Best Smartphones in 2024

Mondo Admin / 26-09-2024 / Tech news

Choosing the right phone is more than just picking the latest model – it's about finding a device that fits your unique needs and lifestyle too. We’re reviewing the best smartphones of 2024 in South Africa so you can decide which one is the best for you.

Huawei nova 11i 

The Huawei nova 11i boasts a sleek and modern design, staying true to Huawei’s reputation for stylish aesthetics. It comes equipped with a 40W Huawei SuperCharge and a hefty 5000mAh battery, allowing for extended battery life and quick charging of up to 60% in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy days when you’re on the move.

Whether you’re into gaming, streaming or scrolling, the 90Hz refresh rate and expansive 6.8-inch screen offer smooth, responsive performance, providing an immersive experience that’s easy on the eyes. The 128GB storage gives you plenty of room for apps, photos and video, ensuring you don’t run out of space for your essentials.

For photography enthusiasts, the Huawei nova 11i doesn't disappoint. Its camera system, equipped with features like Bokeh portrait mode, helps you capture stunning photos with ease, making every shot Instagram-worthy. Plus, its affordable price makes it great value, especially for those who want high-end features without the hefty price tag.

However, it’s important to note that the Huawei nova 11i lacks Google services, which means some popular apps like Google Maps, Gmail, and the Google Play Store aren’t directly available. While Huawei’s App Gallery offers many alternatives, if you’re heavily reliant on Google apps, you might not want to go with this smartphone. Additionally, the device doesn’t feature an OLED display, so the screen might not be as vibrant as some other models.

Overall Verdict

 

The Huawei nova 11i is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a stylish, affordable smartphone with impressive battery life, great camera features, and smooth performance for gaming and streaming. However, potential buyers should weigh the absence of Google services and the lack of an OLED display when considering this device. Despite these limitations, the Huawei nova 11i remains a compelling option in its price range, offering great value for what it delivers.

Apple iPhone 11 

Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, the iPhone 11 packs a punch with fast, reliable performance that's perfect for everyday tasks, gaming, and more demanding apps. The smartphone offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use, and supports fast charging (up to 50% charge in just 30 minutes) with a 20W adapter or higher which are sold separately.

Apple’s reputation for high-quality cameras continues with the iPhone 11. Whether you’re capturing casual moments or taking more professional-looking photos, its camera system produces sharp, vibrant images and videos, making it easy to document your life in stunning detail. This makes the iPhone 11 a great fit for everyone, from social media enthusiasts to parents capturing family memories.

However, the base model comes with only 64GB of storage, which might feel limiting if you’re prone to downloading a lot of apps, capturing lots of photos, or storing large files. Without expandable storage options, you’ll need to manage space carefully or consider upgrading to a model with more storage if you think you’ll need more room.

Overall Verdict

 

The iPhone 11 is a great choice for users seeking a smooth, fast-performing device with strong battery life and a quality camera system. Just keep in mind the limited base storage and the absence of expandable options. The iPhone 11 offers a well-rounded experience at a relatively accessible price.

Apple iPhone 13

Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, the iPhone 13 delivers exceptional speed and performance, making it a top choice for gaming, multitasking, and everyday use. With storage options from 128GB to 512GB, you can choose the perfect fit without worrying about running out of space. Its sleek, flat-edge design, combined with a Ceramic Shield front cover and IP68 water and dust resistance, adds a touch of durability and a premium feel to the device.

The iPhone 13 comes equipped with a dual-camera setup (12MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide) featuring sensor-shift optical image stabilisation, improved low-light performance, and advanced features like Photographic Styles and Cinematic Mode for video, providing excellent photo and video quality. These features make capturing professional-looking content easy, whether capturing everyday moments or shooting creative videos.

Battery life is another strong point. The iPhone 13 offers improvements in both battery efficiency and capacity. You can easily get through a full day of heavy use without worrying about finding a charger.

However, the iPhone 13 comes with a high price tag, which might be a deterrent for some users. Additionally, its design is quite similar to the previous iPhone 12, so if you’re looking for a significant visual update, this might not be it. While the iPhone 13 supports faster charging than older models, it still doesn’t match the charging speeds of some Android competitors.

