For the longest time, feature phones dominated Kenya’s mobile market. That has now changed. Smartphones have officially overtaken feature phones in Kenya, marking a major shift in how Kenyans communicate, work, and access the internet. But while smartphones are now the majority, a huge portion of users are still first-time switchers.
Want to know how this happened? Check out our coverage on how Kenya went from 70% feature phones to 70% smartphones in a year.
For most of these users, the KES 10,000 and below segment is the natural entry point. This is where affordability matters more than raw power, camera prowess, or premium design. These smartphones are not for heavy gaming, professional photography, or long-term software experimentation. They are bought to do the basics like calls, SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, light browsing, mobile money apps, and the occasional photo.
The interesting part? Brands that are still serious about this segment are quietly doing impressive work. Bigger screens, decent batteries, fingerprint scanners, USB-C charging, and even high-refresh-rate displays are slowly trickling down to this ultra-budget category.
One important thing readers should know upfront: almost all smartphones in this list launched last year or even earlier. Some of them have not yet received direct successors. Once newer models arrive in Kenya at similar prices below KES 10,000, this guide will be updated accordingly.
That said, below is a comprehensive buyer’s guide to the best smartphones Kenyans can buy for KES 10,000 and below, focusing on real-world strengths, weaknesses, and who each phone is best suited for.
Redmi A5
Xiaomi’s Redmi A series has quietly become one of the most reliable entry-level smartphone lines in Kenya. The Redmi A5 continues that trend, offering a clean experience, solid battery life, and dependable basics.
Key highlights:
- Display: A massive 6.88-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, which is incredibly smooth for this price bracket.
- Battery: A 5200mAh battery that easily lasts 2 days with moderate usage.
- Design: Glass-like back finish that feels more expensive than it is.
Strengths:
- Battery life: Easily lasts a full day and more for light users
- Software simplicity: Android Go keeps things smooth for basic tasks
- Build quality: Feels more solid than most smartphones at this price
- Brand trust: Xiaomi’s entry-level devices tend to age better than many rivals
Weaknesses:
- Size: The 6.88-inch size might be unwieldy for users with smaller hands.
- Charging: 15W charging is decent but slow for a 5200mAh battery.
- No guaranteed longevity with software updates.
Specs & features:
- Display: 6.88-inch HD+ (1640×720) IPS LCD, 120Hz
- Processor: Unisoc T7250 (Octa-core)
- Cameras: 32MP AI Dual Main Camera | 8MP Selfie
- Memory: 3GB/4GB RAM + 64GB Storage (Expandable)
- Battery: 5200mAh | 15W Charging (Type-C)
- Software: Android 15 (Go Edition)
Who it’s for
The Redmi A5 is ideal for first-time smartphone users, older users, or anyone who values stability and battery life over flashy features.
Samsung Galaxy A06
Samsung Galaxy A06 exists for one reason: familiarity and trust. Many Kenyans still prefer Samsung simply because they know the brand, and the A06 caters directly to that audience. Although quite old compared to others on this list, it’s the best you can get under KES 10,000 in Kenya right now if Samsung is your must-have smartphone brand.
Key highlights:
- Camera: The 50MP main camera is arguably the best in this specific list for detail and clarity.
- Software support: Samsung promises up to 2 major Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates, meaning it gets the latest Android 16 (One UI 8) update and stays relevant for longer.
- Battery life and charging: Decent battery life and supports 25W fast charging, which is significantly faster than the 15W standard on rivals.
- Reliable after-sales support
Strengths:
- Software experience: Clean, familiar, and stable with guaranteed updates up to Android 16.
- Brand reliability: I mean, it’s Samsung!
- Display quality: Good colour tuning for everyday use
- Charging: It has the fastest charging you’ll get in this category.
Weaknesses:
- Display: Stuck at 60Hz refresh rate, making it feel slower than the 90Hz/120Hz competition.
- Design: The waterdrop notch and thicker bezels look a bit dated compared to the punch-holes on others.
Specs & features:
- Display: 6.7-inch HD+ PLS LCD, 60Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
- Cameras: 50MP Main + 2MP Depth | 8MP Selfie
- Memory: 4GB RAM + 64GB Storage
- Battery: 5000mAh | 25W Wired Charging | USB Type-C charging
- Security: Fingerprint (side-mounted)
- Software: Android 14 (up to Android 16), up to 4 years of security updates
Who it’s for
Ideal for users who trust Samsung, want a familiar interface, and value reliability over aggressive specifications.
Infinix Smart 10 HD
Infinix continues to dominate Kenya’s ultra-budget segment, and the Smart 10 series shows why. These smartphones are built specifically for affordability while still delivering modern essentials. The standard Smart 10 brings a high refresh rate, while the HD variant offers a slightly stripped-back experience for an even lower price.
Key highlights:
- Large display
- Solid battery capacity
- Reliable security with fingerprint and face unlock
Strengths:
- Big screens: Excellent for WhatsApp, YouTube, and Facebook
- Battery life: Reliable for all-day use
- Connectivity: Marketed with “4.5G” capabilities for faster data speeds than standard 4G counterparts.
- Availability: Widely available both online and in physical shops
- Value-focused: Often bundled with cases and chargers
Weaknesses:
- Cameras will struggle in low light
- Performance is not meant for multitasking
- Slow 10W charging for a 5000mAh battery
- No guaranteed longevity with software updates.
