These Are The 10 Cheapest Smartphones You Can Buy In South Africa

When it comes to mobile phones, South Africa is one of the biggest markets for mobile phones in the African continent, and the market has got different phones of varying specifications and prices. While some phones are extremely high in specification and price, some have come at moderately cheap prices without compromising quality, features, and functionality. These cheap phones are worthy investments among middle and low-income South Africans. Here we take a good look at the cheapest smartphones in South Africa at the moment.

Low-Cost Smartphones You Can Buy Now in South Africa

The lists contained herein are the low-cost, high-end smartphones that low and middle-income earners can easily afford, while the quality and good features expected of modern-day smartphones are not compromised in any way. You can never regret spending money on getting one of these cheap smartphones.

10. Huawei Y5P 

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• Price – R1,999
• Brand – Huawei
• Release Date – May 2020

First on our list of the cheapest smartphones in South Africa is the Huawei Y5P, released in the market in May 2020. This particular model manufactured by Huawei has a capacitive touch screen, a screen size of 5.45 inches, 720 x 1440 pixels, and 295 PPI density.

With its single 8 MP back camera and single 5 MP front camera, the smartphone is fully equipped and ready for crisp, clean, and clear photo shoots and video recordings. Also, the phone has accelerometer and proximity sensors. Aside from this, the smartphone comes equipped with the Android 10 version of the operating system + EMUI 10.1, no google play services. You will also get this phone in other colors, such as black, blue, green and grey.

Huawei Y5P runs on 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB internal storage. In addition to the above features, the phone has a quality speaker, 3.5 mm jack, and 5.0 Bluetooth. Battery life has been one of the major factors that determine the quality of a phone, and Huawei Y5P is known to be fueled by a massive Non-removable Li-Po 3020 mAh battery. The phone is powered by MediaTek MT6762R Helio P22 octa-core, and the GPU is PowerVR GE8320.

Summary of Huawei Y5P Specifications of

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 146.5 x 70.9 x 8.4mm
• Weight: 144 Grams
• Waterproof: No

Display

• Display Type: Capacitive touchscreen
• Resolution: 720 x 1440 pixels
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: ~295 PPI density
• Touchscreen: Yes

Hardware

• CPU: Octal core (4 x 2.0 GHzCortex – A53 + 4 x 1.5 GHz Cortex – A53)
• GPU: PowerVR GE8320
• RAM (Memory): 2 GB
• Internal storage: 32 GB
• Memory Card Slot: microSDXC (dedicated slot)
• Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity

Software

• Operating System: Android 10 + EMUI 10.1, no google play services
• User Interface: Yes

Camera

• Rear Camera: 8 MP
• Front Camera: 5 MP
• Image: 1080p
• Video: 1080p@30fps
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR, Panorama

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• NFC: No
• GPS: Yes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, BDS
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR, Panorama
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Po 3020 mAh battery + Charging 10W
• Placement: Non-Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: LTE (unspecified)
• Speed: HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE

9. Nokia C1

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• Price – R1,399
• Brand – Nokia
• Release Date – December 2019

Nokia is not a new name anywhere where phones are being discussed. The Nokia C1 is one of their many smartphones, and this particular model stormed the market in 2019. The device was announced by Nokia in December 2019 and has since then been one of the people’s choices due to its pocket-friendly price. The device came with full basic specs, amazing features, and quality, coupled with a slick design that makes it worth more than its price.

The smartphone has a display size of 5.45 inches with an IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen and a 480 x 960 pixels resolution. With a dimension of 5.81 x 2.81 x 0.34 inches and a 155 grams weight, the smartphone is sure to fit perfectly and easily into your palm and is light enough to carry around in the pocket. It is pertinent to note that the device is available in two colors: red and black, and also includes features like Bluetooth, GPS, micro USB 2.0, and Radio.

