Whether you’re a globe-trotter or just don’t like to be tied down, unlocked smartphones offer a sense of freedom we all can appreciate. Because they aren’t limited to working on any one specific carrier, you can simply buy a SIM card, stick it in your device and be on your way. We’ve picked some of our favorite handsets that you can purchase and use wherever you go.
LG Nexus 4
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
The good: The competitively priced LG Nexus 4 delivers a pure and polished experience with Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, it's powered by a snappy quad-core processor, and it's packed with new photo-editing and camera features.
The bad: The Nexus 4's construction is solid but uninspiring, its call volume is too low and it lacks 4G LTE.
The cost: $149.53 to $567.99
The bottom line: While the LG Nexus 4 wins on internal performance and user experience, anyone shopping for an unlocked phone should consider a comparable LTE handset first.
LG Optimus 4X HD
CNET rating: 4 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The LG Optimus 4X HD's quad-core processor makes it incredibly zippy, it runs on Android 4.0 and it has NFC capabilities and a stunning HD-IPS LCD display.
The bad: The 4X HD can be unwieldy for small hands, the quality of its output speaker is less than stellar and its UI isn't as elegant as the original ICS.
The cost: $369.49 to $697.70
The bottom line: With its lightning-quick CPU, newest Android version, great touch screen and NFC chip, the LG Optimus 4X HD is firing on all cylinders.
Sony Xperia P
CNET rating: 3 stars out of 5 (Good)
The good: With a stunning, metal design, the Sony Xperia P has sophisticated style. It's also compact, boasts a bright screen and connects to Sony's large music and video stores.
The bad: The Xperia P is held back by a weak CPU, outdated Android OS and short battery life.
The cost: $291.56
The bottom line: If beauty is your only priority, the Sony Xperia P will certainly satisfy, but power isn't this unlocked phone's forte.
Samsung Galaxy Beam
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
The good: The Samsung Galaxy Beam comes with an integrated pico projector, a dual-core processor, 720p video capture and a 4-inch Super AMOLED screen.
The bad: The Galaxy Beam's projection software needs some work, the 5-megapixel camera sometimes blurs indoor shots, and the build is thicker and heavier than that of many of today's phones.
The cost: $539.99
The bottom line: Despite weak software, the Samsung Galaxy Beam's bright projector pushes boundaries, and strong smartphone features make it a worthy standalone device.
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