Tutorial to Change Samsung Galaxy M14 4G IMEI without Root A Comprehensive Guide

Tutorial to Change Samsung Galaxy M14 4G IMEI without Root: A Comprehensive Guide

As an Android device user, you may have come across a situation where you need to change your device IMEI number. The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device, such as smartphones and tablets. This number serves as an identifier, helping to distinguish your device from millions of others. One of the main reasons people want to change their Android IMEI number is to unblock a device that has been blacklisted by their network provider. Other reasons include accessing certain network features and services or maintaining anonymity.

Changing your Android IMEI without root access may seem like a daunting task, but this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Before proceeding, please note that altering your device’s IMEI number can be illegal in some countries, and may void your warranty. Proceed with caution and at your own risk. Get to know how to change IMEI number now!

Part 1: What is IMEI and Why People Change The IMEI Number

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique identifier for every mobile device. It allows network providers and manufacturers to track and block devices if they are reported as lost or stolen. Changing your device’s IMEI can help to unblock a blacklisted device, access certain network features and services, or maintain anonymity. However, be aware that altering your IMEI number is illegal in some countries and may void your warranty.

There are several uses of the IMEI number

As the use of mobile devices increases, the statistics of stolen and lost devices have been increasing as well. Users can block stolen or lost devices for further usage if they know their IMEI number. All users need to call their network carrier and report that the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device is stolen or lost. The carrier can block the specific device from running on their network and notify other carriers.
The 15-digit IMEI number indicates the origin and model of the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device. The first eight digits indicate the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s origin and its model while the last six digits identify the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s manufacturer.
If you subscribe to a mobile tracking service, you can use the IMEI number to track the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device—even if it uses a different SIM card.

Pros and Cons of Changing Android IMEI

Like many other things out there, changing Android IMEI has both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of them:

Advantages

Make your Android untraceable. By constantly changing your IMEI, you will throw off the tracks of people using it to stalk you!
Fix any invalid IMEI-related issues such as lost or invalid IMEI numbers. Once you change your IMEI, your Android device with the same benefits and features.
Obtaining a completely new device ID.
Changing the IMEI number to one that indicates it is a newer model, you will be able to enjoy new OS updates by resetting, repairing, and updating your Android device.
Have you ever yearned for that cheap BlackBerry plan your network carrier keeps on promoting? The 15-digit IMEI indicates the origin and model of your device. Therefore, by changing your Android’s IMEI number to that of a BlackBerry’s, you will be able to subscribe to a cheaper mobile plan.

Disadvantages

Before we begin, we need to make it clear that the process of changing IMEI without root can be illegal in some countries. We advise you to check the laws and regulations in your country before attempting to change your device’s IMEI number. As far as we know, it is legal in Africa and Asia, and illegal in Europe.
The IMEI number is hardcoded into your device. Therefore, changing your device’s IMEI number may void your device warranty and cause other issues such as network problems and software instability.
Legally, you have forfeited your ownership of your mobile device. When you purchase your device, the seller will jot down the original IMEI number on your receipt. So if you changed your IMEI and lost it, you may not be able to claim it. This is because authorities cannot see if it is truly yours. After all, the IMEI numbers no longer correlate with each other.

Part 2: How to Find the IMEI on an Android? (5 Ways)

It is essential to know your Android device’s IMEI for various reasons, such as registering the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device, reporting it as stolen or lost, checking warranty status, or verifying its authenticity. In this part, we will walk you through the various methods on how to find the IMEI on your Android device.

Method 1: Locate IMEI through the Settings App

One of the easiest ways to find the IMEI number on your Android device is through the Settings app. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “About phone” or “About device”.
Step 3: Tap on “Status” or “IMEI information”.
Step 4: You will see your IMEI number displayed on the screen. Note this down or take a screenshot for reference.

Method 2: Use the Dialer App

Another quick method to find the IMEI number is by using the dialer app on your Android smartphone. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open the “Phone” app or “Dialer” app on your Android device.
Step 2: Dial *#06# on the keypad.
Step 3: The IMEI number will be displayed on the screen. Note it down or take a screenshot for reference.

