The Infinix Smart 2 16GB offers exceptional value in Kenya, with prices typically ranging from KES 7,500 to KES 10,500. This budget-friendly smartphone continues to be a top choice for Kenyans seeking a reliable first phone or a capable secondary device without breaking the bank. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Infinix’s understanding of the local market’s needs.
Discover how this device delivers core smartphone functionality at a price point that is accessible to a wide audience. We will reveal the key features, current market prices, and where you can find the best deals to unlock maximum value for your money.
Current Price Range and Market Trends
As a device that has been on the market for several years, the Infinix Smart 2 16GB is firmly positioned in the ultra-budget category. Its price is no longer fixed but fluctuates based on retailer stock, condition, and minor market forces. You can generally expect to find it within these specific brackets:
- Standard Retail Price (New Old Stock): KES 9,000 – KES 10,500. This is for brand new, sealed units that retailers may still have in inventory.
- Refurbished/Excellent Condition: KES 7,500 – KES 8,500. These are phones that have been professionally restored, often with a new battery and warranty.
- Used/Good Condition: KES 5,000 – KES 7,000. Prices here depend heavily on the phone’s physical state and battery health.
Recent trends show a gradual decline in price as newer budget models enter the market, but seasonal variations, especially during back-to-school periods, can cause temporary price spikes due to increased demand for affordable options.
Key Specifications and Build Quality
The Infinix Smart 2 16GB is designed to deliver essential smartphone features with a build that prioritizes durability and cost-effectiveness. It strikes a balance between a modern form factor and practical, everyday resilience, making it a reliable companion for the Kenyan user.
- Display: A 5.5-inch IPS LCD HD screen with a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels, protected by durable Dragontrail glass to resist scratches from daily use.
- Performance: Powered by a quad-core MediaTek MT6580 chipset clocked at 1.3GHz, paired with 1GB of RAM for handling basic tasks and light apps.
- Storage: 16GB of internal storage, expandable via a dedicated microSD card slot up to 128GB to accommodate music, photos, and documents.
- Camera System: An 8MP rear autofocus camera with dual-LED flash for clear photos and a 5MP front-facing camera with a soft LED flash for selfies.
- Battery: A substantial 3050mAh non-removable lithium-polymer battery, certified for safety, providing up to a full day of moderate usage on a single charge.
- Build & Dimensions: Constructed with a polycarbonate plastic unibody that is 147.5 x 71 x 8.3 mm, offering a solid grip and resistance to minor drops. It features a sleek, glossy finish and is available in classic colors like Sandstone Black, Bordeaux Red, and Serene Gold.
- Connectivity: Supports dual 3G SIM cards, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS, covering all fundamental connectivity needs.
Key Factors Influencing the Price in Kenya
The final price tag you see on the Infinix Smart 2 16GB is not arbitrary; it is the culmination of several interconnected economic and market forces. Understanding these factors empowers you as a consumer to make an informed purchase and recognize why prices may differ from one retailer to another, even for the same aging model.
- Importation Costs and Forex Fluctuations: As an imported device, its cost is directly tied to the USD/KES exchange rate. A weaker shilling against the dollar increases the landed cost, a expense often passed on to consumers. This includes freight, insurance, and port handling fees.
- Taxation and Government Levies: The government imposes import duty, VAT, and other regulatory fees on smartphones. Any changes in tax policy directly impact the device’s final shelf price, adding a significant fixed cost layer.
- Retailer Markup and Distribution Chain: The price increases at each stage of the supply chain. A large supermarket in Nairobi will have a different markup strategy compared to a smaller independent shop in Kisumu, reflecting their varying operational costs, warranties offered, and profit margins.
- Product Condition and Availability: Being an older model, its availability is limited to “New Old Stock” or refurbished units. A brand new, sealed unit commands a premium, while a refurbished phone with a warranty is mid-priced, and a used phone with visible wear will be at the bottom of the price bracket.
- Seasonal Demand and Promotions: Prices can temporarily spike during high-demand periods like Christmas, New Year, or back-to-school seasons. Conversely, you may find discounts during slower sales periods or during special promotional events like Black Friday as retailers clear old inventory.
- Competition from Newer Models: The relentless launch of newer, more feature-packed budget phones from brands like Tecno, Samsung, and Nokia creates downward pressure on the price of older models like the Smart 2, forcing sellers to lower prices to remain competitive.
Where to Buy the Infinix Smart 2 16GB in Kenya
Finding the Infinix Smart 2 requires knowing where to look, as it is no longer widely stocked as a new model. Your purchasing channel significantly impacts the price, authenticity, and after-sales support you receive. Here are your primary options, each with distinct advantages and considerations.
- Major Online Marketplaces (Jumia, Kilimall): These platforms are ideal for comparing prices from different vendors quickly. You can often find flash sales and discounts. Tip: Scrutinize seller ratings and read customer reviews meticulously to avoid counterfeit products or vendors with poor after-sales service. Ensure the listing specifies whether the device is new, refurbished, or used.
- Official Infinix Brand Stores and Authorized Dealers: Located in major malls across Nairobi (like TRM, Galleria), Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru, these outlets are your best bet for finding guaranteed “New Old Stock” with a valid manufacturer’s warranty. Tip: While prices may be slightly higher, you are paying for peace of mind, genuine accessories, and professional technical support should you need it.
- Local Electronics Retailers and Independent Phone Shops: Stores like Phone Place Kenya, numerous outlets on Kimathi Street, and other town-specific retailers often have stock. Tip: Always physically inspect the phone, check for signs of previous use, and test all functions—including the camera, speakers, and charging port—before purchasing. Negotiation on price is often expected and possible here.