Overall Verdict

 

The iPhone 13 excels in delivering powerful performance, outstanding camera quality, and long-lasting battery life, making it a top choice for those looking for a premium smartphone experience. With a range of storage options, it caters to various needs, from casual users to content creators. While the higher price and incremental design updates might not appeal to everyone, the iPhone 13 remains a reliable and versatile device packed with the latest features Apple has to offer.

Where to Buy the Best Phones in South Africa

Don’t waste time hopping from store to store when you can grab the latest tech right here! 

Ready to find the perfect phone without breaking the bank? Check out Mondo’s top picks for every budget and own your next device. Click here to find your ideal match!

FAQs

1.Does the Huawei nova 11i have Google services?

No, the Huawei nova 11i lacks Google services, meaning apps like Google Maps, Gmail, and the Google Play Store aren’t directly available. However, Huawei’s App Gallery provides alternatives.

2.Is the Huawei nova 11i good for gaming and streaming?

Yes, the Huawei nova 11i offers smooth performance for gaming and streaming, thanks to its 90Hz refresh rate and expansive 6.8-inch screen, providing an immersive and responsive experience. 

3.Is the Apple iPhone 11 a good option for photography?

Yes, the iPhone 11 has a high-quality camera system that produces sharp and vibrant photos and videos, making it a great option for social media enthusiasts and those who enjoy capturing family memories.

4.Does the iPhone 13 support fast charging?

Yes, the iPhone 13 supports fast charging, though its charging speeds are still slower compared to some Android competitors. You can charge it up to 50% in about 30 minutes with a 20W adapter or higher (sold separately).

What are the main differences between the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13?

The iPhone 13 features a faster A15 Bionic chip, better camera capabilities, more storage options (up to 512GB), and improved battery life compared to the iPhone 11.

 

 

References:

 

  1. Huawei nova 11i
  2. Huawei Nova 11i Deals
  3. iPhone 11
  4. Apple iPhone 11 Deals
  5. iPhone 13
  6. Apple iPhone 13 Deals

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Affordable Powerhouses: Huawei, Samsung & Honor Go Head-to-Head

