: Use retailers like Best Buy or manufacturer sites to get instant credit for your old device.
: Frequently offers the lowest prices on mid-range Android devices, such as the Google Pixel 10a for approximately $449.
: "Flanker" brands like Total Wireless or Mint Mobile often have lower total costs of ownership than major carriers, even if the phone itself isn't $0. cheapest place to buy new cell phones
: Known for "Activate Today" discounts, where you can save up to $500 on brands like Samsung and Motorola by connecting to a carrier at the time of purchase.
Finding the cheapest place for a new cell phone depends on whether you want an device for flexibility or a carrier-locked phone for the deepest upfront discounts. Top Retailers for Unlocked Phones : Use retailers like Best Buy or manufacturer
: Frequently offers entry-level 5G phones for free (via instant discounts) when you switch and activate a qualifying plan. Cricket Wireless : Offers competitive pricing on new models, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Go to product viewer dialog for this item. for around $149.99 with a new line activation. Mint Mobile
: Bundles new phones with their prepaid service, sometimes offering $450–$600 off high-end devices like the Pixel 10 Pro Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Galaxy S25 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. when purchased with a plan. : Features aggressive sales, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. with savings up to $600 for new customers. Summary of Best Value Models in 2026 Phone Model Best Price Identified Source/Condition Motorola Moto G Play (2024) Go to product viewer dialog for this item. CNET/Best Buy Google Pixel 9A iPhone 16e Go to product viewer dialog for this item. AT&T (with new line) Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Metro by T-Mobile (when switching) Tips for Saving More : Known for "Activate Today" discounts, where you
If you are willing to commit to a service plan, carriers often offer phones for "free" or at a steep discount through monthly bill credits: