When you’re looking to buy phones online, the Blackview A80 Pro presents itself as a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of affordability and functionality. As part of Blackview’s range, the A80 Pro is designed to offer users a smartphone experience that punches above its price class, focusing on features like camera setup and battery life to attract budget-conscious consumers.

Design and Build: The Blackview A80 Pro features a sleek design with a plastic body, available in various colors like Modern Red, Dreamy Blue, and Tasteful Black. Its dimensions are 157.6 x 76.3 x 8.8 mm, and it weighs 180 grams, which is typical for its category. While it doesn’t boast premium materials, the build quality is satisfactory, but there’s no official IP rating for water resistance.

Display: A 6.49-inch IPS LCD with HD+ resolution (1560 x 720 pixels) offers a vibrant screen experience. The display supports a 19:9 aspect ratio, which is great for media consumption, although the resolution might not be the sharpest for detailed content.

Performance: Powered by the Mediatek Helio P25, the A80 Pro provides decent performance for daily tasks. With 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage (expandable via microSD), it’s well-suited for users who don’t require high-end gaming or intensive multitasking. Running on Android 9.0 (Pie) with Blackview’s custom UI, the software experience might include some bloatware but is generally functional.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents seeking latest phones to buy on budget, the Blackview A80 Pro stands out with its quad-camera setup, long battery life, and adequate performance, making it a strong contender for those looking to get the most out of their smartphone without spending much.

Camera: The phone sports a quad-camera setup with a 13MP main sensor, 2MP, and two 0.3MP sensors for depth and wide-angle shots, alongside an 8MP front-facing camera. While the main camera does well in daylight, the additional sensors are less impactful, and low-light photography can be challenging.

Battery and Charging: A 4680mAh battery ensures the A80 Pro lasts through a day of moderate use, with 5V/2A charging support, which isn’t the fastest but is sufficient for overnight charging.

Pros:

• Good battery life
• Quad-camera setup for its price
• Expandable storage
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Performance can lag with demanding apps
• Camera quality drops in low light
• Software can be bloatware-heavy
• No fast charging or wireless charging

Best For: The Blackview A80 Pro is best suited for users who need a reliable phone for daily communication, social media, and basic photography, all while keeping costs low. It’s ideal for students, first-time smartphone users, or anyone in need of a secondary device with a focus on battery life and camera versatility.

Alternatives:

• Realme C55: Offers a similar price point with potentially better software experience and the unique Mini Capsule feature.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides Samsung’s software ecosystem and better software support over time, though at a slightly higher cost.
• Tecno Spark 10C: Known for its battery efficiency and slightly better performance, offering a different design approach.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Blackview A80 Pro can be found starting at around KSh 18,000, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online with an emphasis on affordability and a decent feature set. Whether you’re after a phone with a focus on photography or need something that lasts through a busy day, the Blackview A80 Pro is a device that offers significant value for money.

If you’re looking to buy phones online, the Cubot J7 presents itself as an entry-level device that doesn’t skimp on the essentials, offering a cost-effective solution for basic smartphone needs. As part of Cubot’s lineup, which aims to cater to budget-conscious consumers, the J7 is designed for those who need a straightforward, no-frills smartphone experience.

Design and Build: The Cubot J7 sports a simple yet functional design with a plastic body, available in colors like Black, Blue, and Green. Its dimensions are 70.7 x 147.8 x 8.85 mm, and it weighs 168 grams, providing a comfortable grip. The phone lacks an official IP rating for water resistance, which is typical for devices in this price range. However, the build quality is adequate for daily use.

Display: A 5.7-inch IPS LCD with HD+ resolution (720 x 1440 pixels) offers a decent viewing experience. The screen is bright enough for indoor use, although it might struggle in direct sunlight. Its 18:9 aspect ratio suits media consumption and one-handed operation.

Performance: Powered by the MediaTek MT6580, the Cubot J7 manages basic tasks like calling, texting, and light app usage. With 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage (expandable with a microSD card), it’s not meant for heavy multitasking or gaming. Running on Android 9.0 Pie, the software experience is straightforward, though it might lack the latest updates.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents on the hunt for latest phones to buy on budget, the Cubot J7 offers a mix of essential features at a price that’s hard to beat, making it an appealing choice for those prioritizing cost over performance or advanced features.

Camera: The phone features a dual-camera setup with a 13MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, alongside a 5MP front camera. In good lighting, the main camera captures reasonably detailed images, but don’t expect much from the secondary lens or in low-light conditions.

