Are Cricket Phones Unlocked? How to Unlock for Free?

The flexible monthly payment plans from mobile providers have allowed customers to own their favorite devices without a sweat. However, a question often asked before someone buys a phone from a carrier is whether it comes unlocked.

So, are Cricket phones sold unlocked? The short answer is no. Please keep reading to learn more about Cricket phones, why you should unlock them, and the two recommended ways to unlock them.

If you are worried about being tied to the Cricket network for long, don't. Take advantage of their affordable plans and employ one of the methods we will discuss to unlock it immediately.

Are Cricket Phones Sold Unlocked?

No. Cricket phones are all network locked.

Like other carriers, Cricket Wireless sells all its phones locked, meaning you cannot use your phone on other wireless networks. However, Cricket will send you unlock code upon request if you have met all the unlocking requirements.

Why You Should Unlock Your Cricket Phone?

You have heard people talk about unlocking their SIM-locked phones, but have you ever wondered why? From network freedom to resale prices, here are six (6) reasons why you should unlock your Cricket phone.

• Freedom to switch service providers: The freedom to switch network carriers is probably the number one reason for unlocking a phone. You don't have to remain tied to one service provider when using an unlocked phone. Find a carrier offering better deals, pop in its SIM card, and you are good to go.
• Enjoy the dual SIM feature: Is your phone a dual SIM? If you like the double SIM feature, try using it on an unlocked phone. Instead of 2 SIM cards from the same carrier, you get to use 2 SIM cards from different network carriers at the same time!
• Software updates and customization: Most carrier-locked phones can only be updated by the carrier. With an unlocked phone, you don't have to wait for your network carrier to send software updates. Besides, you don't have to worry about that mod you plan to install breaching any contract.
• Zero roaming charges: another common reason for unlocking phones is international traveling. You can buy a SIM card from a local carrier, insert it into your unlocked phone, and avoid those outrageous roaming charges.
• No need for a second phone: Unlocking your phone will save you from getting a second phone to use with other service providers or when traveling abroad. Why buy a second phone when one unlocked phone can solve all your needs?
• Better resale value: Unlocked phones have better resale values and generally sell faster than locked ones. If you plan on selling your current phone before upgrading, you better unlock it. It will sell quicker, and you will recover much of its resale value.

How to Unlock Your Cricket Phone?

As mentioned before, unlocking your Cricket phone is the only way to gain the coveted network freedom and enjoy the benefits mentioned above. The good news is unlocking a carrier-locked phone has become an easy process that anyone can do.

After extensive research, here are the two most straightforward and commonly used methods of unlocking any Cricket phone.

#1. Using DirectUnlocks

Phone unlocking used to be a draining procedure that involved either going through a lengthy process with the carrier or using an expensive and complex software solution. Thanks to DirectUnlocks, it's now a simple procedure that only requires your phone's IMEI.

Using DirectUnlocks' Cricket unlocking service, you can unlock your phone from the comfort of your home with just a browser and an IMEI number. Complex software or carrier approval is no longer required to unlock a phone.

Features of DirectUnlocks

DirectUnlocks is currently the best phone unlocking service in the market, and here's why:

1. Zero eligibility requirements: DirectUnlocks does not impose eligibility requirements on its customers like service providers. You are free to unlock your phone anytime you want from anywhere in the world.
2. It’s permanent: DirectUnlocks is the only solution that will permanently unlock your device besides carrier unlocking. You can confidently reset your phone without fearing it getting locked again.
3. Compatible with all phone brands and models: While other unlocking tools and services are unlocking a range of devices, DirectUnlocks unlocks everything, whether Android or iOS.
4. Does not void warranties: DirectUnlocks uses IMEI unlocking, which is a pretty safe method of unlocking phones. Since it does not modify any setting on your phone, your warranty will remain untouched!
5. Compatible with all network carriers: Carriers unlock only their devices, while some unlocking programs and services only support the big names. DirectUnlocks, on the other hand, supports all carriers. Cricket is just one of them.
6. No technical knowledge required: With DirectUnlocks, you only need a browser and an internet connection—no need for downloads and complex installations.
7. Fastest unlocking time: DirectUnlocks's turnaround time is one of the best in the industry. Your iPhone will be unlocked within 24hrs, and Android in less than 6hrs.
8. No Cricket account required: DirectUnlocks enables you to unlock your Cricket phone without account.

