Buying a good smartphone in Nigeria when you are on a budget can feel like walking through a maze. You want something reliable, fast enough for your apps, and with decent battery life. But with so many options and prices constantly changing, it can be hard to figure out what’s actually worth your money.
The truth is, you don’t have to spend ₦200k or more to get a phone that works well. There are solid smartphones under ₦100k that can handle the basics like WhatsApp, Instagram, browsing, videos, and even some gaming. You just need to know where to look and what to avoid.
This guide breaks down the top smartphones under ₦100,000 in Nigeria that are currently worth your attention. We will focus on phones that give you good value, last long, and won’t frustrate you a few weeks after purchase.
What Can You Expect from Phones Under ₦100k in Nigeria?
Before we list the best options, let’s be realistic about what you can expect in this price range. Phones under ₦100k won’t give you flagship-level performance or cameras, but that doesn’t mean they’re useless.
Here’s what most phones under ₦100k usually offer:
- 3GB to 4GB RAM: Enough for regular multitasking
- 32GB to 64GB storage: Most support SD card expansion
- Good battery life: Between 4000mAh to 6000mAh
- Decent screen size: Often 6.5 inches or more
- 4G network: Many phones in this range support 4G LTE
- Basic cameras: Fair for social media but not great in low light
If your needs include browsing, chatting, watching videos, light gaming, and basic photography, these phones will serve you well.
Best Smartphones Under ₦100k in Nigeria (Updated 2025)
Let’s break down the phones currently making waves in this budget category. Prices may vary slightly depending on your location and the store, but all of these are typically available for ₦100,000 or less in many online and offline stores across Nigeria.
1. itel S23 (4GB RAM, 128GB ROM)
- Price: ₦87,000 – ₦95,000
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Camera: 50MP main camera
- Extras: Face unlock, fingerprint sensor
itel has been stepping up its game recently, and the S23 is proof. With 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, this phone handles multitasking fairly well. The large display and big battery make it great for media and daily use.
2. itel P40 (4GB RAM, 64GB ROM)
- Price: ₦85,000 – ₦95,000
- Battery: 6000mAh
- Camera: 13MP dual camera
- Display: 6.6″ HD+
- Extras: Rear fingerprint sensor, Face unlock
The itel P40 is a great pick for those who want long battery life and stable performance at a friendly price. With 4GB RAM and a massive 6000mAh battery, it runs smoothly for day-to-day use and can last more than a day on a full charge. While it may not be a gaming phone, it works well for regular apps, videos, and browsing without heating up or lagging. It’s a reliable budget phone you’ll be glad you picked.
3. Tecno Pop 7 Pro (3GB RAM, 64GB ROM)
- Price: ₦85,000 – ₦95,000
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Camera: 13MP dual AI camera
- OS: Android 12 (Go Edition)
Tecno’s Pop series is known for being wallet-friendly. The Pop 7 Pro has enough specs to get you through the day without issues. It is ideal for students or light users who just need the basics without stress.
4. Samsung Galaxy A03 Core (2GB RAM, 32GB ROM)
- Price: ₦80,000 – ₦90,000
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Camera: 8MP rear
- Processor: Unisoc SC9863A
Samsung is a trusted name, and the A03 Core is their budget-friendly option. Although the specs are lower than others on this list, it wins on build quality and reliability. It’s perfect for users who want something simple and durable.
5. Xiaomi Redmi A2+ (2GB RAM, 32GB ROM)
- Price: ₦77,000 – ₦85,000
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Camera: 8MP + QVGA
- Extras: Fingerprint scanner, Android 12 Go
Xiaomi is known for delivering value, and the A2+ does just that. It handles day-to-day tasks with ease, and the fingerprint scanner is a nice bonus. If you are new to smartphones or need a reliable second phone, it’s a great pick.
What Is the Best Phone Under ₦100k for Battery Life?
If battery life is your priority, look for phones with at least 5000mAh battery capacity. Most budget phones now come with large batteries, but some manage power better than others.
Here are three strong battery performers:
- itel P40
- Itel S23
- Redmi A2+
These phones can easily last a full day with regular use and some can even stretch into the second day, depending on how you use them.
Where Can You Buy Budget Phones in Nigeria?
There are several places to buy phones under ₦100k safely:
Online Stores:
- Jumia Nigeria
- Konga
- Slot Nigeria (slot.ng)
Physical Stores:
- Local markets like Computer Village in Lagos.
- Trusted mobile phone shops in malls or high-traffic areas
- Official stores of Infinix, Tecno, Itel, or Samsung
Make sure to check reviews and ratings if you’re buying online. Also, buy from verified sellers to avoid refurbished or fake models.
Tips Before Buying a Budget Smartphone in Nigeria
Here are a few tips to help you choose wisely:
- Check network support: Confirm the phone supports 4G if that matters to you.
- Prioritize RAM and storage: Go for at least 3GB RAM and 64GB storage if possible.
- Watch for Android Go: Phones running Android Go are optimized for low specs but may not support all apps.
- Buy from reputable sellers: This helps avoid issues like fake parts or missing warranties.
- Consider battery life and charging speed: Fast charging is rare in this range, so focus on getting a big battery.
Also Read: 10 Ways to Extend Your Smartphone Battery Life
Are Budget Phones Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely. Not everyone needs a flagship phone. If your main tasks include chatting, browsing, watching videos, and using everyday apps, a budget phone can handle all of that without problems. The trick is picking the right one.
The good news is phone makers have improved their entry-level options a lot in the past few years. Even under ₦100k, you can now get a smooth Android experience, decent cameras, and batteries that last. If your budget is tight or you simply want a backup device, there are phones in this price range that will meet your needs and last long enough to make the money worth it.
Just remember: Always match your expectations with what the phone is built for. If you need high performance, fast charging, or advanced cameras, you might want to increase your budget. But if you’re looking for a solid everyday smartphone without breaking the bank, the options above are actually worth considering.