Battery and Charging: With a 2800mAh battery, the Cubot J7 provides battery life that should last through a day of light use. However, it uses micro-USB for charging, which is slower and somewhat outdated, but acceptable for its price point.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Expandable storage
• Decent screen for basic use
• Dual SIM support

Cons:

• Limited performance for anything beyond basic tasks
• Camera struggles in low light
• Battery life could be better for its size
• Outdated charging port

Best For: The Cubot J7 is best for users who need a phone for basic communication, social media, and light browsing. It’s an ideal choice for first-time smartphone users, children, or as a secondary device where simplicity and cost are key factors.

Alternatives:

• Realme C35: Offers a more modern design, better battery life, and slightly improved performance at a similar price point.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides Samsung’s software ecosystem and potentially better camera performance, though at a potentially higher cost.
• Nokia C32: Known for its durability and commitment to software updates, making it another good option for those focused on longevity.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Cubot J7 can be found starting at around KSh 10,000, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online with an emphasis on affordability. Whether you’re after a basic phone for everyday use or seeking an entry-level device for someone new to smartphones, the Cubot J7 is a device that delivers on its promise of simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

When you’re looking to buy phones online, the Alcatel 1 (2023) stands out as an option for those seeking the simplest and most affordable smartphone experience. As part of Alcatel’s push to offer ultra-budget devices, the Alcatel 1 (2023) focuses on providing the essentials for users who don’t need the latest technological advancements but still require a phone for basic communication.

Design and Build: The Alcatel 1 (2023) sports a minimalist design with a plastic body, available in Black, Blue, and Gold. Its dimensions are compact at 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm, and it weighs just 134 grams, making it one of the lighter phones in its category. The build quality is functional for entry-level use, but there’s no IP rating for water resistance, which is typical for phones at this price point.

Display: A 5-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 480 x 960 pixels provides a basic viewing experience. This display is not the brightest or sharpest but suffices for calls, texts, and simple app usage. Its small size makes it ideal for one-handed use, which can be a significant advantage for some users.

Performance: Powered by the MediaTek MT6739, the Alcatel 1 (2023) is designed for light tasks, with 1GB of RAM and 8GB or 16GB of storage (expandable via microSD). It runs on Android 11 (Go Edition), optimized for devices with lower specifications, ensuring a relatively smooth operation for basic functions. However, performance can be sluggish with more demanding apps or multitasking.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents hunting for latest phones to buy on budget, the Alcatel 1 (2023) offers a straightforward proposition with its focus on simplicity, battery life, and affordability, making it a practical choice for those looking for the bare essentials in a smartphone.

Camera: The phone features a 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. These cameras are capable of capturing basic photos in good lighting but don’t perform well in low light or expect any advanced photography features.

Battery and Charging: With a 2000mAh battery, the Alcatel 1 (2023) offers enough power for a day of light usage. It uses micro-USB for charging, which is slower and somewhat outdated, but this aligns with its budget positioning.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable
• Compact and lightweight design
• Expandable storage
• Simple, user-friendly software

Cons:

• Low performance for anything beyond basic tasks
• Limited battery life compared to larger phones
• Camera quality is basic
• Outdated charging method

Best For: The Alcatel 1 (2023) is best for users who need a phone primarily for calls, texts, and perhaps the most basic of app usage. It’s ideal for seniors, children, or as a secondary device for emergencies or simple communication needs, where the focus is on cost and simplicity rather than performance or features.

Alternatives:

• Nokia C21 Plus: Offers better battery life and a more durable build, though at a slightly higher cost.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides a more comprehensive feature set, including a better display and camera, within a similar budget range.
• Tecno Pop 7: Known for its battery efficiency and slightly better performance, offering a different software experience.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Alcatel 1 (2023) can be found starting at around KSh 8,250, making it one of the most accessible options for those looking to buy phones online with the aim of getting the most basic smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price. Whether you’re after a phone for the simplest of uses or looking for an ultra-budget device, the Alcatel 1 (2023) fits the bill.

When you’re on the hunt to buy phones online, the Tecno Spark 10C is a device that should catch your eye, especially if you’re looking for a smartphone that offers a mix of features at an entry-level price. As part of Tecno’s Spark series, which is known for delivering cost-effective devices, the Spark 10C aims to provide users with a solid foundation for everyday smartphone use.

Design and Build: The Tecno Spark 10C sports a sleek design with a plastic back, available in Black, Blue, and Green. Its dimensions are 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm, and it weighs 192 grams, making it easy to handle. The build quality is commendable for its price range, although it lacks an official IP rating for water resistance. The phone’s design is both functional and stylish, appealing to those who want a device that looks good without costing much.

