If you have a budget of around R5,000 to spend on a new smartphone in South Africa, you’re in luck. This article offers a wide selection of capable devices that bring premium features like high refresh rate displays, fast charging, and even NFC payment support within reach — features that were once reserved for mid-range or flagship models.
With monthly repayments around R300 over 24 months at a 22% interest rate, these smartphones can be easily financed, making them attractive options for value-conscious buyers.
Here’s a closer look at the best smartphones under R5,000 currently available, led by the recently launched Samsung Galaxy A26.
1. Samsung Galaxy A26 — From R4,347 (Amazon.co.za)
The Samsung Galaxy A26, launched in March 2025, delivers flagship-level reliability in a compact package. Featuring the Exynos 1380 processor inherited from the Galaxy A35, the A26 stands out with features like an IP67 rating, Gorilla Glass Victus+, and optical image stabilization (OIS) in the camera system — a first for the A20 series.
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Display: 6.7-inch 1080 × 2340 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
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Processor: Samsung Exynos 1380
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Memory: 4GB RAM, 128GB storage (expandable via microSD)
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Cameras: 50MP + 8MP + 2MP rear; 13MP front
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Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
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OS: OneUI 7 based on Android 15
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Other features: NFC support, IP67 rating, side-mounted fingerprint reader
Strengths: Excellent durability, software support till 2031, great build quality
Downsides: 780 nits peak brightness might be low for outdoor use
2. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 4G — From R3,999 (Makro)
For those prioritizing raw hardware, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 4G is a powerhouse in this segment. With a 108MP primary camera, 6GB RAM, and a 33W fast charger included, this device is perfect for performance seekers.
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Display: 6.67-inch 1080 × 2400 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
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Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Ultra
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Memory: 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
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Cameras: 108MP + 2MP + 2MP rear; 20MP front
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Battery: 5,500mAh with 33W fast charging
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OS: HyperOS on Android 14
Strengths: Powerful camera setup, strong battery, OLED display
Downsides: No NFC support
3. ZTE Nubia Neo 2 5G — From R3,999 (Bash)
The ZTE Nubia Neo 2 5G is a rare find under R5,000 offering 5G connectivity, making it future-ready. It also packs ample 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, making it ideal for multitaskers and gamers.
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Display: 6.72-inch 1080 × 2400 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
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Processor: Unisoc T820
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Memory: 8GB RAM, 256GB storage
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Cameras: 50MP + 2MP rear; 16MP front
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Battery: 5,200mAh with 33W fast charging
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OS: Android 14
Strengths: 5G support, large storage and RAM
Downsides: IP rating not specified, no NFC support
4. Honor X7C — From R4,999 (Bash and Pep Cell)
The Honor X7C offers a balance between affordability and battery endurance, with a huge 6,000mAh battery and a 108MP camera at a competitive price.
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Display: 6.77-inch 720 × 1610 LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
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Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 685
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Memory: 8GB RAM, 256GB storage
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Cameras: 108MP + 2MP rear; 8MP front
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Battery: 6,000mAh with 35W fast charging
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OS: MagicOS 8 based on Android 14
Strengths: Massive battery, high-res camera
Downsides: Lower 720p display resolution
5. Oppo A40M — From R4,999 (Takealot)
The Oppo A40M is a solid choice for casual users who want reliable day-to-day performance. It features a simple 50MP camera, fast 45W charging, and ample storage.
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Display: 6.67-inch 720 × 1604 LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
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Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 1
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Memory: 6GB RAM, 256GB storage
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Cameras: 50MP rear; 5MP front
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Battery: 5,100mAh with 45W fast charging
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OS: ColorOS 14 based on Android 14
Strengths: Fast charging, good storage
Downsides: Lower display resolution and refresh rate
Which smartphone under R5,000 should you buy?
If you want the best overall experience and software support, the Samsung Galaxy A26 is hard to beat.
If you need better cameras and more RAM for gaming or multitasking, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 4G or ZTE Nubia Neo 2 5G are excellent picks.
For those focused on battery life and storage, Honor X7C or Oppo A40M could also be good alternatives depending on your needs.