- Refurbishment Specialist Stores: Some businesses specialize in selling quality-refurbished phones with warranties. Tip: This is an excellent middle-ground option, offering a device that has been professionally tested and repaired (often with a new battery) at a lower cost than new old stock, but with more security than a random used phone.
Popular Alternatives and Competitive Comparison
Before finalizing your decision on the Infinix Smart 2, it is crucial to survey the competitive landscape. The sub-KES 15,000 segment in Kenya is fiercely contested, with several brands offering compelling alternatives that may provide better specifications, newer software, or enhanced durability. Your choice should be guided by which features—be it a larger screen, more RAM, or a superior camera—matter most to your daily usage.
| Brand & Model | Price Range (KES) | Key Features & Value Proposition | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinix Smart 2 (16GB) | 7,500 – 10,500 | Established brand, reliable performance for basics (calls, SMS, light apps), large 3050mAh battery. Best for absolute minimalists. | Limited new stock; widely available refurbished & used. |
| Tecno Spark Go (2023) | 10,999 – 13,500 | Modern alternative; newer Android OS (Go Edition), larger 6.6″ HD+ display, 5000mAh battery, 4G connectivity. Superior value in almost every aspect. | Extremely high; brand new units available everywhere. |
| Nokia C12 | 11,000 – 14,000 | Built for extreme durability (drop-resistant polycarbonate), clean Android experience with guaranteed security updates, 2-day battery life. Best for longevity and software purity. | Good; available in major retail chains and online. |
| Samsung Galaxy A03 Core | 12,500 – 15,000 | Trusted global brand reputation, One UI Core software is user-friendly, reliable performance. The safe, brand-conscious choice with strong resale value. | Widely available in authorized Samsung stores and dealers. |
When considering alternatives, also explore different configurations. For instance, many models come in 32GB or 64GB storage variants for a slight premium, which is a worthwhile investment over the 16GB option to avoid storage constraints.
While Infinix and Tecno are deeply localized brands with extensive service networks, Nokia and Samsung offer the reassurance of global standards and often better long-term software support, justifying their slightly higher price points for many Kenyan consumers.
Essential Buying Tips for Kenyan Consumers
Purchasing a phone, especially an older model like the Infinix Smart 2, requires a vigilant approach to ensure you get a functional device and avoid costly mistakes. These practical, detailed tips are designed to protect your investment and guarantee satisfaction with your purchase, whether you are buying from a physical store or an online vendor.
- Conduct a Meticulous Physical Inspection: Examine the device for any cracks, deep scratches, or signs of liquid damage (check the SIM tray for a white or red moisture indicator sticker). Test every physical button (power, volume) for responsiveness. Inspect the charging port for dirt or signs of wear and ensure it holds a cable securely.
- Perform a Comprehensive Functionality Test: Before payment, insert a SIM card to test call quality and network reception. Connect to a Wi-Fi network. Test the touchscreen thoroughly by dragging your finger across the entire screen to detect any dead zones. Check both the front and rear cameras, ensuring they focus correctly and the flashes work. Test the speaker, microphone, and headphone jack.
- Ask Probing Questions: Inquire directly about the phone’s history: “Is this a refurbished unit, and if so, what parts were replaced?” “What is the current health of the battery, and does it still last a full day?” “Can you provide the original purchase receipt or any documentation?” For online sellers, ask for clear, original pictures of the actual device, not stock images.
- Scrutinize Warranty and Service Support: For a new device, ensure it comes with a valid Infinix warranty card, stamped and dated by the retailer. For refurbished phones, demand a written warranty from the seller, clearly stating its duration (e.g., 3 months) and what it covers (e.g., motherboard, screen). Understand the repair process—will the seller handle it, or do you need to go to a specific service center?
- Recognize Major Red Flags: Walk away immediately if the price is inexplicably far lower than the market average, the seller refuses to let you inspect or test the phone, the device feels unusually hot during simple tasks, the software appears modified or has unfamiliar pre-installed apps, or the IMEI number (dial *#06#) is missing, invalid, or blacklisted.
Conclusion: Making Your Final Decision
Priced between KES 7,500 and 10,500, the Infinix Smart 2 16GB remains a viable ultra-budget option. For users with minimal needs, a refurbished unit offers core functionality.
However, for most Kenyans, investing a little more in a newer model like the Tecno Spark Go provides significantly better value and modern features. Always inspect any device thoroughly and prioritize sellers offering a clear warranty to make a smart, secure purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infinix Smart 2 16GB Price in Kenya
Is the Infinix Smart 2 still a good buy in Kenya today?
For users with extremely basic needs like calls, SMS, and light browsing, a refurbished unit can suffice. However, its age, limited 3G connectivity, and outdated Android version make newer alternatives like the Tecno Spark Go a significantly better long-term investment for most Kenyan buyers.
Where can I get genuine spare parts for repairs in Kenya?
Authorized Infinix service centers in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa are your best bet for genuine parts like batteries and screens. Alternatively, reputable phone repair shops in tech hubs like Kimathi Street often source reliable compatible parts.
How can I verify the phone is not stolen before purchasing?
Always dial *#06# to get the device’s IMEI number. You can then cross-check this number for free on the CEOC website to ensure it has not been reported as lost or stolen, protecting you from legal issues.
What is the biggest drawback of buying this phone now?
The most significant drawback is its outdated Android operating system, which no longer receives security updates. This leaves the device vulnerable to malware and incompatible with many modern applications available on the Google Play Store in Kenya.
Can its storage be expanded to hold more music and photos?
Yes, it features a dedicated microSD card slot that allows you to expand the storage by up to 128GB. This is a crucial feature for storing large media collections without relying on constant internet data.