If you’re shopping for a used iPhone 7, buying an unlocked model is the first step to ensuring a phone can be activated on your carrier’s network. But for devices like the iPhone 7, there are actually multiple unlocked models that are specific to different regions, so you’ll need to identify these if you want to make sure a specific unlocked iPhone 7 will work with your carrier.
This post is part of our Unlocked iPhone Buyers Guide, which covers everything you need to know when buying an unlocked iPhone.
What is an unlocked iPhone?
An unlocked iPhone is one that is not restricted to a specific carrier network, has been paid in full, and is no longer being financed. Oftentimes these are sold as “SIM-free” models directly from Apple, although you’ll need to look at the specific model number to make sure it’s compatible with your network.
The unlocked iPhone 7 comes in two models for US carriers: A1660 and A1778. Which unlocked iPhone 7 should I buy for my carrier network? Sit back as we discuss the model differences, carrier compatibility, and help you choose the right iPhone 7 for Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint or your favorite MVNO.
iPhone 7 model A1660
The A1660 is the GSM+CDMA model and works on pretty much any carrier, including Verizon and Sprint. A1660 models have CDMA support which Verizon and Sprint use for 2G and 3G connectivity. The A1660 is sold by Apple as the SIM-free model and is typically used by Apple for replacement devices.
iPhone 7 model A1778
The A1778 is the GSM-only version, sold as the carrier model for AT&T and T-Mobile, and won’t work fully with CDMA networks. The A1778 will not support Verizon’s CDMA network — which may not be a huge problem seeing as how Verizon is retiring their CDMA network at the beginning of 2021 — but if you want a phone that fully supports all four carriers, you’ll want to look at A1660 model.
A1660  | A1778  |
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Buy Unlocked iPhone 7
Whichever unlocked iPhone you choose, Swappa makes buying a gently used iPhone safe and easy. Our strict “no junk” policy makes it easy to find an unlocked iPhone that’s ready for activation on the carrier of your choosing.
Swappa makes buying even easier with Buy Now, Pay Later. Get the tech you want today, and pay for it in 4 easy installments spread over time. So what are you waiting for? Use the Swappa widget below to shop the best deals on an unlocked iPhone 7 today.
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