Pro 5G offers a premium design, ample storage, and 5G capabilities at a budget-friendly price.
10. ASUS Zenfone 8
Rounding out our list is the ASUS Zenfone 8, a compact flagship that’s now available at clearance prices. It’s perfect for those who want a smaller phone without compromising on performance.
Key Features:
- 5.9-inch AMOLED display
- Dual rear cameras (64MP main)
- Snapdragon 888 processor
- 8GB RAM and 128GB storage
- 4,000mAh battery
Why it’s great: The Zenfone 8 packs flagship specs into a compact body, making it ideal for one-handed use.
Why Choose a Clearance Unlocked Cell Phone?
Clearance unlocked cell phones offer several advantages:
- Cost Savings: You can get high-end features at mid-range prices.
- No Contract: These phones are unlocked, so you’re not tied to any specific carrier.
- Recent Technology: While not the latest models, clearance phones often have features that are still relevant and powerful.
- Immediate Availability: Unlike waiting for the newest model, clearance phones are ready to ship right away.
- Tried and Tested: These phones have been on the market for a while, so any initial bugs have likely been worked out.
How to Choose the Right Clearance Phone for You
When selecting a clearance unlocked cell phone, consider the following factors:
- Operating System: Do you prefer Android or iOS?
- Camera Quality: If you take lots of photos, prioritize phones with better camera systems.
- Battery Life: Consider your usage patterns and choose a phone with appropriate battery capacity.
- Processing Power: If you use demanding apps or games, look for phones with more powerful processors.
- Display: Consider size and quality, especially if you watch a lot of videos on your phone.
- 5G Compatibility: If you want to future-proof your purchase, consider a 5G-capable device.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for better long-term support and updates.
Tips for Buying Clearance Phones
- Check the Warranty: Make sure the phone comes with a warranty, even if it’s refurbished.
- Verify Carrier Compatibility: Ensure the unlocked phone works with your preferred carrier.
- Read Reviews: Look for long-term reviews to understand how the phone has held up over time.
- Consider Storage: With clearance models, you might not have as many storage options. Choose wisely.
- Check for Updates: Verify that the phone will receive software updates for a reasonable period.
The Future of Smartphones
As we look at these clearance models, it’s interesting to consider where smartphone technology is heading. Here are some trends to watch:
- Foldable Displays: While still premium features, foldable phones are becoming more common.
- Advanced AI: Smartphones are getting smarter, with AI improving everything from photo processing to battery management.
- Improved Cameras: We’re seeing continuous improvements in smartphone photography, especially in low-light conditions.
- 5G Adoption: As 5G networks expand, more phones will come with 5G capabilities as standard.
- Sustainability: There’s a growing focus on using recycled materials and creating more repairable devices.
Conclusion
Clearance unlocked cell phones offer an excellent opportunity to get a great device without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a flagship experience like the Samsung Galaxy S22 or a more budget-friendly option like the TCL 20 Pro 5G, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Remember, the “best” phone is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. Consider what features are most important to you, whether it’s camera quality, battery life, or processing power. Don’t be afraid to go for last year’s model – you might be surprised at how much phone you can get for your money!
By choosing a clearance unlocked phone, you’re not just saving money. You’re also getting a device that’s been tried and tested, with any initial bugs worked out. Plus, you have the freedom to choose your carrier and switch as needed.
So why wait? Explore these options and find the perfect clearance unlocked cell phone for you. With the money you save, you might even be able to splurge on some great accessories for your new device!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Clearance Unlocked Cell Phones
What are clearance unlocked cell phones?
Clearance unlocked cell phones are previous model smartphones that are sold at discounted prices. They’re “unlocked,” meaning they’re not tied to any specific carrier and can be used with various service providers.
Are clearance phones new or used?
Clearance phones can be either new or refurbished. New clearance phones are unused devices from previous product lines. Refurbished phones have been previously owned but restored to like-new condition. Always check the product description to know which you’re getting.
Why are clearance phones cheaper than the latest models?
Clearance phones are cheaper because they’re older models. Retailers and manufacturers reduce prices to clear inventory and make room for newer models. This doesn’t mean they’re low quality – many clearance phones still offer excellent features and performance.
What does “unlocked” mean?
An unlocked phone isn’t tied to a specific carrier. This means you can:
- Use it with any compatible carrier
- Switch carriers without buying a new phone
- Avoid long-term contracts
- Potentially save money on service plans
Will a clearance unlocked phone work with my carrier?
Most unlocked phones work with major carriers, but it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing. Look for phones that support your carrier’s network bands. Some phones are designed for GSM networks (like AT&T and T-Mobile), while others work with CDMA networks (like Verizon).
Do clearance phones come with a warranty?
Many clearance phones do come with a warranty, but the terms can vary. New clearance phones often have a standard manufacturer’s warranty. Refurbished phones might come with a limited warranty. Always check the warranty details before purchasing.
Are clearance phones outdated?
While clearance phones aren’t the latest models, they’re often just one or two generations behind the newest releases. Many still offer excellent features and performance that meet most users’ needs.
Can I get software updates on a clearance phone?
It depends on the phone’s age and the manufacturer’s policy. Many clearance phones still receive security updates and sometimes even major OS updates. Check the manufacturer’s update policy for the specific model you’re interested in.
Are clearance phones a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers?
Yes! Clearance phones offer a great balance of features and affordability. They allow budget-conscious shoppers to get higher-end phones at mid-range prices.
What should I look for when buying a clearance phone?
Consider these factors:
- Compatibility with your carrier
- Battery life
- Camera quality
- Processing power
- Storage capacity
- Warranty terms
- Software update availability
Where can I buy clearance unlocked phones?
You can find clearance unlocked phones at:
- Major electronics retailers
- Online marketplaces
- Manufacturer’s websites
- Some carrier stores
Always buy from reputable sellers to ensure you’re getting a genuine product.
Are clearance phones the same as refurbished phones?
Not necessarily. Clearance phones can be either new or refurbished. New clearance phones are unused devices from older product lines. Refurbished phones have been used but restored to good working condition.
Do clearance phones come with all original accessories?
It varies. New clearance phones typically come with all original accessories. Refurbished phones might have generic accessories. Check the product description for details on included items.
Can I trade in my old phone for a clearance model?
Some retailers accept trade-ins for clearance phones, but it’s less common than for new models. Check with the seller about their trade-in policies.
Are clearance phones tested before being sold?
New clearance phones undergo the same testing as when they were first released. Refurbished clearance phones should be thoroughly tested and restored to good working condition before sale. Always buy from reputable sellers who guarantee the quality of their products.
How much can I save by buying a clearance phone?
Savings can be significant, often ranging from 20% to 50% off the original price. The exact amount depends on factors like the phone’s age, condition, and demand.
Do clearance phones support 5G?
Some do, some don’t. Newer clearance models (from the last year or two) are more likely to support 5G. Check the phone’s specifications to confirm 5G compatibility.
Can I return a clearance phone if I’m not satisfied?
Return policies vary by seller. Many offer returns within a specified period, but some sales may be final. Always review the return policy before purchasing.
Are clearance phones a good choice for first-time smartphone users?
Yes, clearance phones can be excellent for first-time smartphone users. They offer a chance to try out good-quality phones without a large financial commitment.
How long will a clearance phone last?
With proper care, a clearance phone can last just as long as a new latest-model phone. Many users keep their phones for 2-3 years, which is well within the lifespan of most clearance models.