Specs & features:
- Display: 6.6-inch HD+ IPS LCD, 90Hz
- Processor: Octa-core processor (1.6GHz) + Mali-G57 GPU
- Cameras: 13MP Dual Camera (with Ring Flashlight) + 8MP Selfie Cam
- Memory: 64GB Storage + 3GB RAM (up to 4GB Extended)
- Battery: 5000mAh | Type-C Charging | 10W charging
- Security: Side-mounted Fingerprint & Face Unlock
- Software: Android 14 Go Edition
(The standard Smart 10 typically improves the refresh rate to 120Hz, comes with Android 15, faster 15W charging, and may vary slightly in camera specs).
Who they’re for
Perfect for students, first-time users, or backup smartphone buyers who want the biggest screen and longest battery life for the least amount of money.
POCO C71
The POCO C71 is one of the most ambitious smartphones ever to land in Kenya’s sub-10K category. On paper, it pushes boundaries that were previously unheard of at this price point. In fact, the POCO C71 can be termed as a performance-focused sibling to the Redmi A5, sharing similar DNA but with POCO’s distinct branding and optimization. It is built for those who want a bit more “oomph” in daily tasks.
Standout strengths:
- Performance: The Unisoc T7250 processor combined with memory extension (up to 8GB total RAM) makes it one of the snappier smartphones in this list.
- Eye protection: Triple TÜV Rheinland certifications for Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free viewing.
- Battery Life: The 5200mAh battery is rated for up to 20 hours of video playback.
Weaknesses:
- Like others in this list, 15W charging is relatively slow for a 5200mAh battery.
- Large size may be uncomfortable for small hands
- No guaranteed longevity with software updates
Specs & features:
- Display: 6.88-inch HD+ (1640×720), 120Hz Refresh Rate, 90% Screen-to-body ratio
- Processor: Unisoc T7250 Octa-core (up to 1.8GHz)
- Cameras: 32MP AI Dual Rear | 8MP Front with Soft Aperture
- Battery: 5200mAh | 15W Fast Charging (Type-C)
- Build: 8.26mm slim body, 193g
- Security: Side Fingerprint + AI Face Unlock
- Software: Android 15 (Go Edition)
Who it’s for
The POCO C71 is for buyers who want the most features for the least money. If you want something that feels modern without crossing KES 10,000, this is one of the strongest options available.
TECNO POP 10
The POP series used to be very basic, but the POP 10 has leveled up significantly. It bridges the gap between the entry-level POP and the mid-range SPARK series.
Standout strengths:
- Design: iPhone 16-inspired looks
- Audio: Features dual stereo speakers (DTS sound), great for listening to music or watching movies without headphones.
- Utility: Includes an Infrared (IR) blaster, allowing you to use the smartphone as a remote for your TV or appliances.
- Display: A 120Hz punch-hole display gives it a modern look and feel.
Weaknesses:
- Cameras: The 13MP shooter is decent but sits below the 32MP/50MP found on the Redmi and Samsung options.
- Software: No guaranteed longevity with software updates.
- Charging: 15W is quite slow for a 5000mAh battery
Specs & features:
- Display: 6.67-inch HD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz
- Processor: Unisoc T7250
- Cameras: 13MP Dual Rear | 8MP Selfie with Dual Flash
- Battery: 5000mAh | 15W Charging | USB Type-C
- Software: Android 15 (Go Edition)
- Security: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner
- Extras: IP54 Splash Resistance, IR Remote Control
Who it’s for
The TECNO POP 10 is best suited for absolute beginners, elderly users, or anyone buying their very first smartphone. It also presents a compelling option for anyone looking for an iPhone 16 lookalike on the cheap.
itel City 100
itel has quietly evolved from feature phones into capable entry-level smartphones. The City 100 reflects that shift, aiming to deliver balance rather than flashy specs. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t get flashy.
Standout strengths:
- Design: Ultra-slim 7.65mm profile makes it the sleekest smartphone on this list.
- Battery/charging balance: A 5200mAh battery paired with 18W charging (faster than the 15W on most smartphones in this category).
- Storage: UFS 2.2 storage technology
- Durability: Rated IP64 for water and dust resistance and drop resistance up to 1.5m.
- AI: Integration of DeepSeek R1 AI technology
Weaknesses:
- Bloat: itel OS can be heavy on ads and notifications.
- Refresh rate: 90Hz is good, but 120Hz is becoming the standard even at this price (as seen in Redmi/POCO/TECNO).
- Software: No guaranteed software updates.
Specs & features:
- Display: 6.75-inch HD+ IPS LCD, 90Hz
- Processor: Unisoc T7250
- Cameras: 13MP Rear | 8MP Front
- Battery: 5200mAh | 18W Fast Charging | USB Type-C
- Storage and RAM: 128GB ROM, 4GB RAM
- Features: Side Fingerprint, IR Blaster, UFS 2.2 Storage (faster app opening)
- Software: Android 14
Who it’s for
A solid choice for users who want a simple, good-looking smartphone that handles daily essentials without frustration.
How to choose the right smartphone under KES 10,000
Buying a smartphone under KES 10,000 is all about expectation management. These phones are not built to impress on spec sheets. They are built to work.
If you want:
- The most features: POCO C71
- Battery and simplicity: Redmi A5
- Widest availability: Infinix Smart 10 HD
- Brand trust: Samsung Galaxy A06
- Lowest possible price: TECNO POP 10
- Balanced experience: itel City 100
As newer successors arrive, hopefully without creeping past the KES 10,000 mark, this guide will be updated. For now, these remain some of the best entry-level smartphones Kenyans can confidently buy today.