For the smooth and effective functioning of the device, it is configured with an Android 9.0 Pie (Go edition) operating system and powered by a Quad-core processor of 1.3 GHz frequency. The device is also known to be loaded with a single rear camera (5 MP) and a single front camera (5 MP) for shooting crisp, clean, and clear selfies.

The Nokia C1 smartphone is known to come with a removable Li-Ion battery, which has a capacity of 2,500 mAh. The phone comes with a 1 GB RAM of memory and a 16 GB storage capacity to store data and media files and the possession of an accelerometer and proximity sensors.

Summary of Nokia C1 Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 147.6 x 71.4 x 8.7mm
• Weight: 155 Grams
• Waterproof: No

Display

• Display Type: IPS LCD
• Resolution: 480 x 960 pixels
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: ~197 PPI density
• Touchscreen: Capacitive touchscreen

Hardware

• CPU: Quad-core 1.3 GHz
• GPU: PowerVR GE8320
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB
• Internal storage: 16 GB
• Memory Card Slot: micro SD, up to 64 GB
• Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity

Software

• Operating System: Android 9.0 Pie (Go edition)
• User Interface: Yes

Camera

• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 5 MP
• Image: 720p
• Video: 720p@30fps
• Flash: LED Flash

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• NFC: No
• GPS: Yes, with A-GPS
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR, Panorama
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Ion 2500 mAh battery
• Placement: Non-Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: LTE (unspecified)
• 3G: HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100)
• Speed: HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE

8. Lenovo A1000

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• Price – R1,388
• Brand – Lenovo A1000
• Release Date – October 2015

The Lenovo A1000 from Lenovo is another great device in our list of cheapest smartphones in South Africa. It is a mid-range dual-sim based smartphone that comes equipped with a 1 GB RAM of RAM and  8 GB of storage capacity to handle data and media files; this can be extended to 32 GB with the aid of a micro SD card slot in case you will need extra storage area for your media files.

It is good to note that this device runs on the Android 5.0 Lollipop operating system and features a single rear camera of 5 MP (primary) for taking pictures and videos of wonderful moments. Also, not only is Lenovo A1000 packed with a Quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU, but it is also loaded with Spreadtrum SC7731 Chipset and Mali 400 MP2 GPU, and the CPU runs at a speed of 1.3 GHz frequency, which is far above average for a smartphone processor.

The phone has a 4 inches screen size and a screen resolution of 480 pixels by 800 pixels, while the screen sharpness, which is measured in the density of pixels per square inch of screen, is 233 PPI. The battery life of the smartphone is 2,000 mAh.

Summary of Lenovo A1000 Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 124.5 x 64.0 x 10.6mm
• Weight: 132 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: White, Black
• Cover: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: ITFT Capacitive touchscreen
• Resolution: 480 x 800 pixels
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: ~233 PPI density
• Touchscreen: Capacitive touchscreen

Hardware

• CPU: Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU
• GPU: Mali-400MP2 GPU
• Chipset: Spreadtrum SC7731 chipset
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB
• Internal storage: 8 GB
• Memory Card Slot: micro SD, up to 32 GB
• Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity

Software

• Operating System: Android 5.0 Lollipop
• User Interface: Yes

Camera

• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 2 MP
• Image: 720p
• Video: 720p@30fps
• Flash: LED Flash

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• NFC: No
• GPS: Yes, with A-GPS
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR, Panorama
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Po 2000 mAh battery
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: No
• 3G: HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100)
• 2G: Yes

7. Infinix Smart 2

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• Price – R1,320
• Brand – Infinix
• Release Date – October 2018

Infinix Smart 2 is a cool smartphone with great functionality and good quality, but yet comes at a pocket-friendly price, and that has made it one of the devices in our list of cheapest smartphones in South Africa. With a 71 x 147.5 x 8.3 mm dimension and a 138 gram of weight, the smartphone will fit perfectly well into your palm and, at the same time, be easy and convenient to carry around in your pocket.