Display: A 6.6-inch IPS LCD with HD+ resolution offers a decent screen for daily tasks. The display supports a 90Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth scrolling and interaction, a feature not commonly found in this price segment. While the screen doesn’t match higher-end displays in terms of color accuracy or brightness, it’s adequate for most uses.

Performance: Powered by the Unisoc Tiger T606, the Spark 10C manages basic operations well. With options for 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage (expandable via microSD), it’s suited for users who don’t require intensive multitasking. Running on Android 12 with HiOS 8.6, the software experience is feature-rich but can come with some bloatware.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents searching for latest phones to buy on budget, the Tecno Spark 10C stands out with its combination of a high refresh rate display, good battery life, and a capable camera at a price that’s hard to beat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their smartphone investment.

Camera: The phone features a dual-camera setup with a 16MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, alongside an 8MP front camera. The primary camera performs decently in daylight, capturing detailed images, but the camera system struggles in lower light conditions and lacks versatility.

Battery and Charging: With a 5000mAh battery, the Spark 10C offers impressive battery life, often lasting through a day of moderate use. It supports 18W fast charging, which is a nice addition for quick top-ups, although not the fastest in its class.

Pros:

• Smooth 90Hz display for the price
• Good battery life with fast charging
• Expandable storage
• Attractive design options

Cons:

• Performance can lag with demanding tasks
• Camera performance in low light is weak
• Software can include bloatware
• No water resistance rating

Best For: The Tecno Spark 10C is best for budget-conscious consumers, students, or anyone needing a secondary device for basic tasks like calling, texting, and social media. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize battery life and screen smoothness over high-end performance or camera capabilities.

Alternatives:

• Realme C35: Offers a similar price point with potentially better performance and software experience.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides Samsung’s brand reliability and software support, though it might not match the Spark 10C’s display refresh rate.
• Infinix Hot 30: Known for slightly better performance and camera setup, offering a different software experience.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Tecno Spark 10C can be found starting at around KSh 12,800, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly phone that doesn’t skimp on essential features or just need something reliable for everyday use, the Tecno Spark 10C delivers on both fronts.

When you’re considering where to buy phones online, the Infinix Hot 30 emerges as a standout option, especially for those who crave a blend of performance, style, and affordability. As part of Infinix’s popular Hot series, the Hot 30 is designed to appeal to young tech enthusiasts and budget-conscious consumers, offering a feature-rich experience without the premium price tag.

Design and Build: The Infinix Hot 30 features a sleek, modern design with a glass-like back, available in Sonic White, Surfing Green, and Racing Black. The phone’s dimensions are 168.7 x 76.6 x 8.4 mm, and it weighs 196 grams, providing a premium feel despite its plastic frame. Although it doesn’t boast an IP rating for water resistance, the design is both functional and eye-catching.

Display: A 6.78-inch IPS LCD with Full HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate delivers a vibrant and smooth viewing experience. This screen is perfect for streaming, gaming, and browsing, offering good outdoor visibility with its brightness.

Performance: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G88, the Hot 30 offers robust performance for its class, handling everyday tasks and gaming with ease. With 8GB of RAM and options for 128GB or 256GB of storage (expandable via microSD), multitasking is smooth. Running on Android 13 with XOS 12.6, the software experience is feature-rich but can be cluttered with bloatware.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents searching for latest phones to buy on budget, the Infinix Hot 30 is an exemplary choice. It combines a high refresh rate display, strong performance, and a decent camera setup at a price that’s accessible, making it a top contender for those looking to balance cost with capability.

Camera: The phone sports a dual-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor and a 0.08MP depth sensor, plus an 8MP front camera. In good lighting, the main camera captures detailed images, but low-light performance could be better. The camera setup is functional for its market segment but doesn’t excel in versatility or quality in challenging conditions.

Battery and Charging: With a 5000mAh battery, the Infinix Hot 30 offers impressive battery life, lasting through a day of moderate to heavy use. It supports 33W fast charging, which is a significant advantage, allowing for quick recharges.

Pros:

• High refresh rate display for smooth operation
• Good performance for multitasking and gaming
• Fast charging capabilities
• Attractive design at a budget price

Cons:

• Camera performance in low light is average
• Software can include bloatware
• No water resistance certification
• No wireless charging

Best For: The Infinix Hot 30 is best for young users, students, and anyone looking for a stylish phone with good performance without spending much. It’s ideal for social media enthusiasts, gamers, and those who need a device that lasts through a busy day.

