DirectUnlocks ranks as a leading service for removing Activation Lock on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.
Over years of testing, DirectUnlocks has consistently delivered solid results. It has outperformed other major providers, showing strong reliability in unlocking Apple devices.
DirectUnlocks uses a non-standard payment structure, which may not appeal to all users. While not the cheapest service, their quality and success rate make them a strong choice.
DirectUnlocks makes unlocking Apple devices simple and quick. Submit a request on their website, pay the fee, and wait for the unlock to process.
They also support Android brands like Samsung and LG with a similar process.
A free IMEI check lets you confirm your device’s details before paying. Completing this check is essential to qualify for a refund if unlocking fails.
DirectUnlocks offers SIM unlocking, allowing devices to connect to any carrier. This feature worked well in our tests and is ideal if you cannot unlock directly through your carrier.
Score: 9/10
Services Offered
Activation Lock Bypass and Removal
DirectUnlocks’ website is easy to navigate, and instructions are clear.
Both new and experienced users should find the order form straightforward. Select your Apple model, enter the IMEI or serial number, and submit.
Above: iCloud Activation Lock removal screen
DirectUnlocks supports all Apple products, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. In our tests, they unlocked each device successfully.
Score: 9/10
SIM Unlocking
Above: SIM unlocking screen
DirectUnlocks also offers SIM unlocking, enabling global carrier compatibility. Enter your IMEI number, and once processed, insert a new SIM to activate.
SIM unlocking supports most cellular devices, and it worked flawlessly on our Apple devices.
Score: 10/10
Pricing, Payment, and Refunds
Above: Payment screen
DirectUnlocks charges around $35 USD for both iCloud and SIM unlocks, which is slightly higher than some competitors.
Their payment structure involves an initial fee and a possible second charge, depending on device type, carrier, and region. This structure can make it hard to know the total cost upfront.
DirectUnlocks offers a money-back guarantee, but the initial deposit is non-refundable. Although this structure could be clearer, the service worked effectively in our experience.
Score: 7/10
Efficiency
To evaluate the service, I enlisted 12 community members with a wide range of Apple devices, from iPhone 7 to iPhone 13 models. Each member provided their iPhone model and IMEI code to submit orders with DirectUnlocks.
DirectUnlocks successfully unlocked all devices within 48 hours, yielding a 100% success rate during our test. Some users reported issues with refunds or unsuccessful unlocks on rare occasions, but overall, our experience was positive and efficient.
We found the process easy to follow. To remove the iCloud Activation Lock on Apple products using DirectUnlocks, complete these steps:
If you have an iPhone or cellular iPad, locate the IMEI code. Dial *#06# on your device to find it. For other devices like a Mac or WiFi-only iPad, find the serial number.
Enter your IMEI or serial number in the designated box and choose your device model.
Click Unlock iCloud! to proceed. You’ll see order details and pricing on the summary page.
Agree to the terms and conditions by ticking the box.
Choose your payment method, then securely complete the payment.
You’ll receive an email confirming your order, and the unlock typically completes in 1-3 days.
Customer Support
DirectUnlocks’ customer support is responsive and usually replies within a few hours. Staff provide personalized responses rather than generic replies, improving the overall experience.
Score: 8/10
Client Reviews
DirectUnlocks has a 4/5 rating on Trustpilot from over 14,500 reviews. Most reviews are positive, though some complaints focus on payment structure or issues with unlocking flagged devices.
Positive feedback includes:
“Unlocking was smooth, but wish the total cost was clear upfront.”
Negative feedback mentions:
“Initial fee followed by a final fee, and the unlock took longer than expected.”
AppleiPhoneUnlock
(Nov 2024: no longer in business)
Low
7 days
Yes
$$
Wrap-Up
Overall Score: 9/10
The iCloud unlocking market has many unreliable services, so DirectUnlocks’ money-back guarantee is valuable.
DirectUnlocks offers solid service, though it’s slightly more expensive. Based on extensive testing, it’s currently the best iCloud and SIM unlock service available.
Kevin has been an Apple Certified Independent Technician for both iOS devices and Mac computers for 10 years.
He has 13 years of practical experience troubleshooting, fixing, and repairing Apple products. He has been writing about Apple products since 2011 using his vast technical expertise and in-depth Apple product knowledge to produce useful guides.