Best New Customer Phone Deals: Top First-Time Buyer Specials in 2025

First-time buyers looking for a new phone in 2025 have numerous options to choose from, with carriers and retailers offering exclusive promotions. These deals often include discounted or free devices, trade-in bonuses, and waived activation fees. Major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile provide competitive incentives, while retailers like Best Buy and Amazon offer unlocked phones at reduced prices. Understanding the terms and conditions of these promotions is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.
Top Carrier Deals for First-Time Buyers
Carriers frequently offer the most attractive deals for new customers, bundling device discounts with service plans. Below are some of the best carrier promotions available in March 2025.
AT&T New Customer Promotions
AT&T provides several incentives for first-time buyers, including discounts on the latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices. New customers can save up to $800 on select smartphones with eligible trade-ins and unlimited plans. Additionally, AT&T waives activation fees for online orders, further reducing upfront costs.
Verizon First-Time Buyer Offers
Verizon’s new customer deals include up to $1,000 off flagship phones like the iPhone 15 and Samsung Galaxy S24 when trading in an older device. Verizon also offers a free 5G smartphone with select unlimited plans, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers.
T-Mobile’s New Customer Specials
T-Mobile stands out with its no-contract policies and aggressive trade-in offers. New customers can get up to $1,000 off premium devices or a free mid-range phone with eligible trade-ins. T-Mobile also includes Netflix and Apple TV+ subscriptions with certain plans.
Retailer Deals for Unlocked Phones
For those preferring unlocked devices, retailers like Best Buy and Amazon offer competitive pricing without carrier restrictions.
Best Buy New Customer Discounts
Best Buy frequently discounts unlocked phones for first-time buyers, with savings of up to $300 on select models. The retailer also offers flexible financing options, allowing customers to pay in installments without carrier commitments.
Amazon Exclusive Phone Deals
Amazon provides exclusive discounts on unlocked smartphones, often bundled with accessories like cases and screen protectors. Prime members may receive additional savings, making Amazon a cost-effective choice for new buyers.
Comparison of Top First-Time Buyer Phone Deals
Provider | Deal | Eligibility | Savings |
---|---|---|---|
AT&T | $800 off with trade-in | New unlimited plan | $800 |
Verizon | $1,000 off with trade-in | Select unlimited plans | $1,000 |
T-Mobile | Free mid-range phone | Eligible trade-in | Up to $600 |
Best Buy | $300 off unlocked phones | None | $300 |
Amazon | Bundle discounts | Prime membership | Varies |
Key Considerations for First-Time Buyers
Before selecting a deal, first-time buyers should evaluate several factors to ensure they choose the best option for their needs.
- Contract Terms: Some carrier deals require long-term commitments, while others offer no-contract flexibility.
- Network Coverage: Verify that the carrier provides reliable service in your area.
- Hidden Fees: Activation fees, taxes, and other charges can add to the total cost.
- Trade-In Requirements: Ensure your old device meets the trade-in criteria for maximum savings.
By carefully assessing these factors, first-time buyers can take advantage of the best phone deals without unexpected drawbacks. For more information, visit the official websites of AT&T , Verizon , T-Mobile , Best Buy , and Amazon .