Unlocked and locked phone explained

Locked Phones
A locked phone is one that is purchased from a particular cellular carrier and has been programmed to work only with the carrier’s SIM cards. A locked phone usually comes with a subscriber contract that ties the user down to this network provider for one or two years. The reason why most major carriers "lock" the phone is because they subsidize its cost to entice customers to buy them. To earn back the lost revenue, they lock the subscriber in a contract.
Unlocked Phones
In contrast, an unlocked phone is a phone that is not tied to a particular network provider. It can be used with any cellular carrier that utilizes GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications). GSM is a standard used by many providers across the globe. An unlocked phone can recognize a SIM card from any GSM network and use that network to make calls, send messages, and other forms of data. Also, it does not come with subscriber contracts, which makes it a more flexible and practical option for many people.


 Why Buy An Unlocked Phone
Many people turn to unlocked phones because of their many advantages. For those who are still on the fence, this section will briefly discuss the seven advantages of purchasing an unlocked phone in greater detail.
1. Increased Network Compatibility
Because unlocked phones are not programmed to work with just one particular network, users can switch GSM networks when necessary. This is a big boon for people who frequently travel for work or leisure since it allows them to switch to other available network providers once they are out of their current provider’s coverage zone.
2. Money Saver
Unlocked phones may appear to be more expensive at first, because one has to pay for the full retail price of the phone from the very start. Still, unlocked phones are more budget-friendly in the long run. For one, they do not come with long-term subscriber contracts, which lock one to a particular carrier.
3. No Roaming Charges
Unlocked phones eliminate expensive roaming charges. When a person travels abroad and places a call, the phone carrier usually charges an add-on fee depending on the destination. This roaming fee is billed on top of the monthly subscriber fee, and can add up to a significant amount. Unlocked phones allow the user to simply buy a SIM card from the local carrier. This way, one can have a local phone number and pay local rates for calls and messages without the roaming charges.
4. More Network Options
An unlocked phone also allows a user to easily switch to a different network provider with better rates or service
6. Increased Resale Value
Someone who plans to sell the old cell phone will have an easier time selling it if it is unlocked. Unlocked phones can be sold for up to 30% more than a locked unit. It also attracts more buyers since they can easily use it with their existing network.
7. Easier to Customize
Unlocked phones also give more flexibility in terms of phone features and customization. Third-party applications have an easier time on unlocked phones, since there is no locking software to limit the access to these features.
8. Easier to Service or Replace
When the cell phone needs to be serviced or replaced, having an unlocked cell phone is convenient. Just simply take out the SIM card and transfer it to another unlocked cell phone, and it will work just as well.
 Who Needs Unlocked Phones
The decision to buy unlocked phones ultimately depends on one’s needs, preferences, and budget. Jetsetters benefit from this the most because it saves them money and gives them more flexibility. As for others, the appeal of having the freedom to customize their phone and use it just the way they want it, without being tied down to any contracts or commitments, is enough to make them switch to an unlocked phone