Unlocked Mobile Phones
Get total freedom with unlocked mobile phones from The Good Guys. Skip the contracts and switch carriers whenever you like. Shop top brands like Samsung, Apple, Motorola and OPPO to find your perfect match and Pay Less Every Day on your next outright upgrade!
Reasons to Buy Unlocked Mobile Phones
Freedom from Contracts
Unlocked mobile phones in Australia offer freedom from carrier contracts and commitments to mobile and broadband plans. Purchased outright with an upfront payment, these devices allow you to use any service provider without restrictions. This flexibility is ideal for users who frequently travel internationally, switch carriers for better rates, or prefer separating device costs from service plans.
Avoiding Network Locks
Contract phones from carriers spread payments through monthly installments but typically lock devices to specific networks during agreement terms. This means locked phones cannot swap SIM cards for other providers until contracts expire or release fees are paid. Unlocked prepaid phones eliminate these restrictions entirely, giving you full control immediately.
SIM Compatibility and Value
Existing SIM cards transfer directly to new unlocked devices, allowing you to maintain contacts, files, and data saved on the card. While SIM cards come in standard, micro, and nano sizes, carriers supply replacements free of charge. For those on a budget, unlocked options from brands like Nokia, OPPO, and Motorola deliver essential features at accessible pricing.
Will it work on my network?
If you buy an unlocked phone right here in Australia, the short answer is: yes! These models are built to work perfectly with all the local frequency bands used by Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. This means you'll get the best possible signal strength and fastest 5G or 4G speeds, whether you're in the city or headed out of town.
A quick tip on imports: Be careful with phones bought overseas. Even if they look the same, international versions often miss the specific Aussie "bands" needed for our networks. This can lead to patchy coverage, slow data, or even dropped calls.
Most modern smartphones connect to mobile networks and internet, running applications for browsing, streaming, social media, and communication. Front and rear cameras enable video calls and photography. Google's Android operating system powers devices from multiple manufacturers, whilst Apple's iPhones run iOS exclusively.
Top Unlocked Mobile Brands To Buy
Samsung unlocked phones span budget to flagship categories with Galaxy A and S series models. Android devices access Google Play Store for apps, eBooks, and music. iPhones integrate seamlessly with iPads, MacBooks, and Apple Watches through Apple's ecosystem.
Consider existing smart devices when selecting operating systems. Smart watches, tablets, and TVs using matching operating systems simplify cross-device functionality. Tablet accessories complement mobile ecosystems for productivity. Best phones for kids prioritise durability and parental controls, whilst phones for seniors emphasise simplified interfaces and larger displays.
FAQs
Unlocked phones function with any carrier's SIM card without restrictions, purchased outright from retailers rather than through carrier contracts. This flexibility allows switching providers for better rates, using local SIM cards when travelling, and avoiding early termination fees.
A Smart Phone is a portable rechargeable phone that can connect to a mobile network and the internet. Smart Phones have internal storage and can run software applications (aka apps) that can let users browse the internet, pay bills, edit photos, use social media, stream videos and more. Many Smart Phones include a front and rear facing camera that allow the making of video calls and taking photos.
Most modern Smart Phones use Google’s Android operating system, which can be found in a wide variety of other Smart devices including tablets, TVs, Smart Watches and more. Android Smart Phones and other devices generally have access to the Google Play Store to download apps and purchase eBooks, music and more.
Another big company in the Smart Phone space is Apple whose range of iPhone models run on their iOS operating system. The iPhone works exceptionally well with other Apple products like iPads, MacBooks and Apple Watches, as well as Apple services like iTunes and the App Store.
Before deciding on a new Smart Phone it's worth thinking about all other smart devices at home. If you own other Apple products you may find an iPhone works best, especially if you own an Apple Watch which will only work with an iPhone. Android Smart Phones are made by multiple manufacturers at a much wider range of price points, so if a good budget or midrange phone is needed there's lots of great options there.
If Photos are important, consider not just resolution and megapixels when comparing Smart Phones. Many models have a dedicated camera button to quickly snap a photo without scrolling through apps first and each Phone's lens type, brand and photo taking software can be well worth researching.
The battery life of a phone can vary considerably among different models and is affected by screen size, resolution, brightness and how the phone is used through the day. Larger screens use more power so it’s best to compare battery capacity across similar sized models. Bigger isn't necessarily better and consider the charging speed along with any existing charger and its fast charging capability.
Tablets and Smart Phones are both internet enabled smart devices that have become fixtures in many people’s everyday lives. Both include touch screen interfaces although it is common for people to use keyboard and stylus accessories for tablets. Tablets and Phones may both have the same operating system and use the same apps as many run off either Android or iOS.
The main difference between a Tablet and a Smart Phone is in the screen size. Smart Phones usually comfortably fit inside pockets and are designed to go everywhere as a form of communication and contact. The larger screen size and interface of a Tablet makes them great for study or an entertainment platform for streaming media, playing games and reading eBooks. Whilst Phones are treated as personal devices, it is common for Tablets to be treated as a shared computer with multiple users.
Verify the phone supports Australian 4G and 5G frequency bands used by your carrier. Domestically purchased unlocked phones guarantee local band compatibility. Check manufacturer specifications listing supported network bands before purchasing international models.
Unlocked phones cost more upfront but eliminate interest charges and contract commitments. Total ownership costs typically favour unlocked purchases when keeping devices beyond 24 months. Carrier plans suit users preferring monthly payment flexibility despite higher overall costs.
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