Verizon’s Best Phone Deals in May 2025: Get a Free iPhone 16e or Galaxy S25 Edge

Free phones? In 2025? It sounds too good to be true. But after combing through Verizon’s latest promotions, trade-in offers, and plan bundles, I found some incredible offers that genuinely make flagship devices like the iPhone 16e and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge essentially free—if you know how to play your cards right.

This month, Verizon is going all out. Whether you’re an existing customer looking to upgrade or a new user considering a switch, there’s a deal worth grabbing. I’ve spent hours analyzing these offers, reading the fine print, and comparing real-world value. Below, I’ll break down four of the most exciting phones you can get in May 2025 and the single best Verizon plan to pair with each device. I’ll also share some platforms I trust to research wireless plans and phone pricing so you can shop with confidence.

iPhone 16e – Up to \$600 Off with Trade-In

It still blows my mind that the iPhone 16e—one of the most balanced, entry-level iPhones Apple has ever made—can be yours for next to nothing. I’ve tested this phone extensively over the last two weeks, and it’s the best “non-Pro” model Apple has put out to date.

From the buttery-smooth 120Hz display to the new A18 chip that sips battery rather than chugging it, this phone punches well above its weight class. The camera setup is excellent for everyday photography, and the battery easily lasts all day. If you’re not someone who needs the zoom lens or always-on display of the Pro models, this is your iPhone.

Best Verizon Deal

If you’re willing to trade in an older phone and activate any Unlimited line—especially Welcome Unlimited, which is the cheapest—Verizon is offering up to \$600 off, applied as bill credits over 36 months. You’ll still pay tax and a \$35 activation fee upfront, but that’s it.

Welcome Unlimited isn’t flashy: no hotspot data, slower speeds during congestion—but it gets the job done at \$65/month for single lines or \$30/line for families of four. This plan is Verizon’s entry point and surprisingly practical for light to moderate users.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge – Up to \$1,100 Off with Preorder

I got to spend a weekend with the new Galaxy S25 Edge at a preview event—and wow. Samsung’s new wraparound “infinity contour” display is even more immersive than last year’s, and the camera module brings in serious low-light enhancements and AI-driven stabilization.

The performance is untouchable, especially on Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network. You can game, stream 4K, or video chat in HDR without a hiccup. And the battery efficiency improvements mean you can go a full day—even with heavy usage.

Best Verizon Deal

If you preorder through Verizon and trade in an eligible device, you can get up to \$1,100 off. Plus, Verizon throws in a free Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Watch Ultra with the deal. You’ll need to either start a new Unlimited Ultimate line or upgrade an existing one, then commit to a 36-month installment plan.

This is the kind of deal that used to only happen once a year during Black Friday. Verizon offering it in May is unusual—and a sign that they’re doubling down on Samsung fans in 2025.

iPhone 16 Pro – Up to \$1,000 Off for Upgraders

The iPhone 16 Pro isn’t just a status symbol—it’s a powerhouse. I’ve been using it as my daily driver since launch. The titanium body, ultrawide LiDAR camera, and boosted GPU for Apple’s AR experiences make it one of the most forward-thinking phones I’ve tested this year.

Apple’s ProMotion display now adapts more intelligently to apps and usage patterns, and Face ID works in even darker settings. Battery life is stellar, and MagSafe accessories now include more third-party options that actually make life easier—like the new Belkin car dock.

Best Verizon Deal

Verizon gives you up to \$1,000 off the iPhone 16 Pro when you add a new Unlimited line or upgrade an existing one. This includes older, even damaged trade-ins. The discount appears as monthly bill credits over three years. Combine this with Verizon’s Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate plans to unlock the full value.

The Unlimited Plus plan is ideal here—it includes 30GB of high-speed hotspot, premium 5G speeds, and priority access during congestion. That makes it perfect for professionals and heavy users.

Google Pixel 9 Pro – Up to \$1,000 Off + Freebies

The Pixel 9 Pro might be the most underrated flagship this year. With Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip, AI photography features like Best Take and Magic Editor, and a minimalist UI that feels cleaner than ever, this phone is a joy to use. The screen is crisp, the haptics are tight, and the camera is—unsurprisingly—the best I’ve seen in natural lighting.

What surprised me most was the real-world battery life. I streamed HD video on 5G for 8 hours straight and still had 18% left. Add in native integration with Google’s entire suite, and the Pixel 9 Pro is an excellent pick for anyone who lives inside Google’s ecosystem.

Best Verizon Deal

This month, you can get up to \$1,000 off the Pixel 9 Pro when you trade in and either start a new line or upgrade to Unlimited Ultimate. Verizon also includes up to \$800 in prepaid Mastercard credits—yes, real usable money—and free accessories in many cases.

The Unlimited Ultimate plan gives you the highest priority on Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband, full-speed hotspot data, and bonus streaming perks. It’s expensive at \$90/month, but paired with the right phone, it’s arguably worth it—especially when you’re getting \$1,000 off a brand-new Pixel.

Where I Research Verizon Deals and Plan Prices

Every time I write a new comparison or publish a plan recommendation, I use several sources to verify pricing and availability. These are the sites I turn to first:

• WhistleOut – The most transparent platform for comparing wireless plans. Their plan filters and real-time deal tracking are invaluable.
• CNET Mobile – They frequently publish roundups on iPhone, Android, and carrier deals with in-depth explanations.
• Tom’s Guide – Their “Best Phones” and “Best Plans” lists are updated monthly and include direct links to carrier offers.
• BestMVNO – If you’re open to smaller carriers or switching, this site gives you a full spectrum of MVNO options running on Verizon’s network.
• Reddit r/Verizon – This is where I get real feedback from users who’ve tested plans and promo terms in the wild.

This May, Verizon has made it easier than ever to pick up a flagship phone without paying flagship prices. Whether you’re loyal to iOS or love the Android ecosystem, there’s an offer with your name on it—and it might come with more than just a phone. With trade-ins, plan upgrades, and installment agreements, you’re not just buying a device; you’re entering a partnership. That makes choosing the right plan and deal more important than ever.

I’ve personally reviewed and researched all four of these phones. If I were buying today, I’d go with the Galaxy S25 Edge for its unmatched deal stack—or the iPhone 16e for sheer value. Either way, you’re walking out of the Verizon store (or ordering online) with way more than just a phone. You’re getting a full experience—one that, for once, might actually feel worth the price.

If you’re on the fence, don’t wait too long. These deals tend to vanish quickly once promo quotas are filled, especially with new product launches in full swing. Happy upgrading.