Alternatives:

• Realme C55: Provides similar specifications with the addition of the Mini Capsule feature, offering a unique software experience.
• Samsung Galaxy A14: Known for Samsung’s software support and ecosystem, though it might not match the Hot 30’s display refresh rate or charging speed.
• Tecno Camon 19: Offers a more advanced camera setup, particularly in low light, at a similar price point.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Infinix Hot 30 can be found starting at around KSh 22,899, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online with a focus on performance, battery life, and aesthetics at a budget price. Whether you’re upgrading your smartphone or seeking a device that offers more than just the basics, the Infinix Hot 30 is a compelling choice.

If you’re looking to buy phones online, the Micromax In 1b is a device that deserves your attention, particularly if you’re in search of an affordable smartphone that doesn’t compromise on the essentials. Launched as part of Micromax’s comeback in the Indian market, the In 1b aims to offer a mix of performance and features at a budget price, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize value.

Design and Build: The Micromax In 1b features a sleek design with a plastic back, available in Blue, Green, and Purple. Its dimensions are 164.5 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm, and it weighs 188 grams, providing a comfortable grip. While it lacks an official IP rating for water resistance, the phone’s construction is sturdy for daily use. The glossy finish, however, can be a fingerprint magnet.

Display: A 6.52-inch IPS LCD with HD+ resolution offers a decent screen for everyday tasks. The display’s 20:9 aspect ratio makes it great for video watching and one-handed use, although it doesn’t have the brightest or most vibrant colors compared to more expensive phones.

Performance: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G35, the In 1b manages everyday operations well. With options for 2GB RAM with 32GB storage or 4GB RAM with 64GB storage (both expandable via microSD), it’s suited for users who don’t require high-end performance. Running on Android 10 (Go Edition) for the lower variant and Android 10 for the higher one, the software experience is clean but might lag with more demanding apps.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents searching for latest phones to buy on budget, the Micromax In 1b is a noteworthy option. It provides essential smartphone features like a good battery life, a functional camera, and stock Android at an affordable price, making it a compelling choice in the budget segment.

Camera: The phone sports a dual-camera setup with a 13MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, alongside an 8MP front camera. The primary camera performs adequately in daylight, capturing decent images, but like many budget phones, it struggles in low light.

Battery and Charging: With a 5000mAh battery, the In 1b offers excellent battery life, often lasting through a day of moderate use. It supports 10W charging, which is not the fastest but sufficient for its price range.

Pros:

• Long battery life
• Affordable price
• Expandable storage
• Clean Android experience

Cons:

• Performance can be limited with heavy apps
• Camera performance in low light is subpar
• No fast charging
• No water resistance rating

Best For: The Micromax In 1b is best for users who need a basic smartphone for calls, messaging, social media, and light browsing. It’s ideal for first-time smartphone users, students, or anyone looking for a cost-effective secondary device.

Alternatives:

• Realme C35: Offers a slightly better display and performance, though potentially at a similar price point.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides Samsung’s software ecosystem and potentially better camera performance, though it might cost a bit more.
• Nokia C32: Known for durability and a clean Android experience with promises of software updates.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Micromax In 1b can be found starting at around KSh 14,760 for the 4GB RAM/64GB storage variant, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online with an emphasis on affordability and basic functionality. Whether you’re upgrading from an older device or seeking a new budget phone that delivers on the essentials, the Micromax In 1b offers a solid foundation at a competitive price.

When you’re looking to buy phones online, the Itel P38 stands out as a budget-friendly option for those seeking a smartphone that covers the basics without stretching the wallet. Part of Itel’s P-series, this model is tailored for users in need of a straightforward device for everyday use, making it an appealing choice for cost-conscious consumers in Kenya.

Design and Build: The Itel P38 features a simple yet stylish design with a plastic body, available in Galaxy Blue, Nebula Black, and Spruce Green. Its dimensions are 166 x 76 x 8.7 mm, and it weighs 191 grams, offering a comfortable grip. The phone sports a unibody design with a fingerprint scanner on the back, but there’s no official IP rating for water resistance.

Display: A 6.6-inch HD+ Waterdrop Full Screen with a narrow bezel provides an immersive viewing experience for its price range. The display offers a screen ratio up to 90%, which is decent for watching videos or browsing social media, though the resolution and color accuracy are not top-tier.

Performance: Powered by the MediaTek Helio P22, the Itel P38 handles basic tasks like calling, texting, and light app usage. With 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage (expandable via microSD), it’s designed for users who don’t require high-end performance. Running on Android 11 (Go Edition), the phone provides a lean and efficient software experience, although it might not be the smoothest with more demanding applications.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents looking for latest phones to buy on budget, the Itel P38 offers a compelling proposition with its focus on battery life, display, and a basic camera setup at a very accessible price, making it a notable choice for those in the entry-level market.

