Lenovo Phab Plus Price in Kenya

The Lenovo Phab Plus price in Kenya currently ranges between Ksh 15,000 and Ksh 22,000, making it an intriguing option for those seeking a large-screen experience without a flagship cost. This phablet carved out a unique niche upon its release, appealing to Kenyans who prioritize media consumption and productivity on the go.

Are you searching for a device that bridges the gap between a cumbersome tablet and a standard smartphone? Discover how this specific model balances its massive display with surprisingly portable dimensions.

Current Price Range and Market Positioning

As a discontinued model, the Lenovo Phab Plus’s value is now solely determined by the second-hand and refurbished market. Its price is highly dependent on the unit’s condition, remaining battery health, and included accessories. You will typically encounter it in three distinct brackets:

• Budget Range (Ksh 10,000 – Ksh 14,000): This tier includes phones with visible signs of wear, such as scratches on the body or screen, and may come with a degraded battery that doesn’t hold a full day’s charge. They often lack original packaging or accessories.
• Mid-Range (Ksh 15,000 – Ksh 19,000): This is the most common price point. Phones here are in good functional condition with minimal cosmetic wear, a decent battery, and usually include a charger and perhaps the original box.
• Premium Refurbished (Ksh 20,000 – Ksh 23,000): These units are often professionally refurbished. They feature a new or like-new screen, a replaced high-capacity battery, and are thoroughly tested to ensure all functions work perfectly, sometimes even including a short warranty from the seller.

Prices can see a slight dip during major sale events like Black Friday or after new smartphone launches, as sellers look to clear older stock. However, as a niche device, its price remains relatively stable due to limited supply.

Key Specifications and Build Quality

The Lenovo Phab Plus was a standout device in its prime, primarily due to its phablet-defining specifications and premium construction that offered a distinct feel in the hand. Its design philosophy was to deliver a tablet-like experience in a form factor that could still, just about, be used as a phone.

• Display: It features a massive 6.8-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS LCD display. This panel is protected by a sheet of Corning Gorilla Glass, which offers resilience against minor scratches and everyday scuffs. The large, high-resolution screen was its main selling point, ideal for watching videos, browsing the web, and reading.
• Dimensions and Build: The device measures 186.6 x 96.6 x 7.6 mm, making it exceptionally thin for its size. Its unibody construction is crafted from a single block of anodized aluminum alloy, giving it a rigid, premium feel that is both cool to the touch and resistant to flexing. The matte finish provides a secure grip.
• Performance: It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 octa-core processor, paired with 2GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 32GB of internal eMMC 5.0 storage, which is expandable via a dedicated microSD card slot. This hardware was considered mid-range at launch, capable of handling everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
• Camera System: The rear houses a 13-megapixel sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, phase detection autofocus (PDAF) for quicker focusing, and a dual-LED flash. The front-facing camera is a 5-megapixel unit with a fixed-focus wide-angle lens, suitable for group selfies.
• Battery and Connectivity: A non-removable 3500mAh lithium-polymer battery provides the power. For connectivity, it supports 4G LTE networks common in Kenya, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and it even features an infrared blaster, allowing you to use the phone as a universal remote control for your TV and other appliances.
• Additional Features: It includes a Dolby Atmos audio enhancement for a more immersive sound experience through its dual speakers and includes standard sensors like an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and ambient light sensor.

Factors Affecting the Lenovo Phab Plus Price in Kenya

The final price tag you see on a Lenovo Phab Plus in Kenya is not arbitrary; it is the culmination of several interconnected factors that influence its value in a market where it is no longer officially sold. Understanding these elements empowers you to assess whether a seller’s asking price is fair and justified.

• Condition and Cosmetic Grade: This is the single most significant factor. A unit graded ‘A’ (mint condition with no scratches) commands a premium, often falling into the higher price bracket. A grade ‘B’ phone (minor scuffs and wear) will be mid-range, while a grade ‘C’ or ‘D’ device (significant scratches, dents, or screen blemishes) will be at the bottom of the price range. Battery health is a critical sub-factor here.
• Supply Scarcity and Market Availability: As a discontinued model, the Phab Plus is no longer in production. Its availability is limited to the existing stock in the refurbishment and second-hand market. This scarcity can sometimes inflate prices, especially for well-preserved units, as they become collector’s items or niche products for specific users.
• Included Accessories and Original Packaging: A phone that comes with its original charger, USB cable, SIM ejector tool, and most importantly, the original box, will be valued higher than a loose, standalone device. The packaging adds to the perceived value and authenticity.
• Seller Type and Warranty: Purchasing from an established tech shop or a reputable online store that offers a short warranty (e.g., 3-6 months) on refurbished devices will cost more than buying from a private individual on a platform like Facebook Marketplace. The premium you pay is for peace of mind and buyer protection.
• Functional Testing and Repairs: A phone that has been professionally refurbished—meaning its battery has been replaced, the software has been freshly installed, and all hardware components (cameras, speakers, sensors) have been tested—will be priced higher than an untested, “as-is” device from a private seller. You are paying for the labor and quality assurance.
• Historical Import Costs: While no longer being imported new, the initial landing cost when it was first released influences the baseline depreciation curve that sellers and refurbishers still reference when setting their prices today.

Where to Buy the Lenovo Phab Plus in Kenya

Finding a Lenovo Phab Plus requires navigating the pre-owned and refurbished market, as it is no longer available brand new from official retailers. Your choice of vendor significantly impacts the price, condition, and security of your purchase. Here are the most viable avenues to explore, each with its own distinct advantages and considerations.

