Best Cell Phone Plans with Free Phones in 2025
Cell phone plans with free phones have become increasingly popular as carriers compete to offer the best value to customers. These plans often include the latest smartphones, such as the iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy S24, at no upfront cost when you meet certain conditions. The key to maximizing these deals lies in understanding the fine print, including contract lengths, trade-in requirements, and plan tiers. Below, we break down the top carriers offering free phones with their plans, compare their features, and provide tips for choosing the best option for your needs.

Top Carriers Offering Free Phones with Plans
Several major carriers in the US provide free phones as part of their promotional deals. Here are the most notable ones:
- Verizon: Known for its extensive coverage, Verizon often offers free phones with trade-in deals on unlimited plans. For example, the iPhone 15 can be obtained for free with an eligible trade-in and a 36-month commitment.
- AT&T: AT&T provides free phones with trade-ins on select unlimited plans. Their deals often include Samsung Galaxy devices and iPhones, with credits applied over 36 months.
- T-Mobile: T-Mobile’s Magenta and Go5G plans frequently include free phone promotions, sometimes without requiring a trade-in. Their deals are known for flexibility and shorter contract terms.
- Mint Mobile: As an MVNO, Mint Mobile offers budget-friendly plans with free phones for new customers who prepay for multiple months upfront.
- Cricket Wireless: Another MVNO, Cricket Wireless, provides free phones with no trade-in required on certain unlimited plans, making it a great option for budget-conscious users.
How to Qualify for Free Phone Deals
Most free phone deals come with specific eligibility requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- Trade-In Requirements: Many carriers require trading in an eligible device in good condition. The trade-in value is then applied as monthly bill credits.
- Plan Tier: Higher-tier unlimited plans often qualify for the best free phone deals. Cheaper plans may not be eligible.
- Contract Length: Most free phone promotions require a 24 to 36-month commitment. Early termination may result in paying the remaining device balance.
- Credit Check: Carriers typically perform a credit check to determine eligibility for financing a free phone.
Comparison of Cell Phone Plans with Free Phones
Carrier | Free Phone Offer | Plan Requirement | Contract Length | Trade-In Required |
---|---|---|---|---|
Verizon | iPhone 15 | Unlimited Plus | 36 months | Yes |
AT&T | Samsung Galaxy S24 | Unlimited Elite | 36 months | Yes |
T-Mobile | Google Pixel 8 | Go5G Plus | 24 months | No |
Mint Mobile | Moto G Power | 12-month prepaid | None | No |
Cricket Wireless | iPhone SE | Unlimited More | None | No |
Tips for Choosing the Best Plan
Selecting the right cell phone plan with a free phone involves considering several factors:
- Network Coverage: Ensure the carrier has strong coverage in your area.
- Plan Cost: Calculate the total cost over the contract period, including monthly fees and potential hidden charges.
- Device Compatibility: Verify that the free phone meets your needs in terms of features and performance.
- Flexibility: Some carriers offer more flexible terms, such as no-contract options, which may be preferable for some users.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a cell phone plan with a free phone that aligns with your budget and usage requirements. Always read the terms and conditions before committing to ensure you fully understand the deal.