Method 3: Check the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device Packaging or Receipt

If you still have the original packaging or receipt for your Android device, you may find the IMEI number printed on it. Look for a label or sticker on the box that contains the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s details, including the IMEI number.

Method 4: Find IMEI on a Removable Battery (for older devices)

For older Android devices with removable batteries, you can find the IMEI number printed on a sticker underneath the battery. To locate it, follow these steps:

Step 1: Power off your Android device.
Step 2: Remove the back cover and take out the battery.
Step 3: Look for a sticker or printed text with the IMEI number.
Step 4: Note it down or take a photo for reference.

Method 5: Check the SIM Card Tray

Some Android devices have the IMEI number printed on the SIM card tray. To check if your device has this feature:

Step 1: Power off your Android device.
Step 2: Use the SIM card removal tool (or a paperclip) to eject the SIM card tray.
Step 3: Look for the IMEI number printed on the tray.
Step 4: Note it down or take a photo for reference.

Part 3: Does IMEI Change With SIM Card?

No, swapping or changing the SIM card does not alter the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). The IMEI persists unchanged throughout the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s lifetime, functioning as a distinctive identifier solely for that particular device.

The IMEI is a 15-digit code assigned to each mobile device. It’s separate from the SIM card, which stores information related to the subscriber and the carrier network. The SIM card contains data specific to the subscriber. This includes contacts, text messages, and network-related information. But it does not alter or affect the IMEI of the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device.

The IMEI remains the same even if you change SIM cards or switch between different carriers. It’s essentially a static identifier tied to the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s hardware. It is used by mobile networks and authorities to identify and track devices on the network.

Part 4: Does IMEI Change After Factory Reset?

No, performing a factory reset on your mobile device does not change its IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). The IMEI is a unique identifier assigned to the hardware of the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device. It remains constant throughout the life of the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device, irrespective of any software changes or resets.

A factory reset wipes the data and settings on your device, returning it to its original factory state. This process erases user-installed apps, personal data, and settings. But it doesn’t affect the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s hardware identification, including the IMEI.

The IMEI is embedded into the hardware of the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device. It is typically printed on the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s packaging or can be found by dialing *#06# on the phone’s keypad. It’s a crucial identifier for mobile networks, and authorities use it to uniquely identify and track devices across networks. It remains unchanged even after a factory reset.

Part 5: Requirements for Changing Android IMEI without Root

Before you begin the process of changing your Android IMEI without root, there are a few things you will need:

A compatible Android device: The methods detailed in this guide are specifically for MediaTek (MTK) devices. Ensure that your device has a MediaTek chipset before proceeding..
A new IMEI number: You’ll need a valid IMEI number to replace the current one on your device. You can either generate one using an IMEI generator tool or use the IMEI number of an old, unused device..
A stable internet connection: Some of the methods require you to download apps and modules, so make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Back up your Android phone: Before making any changes to your device, it is always recommended to backup your data. This will help you to avoid any data loss in case anything goes wrong during the process. You can back up your device data using Google Backup or a local backup software like Wondershare Dr.Fone .

Wondershare Dr.Fone is a tool that helps you keep your important data safe. It can back up all the important information on your Android phone or tablet, like photos, music, videos, contacts, and more and is compatible with over 8000 Android devices. The backup process is easy and only takes a few clicks. You can also restore your backup to any device you want, and choose which data you want to restore. This is a great way to make sure you never lose your important information!

Part 6: How to Change Android IMEI Number without Root?

There are several methods to change your Android IMEI without root access. This tutorial will cover three popular methods: using MobileUncle Tools, Xposed Installer and IMEI Changer Pro, and MTK Engineering Mode.

1. Using Xposed Installer and IMEI Changer Pro

This IMEI changer Android app is built to allow a user to change the series of numbers that make up their devices’ IMEI identification. Randomized IMEI numbers will be generated every time the app is used. However, users can type in a new IMEI number in the text field if they have a specific number in mind. This no-ads app is really simple to use–to complete the change, a user will only need to click the “Apply” button and restart their devices. Its interface is also simple enough for easy navigation.

