The United States has In recent years, Chinese smartphone makers have been increasingly shut out with outright bans and punitive tariffs, not to mention Apple’s dominance. But the truth is that some of the best smartphones that you can’t buy officially in the United States are simply some of the best smartphones. If you want cutting-edge photography, exciting innovations, and top-notch gear that won’t break the bank, you can find it in China.
The problem is, getting your hands on a Chinese import can be tricky and surprisingly expensive. It’s doable, but is it worth the risk? Whether you’re jealously eyeing Honor’s latest AI-enabled phone, a photography-focused Oppo handset, or the unbeatable hardware of Xiaomi’s latest flagship, here’s what you need to think about before importing a smartphone from China.
Photography: Simon Hill
Chinese or international phone models
Some Chinese smartphones are only released in China, while others are released elsewhere, usually referred to as a global model. Buying a Chinese-only version is generally a bad idea for a variety of reasons:
- The software will be in Chinese, and even when English is supported, you may find untranslated settings and items in the operating system.
- The phone will come preloaded with Chinese apps and will use Chinese apps and services by default.
- Even though you can install Google services, some apps and services like Android Auto, Gemini, third-party banking apps, and other secure apps may not work.
- Some Chinese models won’t have the network bands you need for good mobile service, and you may need to whitelist your device from your service provider.
- Your warranty will be reduced (one year is the norm in China) and it will be difficult, if not impossible, to make a claim.
- Sometimes you need a Chinese number to register a manufacturer account on a Chinese phone, so you may miss some features.
Conversely, global versions are aimed at international markets, so they will likely feature Google services, broader language support, and more connectivity bands for mobile networks. Also, generally speaking, you should always check that you have chosen the right color, RAM and storage configuration you want before ordering.
Supported bands
Photography: Simon Hill
The specific technologies and bands that cellular networks rely on differ from country to country. Although global models are likely to work in the US, they may not support all the bands your carrier uses, as they are often tailored to the UK, Europe, or whatever other market they are officially sold in. It is not safe to assume that a global version will work well for you.
Lack of LTE or 5G bands can mean spotty service or even relegate you to 3G. Chinese and other country-specific models will not have common US bands and may not work at all on some carrier networks. Always check supported bands and cross-reference with your carrier. You can usually find this information listed or grouped on websites like Kimovil, but I recommend checking directly with the manufacturer and your carrier.
Customs fees
Various factors will impact whether you’ll end up with U.S. customs fees on a smartphone imported from China, including the overall value, whether the sender provided the correct documentation, and whether customs decides to audit the package. Smartphones were supposed to be exempt from tariffs imposed on Chinese imports to the United States, in part because all major U.S. phone makers manufacture in China. But you may still have customs fees to pay.
Sometimes customs will hold packages, open them, and even contact you to ask for more information. One of the problems with customs fees is that shippers sometimes cover the fees and then charge you After you have received the package. It’s very common for them to add seemingly random “administrative fees” or “disbursement fees” that can exceed the fees paid.