The device comes with a 5.5 inches screen size, 720 x 1440 pixels, 293 PPI, and 16M colors for a bright, crisp, and crystal display. Also, the phone is packed with an ARM Cortex-A53, 1,500 MHz, core 4 CPU, and PowerVR GE8100, 570 MHz GPU for a fast, smooth, and efficient performance.

In addition to the above features, Infinix Smart 2 operates on 2GB memory to handle multi-tasking and a 16 GB storage capacity to have your data and media files in the store. Peradventure, you would like more storage space to handle your large media files. The device has a memory card slot for storage capacity extension, supporting 32 GB of memory card storage.

Infinix Smart 2 runs on the Android 8.1 (Oreo) operating system; it also has a rear camera of 12.98 MP to capture memorable moments and scenes and a front camera of 7.99 MP for crystal clear selfies. Besides these, the phone is fueled on a Li-Polymer battery with a massive capacity of 3050 mAh. To crown it all, the phone’s connectivity is superb, and it connects to the internet on 4G LTE and 3G.

Summary of Infinix Smart 2 Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 71 x 147.5 x 8.3 mm
• Weight: 138 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Grey, Red, Black
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: IPS
• Resolution: 720 x 1440 pixels
• Size: 5.5 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: 293 PPI density
• Touchscreen: Capacitive touchscreen
• Display Protection: 2.5D curved glass screen

Hardware

• CPU: ARM Cortex-A53, 1500 MHz, Cores: 4
• GPU: PowerVR GE8100, 570 MHz
• Chipset: Spreadtrum SC7731 chipset
• RAM (Memory): 2 GB, 3 GB, 667 MHz
• Internal storage: 16 GB
• Memory Card Slot: microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC
• Sensors: Proximity, Light, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Fingerprint

Software

• Operating System: Android 8.1 Oreo
• User Interface: X OS Hummingbird 3.3

Camera

• Rear Camera: 12.98 MP
• Front Camera: 7.99 MP
• Image: 4160 x 3120 pixels
• Video: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Flash: LED Flash

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• NFC: No
• GPS: Yes, with A-GPS
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR, Panorama
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: 3050 mAh
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: Yes
• 3G: HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps
• 2G: Yes
• Speed: LTE 850 MHz LTE 900 MHz LTE 1800 MHz LTE 2100 MHz LTE 2600 MHz LTE-TDD 2300 MHz (B40) LTE-TDD 2500 MHz (B41)

 6. Samsung Galaxy A2 Core

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• Price – R1,250
• Brand – Samsung
• Release Date – April 2019

Samsung is known for its excellence and quality products when it comes to smartphones, and Samsung Galaxy A2 Core has never disappointed in its quality, features, and full options it came with, which makes it far above what it goes for in terms of price. The phone makes our list of cheapest smartphones in South Africa based on its affordability by middle and low- income earners and its pocket-friendly nature. With this phone in your hand, you are sure to get value for your money.

The device has taken the game to the next level with its triple and quad-camera setup. The phone was launched into the market in April 2019 and has since then been heavily patronized by those who want value for their money, as it is easy to use for day-to-day lifestyle, has easy usage of the camera to capture memorable moments, sufficient storage space to store photos, videos and other media files, fast processor and a good memory to handle multi-tasking and other activities on the phone.

With its huge battery capacity of 2,600 mAh Li-polymer, Samsung Galaxy A2 Core can run for numerous hours during heavy use nonstop (such as continuous use for browsing, playing games, watching movies, and more); it can also last for days when on standby mode. Also, the phone has a screen that is wide enough to handle any operation, and the phone’s interface gives room for ease of operation.

The phone’s sleek design has made it comfortable and convenient to carry around in your pocket or your palm for hours, and the phone’s connectivity is incredible, as it connects to the internet with a 4G LTE band with good speed. You never can know what you’ve got in your hand until you start to put this smartphone to use and have a firsthand experience of the rich and excellent features it has.

