In recent years, the smartphone market in Kenya has seen significant growth, driven by the increasing need for connectivity and digital access. As more people embrace the digital age, the demand for affordable smartphones has surged, especially among students, low-income earners, and first-time smartphone users.
These groups often seek reliable yet budget-friendly options that allow them to stay connected, access information, and utilize essential apps without breaking the bank.
Affordable smartphones play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide, offering essential features at a fraction of the cost of high-end models.
For those on a tight budget, finding a capable device under KES 5,000 can be a game-changer, providing access to communication tools, educational resources, and entertainment.
This article explores the cheapest smartphones available in Kenya under KES 5,000, highlighting their key specifications and helping you make an informed decision.
Cheapest Smartphones in Kenya Under KES 5,000
1. Safaricom Neon Ray Pro 4G
The Safaricom Neon Ray Pro 4G is an affordable entry-level smartphone designed for those on a budget. It boasts a 5.5-inch display for comfortable viewing and a quad-core MediaTek processor to handle basic tasks.
With 1GB of RAM and 16GB of expandable storage, it’s ideal for light use like social media and browsing. It also features dual 5MP cameras for capturing memories and a 2500mAh battery for all-day use.
Overall, the Safaricom Neon Ray Pro 4G is a great option for those looking for a basic 4G smartphone at an attractive price point.
Here are the key features of the Safaricom Neon Ray Pro 4G:
- Display: 5.5-inch
- Processor: Quad-core MediaTek
- RAM: 1GB
- Storage: 16GB (expandable to 32GB)
- Cameras: Rear 5MP + Front 5MP
- Battery: 2500mAh
2. Itel A24
The Itel A24 is a budget-friendly smartphone that caters to consumers seeking an affordable option in the Kenyan market, priced at KES 5000. Available in a sleek blue color, this device aims to provide basic functionality to meet the needs of cost-conscious users.
Here are the key features of the Itel A24:
- 5MP rear camera and 2MP front camera for basic photography and selfies (best suited for good lighting conditions)
- 1GB RAM and 16GB internal storage, with a dedicated SD card slot for memory expansion
- 2400mAh battery (average performance, lacks fast charging support)
- 5.0-inch touch screen display with a resolution of 480 x 960 pixels
3. Energizer Energy E500
The Energizer Energy E500 is an ultra-budget phone ideal for basic use. While power users should look elsewhere, it offers a compact design with a 5-inch display and a lightweight build.
The phone runs a stripped-down version of Android (Android Go) to conserve resources on its 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage.
While photos won’t win awards, it has a 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front-facing camera for simple captures. A 2000 mAh battery promises decent battery life for light usage.
Here are the key features of the Energizer Energy E500:
- Display: 5-inch (480 x 854 resolution)
- Processor: MediaTek MT6580 (quad-core 1.3 GHz)
- RAM: 1GB
- Storage: 8GB (expandable via microSD)
- Cameras: Rear 5MP + Front 2MP
- Battery: 2000mAh
- OS: Android 8.0 Oreo Go Edition
4. Itel A14
Released in late 2018, the Itel A14 is a very basic smartphone suited for those looking for a phone for essential tasks. It features a small 4-inch display and a quad-core processor clocked at 1.3 GHz to handle light use. With only 512MB of RAM and 8GB of storage, multitasking and demanding apps won’t be ideal.
However, a microSD card slot allows for storage expansion. It includes a basic 2MP rear camera and a very low-resolution VGA front camera for occasional snapshots. The 1500mAh battery is suitable for light usage throughout the day.
Here are the key features of the Itel A14:
- Display: 4-inch (480 x 800 resolution)
- Processor: Quad-core 1.3 GHz (Spreadtrum SC7731E chipset)
- RAM: 512MB
- Storage: 8GB (expandable via microSD)
- Cameras: Rear 2MP + Front VGA
- Battery: 1500mAh
- OS: Android 8.1 Oreo Go Edition
5. Itel A14 Plus 
The Itel A14 Plus is another entry-level smartphone designed for those seeking a budget-friendly option for basic tasks. The phone features a 4-inch display, similar to that of the standard A14.
The phone is powered by a quad-core processor for light use, with either 512MB or 1GB of RAM. Storage is limited at 8GB or 16GB, but expandable via microSD card.
While not ideal for photography enthusiasts, it comes with a basic rear camera, a 2MP main and selfie camera. A small battery, around 2500mAh, keeps the phone powered for everyday use.
Here are the key features of the Itel A14 Plus:
- RAM + ROM: 512 MB/1 GB
- Battery: 2500 mAh
- Camera: 2 MP
- Selfie: 2 MP
- Display: 5.0 inches
- OS: Android 10 (Go Edition)
- Processor: Mediatek MT6580
- Colors: Deep Blue, Sky Blue
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Affordable Smartphone
- Brand Reputation
- Importance of selecting well-known brands with reliable products.
- Impact of brand reputation on the overall quality and longevity of the device.
- After-Sales Support
- Availability of service centers and customer support.
- Warranty and return policies as a safety net for your purchase.
- User Reviews and Ratings
- Checking online reviews and ratings to gauge user satisfaction.
- Real-world insights from other buyers’ experiences.
- Feature Set
- Prioritizing essential features that matter most to you (battery life, camera, storage).
- Balancing between must-have features and budget constraints.
Conclusion
Finding the right smartphone on a tight budget can be challenging, but there are several options under KES 5,000 that offer great value for money.
When choosing an affordable smartphone, it’s crucial to consider factors such as brand reputation, after-sales support, and user reviews. Reputable brands often ensure better product quality and provide reliable customer service, which can be vital in the long run.
Additionally, assessing user reviews and ratings can offer valuable insights into the real-world performance of these devices.
Ultimately, the best smartphone for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each model and considering essential factors, you can make an informed decision that fits your budget.
With the right choice, you can enjoy the benefits of smartphone connectivity and functionality without overspending.