Compare the Huawei Nova 14i, Samsung Galaxy A36 and Honor 400 Lite in our mid-range phones South Africa guide. Discover design, performance, camera, and the latest Mondo.co.za contract deals to help you pick the best value smartphone in 2025.IntroductionFinding a smartphone that delivers real value without draining your wallet has become a mission in South Africa. With rising prices and the steady rollout of 5G, local users are seeking devices that strike the perfect balance between performance, battery life, and affordability.That’s exactly where mid-range smartphones shine powerful enough for everyday use, yet budget-friendly enough to make sense. The Huawei nova 14i, Samsung Galaxy A36 5G, and Honor 400 Lite each offer something special for South African consumers in 2025.In this guide, we’ll unpack how they compare in design, performance, camera, battery life, and pricing, including real contract deals from Mondo.co.za to help you make the right call.Design & Display: Which one feels premium?Your phone’s design is more than looks, it’s about comfort, durability and daily usability.Huawei nova 14i: Features Huawei’s sleek “Star Orbit Ring” design, weighs about 199 g, and sports a large 6.95″ FullView display with slim bezels for immersive viewing.Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: Slim at just 7.4 mm, 195 g and rated IP67 for water and dust resistance. The 6.7″ Super AMOLED display runs at 120 Hz and reaches up to 1 200 nits brightness.Honor 400 Lite: The lightest of the three at 171 g with a vivid 6.7″ AMOLED display pushing 3 500 nits brightness ideal for South Africa’s sunny conditions.Verdict: Samsung delivers the best all-round display and build quality, Huawei offers excellent value for its screen size, and Honor wins for brightness and one-hand comfort.Performance & Software: Power for everyday lifeHow your phone runs day-to-day is just as important as its looks.Huawei nova 14i: Powered by the Snapdragon 680 chipset with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage. Smooth for messaging, social media, streaming and light multitasking.Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: Uses the efficient Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor and up to 12 GB RAM, giving you strong multitasking and gaming performance. It runs Android 15 with up to 6 years of updates, ensuring long-term value.Honor 400 Lite: Powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7025 Ultra processor, it delivers smooth performance, 5G connectivity, and excellent power efficiency.Verdict: Samsung leads in long-term performance and software support; Honor is a close second with its 5G efficiency. Huawei keeps things simple, stable, and cost-effective.Cameras: Capturing every momentCamera quality continues to be a deciding factor for most South Africans.Huawei nova 14i – 50 MP main sensor, dependable low-light performance for casual shooting.Samsung Galaxy A36 5G – Triple camera setup: 50 MP main + 8 MP ultra-wide + 5 MP macro, making it versatile for travel and social media shots.Honor 400 Lite – 108 MP primary camera with AI features and fast capture for street photography or social content creation.Verdict:For natural colours and flexible framing - Samsung.For detail-rich, high-resolution photos - Honor.For dependable everyday snaps - Huawei.Battery Life & Charging: Built for load-sheddingBattery life can make or break your phone experience in South Africa.Huawei nova 14i: Massive 7 000 mAh battery for multi-day use.Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: 5 000 mAh battery with 45 W fast charging 0 to 50% in around 30 minutes.Honor 400 Lite: 5 230 mAh with 35 W fast charging balanced endurance.Verdict: Huawei dominates with raw battery life; Samsung charges the fastest; Honor offers balanced performance and battery efficiency.Deals SnapshotHuawei nova 14i - From R329 p/m × 36 months on Mondo.co.zaSamsung Galaxy A36 5G - From R349 p/m × 36 months on Mondo Mondo.co.zaHonor 400 Lite - From R349 p/m × 36 months via Mondo.co.zaConclusionThese three mid-range smartphones prove that you don’t need flagship money to get reliable performance and stylish design.Huawei nova 14i – unbeatable for battery life and budget-friendliness.Samsung Galaxy A36 5G – the all-rounder with premium display, power and long-term updates.Honor 400 Lite – perfect for content creators who love detail and bright displays.Ultimately, your choice depends on what matters most, battery, performance or camera but whichever you choose, Mondo.co.za has a deal that fits your lifestyle and your pocket.FAQsHow long do these phones receive updates?Samsung leads the pack with up to 6 years of software and security updates, followed by Honor with around 3–4 years. Huawei offers regular EMUI updates but fewer Android upgrades.Will I miss Google apps on Huawei?The Huawei nova 14i uses Huawei’s AppGallery and Petal Search instead of Google Play. Most major apps are available, but users deeply integrated with Google services may prefer Samsung or Honor.Does a 108 MP camera mean better photos?Not always. While it captures more detail in good light, image processing and sensor quality matter just as much.Which phone is best for outdoor use?The Honor 400 Lite shines outdoors with its 3 500-nit display brightness, while Samsung’s display offers accurate colour and smooth performance in all light conditions.ReferencesHuawei South Africa – Nova 14i SpecsSamsung South Africa – Galaxy A36 5GHonor South Africa – Honor 400 LiteMondo.co.za – Latest Smartphone Deals

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Huawei nova 14 Series Review: Power Meets Value