Samsung Galaxy A2 Core Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 141.6 x 71 x 9.1 mm (5.57 x 2.80 x 0.36 in)
• Weight: 142 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Gold, Blue, Red, Black
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: PLS IPS
• Resolution: 540 x 960 pixels
• Size: 5.0 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: 220 PPI density
• Touchscreen: Capacitive touchscreen

Hardware

• CPU: Octa-core (8×1.6 GHz) ARM Cortex-A53
• Chip: Exynos 7870
• GPU: ARM Mali-T830 MP1
• RAM (Memory): 1GB
• Internal storage: 16 GB
• Memory Card Slot: microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC
• Sensors: Proximity, Light, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Fingerprint

Software

• Operating system: Android 8

Camera

• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 5 MP

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0, USB On-The-Go
• Bluetooth: v2.1, A2DP
• NFC: No
• GPS: GPS, BDS, A-GPS, GLONASS
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR, Panorama
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: 2,600 mAh, Li-Ion
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE
• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G Bands: Yes 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 – A260F/DS
• 3G Bands: HSDPA 900 / 2100 – A260F/DS HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 – A260G/DS
• 2G Bands: GSM 900 / 1800 – SIM 1 & SIM 2 (Dual SIM
• Speed: 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 40, 41 – A260G/DS HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps

5. Hisense U40 

• Price – R1000
• Brand – Hisense
• Release Date – July 2020

Before now, Hisense was not a brand that readily comes to mind when searching for the cheapest smartphones in South Africa, but they have changed and expanded their product offering and earned a place on this list with the Hisense U40. If you want a phone on a line budget and with great features to keep your day going, Hisense U40 will perfectly serve your need, as its incredible features, quality, smart, sleek appearance, and affordability. The pocket-friendly price is unimaginable, and it’s making the list of our cheapest smartphones in South Africa.

This device was launched in the market in April 2019 and has enjoyed huge patronage ever since, as it is a pocket-friendly entry-level smartphone in the South African market for low and middle-income earners. The device’s large screen (5.7 inches TFT display with 480 x 960 pixels resolution) enhances ease of operation and proper display of files on the screen such as videos, internet pages, and the rest.

Hisense U40’s quad-core CPU that runs on a very high frequency and highly efficient GPU makes the device stable, highly functional, and able to withstand, absorb and process any task thrown at it at a fast pace. Also, the device comes installed with a decent amount of memory for handling multitasking and other functions and an adequate amount of internal storage capacity to keep data and media files in the long term. Should you need additional storage for more files, the device comes with a memory card slot for you to extend your storage capacity.

Additionally, Hisense U40 comes fully equipped with a single 5 MP rear camera sensor with LED flash and PDAF for capturing some of the best moments and memorable scenes in a clear and crystal manner. At the same time, there is a single 5 MP front-facing camera for taking selfies. It is also worthy of note that the smartphone has excellent internet connectivity, as it connects through 4G LTE and 3G for a fast and smooth browsing experience.

Summary of Hisense U40 Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 154.90 x 75.00 x 9.70 mm
• Weight: 133 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Black,
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: IPS
• Resolution: 540 x 960 pixels
• Size: 5.7 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: ~242 PPI density
• Touchscreen: Capacitive touchscreen

Hardware

• CPU: Quad-core (4×1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU)
• GPU: ARM Mali T820 MP2
• Chipset: Spreadtrum UniSoC SC9832E
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB, 933 MHz
• Internal storage: 16 GB
• Memory Card Slot: Yes, up to 64 GB via microSD card
• Sensors: Proximity, Light, Accelerometer

Software

• Operating System: Android 10 (Go Edition)
• User Interface: Yes, with Modified Android

Camera

• Camera type: Single-lens
• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 5 MP
• Image: 3264 x 2448 pixels
• Video: 1080p@30fps
• Flash: LED Flash, HDR
• Camera Features: Scene mode, Digital zoom, HDR, Touch focus, White balance settings, ISO settings, Flash type – Single-LED, Autofocus, Continuous shooting, Exposure compensation, Face detection, Self-timer, Geotagging, Panorama

