Virgin Mobile Prepaid Slider Cell Phones & Smartphones

Network Unlocked Phones Vs. Locked Phones

Mobile phones have become an essential accessory in modern society, and almost everyone has one, with a lot of people spending hours per day on their phone. Modern mobile phones can do an incredible range of things, including things like music streaming, wireless internet connectivity, and high-speed data connectivity on mobile networks. If you are looking at a new prepaid phone, then you need to think about the merits of a network locked device versus an unlocked one. 

What Are the Benefits of a Network Locked Phone? 

A lot of modern cell phones are locked to a carrier like Virgin mobile, especially if they are prepaid. Although this may seem like a bad thing to begin with, it does have some benefits, including: 

• They can be cheaper - Phones locked to a mobile network carrier like Virgin Mobile are often cheaper than the equivalent in an unlocked phone. Wireless telecom companies may market them at special prices to attract you to them and to get your business. 
• They are simple - Prepaid, network locked phones are very simple. All you need to do is load some credit on and get started. You don't have to worry about choosing a carrier or choosing a plan. This can make them easier for older people or for those who aren't technologically inclined. 
• You may get support from the carrier - If you have a phone that is locked to a certain company, then you might find that you get some form of technological support from the company if you run into problems. 

What Are the Benefits of an Unlocked Phone? 

Although network locked phones with prepaid credit are popular, a lot of people go with unlocked phones. They have a completely different set of benefits, including: 

• You won't be locked to one carrier - If you have an unlocked phone, you will be free to switch and change between networks as often as you like. 
• They are great for travelling - If you have an unlocked phone, you will find that they are extremely useful when it comes to visiting different countries. You can simply get a new SIM card in the country you visit, put it in your phone, and use it. This isn't usually possible with a network locked phone. 
• You will have the freedom to choose a monthly plan or a prepaid plan - If you have an unlocked phone you have complete control over what you do with it. You can choose a plan that meets your needs, or you can chuck it in a drawer somewhere and forget about it if you want to. 

Content provided for informational purposes only. eBay is not affiliated with or endorsed by Virgin Mobile.