Affordable, reliable, and packed with AI features, the Huawei nova 14 Series is redefining mid-range smartphones in South Africa. Compare specs, prices, and deals at Mondo.co.za.In a market where every rand counts, finding a smartphone that offers performance, style, and lasting power without breaking the bank is no small feat. Enter the Huawei nova 14 Series, Huawei’s latest lineup designed to deliver everyday reliability with impressive specs and a price that fits South African budgets.Whether you’re replying to work emails, scrolling through socials, or snapping photos, this range has something for everyone. Let’s break down why the nova 14, nova 14i, and nova 14 Pro could be your next great upgrade.The Line-Up: Three Phones, One Smart ChoiceThe nova 14 Series offers three standout options, each designed to match a different kind of user:Huawei nova 14i:Budget-friendly and built to last, with a massive 7000mAh battery and a large 6.95-inch FullView display perfect for binge-watchers and power users.Huawei nova 14:The all-rounder, featuring a 6.7-inch OLED screen and Kirin 8020 chipset for smooth multitasking and balanced performance.Huawei nova 14 Pro:The premium pick, featuring Huawei’s Ultra Chroma Camera, RYYB colour filter sensor, 3x optical zoom, 30x digital zoom, dual 50MP selfie cameras, and 100W fast charging ideal for those who want flagship features without the flagship price.Each model runs HarmonyOS 5.0, Huawei’s refined system that integrates effortlessly with other Huawei devices for a smoother, smarter experience.And true to the nova legacy, all three models feature Huawei’s iconic Star Orbit Ring a symmetrical camera ring with refined detailing that adds premium flair and instant recognition.Design That Turns HeadsFrom the elegant Star Orbit Ring to the dynamic patterned backplate, the nova 14 series blends performance with design excellence. The triple-layer nano-texture finish reflects light beautifully from every angle, giving the phone a sense of depth and luxury that rivals flagship devices.The T/T+ curved body provides a soft, comfortable hand feel, ensuring that even long hours of scrolling, gaming, or video streaming stay comfortable. The nova isn’t just a phone it’s a statement piece that complements your personal style, whether you’re commuting, meeting friends, or heading out for the weekend.Power That Keeps Up With YouBattery life is a standout across the nova 14 range. Users are reporting up to 31 hours of video playback a game-changer in South Africa’s load-shedding reality.The nova 14i especially shines here: that 7000mAh battery means you can go through your workday, evening streaming, and still have power left for the morning commute.Meanwhile, both the nova 14 and nova 14 Pro pack a 5500mAh battery with 100W Huawei SuperCharge technology, getting you from 0% to 50% in just minutes.If you’ve ever scrambled for a charger halfway through the day, you’ll appreciate how this lineup tackles that pain point head-on.Camera & AI Features That ImpressThe nova 14 and nova 14 Pro both feature 50MP main cameras that deliver crisp, detailed shots even in low light. Huawei’s AI tools like “Pro Your Portrait” mode and AI Messaging make daily use both intuitive and fun.Want smarter texting? The AI Messaging assistant learns your tone to suggest quick, natural responses perfect for multitasking.Thanks to Huawei’s AI Best Expression, the nova 14 series captures your best smile in every shot automatically selecting the perfect frame for natural, flattering portraits.The nova 14 Pro also includes Huawei’s advanced RYYB colour filter sensor, which captures 40% more light for bright, vibrant images even in dim settings. Combined with 3x optical and 30x digital zoom, it lets you capture crisp details from any distance.Add in AI HDR Display for vivid contrast under bright sunlight, and AI Gesture Control that lets you navigate your phone hands-free and you’ve got a device that blends smart performance with everyday ease.And with features like Emoji Crush turning selfies into fun, personalised stickers, the nova 14 makes every interaction more expressive.South African Pricing & DealsGood news, Huawei kept local budgets in mind:nova 14i: From R5,999 or around R329/month on 36-month contractsnova 14: Around R8,000 – R10,000nova 14 Pro: From R12,000+, often bundled with extras like earbuds or smartwatches valued at up to R2,797Through Mondo.co.za, you’ll find competitive contract options with major networks, including flexible monthly payment plans and bonus data deals.Tip: Keep an eye on bundle promotions, accessories or extended warranties often add real long-term value.Pros & Cons: What South Africans Are SayingWhat We Love:Epic Battery Life: Especially the 7000mAh on the nova 14i.Affordable Pricing: Great value for money in a tough economy.AI-Enhanced Cameras: Including AI Best Expression and Pro Your Portrait for lifelike results.5G Ready: Future-proof connectivity as local networks expand.Smooth HarmonyOS 5.0: Intuitive and user-friendly.Stylish Design: The Star Orbit Ring and dynamic backplate stand out from the crowd.What Could Be Better:Slightly heavier build especially the nova 14i at 192g.No microSD slot choose your storage wisely.Speakers are average fine for calls, less so for audiophiles.Overall, the feedback from local users and reviewers is overwhelmingly positive: great battery, reliable performance, and genuine value.Final Verdict: Worth the Upgrade?If you’re after a dependable smartphone that fits your budget and your lifestyle, the Huawei nova 14 Series hits the mark.The nova 14i leads the pack for most users with unbeatable battery life and affordability, while the nova 14 Pro adds a touch of flagship polish with its Ultra Chroma Camera and premium AI features.With deals starting from R5,999 and flexible payment plans through Mondo.co.za, this series proves that premium performance doesn’t need a premium price tag.Ready to upgrade?Explore the latest Huawei nova 14 deals on Mondo.co.za and find your perfect match today.FAQsIs the Huawei nova 14 Series 5G ready? Yes. All models support 5G connectivity, ensuring fast, future-proof data speeds as networks expand across South Africa.How long does the battery last? The nova 14i offers up to 31 hours of video playback, while the nova 14 and nova 14 Pro deliver 12–16 hours of active daily use.Does it support Google apps? No, but Huawei’s AppGallery and Petal Search offer reliable alternatives for most popular apps, including WhatsApp, TikTok, and local banking apps.Which model is best for photography? The nova 14 Pro takes the crown with its Ultra Chroma Camera, dual 50MP selfie lenses, and RYYB sensor for enhanced low-light photography.Where can I buy it? Find the latest nova 14 Series offers and contract options directly on Mondo.co.zaReferencesHuawei Global – Nova 14 Series LaunchHuawei Central – HarmonyOS 5.0 FeaturesMondo.co.zaHuawei ZA Product Page