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0, USB On-The-Go
• Bluetooth: v2.1, A2DP
• NFC: No
• GPS: GPS, A-GPS
• Flash: LED Flash
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: 2450 mAh, Li-Polymer
• Placement: Removable
• Talk Time: Up to 18 h (2G) / Up to 15 h (3G)
• Music: Up to 19 hours
• Stand-by: Up to 500 hrs (2G) / Up to 250 hrs (3G)

Media

• Video Playback: Yes Support 3GP, H.264, MKV, MOV, AVI, XviD, WMV, FLV, MP4, H.263
• Video Out: Yes With Wireless Media Connection
• Ring Tones: MP3, WAV ringtones
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE
• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G Bands: LTE band 1(2100), 3(1800), 4(1700/2100), 5(850), 7(2600), 12(700), 17(700), 28(700)
• 3G Bands: HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
• 2G Bands: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 – SIM 1 & SIM 2
• Speed: HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps

4. Itel A52S Lite  

• Price – R1000
• Brand – Itel
• Release Date – December 2018

One of the cheapest smartphones in South Africa comes from Itel, a Chinese brand known all over Africa. Itel has come a long way in smartphone manufacturing and sales in this continent, and their release of the Itel A52S Lite, which is remarkably popular in South Africa, shows how this smartphone manufacturer understands the needs of the people. With its unique features and affordable cost, the phone is a top choice and thus among our favorites on the list of cheapest smartphones in South Africa.

Starting with its big screen size for ease of operation and proper display of content on the screen, the device is loaded with a 4 core CPU that runs smoothly to enhance high functionality and stability and to be able to withstand, absorb and process rigorous tasks at a fast pace.  

The Itel A52S Lite also comes with a good 1GB RAM that can moderately handle multi-tasking and 8 GB of internal storage to store your data and media files for long-term use. Thanks to the device’s memory card slot, which gives room for an extension of storage capacity, should you need more storage space for your data and media files on the Itel A52S Lite. 

For its smooth running and function, the smartphone operates on Android 8.1 Oreo Go Edition. In addition to that, the device is pre-installed with a 5 MP rear camera to capture exciting and unforgettable moments, as well as a single 5 MP front camera for clear, crisp, and crystal selfies; not only that, the camera has a dual-LED flash for capturing some memorable moments in the dark or in the night. 

One of the most interesting features of this device is its battery capacity of 2100 mAh Li-Ion. At this battery capacity, very few phones will go for that cheap price. 

Summary of Itel A52S Lite Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 146.7 x 74 x 9.3 mm
• Weight: 142 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Red, Blue, Black
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen
• Resolution: 720 x 1440 pixels
• Size: 5.5 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: ~272 PPI density
• Touch screen: Yes, up to 3 fingers
• Display Protection: Scratch Resistant Glass

Hardware

• CPU: Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 (32nm)
• GPU: Mali-400MP2
• Chipset: Mediatek MT6580
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB 933 MHz
• Internal storage: 8 GB
• Memory Card Slot: Mediatek MT6580
• Sensors: FaceID, Accelerometer, proximity

Software

• Operating System: Android 8.1 Oreo
• User Interface: Yes, with Modified Android

Camera

• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 2 MP
• Image: 2592 x 1944 pixels
• Video: 1280 x 720 pixels
• Flash: Dual LED Flash

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: b, g, n, Wi-Fi Hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• Bluetooth: v2.1, A2DP
• NFC: No
• GPS: GPS, A-GPS
• Flash: LED Flash
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Ion 2100 mAh battery
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• Technology: GSM / HSPA
• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G Bands: No
• 3G Bands: HSDPA 850 / 1900
• 2G Bands: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 – SIM 1 & SIM 2
• Speed: HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps

3. Hisense Infinity E6

• Price – R 999
• Brand – Hisense
• Release Date – N/A

When Hisense Infinity E6 was released into the market, it became a top purchase for mobile phone users who want something fancier than the Hisense U692 model. With an additional R 300 to the price Hisense U692 goes for, you will procure the fancier and more sophisticated Hisense Infinity E6. This device has a bigger screen (5.5″), a stronger battery, and 4G LTE.