• Online Marketplaces (Jumia, Kilimall): These large e-commerce platforms occasionally list the Phab Plus from third-party refurbishers. The key advantage is buyer protection; these sites often mediate disputes and may offer a return window. Scrutinize seller ratings, read all customer reviews for that specific seller, and pay close attention to the product description and condition grading. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
• Specialized Refurbished Phone Stores: In major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, visit established brick-and-mortar shops that specialize in refurbished electronics, particularly those located in tech hubs like Kimathi Street, Tom Mboya Street, or the vicinity of Biashara Street. Reputable stores will allow you to physically inspect the phone, test all functions (cameras, speakers, Wi-Fi, calls), and often provide a short-term warranty, which is invaluable for an older device.
• Peer-to-Peer Platforms (Facebook Marketplace, OLX): This is where you will find the widest variety of prices and conditions from individual sellers. This channel can yield the best bargain but carries the highest risk. Critical tips: Always insist on meeting in a safe, public place to inspect the phone thoroughly. Test everything, including charging the phone to check the port. Be wary of sellers who refuse to meet or demonstrate the device. Payment should only be made after you are fully satisfied.
• Authorized Lenovo Service Centers: While extremely rare, it is worth inquiring at official service centers. They sometimes sell refurbished units that were returned under warranty and repaired to a high standard. These are typically the most reliable but also the most expensive option in the second-hand market.

Popular Alternatives and Competing Brands

Before committing to the Lenovo Phab Plus, it is prudent to explore the modern alternatives available in the Kenyan market. While the Phab Plus offers a large screen, its aging hardware may not compete with newer devices in a similar price range that offer better performance, updated software, and improved cameras. The phablet category has evolved, with many standard smartphones now featuring screens over 6.5 inches.

The primary consideration is choosing between a discontinued niche phablet and a brand-new, widely supported device with modern features. While the Phab Plus has a specific appeal, alternatives from Infinix and Tecno provide significantly updated technology, warranty coverage, and easier access to repairs and accessories across Kenya. Refurbished models from global brands like Samsung and Nokia offer a compromise with stronger software support and build quality assurance.

Essential Buying Tips for a Second-Hand Phab Plus

Purchasing a discontinued device requires a meticulous approach to avoid costly mistakes. Your vigilance during the inspection process is your primary form of consumer protection. Follow these detailed steps to ensure you acquire a functional device that meets your expectations.

• Conduct a Thorough Physical and Digital Inspection: Physically check for deep scratches, dents, and, most critically, signs of water damage (look for a white or pink indicator sticker inside the SIM tray slot). Power on the device and test every single function: make a test call to check the earpiece, microphone, and loudspeaker; connect to a Wi-Fi network; test Bluetooth pairing; ensure the GPS locks onto your location; check all cameras (front and rear) by taking photos and videos; and test the vibration motor. Open a completely white screen image to check for dead pixels and a completely black image to check for screen burn-in.
• Ask Probing Questions About History and Condition: Interrogate the seller. Key questions include: “Why are you selling it?”, “How long have you owned it?”, “Has it undergone any repairs, especially screen or battery replacement?”, “What is the current battery health and how long does it typically last on a full charge?”, and “Are you the original owner?” Honest answers can reveal the device’s true condition.
• Verify Authenticity and Seek Warranty: Check the IMEI number (dial *#06#) and ensure it matches the number on the box and the device’s internal settings. Prioritize sellers—especially shops—that offer even a short written warranty (e.g., 1-3 months). This warranty should specifically cover the battery and main board. A seller refusing any form of warranty is a significant red flag.
• Recognize Major Red Flags: Immediately walk away from devices that are unusually hot to the touch, restart randomly, have swollen batteries (check for a bulging back panel), have mismatched IMEI numbers, or have a non-functional button (like power or volume). Be extremely wary of sellers who pressure you to buy quickly, refuse to let you test the device thoroughly, or only communicate through unofficial channels demanding payment upfront.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Lenovo Phab Plus, priced between Ksh 15,000 and 22,000, remains a niche choice for dedicated media consumers. For most Kenyans, a modern alternative from Infinix or Tecno offers superior value and reliability. Always prioritize a thorough inspection or a seller’s warranty to ensure your investment is sound and meets your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lenovo Phab Plus Price in Kenya

Is the Lenovo Phab Plus still a good buy in Kenya today?

For its price, it offers an unparalleled large-screen experience. However, its aging hardware and lack of software updates make it less ideal for demanding tasks. It is best for basic use and media consumption if you find a unit in excellent condition.

What is the most important thing to check before buying a used Phab Plus?

Absolutely check the battery health above all else. A degraded battery will ruin the experience. Test how long it holds a charge under normal use and inspect for any swelling, as a replacement can be costly and difficult to find.

Can I get a genuine replacement battery for it in Kenya?

Finding a brand new, original battery is very challenging. Your best options are specialized repair shops in Nairobi’s CBD like on Kimathi Street, but most will offer high-quality third-party replacements, which are a reliable alternative for this older model.

How does its performance compare to a new phone in the same price range?

Modern phones like the Tecno Spark or Infinix HOT series in this price bracket will offer significantly faster performance, newer software features, better cameras, and a full warranty, making them a more practical and future-proof choice for most users.