Camera: The phone includes an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front-facing camera. While the daylight photography is satisfactory for the price, don’t expect much in terms of low-light performance or advanced camera features.

Battery and Charging: With a 5000mAh battery, the Itel P38 promises long-lasting power, often extending through a day of moderate use. It supports 15W fast charging, which is a significant advantage for its category, allowing for quicker top-ups compared to many competitors.

Pros:

• Good battery life with fast charging
• Affordable price
• Expandable storage
• Stylish design options

Cons:

• Performance limited to basic tasks
• Camera struggles in low light
• Software might include some bloatware
• No water resistance rating

Best For: The Itel P38 is best for users who need a simple, reliable phone for daily communication, social media, and basic entertainment. It’s ideal for first-time smartphone users, children, or as a secondary device where cost and battery life are key considerations.

Alternatives:

• Tecno Pop 7: Offers similar battery life and design, with a slightly different software approach.
• Nokia C21 Plus: Known for its durability and clean Android experience, providing a focus on longevity and updates.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides Samsung’s ecosystem and potentially better software support, though at a potentially higher cost.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Itel P38 can be found starting at around KSh 10,500, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online with an emphasis on affordability and basic functionality. Whether you’re after a budget phone that lasts or need something simple for everyday use, the Itel P38 is a device that offers considerable value for money.

expand battery life

compare with Tecno Pop 7

more concise pros and cons

When you’re set to buy phones online, the Lava Z2 emerges as an interesting choice for those looking for a budget smartphone that provides essential features without the frills. As part of Lava’s effort to capture the budget segment, the Z2 aims to offer a blend of functionality and affordability, making it an appealing option for cost-conscious consumers in Kenya.

Design and Build: The Lava Z2 sports a simple design with a plastic body, available in Aqua Blue and Flame Red. Its dimensions are 164.5 x 75.8 x 9 mm, and it weighs 190 grams, which is comfortable for everyday use. The build quality is adequate for its price range, but it lacks an IP rating for water resistance, which is common at this level.

Display: A 6.51-inch IPS LCD with HD+ resolution provides a basic yet functional screen for daily tasks. Although the display doesn’t boast the highest resolution or brightness, it suffices for browsing, social media, and video watching.

Performance: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G35, the Lava Z2 offers performance suited for basic operations. With 2GB or 3GB of RAM options and 32GB of storage (expandable via microSD), it’s tailored for users who need a phone for calls, texts, and light app usage. Running on Android 10 (Go Edition), the software experience is optimized for lower-spec devices, ensuring a smoother operation for essential functions.

Latest phones to buy on budget in Nairobi: For Nairobi residents on the hunt for latest phones to buy on budget, the Lava Z2 serves as a practical choice. It combines decent battery life, a satisfactory display, and basic camera capabilities at a price that’s accessible to many, making it a noteworthy contender in the budget smartphone arena.

Camera: The phone features a dual-camera setup on the back with a 13MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, alongside an 8MP front-facing camera. The main camera performs reasonably well in daylight but struggles in low light, typical for this price bracket.

Battery and Charging: With a 5000mAh battery, the Lava Z2 offers good battery life, often lasting through a day of moderate use. It supports 10W charging, which isn’t fast but is adequate given the battery size and price point.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Good battery life
• Expandable storage
• Basic but functional camera for daylight photography

Cons:

• Performance limited to light tasks
• Camera struggles in low light
• Slow charging speed
• No water resistance rating

Best For: The Lava Z2 is best suited for users who need a straightforward, budget-friendly phone for basic communication and entertainment. It’s ideal for first-time smartphone users, kids, or anyone looking for a secondary device where the focus is on essentials rather than high-end features.

Alternatives:

• Nokia C21 Plus: Offers similar battery life with a focus on durability and a clean Android experience.
• Samsung Galaxy A04s: Provides Samsung’s ecosystem and potentially better software support, though at a slightly higher price.
• Realme C35: Known for its stylish design and slightly better performance, offering a different software experience.

Price in Kenya: In Kenya, the Lava Z2 can be found starting at around KSh 12,000, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy phones online with an emphasis on cost-effectiveness and basic functionality. Whether you’re after a simple phone for everyday needs or seeking a budget-friendly introduction to smartphones, the Lava Z2 is a device that offers a lot for its price.

camera performance

Samsung Galaxy A04s

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