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I was looking through some Pixels on Amazon and the sellers indicate when a phone is "unlocked" but they don't specify if it's carrier unlocked or factory unlocked. I've even found reviews from unhappy customers who said that the phone they received is not oem unlockable even though the listing said factory unlocked.

On the other hand, when I look in eBay, there are sellers with 99.3% positive ratings who are very specific in their listing indicating that their phones are "oem unlockable for developers".

Is there any advantage in buying from Amazon instead of from eBay? Any other input is welcome. Thanks in advance

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[-] Neptr@lemmy.blahaj.zone 7 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago)

I recommend Swappa.com because you get better quality assurance, 30 day money back, and there is basically zero chance it has its IMEI blacklisted (some sellers on eBay and Amazon may sell stolen phones).

[-] TurtleTourParty@midwest.social 1 points 3 days ago

I've bought my last 3 phones on swappa. I did have to send one back because it was the Verzion version and not bootloader unlockable (even though it said unlocked) and wouldn't take my SIM.

[-] unwillingsomnambulist@midwest.social 4 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago)

I’ve used swappa before, had good luck with them and would definitely recommend. OP should also check out backmarket.com as they have a dedicated section for Pixels.

[-] unicornBro@sh.itjust.works 1 points 4 days ago

Okay thanks, I see also that by default when they list 'unlocked', they mean factory unlocked

this post was submitted on 11 Jan 2026
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