This method involves using the Xposed Installer app to install the IMEI Changer Pro module. Follow the steps below:

Step 1: Download and install the Xposed Installer app from a trusted source.
Step 2: Open the app and go to the “Framework” section. Tap on “Install/Update” to install the Xposed Framework on your device. Reboot your device once the installation is complete.
Step 3: Download and install the IMEI Changer Pro app from a trusted source.
Step 4: Launch the Xposed Installer app again, and go to the “Modules” section. Enable the IMEI Changer Pro module by checking the box next to it.
Step 5: Reboot your device for the changes to take effect.
Step 6: Open the IMEI Changer Pro app and enter your new IMEI number in the provided field.
Step 7: Tap on the “Apply” button, and then restart your device. Your new IMEI number should now be active.

2. Using MobileUncle Tools

MobileUncle Tools is a simple Android application that can retrieve your Android device’s information, back up IMEI, change its IMEI, and search for its recovery files. It will also be able to assist you with any rebooting needs and many more!

Follow these steps to change your IMEI using MobileUncle Tools:

Step 1: Download the MobileUncle Tools app from a trusted source and install it on your device.
Step 2: Open the app and grant the necessary permissions.
Step 3: From the main menu, select “Engineer Mode”.
Step 4: In the Engineer Mode, select “MTK”.
Step 5: Scroll down and tap on “Connectivity”.
Step 6: Next, tap on “CDS Information”.
Step 7: Select “Radio Information”.
Step 8: You will see two options: Phone 1 and Phone 2. Choose the one corresponding to the SIM slot for which you want to change the IMEI.
Step 9: In the input field, type “AT+EGMR=1,7,” followed by your new IMEI number within double quotes. For example: AT+EGMR=1,7,”123456789012345”.
Step 10: Tap on the “Send AT Command” button. You should see a message confirming that the command has been sent successfully.
Step 11: Restart your device. The new IMEI number should now be active.

3. Using MTK Engineering Mode

MTK Engineering Mode is another app designed for MediaTek devices that allows users to access hidden settings and options. It was specifically made for Taiwanese device manufacturers such as Tecno, Infinix, Elephone, Oppo, Chuwi, etc. While not fully recommended, reports have been that it works with Android devices made by non-Taiwanese manufacturers. Its clean interface makes navigating the app seamlessly.

Follow these steps to change your IMEI using MTK Engineering Mode:

Step 1: Download and install the MTK Engineering Mode app from a trusted source.
Step 2: Launch the app and select “MTK Settings”.
Step 3: Scroll down and tap on “Connectivity”.
Step 4: Next, tap on “CDS Information”.
Step 5: Select “Radio Information”.
Step 6: Choose either Phone 1 or Phone 2, depending on the SIM slot for which you want to change the IMEI.
Step 7: Enter the following command in the input field: AT+EGMR=1,7,”Your_New_IMEI_Number”.
Step 8: Tap on the “Send AT Command” button. A confirmation message should appear.
Step 9: Restart your device, and the new IMEI number should be active.

Part 7: How to Fix Software Errors Without Changing IMEI Number?

If the reason you are looking for IMEI number change is constant software errors, better ways exist. One of the best choices to resolve software errors on Android devices is to use Wondershare Dr.Fone . It stands as the world’s first one-click Android repair tool. Dr.Fone offers an effective solution to address a range of Android system issues.

Its functionality restores the Android system to its normal state. All of this happens without needing any specialized skills. Dr.Fone ensures a hassle-free repair process.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone has a high success rate in resolving Android issues.
This tool supports a wide array of mainstream Android models, including the latest Samsung devices.
It has cemented its versatility and reliability in system repair for Android devices.

Steps to Repair Software Errors Without Changing IMEI Number via Dr.Fone

Here is how to repair all sorts of Android software issues using Dr.Fone. Follow the steps properly to repair all sorts of software errors in your Android device without changing the IMEI number:

Step 1: Navigate to Toolbox in Dr.Fone

Launch the Wondershare Dr.Fone software on your computer and navigate to the “Toolbox” section in the left panel. Connect the Android device requiring repair, then choose “System Repair” from the provided options. Proceed to the next screen, where you’ll select “Android” to start the repair process.

