I. Introduction

A. Cheap Smartphones in Kenya

Cheap smartphones in Kenya refer to low-cost smartphones that are affordable for people on a tight budget. These smartphones typically offer basic features such as calling, texting, internet browsing, and social media access.

B. Importance of Cheap Smartphones in Kenya

Cheap smartphones are important because they offer people with limited financial resources the ability to stay connected to the world. They enable people to access important services like online banking, education, healthcare, and job searching. Cheap smartphones also allow people to stay in touch with friends and family, which is especially important during times of social distancing.

C. Overview of the Smartphone Market in Kenya

The smartphone market in Kenya is highly competitive, with many local and

international brands vying for market share. The demand for affordable smartphones in Kenya is high, as most people are unable to afford high-end smartphones. According to data from the Communications Authority of Kenya, the number of mobile subscribers in Kenya reached 60.4 million in 2020, and smartphone penetration stood at 45.7%. This indicates that there is a large market for cheap smartphones in Kenya.

II. Top Cheap Smartphones in Kenya in 2023

A. Top 5 Cheap Smartphones in Kenya

1. Samsung Galaxy A02s – Kshs.11,890 (Jumia): This smartphone features a 6.5-inch display, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, and a 5000mAh battery. It also has a triple camera setup, with a 13MP primary camera, 2MP macro camera, and 2MP depth sensor.
2. Tecno Spark 7T: Kshs.13,500: The Tecno Spark 7T features a 6.5-inch display, 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, and a 6000mAh battery. It has a dual-camera setup, with a 48MP primary camera and a 2MP depth sensor.
3. Infinix Smart HD 2021- Kshs.11,149 (Kilimall): This smartphone features a 6.1-inch display, 2GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, and a 5000mAh battery. It has a dual-camera setup, with an 8MP primary camera and a depth sensor.
4. Nokia C3 – Kshs.11,300 (Kilimall): The Nokia C3 features a 5.99-inch display, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, and a 3040mAh battery. It has a single 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front-facing camera.
5. Realme C11 – Kshs.11,500: This smartphone features a 6.5-inch display, 2GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, and a 5000mAh battery. It has a dual-camera setup, with a 13MP primary camera and a 2MP depth sensor.

III. How to Choose a Cheap Smartphone in Kenya

A. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Smartphone

1. Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on a smartphone.
2. Operating System: Choose between Android or iOS depending on your preference.
3. Display: Consider the screen size, resolution, and aspect ratio.
4. Camera: Look for a phone with a good camera if you enjoy taking pictures or videos.
5. Battery Life: Choose a phone with a battery that can last all day.
6. Storage Space: Consider the amount of internal storage and whether it can be expanded with a microSD card.
7. RAM: Look for a phone with enough RAM to ensure smooth performance.
8. Brand Reputation: Research the brand’s reputation for quality and customer service.
9. Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get an idea of the phone’s strengths and weaknesses.

B. Comparison of Popular Cheap Smartphones in Kenya

1. Samsung Galaxy A02s vs Tecno Spark 7T: The Samsung Galaxy A02s has a slightly larger screen and a triple-camera setup, while the Tecno Spark 7T has more RAM and a bigger battery.
2. Infinix Smart HD 2021 vs Nokia C3: The Infinix Smart HD 2021 has a larger screen and a dual-camera setup, while the Nokia C3 has more RAM and a slightly smaller battery.
3. Realme C11 vs Samsung Galaxy A02s: The Realme C11 has a slightly larger battery and a dual-camera setup, while the Samsung Galaxy A02s has more RAM and a triple-camera setup.

IV. Where to Buy Cheap Smartphones in Kenya

A. Online Retailers: Popular online retailers in Kenya include Jumia, Kilimall, Skygarden, and Jumia Mall. These retailers offer a wide range of smartphones from different brands at affordable prices. You can also take advantage of discounts and promotions offered by these retailers to save money.

B. Physical Retail Stores: If you prefer to see and touch the phone before purchasing, physical retail stores are a good option. Popular retail stores in Kenya that sell cheap smartphones include Phone Quickmart, Tuskys, and Naivas. These stores offer a variety of smartphones from different brands at competitive prices.

C. Second-hand Markets: You can also find cheap smartphones in second-hand markets like Gikomba Market, Toi Market, and Muthurwa Market. However, you need to be careful when purchasing from these markets to avoid buying stolen or faulty phones.

V. Tips for Maintaining a Cheap Smartphone in Kenya

A. Use a Screen Protector and Phone Case: A screen protector and phone case can protect your phone from scratches, cracks, and other damage.

B. Clean Your Phone Regularly: Dirt and debris can accumulate on your phone, causing it to malfunction or not work as well. Cleaning your phone regularly with a microfiber cloth can help prevent this.

C. Don’t Overcharge Your Phone: Overcharging your phone can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan. Try to unplug your phone once it’s fully charged.

D. Delete Unused Apps: Unused apps take up space on your phone, slowing it down and draining the battery. Delete any apps that you don’t use regularly.

E. Use Wi-Fi Instead of Data: Using Wi-Fi instead of data can help you save money on your phone bill and extend your phone’s battery life.

VI. Conclusion

In conclusion, cheap smartphones are becoming more and more popular in Kenya as people look for affordable options that still offer good performance and features. By considering factors like budget, operating system, display, camera, battery life, storage space, RAM, brand reputation, and customer reviews, you can choose a cheap smartphone that meets your needs. Online and physical retail stores and second-hand markets are all good options for purchasing a cheap smartphone in Kenya. By following tips for maintaining your cheap smartphone like using a screen protector and phone case, cleaning your phone regularly, not overcharging your phone, deleting unused apps, and using Wi-Fi instead of data, you can keep your phone working well for longer.