How to Get a Free Phone for New Customers: Top Offers and Comparisons

This guide explores the best free phone offers for new customers, breaks down the terms and conditions, and provides a detailed comparison table to help you choose the best deal. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how to take advantage of these promotions and select the right plan for your needs.

Getting a free phone as a new customer is a common promotion offered by many mobile carriers in the US. These deals are typically available when you switch to a new provider, trade in an eligible device, or sign up for a specific plan. While the idea of a free phone is appealing, it's important to understand the fine print, including contract terms, plan requirements, and potential hidden costs. Below, we break down the key aspects of these promotions and compare the best offers available in 2025.

How Free Phone Promotions Work

Most free phone deals for new customers involve one or more of the following conditions:

• Trade-In Requirements: Many carriers require you to trade in an eligible device in good condition to qualify for a free phone. The value of the trade-in is applied as a credit toward the new device.
• Plan Requirements: Free phone offers often require you to sign up for a specific unlimited or premium plan. These plans may have higher monthly costs but include perks like hotspot data, streaming services, or international roaming.
• Contract Commitments: Some promotions require a 24- or 36-month installment plan, where the cost of the phone is spread over the contract term. If you cancel early, you may owe the remaining balance.
• Credit Checks: Postpaid carriers typically perform a credit check to determine eligibility for financing a free phone. Prepaid carriers usually don’t require a credit check.

Top Free Phone Offers for New Customers in 2025

Here are some of the best free phone promotions available from major carriers and MVNOs:

1. Verizon

Verizon frequently offers free phones to new customers who switch and trade in an eligible device. Recent promotions included free iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy S23 models with a qualifying trade-in and an unlimited plan. The device credits are applied over 36 months.

2. AT&T

AT&T provides free phones like the iPhone 14 or Google Pixel 7 when you trade in an eligible device and sign up for an unlimited plan. The credits are spread over 36 months, and early termination fees may apply.

3. T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers free phones to new customers who switch and trade in an eligible device. Promotions often include the latest Samsung Galaxy or Apple iPhone models. T-Mobile’s Magenta MAX plan is typically required for the best deals.

4. Metro by T-Mobile

Metro by T-Mobile, a prepaid carrier, occasionally provides free phones like the Samsung Galaxy A14 or Motorola G Stylus to new customers who port in their number and activate a qualifying plan.

5. Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless, an AT&T-owned prepaid carrier, offers free or heavily discounted phones like the iPhone SE or Nokia G400 to new customers who switch and activate a qualifying plan.

Comparison of Free Phone Offers

Tips for Choosing the Best Free Phone Deal

• Compare Plan Costs: A free phone may require a higher-cost plan. Calculate the total cost over the contract term to ensure it’s a good deal.
• Check Trade-In Value: If a trade-in is required, verify the condition and model eligibility to maximize your credit.
• Read the Fine Print: Understand early termination fees, device unlocking policies, and any additional charges.
• Consider Prepaid Options: Prepaid carriers like Metro and Cricket offer free phones without long-term contracts or credit checks.

For more details, visit the official websites of these carriers: Verizon , AT&T , T-Mobile , Metro by T-Mobile , and Cricket Wireless.