Step 2: Enter Your Samsung Galaxy M14 4G Device’s Details

You’ll proceed to a new screen, where clicking “Start” initiates the repair process. As you move to the next window, the platform will identify the “Brand” of the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device. Then, choose the “Name”, “Model”, “Country”, and “Carrier”. If your device is already unlocked, select “OPEN” in the Carrier section. Afterward, mark the checkbox indicating agreement with the warning and readiness to proceed and Click “Next”.

Step 3: Put Your Samsung Galaxy M14 4G Device into Download Mode

When prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to enter Download Mode on your Android device. The platform will automatically commence downloading the firmware, displaying its details for verification. Opt for “Fix Now” to initiate firmware installation on your Android device.

Step 4: Complete the Android Repair Process

Remember, this repair process may result in the erasure of all data. Confirm and proceed by typing in “000000.” The system repair progress can be tracked via the progress bar on the screen. Once completed, a prompt window will confirm the process’s success. If your Android device restarts correctly, click “Done” to close the tool.

Conclusion

By using the Android IMEI changer, you will neither lose your data nor need to root your device in your pursuit of changing your device’s IMEI number. However, do remember that every situation is different, and there will come a time when you need to root your device before changing your Android’s IMEI number. We advise you to use this tutorial only for legal purposes and to check the laws and regulations in your country before attempting to change your device’s IMEI number.

You will also need the IMEI number if you want to unlock your phone and use it on another carrier provider. There are a lot of SIM Unlock services out there. It is important to choose a trustworthy and workable service to unlock your phone.

Easily Unlock Your Samsung Galaxy M14 4G Device SIM

Is your Android phone SIM locked? Having an unlocked device can have its benefits but most of the time most people don’t even know whether their device is SIM locked or not. In this article we are going to address this issue. We are going to begin by helping you find out whether your phone is locked or not and if it is, how you can sim unlock the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device and enjoy the benefits of an unlocked phone.

Part 1: How to Know if your Android is SIM Locked

It is important to note that not all phones are SIM locked. You can find out if yours is by checking the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device’s documentation. If you see the words “unlocked” on the initial receipt then you know that the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device is not SIM locked.

Another easy way to find out is to ask your carrier if the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device is locked on to their network. You can also just try inserting another carrier’s SIM into your device. If it doesn’t work, you will know that the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device is SIM locked.

If you bought your device from a third party re-seller such as Amazon you are more likely to be in possession of an unlocked device.

Part 2: How to SIM Unlock your Android Device

If you find that your SIM is locked, here’s a few things you can do to unlock the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device.

Avoid all of the apps on the Google Play Store that promise to unlock your device, most of them don’t work and may even harbour a lot of Trojans and malware that will cause further problems for you and your device.

There are safe and very legal ways to unlock your device. Just try one of the following.

Ask your Carrier to Unlock your Device

This is the best option when you want to safely unlock your device. By February 2015, American cell phone owners got the option to request their carriers to unlock their device for them. Before that the law didn’t allow for carriers to unlock SIM cards in the United States. This unpopular law was reversed following a similar move by the European Union in 2013. The same law also requires that the carriers inform customers every month whether their device is eligible for unlocking.

If your device is eligible for unlocking, all you need to do is contact the carrier provide and request for the sim network unlock pin . But if your Smartphone was bought on a contract, you may need to pay a termination fee to break the contract of you want to unlock the Samsung Galaxy M14 4G device before the contact term expires. For Smartphones that are not on contract, you have to wait 12 months from the date of purchase and ensure that your bill is paid before the carrier can give you the unlock code.

How to Unlock your Android Phone

To begin with, you need to confirm your IMEI number. Dial *#06# on your device and the IMEI number will appear on the screen. Copy this number to a secure location or wrote it down somewhere.

The next step is to find a reputable service that will unlock your Android device for you. This is action you should take only if you are absolutely desperate and your carrier can’t unlock your device for you. This is because many of these sites are unregulated and many of them are not reliable.

You should also know that many of them will charge a certain amount for your service. You can try https://www.safeunlockcode.com/ which is one of the more reputable ones we have found.