With its modest 1GB of RAM, it can multitask moderately without lagging. Similarly, though the phone has an 8GB internal memory space, you need not worry as it can also contain as much as 32GB of storage via a micro SD card. With the expanded storage, you can capture and store more stunning images with its 8MP front and rare camera, pixilated at 3264 x 2448. For its price, the Hisense E6 is not on an island as it can connect to the internet via Wifi or even through its 2G, 3G, and 4G technology at a speed of 21.1/5.76 Mbps.

Summary of Hisense Infinity E6 Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 148.6 x 72.5 x 9.7 mm
• Weight: 130 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Blue, Black
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: LCD IPS
• Resolution: 720×1280 pixels
• Size: 5.5 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: ~267 PPI density
• Touch screen: Yes

Hardware

• CPU:  Cortex-A53 @ 1300.0 MHz (4-core)
• GPU: IMG 8XE1PPC @ 420.0 MHz
• Chipset: MT6739
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB
• Internal storage: 8 GB
• Memory Card Slot: micro SD, up to 32 GB
• Sensors: Accelerometer, light, proximity

Software

• Operating System: Android 8.1 Oreo
• User Interface: Yes

Camera

• Rear Camera: 8 MP
• Front Camera: 8 MP
• Image: 3264 x 2448 Pixels
• Video: Yes
• Flash: Yes

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Yes, 802.11b/g/n
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• Bluetooth: v2.1, A2DP
• NFC: No
• GPS: N/A
• Flash: LED Flash
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Ion 2450 mAh battery
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• Technology: LTE / GSM / HSPA
• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: LTE-FDD: 800, 850, 900, 1800, 2100, 2600
• 3G: HSDPA 900 / 2100
• 2G: GSM 900 / 1800
• Speed: HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps

2. Vodacom Kicka 6

 

• Price – R 799
• Brand – Vodacom
• Release Date – N/A

Vodacom Kicka 6 is another incredible smartphone that is one of the cheapest smartphones in South Africa for people shopping on a budget and needs a phone that will be efficient enough to serve them all day long. The Vodacom brand has proven itself to be worth it as it has never disappointed in offering excellent features, quality, and other amazing options that make its products stand out.

The phone became a top buy in the market soon after its release, and with just R799, you will get one for yourself. The phone is undoubtedly one of the cheapest smartphones in South Africa right now, as it is going for less than a thousand Rand, and you can rest assured of value for your money.

Vodacom Kicka 6 came with a 4 core CPU that runs on a high frequency to ensure the stability of the device and process data at a fast pace, while the phone’s memory is capable enough to handle multitasking and other operations, as well as internal storage space for keeping a wide range of data and media files In the device. The storage space can be extended by inserting your memory card into the phone’s memory card slot.

It is also noteworthy that the Vodacom Kicka 6 has a 5 MP rear camera for capturing some of the best scenes and memorable events and a 5 MP front camera for taking selfies. Apart from this, the phone connects to the internet with 4G LTE and 3G networks. At the same time, the smartphone is sustained by a battery with massive capacity, as the device can run for several hours with continuous usage and even more when on standby, depending on the network (3G or 4G).

