Nothing Phone (2a) – Premium Features on a Budget in Kenya
If you’re looking for a smartphone in Kenya that blends standout design with strong performance without breaking your budget, the Nothing Phone (2a) is definitely worth a look.
Why it’s a good budget phone in Kenya
Despite being marketed as a “budget” model from Nothing, the Phone (2a) offers many features found in higher-end devices—such as a 6.7″ 120Hz AMOLED display, dual 50 MP rear cameras, a 5,000 mAh battery with 45W fast charging and 5G connectivity. Local Kenyan listings show the price in the range of KSh 38,000 to KSh 45,000 depending on RAM/storage variant and seller. (Phones City Kenya)
For Kenyan buyers who want something more than the very low-cost phones—better screen, better camera, better design—this phone offers a compelling value proposition and good brand presence.
Specifications
- Display: 6.7″ AMOLED with 1 billion colours, 120 Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, peak brightness ~1,300 nits. (nothing.co.ke)
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro (4nm) chipset. (Khalid Electronics)
- RAM & Storage: Kenyan market variants include 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage, and 12 GB + 256 GB storage. (Fkay Smartphone)
- Rear Cameras: 50 MP main (with OIS) + 50 MP ultra-wide. (Khalid Electronics)
- Front Camera: 32 MP selfie camera. (The Go-to Place for Smartphones in Kenya)
- Battery & Charging: 5,000 mAh battery with 45W wired fast-charging support. (Zenex Technologies)
- Connectivity & Extras: 5G support, under-display fingerprint sensor, IP54 dust/splash resistance, nothing’s signature “Glyph” lights on the back. (Price in Kenya)
Strengths
- Excellent display: The 6.7″ AMOLED with 120Hz refresh offers smoother visuals and premium feel compared to many budget phones.
- Strong camera setup: Dual 50MP cameras with OIS gives you good photo versatility and quality for the price.
- Modern performance and connectivity: With the Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset and 5G support, you’re buying something future-ready.
- Good battery and charging: A 5,000 mAh battery with 45W fast charging ensures you’ll have all-day use with reasonable charging times.
- Unique design & brand value: The transparent back design, Glyph lighting and the Nothing brand bring a “premium look” at a lesser cost.
Weaknesses
- Price is still higher than ultra-budget phones: At around KSh 38,000-45,000 it’s more expensive than many entry-level budget phones.
- No wireless or reverse charging (in many listings): Some premium features are trimmed to achieve this price. (WIRED)
- Build materials & extras may be less premium: While design is distinct, some cost-savings (e.g., plastic back) might be present compared to top-tier flagships.
- Software update horizon might be shorter than top brands: While decent support is promised, very long-term update commitment may lag premium brands.
- Large size: A 6.7″ display means the device is fairly large; if you prefer compact phones you might find it big.
Price in Kenya & Where to Buy
- KSh 38,000 at PhonesCity Kenya (for 8GB/128GB variant) listed. (Phones City Kenya)
- KSh 38,500 entry price at FKAY Smartphone for 8GB/128GB. (Fkay Smartphone)
- KSh 41,000+ at Khalid Electronics for 12GB/256GB variant. (Khalid Electronics)
- Sample purchase links:
Conclusion
If your budget in Kenya allows around KSh 38,000 to KSh 45,000 and you want a phone that brings top-tier features into “upper-budget” territory—great screen, strong cameras, modern connectivity—the Nothing Phone (2a) is a very strong choice. You’ll sacrifice some ultra-premium perks (wireless charging, highest-end build materials) but you’ll gain an outstanding value package for daily use, streaming, photography and more.
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