With the continuous growth of the Nigerian smartphone market, many consumers are looking for devices that offer excellent value without exceeding ₦100,000. Given the rise in inflation and fluctuating exchange rates, finding a quality smartphone at this price point can be challenging but not impossible. Fortunately, popular brands like Infinix, Tecno, Itel, and Xiaomi have consistently released affordable yet feature-rich models, making budget smartphones more accessible to Nigerian consumers. This guide will provide you with an in-depth look at the best smartphones under ₦100,000 and what to consider before making your purchase.
Popular Brands and Models
Several smartphone brands have built a reputation for offering affordable yet feature-packed devices to suit various needs and budgets. Below are some of the top brands and models you should consider when looking for a smartphone under ₦100,000.
Infinix
Infinix is a well-known brand in Nigeria, popular for its budget-friendly offerings that deliver a balance of performance and affordability. Some of their models include:
- Infinix Hot 30i: With a 6.56-inch display, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, this device offers solid performance. It also features a 13MP camera and a 5000mAh battery, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize battery life.
- Infinix Smart 7 HD: Known for its budget price, this phone comes with a 6.6-inch display, 2GB RAM, and a 5000mAh battery, offering good value for basic smartphone tasks.
Tecno
Tecno has been a consistent player in the Nigerian market, focusing on providing affordable smartphones with impressive camera quality and battery life.
- Tecno Pop 7 Pro: Priced around ₦80,000, this smartphone has a 6.6-inch display, 3GB RAM, and a 5000mAh battery. Its 13MP camera offers good quality for the price range, making it ideal for users on a budget who still want decent photography features.
- Tecno Spark 10C: Featuring a 6.6-inch display, 4GB RAM, and 128GB of storage, this model offers more storage and RAM at an affordable price, with a long-lasting 5000mAh battery.
itel
itel, a subsidiary of TCL, focuses on entry-level smartphones that come with basic functionalities but still offer value for money.
- itel S23 4G: With a 6.6-inch display, a 50MP rear camera, and a 5000mAh battery, the itel S23 4G is a solid choice for users looking for a simple but efficient device.
- itel A60: This device offers basic features, including 2GB RAM and 32GB storage, and a 5000mAh battery, suitable for users who primarily need a phone for calls, messaging, and basic app use.
Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s Redmi series is known for offering excellent value for money, with slightly higher specs at affordable prices.
- Redmi 12C: This smartphone is priced around ₦100,000, featuring a large 6.71-inch display, a MediaTek Helio G85 processor, and a 50MP main camera. The 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting performance, making it one of the best options in this price range.
- Redmi A3: With up to 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, this model provides strong performance at a price just under ₦100,000. It also includes a large display and side-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a smartphone under ₦100,000, it’s important to evaluate certain key features to ensure you’re getting the best device for your needs. Here are the most important factors to consider:
Processor
The processor is the heart of any smartphone, determining its overall performance. In this price range, you’ll often find devices powered by MediaTek Helio or Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. These processors provide decent performance for day-to-day tasks such as browsing, video streaming, and light gaming. Examples include the MediaTek Helio G85 in the Redmi 12C and the Unisoc T606 in the itel S23 4G.
RAM and Storage
A smartphone with at least 3GB of RAM is recommended for multitasking and smoother operation. Most devices in this price range offer 3GB to 6GB of RAM, which should suffice for running multiple apps simultaneously without noticeable lag. Additionally, aim for at least 32GB of storage, which is generally expandable via a microSD card, allowing for more space to store apps, photos, and videos.
Camera
Cameras are a key consideration for many users, especially with the rise of social media. For this budget, many smartphones feature rear cameras ranging from 13MP to 50MP. For example, the Redmi 12C offers a 50MP main camera, providing high-quality images at an affordable price. Front-facing cameras range from 5MP to 16MP, ensuring good-quality selfies.
Battery
A long-lasting battery is essential for users who are constantly on the go, especially in areas with inconsistent power supply. Most smartphones under ₦100,000 come equipped with batteries ranging from 4000mAh to 5000mAh. Phones like the Tecno Spark 10C and Infinix Hot 30i offer batteries in this range, ensuring they can last through the day on a single charge.
Display
A good display enhances the overall user experience, especially for browsing, video watching, and gaming. In this price range, most devices feature 6.5-inch to 6.7-inch screens with HD+ resolution. The Redmi A3, for example, offers a 6.71-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and better visual clarity.
Operating System
Ensure that your chosen device runs a recent version of Android. Newer versions of the OS offer improved security, better app compatibility, and updated features. Most smartphones in this price range come with Android 12 or Android 13, providing access to the latest apps and functionalities.
Online and Offline Retailers
Several reputable retailers in Nigeria offer smartphones under ₦100,000, both online and offline. Here are some popular ones to consider:
Jumia
Jumia is one of Nigeria’s largest online marketplaces, offering a wide range of smartphones from brands like Infinix, Tecno, Xiaomi, and more. They often run promotions and discounts, allowing buyers to get good deals on their purchases.
Konga
Konga is another well-known online retailer in Nigeria. It provides competitive prices on smartphones and regularly offers discounts and deals. The platform also allows buyers to compare prices across different sellers, making it easier to find the best deal.
Slot Systems Limited
For those who prefer purchasing from a physical store, Slot is a popular electronics retailer in Nigeria with outlets nationwide. Slot offers a variety of smartphones and provides options for warranty and after-sales services.
Local Markets
Local markets, including computer villages and phone plazas in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, offer a wide selection of smartphones. While buying from local markets may offer the chance to negotiate prices, it’s important to ensure the product’s authenticity and warranty.
Conclusion
The smartphone market under ₦100,000 in Nigeria is competitive, with several brands offering devices that balance price and performance. Whether you’re looking for a phone with a large display like the Redmi 12C, or one with a powerful battery like the Tecno Pop 7 Pro, many choices are available to suit your needs and budget. By considering key features such as the processor, RAM, storage, camera quality, battery life, and display, you can confidently choose a smartphone that delivers great value for money.