Summary of Vodacom Kicka 6 Specifications

General

• Model: Vodacom Kicka 6
• Release date: N/A
• Status: Available

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 140.7 x 69.2 x 9.6 mm
• Weight: N/A
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Black
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen
• Resolution: 720 x 1440 Pixels
• Size: 4.0 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: N/A
• Touch screen: Yes

Hardware

• CPU:  Quad-core 1.3 GHz
• GPU: N/A
• Chipset: N/A
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB
• Internal storage: 8 GB
• Memory Card Slot: micro SD
• Sensors: Accelerometer

Software

• Operating System: Android 8.1 Oreo (Go Edition)
• User Interface: Yes

Camera

• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 5 MP
• Image: N/A
• Video: N/A
• Flash: N/A

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: b, g, n, Wi-Fi Hotspot
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• Bluetooth: v2.1, A2DP
• NFC: No
• GPS: N/A
• Flash: LED Flash
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• Technology: LTE / GSM / HSPA
• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: Yes
• 3G: HSDPA 850 / 1900
• 2G: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 – SIM 1 & SIM 2
• Speed: HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps

1. Hisense U962

• Price – R 699
• Brand – Hisense
• Release Date – 2017

Again, Hisense earned another mention with this model as one of the cheapest smartphones in South Africa. On this list, it is, in fact, the cheapest of all. The Hisense U962 smartphone is undoubtedly one of the most common handheld devices among low and middle-income earners in South Africa. The phone is loved due to its affordable yet sophisticated nature. It is among the low-cost but mildly high-end mobile devices you can readily find in any South African phone shop. The device was released in the market in 2017 and has since made a rave in the market as one of the most reliable cheapest smartphones in South Africa.

On the technical aspect, the Hisense U962 comes with a quad-core CPU at high processor speed for handling and processing data and media files at a fast pace, as well as good 1GB RAM and internal storage space of 8 GB for keeping media and data files, and also a memory card slot for extending storage capacity on the phone.

With its 5 inches screen, the smartphone is comfortable and convenient for browsing, playing games, and watching movies on the go. Likewise, one will be amazed by the 5 MP auto-focus rear camera that the phone boasts of, which is excellent for capturing fascinating scenes and memorable events in a crystal manner, and a 2 MP front camera designated for taking selfies.

The Hisense U962 comes pre-installed with an Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) operating system and 3G network. Also, the device is fueled by a 2000 Li-Ion battery that lasts for several hours of operation and a standby mode that lasts for days. Even the phone is one of the smartphones you can use to make money in South Africa.

Summary of Hisense U962 Specifications

Design

• Type: Bar
• Dimension: 125 mm x 64.6 mm x 10.6 mm
• Weight: 123 Grams
• Waterproof: No
• Colors: Grey, Black
• Casing: Plastic

Display

• Display Type: FWVGA/480*854px
• Resolution: FWVGA/480*854px
• Size: 5.0 inches
• Display colors: 16M colors
• Pixel density: N/A
• Touch screen: Yes

Hardware

• CPU:  Quad-core 1.2 GHz
• GPU: N/AChipset: N/A
• RAM (Memory): 1 GB
• Internal storage: 8 GB
• Memory Card Slot: micro SD, up to 32 GB
• Sensors: Gravity

Software

• Operating System: Android 6.0 Marshmallow
• User Interface: Yes

Camera

• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Front Camera: 2 MP
• Image: N/A
• Video: N/A
• Rear Flash: Yes

Network

• SIM: Nano-SIM
• Dual SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Connectivity

• Wi-fi: Yes, 802.11b/g/n
• USB: Micro USB 2.0
• Bluetooth: v2.1, A2DP
• NFC: No
• GPS: N/A
• Headphone Jack: Yes

Battery

• Capacity: Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery
• Placement: Removable

Media

• Video Playback: Yes
• Video Out: Yes
• Ring Tones: Yes
• Loudspeaker: Yes
• Handsfree: Yes
• FM Radio:  Yes

Data

• Technology: LTE / GSM / HSPA
• 5G NR Bands: No
• 4G LTE: No
• 3G: HSDPA 850 / 1900
• 2G: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 – SIM 1 & SIM 2
• Speed: HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps