The Lenovo Phab series offers an expansive viewing experience in Kenya for a budget-conscious price range of Ksh 12,000 to Ksh 25,000. This positions it as a compelling choice for Kenyans seeking a large-screen smartphone without a flagship price tag. Discover how this phablet delivers exceptional value for media consumption and productivity.
Its popularity stems from a unique blend of a massive display and reliable performance, perfectly suited for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Current Price Range and Market Trends
The Lenovo Phab’s cost in Kenya is not a single figure but varies significantly based on the specific model, its condition, and the retailer’s location. You can expect to find it within these clear brackets:
- Budget Range (Ksh 12,000 – Ksh 16,000): This typically covers used or refurbished units of the standard Lenovo Phab and Phab Plus models. Phones here are fully functional but may show minor signs of wear.
- Mid-Range (Ksh 17,000 – Ksh 22,000): This is the sweet spot for brand new, sealed-in-box units of the older Phab 2 Plus model. You can also find like-new used models of the more advanced Phab 2 Pro with its innovative AR capabilities here.
- Premium Range (Ksh 23,000 – Ksh 28,000): This bracket is reserved for brand new, official stock of the flagship Phab 2 Pro. Prices can fluctuate based on remaining warranty and specific vendor markups.
Recent market trends show a gradual price decline as these models age, making them more accessible. However, expect slight price increases during festive seasons like Christmas and Ramadhan due to heightened demand.
Key Specifications and Build Quality
The Lenovo Phab series distinguishes itself through its core philosophy: maximizing screen real estate for an immersive experience. While specific specs vary between the original Phab, Phab Plus, Phab 2, and the advanced Phab 2 Pro, they share foundational characteristics that define the series.
- Massive Display: The defining feature is its enormous screen, ranging from 6.4 inches on the original model to a staggering 6.8 inches on the Phab 2 Pro. This IPS LCD panel offers a full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels), ensuring sharp visuals for videos and games.
- Robust Build and Materials: The chassis is constructed from a combination of a durable aluminum alloy frame and a polycarbonate unibody designed to be both lightweight and sturdy, capable of withstanding daily use. The front is protected by scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass, a critical feature for a device of this size.
- Performance and Memory: Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor (models vary between Snapdragon 615, 650, and 652), paired with a standard 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. This is expandable via a dedicated microSD card slot, a highly valued feature in Kenya for storing music, photos, and videos.
- Battery Life: A cornerstone of its appeal is the massive integrated 4,250mAh lithium-polymer battery. This provides exceptional battery life, often lasting a full two days on a single charge—a significant advantage in regions with unreliable electricity.
- Unique Pro Feature: The Phab 2 Pro stands apart with its integrated Google Tango technology. This utilizes advanced depth-sensing cameras and motion tracking to enable augmented reality (AR) experiences, overlaying digital information onto your real-world environment.
Key Factors Influencing the Lenovo Phab’s Price in Kenya
The final price tag you see on a Lenovo Phab is not arbitrary; it is the culmination of several distinct economic and market forces. Understanding these factors empowers you to make an informed purchase and identify a genuinely good deal versus an inflated price.
- Model and Generation: The single biggest price determinant is the specific model. The original Phab is the most affordable, followed by the Phab Plus and Phab 2 series. The Phab 2 Pro, with its specialized Google Tango AR technology, commands a significant premium due to its advanced sensor array and processing capabilities, even on the used market.
- Condition and Warranty: A brand new, sealed unit with a valid international or local distributor warranty will be priced at the higher end of the spectrum. Refurbished models with a short seller warranty come next, while used phones sold “as-is” with visible wear and tear occupy the lowest price bracket.
- Retailer Type and Overheads: Established brick-and-mortar shops in major malls (e.g., Nairobi’s CBD, Westgate) have higher operational costs like rent and staff salaries, which are factored into their pricing. Smaller standalone shops and, especially, online vendors on platforms like Jiji or Facebook Marketplace often offer lower prices due to significantly reduced overheads.
- Importation Costs and Forex Fluctuation: As most smartphones are imported, the prevailing US Dollar to Kenyan Shilling exchange rate directly impacts the cost price. A weakening shilling forces importers to increase prices to maintain their profit margins. Additionally, shipping, insurance, and customs duties all add layers of cost that are eventually passed on to the consumer.
- Market Availability and Demand: The Lenovo Phab series is no longer in production, making brand new old stock a scarce commodity. This scarcity can drive up prices among vendors who still have inventory. Conversely, high availability of used units can create competitive pricing among sellers.
Where to Buy the Lenovo Phab in Kenya
Finding a genuine Lenovo Phab requires knowing where to look, as its availability has shifted since production ended. Your choice of vendor will significantly impact the price, condition, and security of your transaction.
- Online Marketplaces (Jiji.co.ke and Facebook Marketplace): These are the primary hubs for finding both new old stock and, more commonly, used Lenovo Phab models. You can negotiate directly with sellers and find competitive prices. Crucial Tip: Always insist on meeting in a safe, public place to physically inspect the phone, test all functions (Wi-Fi, camera, calls), and verify IMEI numbers before payment.
- E-commerce Platforms (Jumia and Kilimall): Occasionally, official vendors or large-scale retailers will list remaining stock on these sites. The advantage here is the structured payment and return policies, offering more buyer protection than peer-to-peer sales. Be sure to read seller ratings and product reviews meticulously.
- Authorized Electronics Retailers: Visit established phone shops in major urban centers like Nairobi’s Tom Mboya Street, Mombasa’s Digo Road, or Kisumu’s Oginga Odinga Street. While less likely to have new units, they often carry quality refurbished phones with a short warranty. Their physical presence allows for immediate inspection and after-sales support.
