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Johannesburg - Electronics manufacturers have made a push for entry-level devices to enter the market at a cheaper cost while packing them with premium features.
Numerous smartphone-makers have released cheaper, more powerful devices this year. This means that older models with similar features, which were once seen as premium devices, have now been plunged into a cheaper price bracket.
At the end of the day it becomes a win for the consumer who is now spoiled for choice when choosing a new smartphone. Whether you go the ostentatious route of picking a high-end device when it really isn’t needed or taking the more economic road and purchasing a device with essential features and that little extra power.
Almost every manufacturer has an entry-level device which outperforms a premium device from three years ago. However, LG, Huawei, Apple, BlackBerry and Samsung released devices which are available right now to suit any pocket.
LG X Cam
The LG X Cam is one of the cheapest devices available for South Africans right now to offer a dual-camera. While it may not capture those Single Lens Reflex images like pricier devices, the X Cam outperforms many of the devices in its class when it comes to taking photos.
12 megapixel camera, 5.2 inch display, 1.14 GHz processor
R299 on a 24-month Vodacom contract
Huawei G8
One of the Chinese manufacturers lesser marketed devices the G8 packages a powerful punch with a zippy processor, great camera and even a fingerprint sensor to make the device feel more premium.
13 megapixel camera, 5.5 inch display, 1.5 GHz processor
R299 on a 24-month Vodacom contract
Apple iPhone SE
Behold Apple’s answer to an entry level smartphone – the rehashed iPhone 5S now known as the “SE”. The SE is your typical Apple device featuring the best from the iPhone packaged into a smartphone that won’t make one miss the latest iPhone 7.
12 megapixel camera, 4 inch display, 1.8 GHz processor
R299 on a 24-month Vodacom contract
BlackBerry DTEK50
If you’re sceptical about your device being hacked this season, “the most secure Android in world” is here to answer your call. BlackBerry’s DTEK50 is the Fort Knox of smartphones with security tight enough to protect all its contents.
13 megapixel camera, 5.2 inch display, 1.5 GHz processor
R299 on a 24-month MTN contract
Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime
Yes, it has a Lithium-Ion battery like its deceased older cousin the Note 7, but the Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime is a sophisticated device which encompasses high-end smartphone features like a fingerprint sensor, a display with great resolution and a battery built for endurance.
13 megapixel camera, 5.5 inch display, 1.6 GHz processor
R299 on a 24-month MTN contract
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