The Gear I Hunted Down So You Don't Have To
I searched far and wide for the best deals on unlocked phones, unlocked hotspots and SIM routers, and mobile accessories. No 40-item lists — only what I'd set up for a customer sitting in front of me.
Phones That Belong to You, Not a Carrier
Buy it unlocked once and every carrier has to compete for you. These are the three deals I keep coming back to.
iPhone SE (3rd Gen) — Factory Unlocked
The cheapest way into a modern iPhone with 5G. My go-to budget pick.
- Factory unlocked
- 5G on all three networks
- Best price-per-year value
iPhone 13 Pro — Factory Unlocked
Pro cameras and 120Hz for a fraction of new-flagship money.
- Factory unlocked
- ProMotion display + Pro cameras
- Flagship feel, deal pricing
Google Pixel 10a — Factory Unlocked
The best camera-per-dollar Android on the market, plus years of updates.
- Factory unlocked
- Long-term Android updates
- Camera that punches way up
Internet You Can Take Anywhere
Drop a SIM in, power it on, done. These are the two units I trust to run real home and travel internet.
SIM-Unlocked 5G Home Internet Router
Replacing home internet? This gives you whole-home Wi-Fi instead of pocket-sized coverage.
- Takes a SIM card directly
- Whole-home Wi-Fi coverage
- Wired ports for TVs and consoles
TCL Unlocked 5G Mobile Hotspot with Ethernet
Battery-powered internet in your pocket — with an Ethernet port most hotspots skip.
- Unlocked, works with a data SIM
- Ethernet port built in
- Runs phones, laptops, TVs
The Two Accessories Actually Worth Buying
I've tested piles of junk so you don't have to. These two earn their space in your pocket every day.
UAG MagSafe Wallet & Phone Stand
Cards, phone and a kickstand in one snap-on piece. No bulky folio case needed.
- Strong MagSafe hold
- Doubles as a video stand
- Slim enough for any pocket
Anker Portable Power Bank
The one accessory I tell everybody to own — keeps your phone and hotspot alive on travel days.
- Charges phone + hotspot
- USB-C fast charging
- Airline-friendly capacity
Every pick above is one I dug up myself, compared against the rest, and would set up for a customer sitting in front of me. If it isn't on this list, I didn't think it was worth your money.
Pair it with a cheaper plan
Gear is half of it — these guides cut the monthly bill.
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