Buying a cheap iPhone 8 Plus is a great way to save money. And buying an unlocked iPhone 8 Plus helps ensure your phone will work with your carrier’s network — but there’s a bit more to it than that. Since there are several “unlocked” variants you’ll likely come across, you’ll need to identify the specific model number to make sure the unlocked iPhone 8 Plus you’re looking at is fully compatible with your carrier.
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. Often times 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.
When it comes to the factory unlocked iPhone 8 Plus, there are two models you’ll want to identify: the US model, and the global/international model. In this post, we’re taking a look at the A1864 and A1897 to help you choose the right iPhone 8 Plus for Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, or your favorite MVNO.
For more on the iPhone 8 Plus, make sure to check out Swappa’s comprehensive Buyer’s Guide. And if you’re looking for another unlocked iPhone model, check out our Unlocked iPhone Buyers Guide.
iPhone 8 Plus model A1864
The iPhone 8 Plus model A1864 is the US model that works on virtually any US carrier’s 4G LTE network, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint. In addition to GSM support, the A1864 model is the only unlocked iPhone 8 Plus that supports CDMA, something Verizon uses for their 2G and 3G networks. A1864 is also the version that’s sold by Apple as the “SIM-free” model (as well as the model that was sold in Verizon and Sprint stores) and is typically used by Apple for replacement devices.
iPhone 8 Plus model A1897
Meanwhile, the A1897 is the GSM-only version, sold as both the “global” model, and AT&T and T-Mobile carrier versions. While A1897 does not fully support CDMA networks, it may have little impact on Verizon, as the carrier looks to retire their CDMA network early next year as they fully transition to 4G LTE and 5G.
| A1864 🇺🇸 | A1897 🌎 |
|---|---|
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Buy Unlocked iPhone 8 Plus
Swappa makes buying an unlocked iPhone safe and easy. Whichever unlocked iPhone you choose, you’ll always find the lowest prices at Swappa. 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. Use the Swappa widget below and start shopping the best deals on an unlocked iPhone 8 Plus today.
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