You will need to enter the IMEI number as part of the information you need to provide before they can unlock your device.

Part 3: Troubleshooting Android SIM Unlock

There are lots of issues you may face when you try to unlock your device. The following are just some of the troubleshooting actions you can take if you encounter these problems.

Unlocking Code Fails to work

If you asked your carrier to unlock your device for you, chances are that they sent you a code. If the unlocking code fails to work double check that the IMEI number you used is the correct one and ensure that you purchased that device from that carrier and then try again.

Samsung Device Freezes during unlocking

If your device freezes during the unlocking process it typically means that you entered wrong unlocking code too many times. In this case you need to contact the carrier for a Master Code.

My LG device won’t unlock

There are some LG models that cannot be unlocked. These models include LG U300, LG U310, LG U8180, LG U8330, LG U8120, LG U8360, LG U8380, LGU880, and LG U890. If your device is one of these it can’t be unlocked by your carrier. You may need to look into other ways of unlocking your device.

Android Unlock Code: Sim Unlock Your Samsung Galaxy M14 4G Phone and Remove Locked Screen

When you buy a phone, your matter of concern is whether to buy a locked phone or an unlocked Phone. Locked phones may look much safer to you, but they are very inconvenient when it comes to normal use. These phones are bound to one carrier only, which is their biggest disadvantage. At the same time, unlocked phones save you from this hassle.

If you’ve bought a locked phone and facing problems, you need not worry as there are multiple ways to unlock your phone. For that, this article has provided the solution to your issue in the most intelligible way.

Part 1: Difference between Unlocking, Rooting, and Jailbreaking

This part of the article shall differ from three very similar terms, Unlocking, Rooting, and Jailbreaking, to clear your confusion.

Unlocking

Unlocking a phone means making it compatible with other SIM carriers. An unlocked phone is not pinned to a single SIM carrier; rather, it lets you switch carriers. SIM Card lets your phone connect to a specific network, but it depends on your phone’s hardware compatibility. If it’s not compatible with a specific network, then nothing can change that.

To unlock your phone, you have to enter a specific code to remove the restrictions of the network. However, there are ways to unlock your phone without granting permission from the network.

Rooting (for Android)

Rooting a phone means gaining “root access” on another phone. This process works for Android only. However, it can also be used on some specific Linux-based devices. Root access allows you to do almost everything on the phone you’ve gained access to, like installing or uninstalling applications or changing the settings.

Root access is not all fun, and games as this process will lead you to the security architect of your operating system, which will be hard to deal with even if you’re a professional. So, it’s important to be careful with this process, else you will have to bear the consequences.

Jailbreaking (for iOS)

Jailbreaking a device means removing all the restrictions on that device that its manufacturer’s applied. This process works specifically for Apple devices. It lets you bypass the limitations and restrictions, so you can modify the software your way and make changes to the default program. It is also considered free booting, and Apple or any other company does not approve of it.

In summary, unlocking is primarily about freeing a device from carrier restrictions, rooting is specific to Android devices and involves gaining administrative access, while jailbreaking is specific to iOS devices and involves bypassing Apple’s restrictions for more customization. All these processes come with potential risks and may void warranties, so users should carefully consider the implications before proceeding.

It is advisable to always go for the safest method, unlocking your phone. Rooting and Jailbreaking are risky security exploitations that can cause serious problems.

Part 2: Is it Legally Allowed to Unlock Your Samsung Galaxy M14 4G?

Every country has its own rules and regulations. Similarly, laws regarding unlocking your phones are different in different countries. However, after sessions of deliberations and consultations, the US has declared it legal to unlock your phone.

In order to legally unlock your phone, you must make sure your phone service contracts, payments, and dues are cleared. You must be the sole owner of your phone. Once your phone is eligible and falls under the requirements, you will be given an “Unlock Code” to proceed further.

Part 3: Free Ways to Perform Android SIM Efficiently

This part of the article will briefly explain some efficient and free-of-cost ways to unlock your SIM.

