Welcome to The Price, where we keep you updated on the best deals for your money. If you’re in the market for a new phone but want to keep your budget under 150,000 Naira, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the top 10 smartphones that offer the best bang for your buck in Nigeria’s dynamic market.

1. Infinix Hot 30i

• Price: Around 104,000 – 117,000 Naira
• Specs: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G88, this phone features a 50MP camera, a 5,000mAh battery, and a 6.6-inch IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate. It’s perfect for those who value battery life and camera quality without breaking the bank. The design is sleek, with an option for a stylish leather finish.

2. Tecno Spark 10 Pro

• Price: Approximately 105,000 Naira
• Specs: With a MediaTek Helio G88 chipset, 8GB RAM, and 128GB storage, this phone stands out with its 32MP selfie camera, making it ideal for self-portraits and video calls. It has a glass back that gives it a premium feel. The battery is large at 5000mAh, supporting 18W fast charging.

3. Xiaomi Redmi 12

• Price: Starts at about 110,000 Naira
• Specs: This phone boasts a glass build with IP53 dust and splash resistance, a feature not commonly seen in this price range. It comes with a MediaTek Helio G88, up to 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage for those who might stretch their budget slightly. The 50MP camera and 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging make it a compelling choice.

4. Oppo A77

• Price: Around 120,000 Naira
• Specs: Known for its water-resistant design (IPX4), the A77 is powered by the Dimensity 810, offering decent performance with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. The 6.56-inch LCD display supports a 90Hz refresh rate, enhancing the user experience. It also comes with a 48MP main camera, which is great for daylight photography.

5. Samsung Galaxy A05s

• Price: Roughly 108,000 Naira
• Specs: This Samsung entry-level phone features a Snapdragon 680 processor, which is quite powerful for its price range. It has a 6.5-inch PLS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate and a 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging. The build quality and Samsung’s software support are additional perks.

6. iTel P55 5G

• Price: Approximately 130,000 Naira
• Specs: As Nigeria’s most affordable 5G phone, this model features a Dimensity 6080 chipset, 6GB RAM, and 128GB storage. The 5G connectivity is a significant advantage for future-proofing your investment. The phone also supports a 6.6-inch IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate.

7. Tecno Camon 20

• Price: Around 140,000 Naira
• Specs: With a 64MP main camera, this phone is a winner for photography enthusiasts. It sports a Super AMOLED Display, stereo speakers, and is dust and water-resistant with an IP53 rating. The MediaTek Helio G85 chipset ensures smooth performance, while a 5,000 mAh battery with 33W fast charging keeps you going.

8. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11

• Price: Approximately 142,000 Naira
• Specs: This phone is highly recommended for its vibrant OLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate and a Snapdragon 680 chipset. It offers a strong 50MP camera setup and a durable 5,000 mAh battery. It’s a favorite for those who need a balance between performance and screen quality.

9. Infinix Note 30

• Price: Around 133,000 Naira
• Specs: This model is unique with wireless charging, a feature rare in this price segment. It has an OLED display, a 5,000 mAh battery, and runs on Android 13. The 8GB RAM and 256GB storage make it a solid mid-range option for users looking for space and performance.

10. Samsung Galaxy A14

• Price: Starting at 108,000 Naira for the base model
• Specs: With a 50MP camera and Android 13, this phone provides longevity with its update policy. The battery life is excellent, and the 6.6-inch display comes with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering smooth scrolling and gaming experiences.

Things to Consider

Software and Update Policy

• Android Versions: Most of these smartphones come with Android 12 or 13 out of the box. Brands like Samsung and Xiaomi are known for providing longer software support, often promising two to three years of major Android updates which is crucial for security and feature enhancements.
• Custom UI: Xiaomi’s MIUI, Infinix’s XOS, and Tecno’s HiOS offer different user interfaces which can significantly affect the phone experience. Xiaomi’s MIUI, for example, is known for its feature-rich environment but can be heavy on resources.

Display Technology

• IPS vs. AMOLED: While most phones in this price range use IPS LCD for cost efficiency, models like the Tecno Camon 20 use AMOLED, which offers deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors, ideal for video watching or gaming.
• Refresh Rates: A 90Hz refresh rate, as seen in several of these phones, ensures smoother visuals than the standard 60Hz. This is particularly noticeable in games or when scrolling through social media feeds.

Camera Performance

• Day vs. Night: High megapixel counts don’t always translate to better photos, especially in low light. Check user reviews for how well these cameras perform in various lighting conditions. For instance, the Infinix Hot 30i and Tecno Spark 10 Pro are praised for their daylight photography but might struggle in darker environments.
• Additional Features: Some phones come with AI enhancements for better portrait modes or night photography. Look for features like HDR, panorama, or special modes like macro if you’re into creative photography.

Durability and Design

• Build Quality: Not all budget phones are built the same. Some, like the Samsung Galaxy A05s, might offer a plastic back, while others might have a glass or even a faux leather design for a premium feel. Consider durability if you’re prone to dropping your phone.
• Water and Dust Resistance: Although rare at this price point, any level of resistance (like IP53 or IPX4) can be a significant advantage, particularly in Nigeria’s dusty or humid environments.

Performance for Gaming

• Chipset Details: The MediaTek Helio G88 or similar chipsets provide a good balance for gaming without overheating issues. However, for more demanding games, you might notice frame drops unless you’re on a phone with at least 8GB of RAM.
• Storage and RAM: The more RAM, the smoother multitasking and gaming will be. Also, look for phones with expandable storage via microSD if you need more space.

Battery and Charging

• Battery Health: Check for phones that have battery saving modes or optimized software to extend battery longevity.
• Charging Speed: While 18W fast charging is standard here, some like the Samsung Galaxy A14 offer 25W, which can make a significant difference in daily usage.

Connectivity and Network

• 5G Capability: With 5G networks expanding in Nigeria, phones like the iTel P55 5G could be a future-proof investment for those in cities where 5G is available.
• NFC: If you’re into contactless payments or want to use your phone for quick file transfers, ensure the phone supports NFC. Not all budget phones include this feature.

Community and Brand Support

• User Community: Brands like Xiaomi and Samsung have large user communities where you can find tips, tricks, and custom ROMs if you’re into tweaking your device.
• Brand Presence: In Nigeria, Samsung and Infinix have a robust presence with service centers across major cities, providing peace of mind for after-sales support.

Buying Tips:

• Check for Deals: Prices can fluctuate, so look out for sales, especially during festive periods or new model releases.
• Physical Stores vs. Online: Sometimes, physical stores like SLOT or Pointek might offer better deals or bundled packages. However, online platforms like Jumia often provide discounts or longer warranty options.
• Warranty and After-Sales Service: Always check the warranty period and understand the after-sales service. Samsung and Xiaomi have relatively good service centers in Nigeria.
• Battery Life: Look for phones with batteries of at least 5000mAh for longevity, especially if you’re on the move a lot.
• Camera Quality: If you’re into photography, focus on MP count and check user reviews for real-world performance, not just specs.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right smartphone under 150,000 Naira in Nigeria doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. From the camera-centric Tecno Camon 20 to the 5G-ready iTel P55, there’s something for every user’s need. Remember, the best phone for you depends on what you value most – be it battery life, camera, performance, or screen quality.

Keep an eye on The Price for more updates, comparisons, and buying tips to make your next purchase not just wise but also delightful. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first smartphone, this guide should help you navigate through the plethora of options available in Nigeria’s bustling tech market. Stay informed, spend wisely, and enjoy your new gadget!