How to Unlock Your Cricket Phone Using DirectUnlocks

We did not lie when we said that DirectUnlocks simplified the phone unlocking process. Do you want to unlock your phone within 24hrs? Fill out the form below.

Enter Your IMEI to Unlock

Step 1: Launch the phone app and dial *#06# to obtain your phone’s IMEI number.

Step 2: Fill out the form, then click the "Unlock Your Cricket Phone" button

Step 3: Pay the unlocking fee. DirectUnlocks will begin processing your order immediately.

Step 4: Wait for an email confirmation. DirectUnlocks will notify you once your phone has been unlocked. Apple devices are unlocked remotely, while network unlock codes will be provided for Android devices.

#2. Via Cricket Wireless

The second most commonly used method of unlocking any phone is through the carrier. In this case, through Cricket Wireless. However, there are eligibility requirements that you must meet before you can successfully use this method. Below are Cricket's unlock policy.

Cricket’s General Device Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a free SIM unlock, your device must meet the following:

1. It was purchased from Cricket Wireless
2. It's been operating on the Crickets network for not less than six (6) months
3. Associated Cricket account must be in good standing
4. It has not been reported as lost, stolen or involved in fraud.

Requirements for Deploying Military Personnel

If you are deploying to areas outside Cricket's coverage, your unlock request will be considered even if you still need to meet the six (6) months service period. However, you must meet all other requirements and present proof of deployment.

You can email or fax your deployment documents plus your full name, date of birth, phone to militaryunlock@cricketwireless.com or fax to 770-360-4979

How to Unlock Your Phone Through Cricket Wireless

If you're eligible, here is how you can get a Cricket network unlock code for free:

Method 1. Through My Account

Step 1: Sign in to your Cricket account.

Step 2: Navigate to Account Settings, then select Get Code

Step 3: Scroll down and locate the phone number you wish to unlock

Step 4: Select Request Unlock

Step 5: For Android phones, the unlock code will be displayed on the screen as well as sent to your phone via text message. For iPhone users, the unlock code will be sent to your iPhone via text message the next business day. 

After receiving the unlock code, you can unlock your device using the following steps:

For iPhones

Step 1: Remove your Cricket SIM card

Step 2: Insert your new SIM card and wait for your iPhone to activate it

All other phones

Step 1: Switch off your phone.

Step 2: Remove your Cricket SIM card and insert the new SIM card you wish to use.

Step 3: Switch on your phone.

Step 4: Follow the instructions on the screen, then enter the unlock code.

Step 5: Restart the phone to complete the process.

Method 2. Using myCricket App

If you tried to obtain an unlock code from My Account but received an error, it means your Android phone can only be unlocked using myCricket App. To get the unlock code in this case;

Step 1: Open your app drawer and launch myCricket app.

Step 2: Sign out if you were signed in.

Step 3: Tap Unlock Device on the sign-in screen.

Step 4: Tap Unlock at the bottom of the screen.

Step 5: Wait for the phone to be unlocked, then restart to complete the process.

Conclusion

Are Cricket phones sold unlocked? No. However, it does not mean you must remain on the Cricket network for six (6) months if you don't want to. You can use the two methods we have discussed to unlock your Cricket phone, allowing you to switch to another mobile provider.

If Cricket's 6-month service is why you have not purchased that phone, go for it. You can use DirectUnlocks to unlock it as soon as you leave the store. That's how good DirectUnlocks is!