- Official Lenovo Brand Stores: While the chances are now very slim, checking with any remaining official Lenovo outlets or authorized service centers is worth a try for guaranteed authenticity, though you should expect to pay a premium for any leftover inventory.
Popular Alternatives and Competitive Comparison
While the Lenovo Phab offers a unique large-screen experience, it is crucial to evaluate it against other prominent brands in the Kenyan market that cater to a similar desire for big displays and strong battery life. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize cutting-edge features, pure value, or brand reliability.
| Brand & Model | Price Range (KES) | Key Features | Availability in Kenya |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinix NOTE Series | Ksh 18,000 – Ksh 30,000 | Massive AMOLED displays, high-capacity batteries (5000mAh+), fast charging, and modern designs. They run on Android Go or standard Android and are a direct, modern competitor. | Extremely high. Readily available new at all major retailers and online. Official service centers are widespread. |
| Tecno Spark/Camon Series | Ksh 12,000 – Ksh 25,000 | Focus on large screens and high-resolution cameras at a very aggressive price point. Often feature trendy designs like dot-notches but may use less powerful processors. | Ubiquitous. The most widely available brand across physical stores countrywide and online platforms. |
| Samsung Galaxy A Series (e.g., A05s) | Ksh 16,000 – Ksh 28,000 | Offers the strong Samsung brand reputation, reliable software with longer update support, and dependable performance. Displays are quality PLS LCD, but batteries are often smaller than competitors. | Very high. Available through official Samsung dealers, large retailers, and phone shops with strong after-sales support. |
| Xiaomi Redmi Series | Ksh 15,000 – Ksh 35,000 | Known for exceptional value, offering high-end specs like powerful processors and high refresh rate screens at a mid-range price. The MIUI software interface is feature-rich but has a learning curve. | Good. Primarily found through dedicated Xiaomi shops in urban areas and reputable online vendors, though less common in rural towns. |
The primary consideration is choosing between a discontinued model like the Phab and a current-generation alternative. Modern alternatives like the Infinix NOTE series provide newer software, better performance, and easier access to warranties and spare parts, making them a more future-proof investment for most Kenyan consumers, despite the Phab’s potential lower entry cost for a used unit.
Essential Buying Tips for Kenyan Shoppers
Purchasing a phone, especially a discontinued model, requires due diligence to avoid costly mistakes. These actionable tips are designed to protect your investment and ensure you get a fully functional Lenovo Phab.
- Conduct a Thorough Physical Inspection: Meticulously check the screen for dead pixels, scratches, or unresponsive areas by opening a blank white image and tapping everywhere. Inspect the charging port for signs of damage or lint buildup, and test the headphone jack. Examine the body for cracks, dents, or mismatched colors that could indicate a cheap replacement housing from a previous repair.
- Verify Internal Functionality and Authenticity: Before payment, insert your SIM card to test call quality and mobile data connectivity. Connect to a Wi-Fi network and test the Bluetooth by pairing with another device. Most importantly, dial *#06# to get the IMEI number and cross-check it with the number printed on the phone’s original box (if available) and under the battery compartment. Verify the IMEI is clean and not blacklisted using a free online checker.
- Ask Probing Questions: Demand a clear history. Ask “Why are you selling it?”, “Has it ever been repaired, and for what issue?”, “What is the current battery health and does it last a full day?” and “Is this the original charger and cable?”. Hesitant or vague answers are a major red flag.
- Understand the Warranty Reality: For a phone this old, any remaining manufacturer’s warranty is almost certainly void. Some reputable physical shops may offer a short-term (e.g., 1-3 month) in-store warranty on refurbished units, which is valuable. For private sales, assume no warranty exists.
- Recognize Red Flags: Immediately walk away from deals that seem too good to be true, sellers who refuse to meet in person, pressure you for a deposit, or cannot provide the IMEI number. Avoid phones with a “Factory Mode” or “Eng Boot” message on startup, as this indicates software problems.
Final Verdict and Recommendation
In summary, the Lenovo Phab offers a massive screen experience in Kenya for Ksh 12,000 to Ksh 28,000. For budget-focused media lovers, a used model is a viable option, but we strongly recommend most buyers consider modern alternatives like the Infinix NOTE series for better performance, warranty, and long-term reliability. Always inspect any device thoroughly to ensure your investment is sound and meets all your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lenovo Phab Price in Kenya
Is the Lenovo Phab still a good phone to buy in Kenya today?
For a secondary media device on a tight budget, it can be. However, its outdated Android OS lacks security updates, and its processor is slow by modern standards. For a primary phone, a newer budget model is a safer, more secure investment.
Where can I get genuine spare parts like a battery replacement?
Finding original parts is challenging. Your best options are dedicated phone repair shops in major cities like Nairobi’s River Road. Always insist on seeing the part first and ask for a warranty on both the part and the labor performed.
How does the Lenovo Phab’s camera quality compare to new phones?
The camera performance is significantly behind even current entry-level smartphones. It struggles in low-light conditions, lacks modern computational photography features like Night Mode, and video recording quality is basic. Manage your expectations for social media snaps only.
What is the most I should pay for a used Lenovo Phab 2 Pro?
Given its age and the high cost of potential repairs, a used Phab 2 Pro in excellent condition should not exceed Ksh 20,000. Paying more exposes you to significant risk for a niche device with limited functionality today.
Can it handle popular apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube?
Yes, it can run these core applications, but performance will be slower than you are accustomed to. Apps may take longer to open, and scrolling through content might not be perfectly smooth due to the older hardware.