Method 1. Unlock your SIM through GalaxSim Unlock

GalaxSim is an effective application for unlocking your SIM. Its user-friendly interface is designed in such a way that every other person can use it even if you have no knowledge of tech. It automatically backs up data on Google Drive, and if there are errors, it detects them right away.

Here is a small step-by-step guide to using GalaxSim on Android, as it is only compatible with Galaxy series phones.

Step 1. Launch GalaxSim

The first and foremost step is to install GalaxSim from Google Play Store on your Android device.

Step 2. Phone Status

Once GalaxSim is downloaded, open the application and allow it to run on your device. Now, it will show you whether your phone and its systems are locked or unlocked.

Step 3. Unlock your Phone

Under your phone’s status, click on “Unlock” to continue. After the process is completed, your phone will be unlocked successfully.

Method 2. Unlock SIM through Free Code

FreeUnlocks is the most trusted phone unlocking website on the Internet. It is completely safe as the code is given to you safely and sounds on you on your email only. It is compatible with all phones as it is available online and free of all malicious software.

The following are the steps to use FreeUnlocks to get your free code.

Step 1. Confirm your Device

Choose your device name and device model first. Then click on “Unlock Now” to start the process.

Step 2. TrialPay for Free Code

Now you’ll be given two options on the screen, “PayPal” or “TrialPay”. If you want to do it free of cost, select “TrialPay” to proceed to unlock your device. However, it depends on your personal preference; you can select “PayPal” if you want to enjoy more features.

Step 3. Remote Email

You’ll receive an email immediately, and all you have to do is, enter the unlock code, and there you have it, your SIM unlocked.

Bonus Tips: How to Unlock Android Screen Precisely with Dr.Fone Screen Unlock?

Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) has yet, another time, taken the lead in this matter too. This convenient multifunctional software is a go-to software for everyone who has knowledge of tech as it provides solutions for your software and hardware problems under one roof. While it may seem like big trouble on your end, it’s just a matter of a few minutes for Dr.Fone to fix your issue.

safe & secure

Wondershare Dr.Fone is the best solution to unlock your Android device as it

Removes all kinds of locks, be it fingerprint, password, unlock code or pattern, and PIN.
Bypass Android FRP lock without a PIN or Google account.
Compatible with almost all Android devices.
A completely safe tool. No risk of hacking or virus attack.
Very convenient and easy-to-use software for amateurs and professionals as well.

Moreover, Samsung and LG devices can be unlocked using Dr.Fone without losing any data, whereas this is not the case with other phones. In order to unlock the Android screen precisely with Dr.Fone Screen Unlock, you have to follow the given steps:

Step 1: Install Wondershare Dr.Fone

Install Wondershare Dr.Fone on your PC and connect your Android device to your PC via cable.

Step 2: Unlock your Android Phone

Select “Screen Unlock” on the home interface among the other given options. Once your PC detects your phone, another interface will be displayed on the screen. Now, select “Unlock Android Screen”.

Step 3: Confirm your Device

Now, select your Device to proceed on. Dr.Fone will guide your Android device into the specific mode automatically.

Step 4: Remove Password

Once your device model matches and your device enters the specific mode, the software will automatically start unlocking. This way, your password will be removed successfully, and you can easily unlock and access your Android device.

Part 5: Tip to Avoid the SIM Lock Issue

In order to avoid the SIM Lock issue, it is advisable to use unlocked phones. This will save you from long-term hassle as you will have the freedom to switch carriers and SIM cards whenever you like. On the other hand, if we talk about locked phones, they’re expensive and a headache to deal with because of the requirements and problems they come with.

If you’re concerned about a dual-SIM phone, then you can have one SIM pinned to a good quality carrier. The other SIM can be temporary and cheap. This is an amazing option for you if you’re traveling, as you’ll have the flexibility to change carriers for the temporary SIM no matter wherever you are.

Conclusion

As a crux, an unlocked phone is a better choice than a locked phone. We would personally advise you to go for unlocked phones as this will save your time and money. You will have much more freedom and flexibility for changing between SIM and SIM carriers. Whereas on the locked phones, you will be bound to one SIM. So, the next time you decide to buy a phone, give this article a read again.