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The 5G Router That’s Changing Home Internet in South Africa

Fast, Affordable 5G for Every South African HomeTired of buffering during load-shedding or waiting months for fibre installation? The Huawei H155 5G router could be your answer. Compact, affordable, and fast, it’s helping South Africans enjoy fibre-like speeds without the cables or contracts.Thanks to Vodacom and MTN bundles, the H155 has quickly become one of 2025’s most popular home routers. In this review, we explore how it performs in real-world conditions, its setup process, and whether it’s truly the best 5G deal in South Africa right now.Design & Setup: Plug-and-Play PowerThe Huawei H155 sports a clean, modern design a small white cube that blends easily into your home or office setup. Weighing under 500g, it’s also portable enough to take with you when moving or using it as a backup Wi-Fi option during load-shedding.However, it’s worth noting that portability doesn’t guarantee connectivity everywhere. The H155’s performance depends on whether your new location has strong 5G coverage. Before relocating it, always check the Vodacom or MTN 5G coverage maps to ensure you’ll still get high-speed internet.Setting it up takes just minutes:Insert a Vodacom, MTN, or Telkom SIM.Plug it in and open the Huawei Hi-Link app.Configure your Wi-Fi network and you’re done.The H155 supports Wi-Fi 6, allowing up to 128 connected devices and better stability for households full of streamers, gamers, and remote workers.Its 4x4 MIMO antenna ensures solid reception in metro areas, while rural users can tweak the N78 (3.5 GHz) band via the app for optimal 5G performance.ProsQuick setup no technician requiredCompact, stylish, and easy to moveWi-Fi 6 delivers faster, more reliable speedsConsOnly one Ethernet portSome carrier-locked models limit SIM flexibilityPro Tip: Visit 192.168.8.1 to manually adjust 5G bands it can noticeably improve signal strength.Performance: Real Speeds Across South AfricaOn paper, Huawei claims up to 3.6 Gbps downloads and 500 Mbps uploads. In real South African conditions, expect 450–650 Mbps in metro areas on Vodacom or MTN’s 5G networks plenty for 4K streaming, online gaming, and video calls.In optimal areas near 5G towers, users have recorded 1 Gbps+ bursts. Performance naturally varies by coverage, but the H155’s 4G fallback ensures a seamless connection if 5G signal drops.During testing, it handled 10 connected devices smoothly with no lag or disconnections. Power consumption sits at just 12W, making it inverter and UPS-friendly essential during load-shedding sessions.ProsConsistent 5G performance in metro areasSmooth 4G/5G switchingEnergy-efficient for backup power setupsConsSpeed throttling after FUP (around 250 GB)Slight warmth after long usePro Tip: For high-density zones, an external 5G antenna can boost signal by up to 30%.Best Huawei H155 Deals in South Africa (2025)The Huawei H155’s affordability makes it especially appealing. Here’s where to find the best value in 2025:Vodacom 5G Home InternetVodacom bundles the H155 with Home Internet 5G plans, letting you spread payments over 24 months. These offer reliable speeds but throttle after the Fair Usage Policy limit (usually 250 GB).MTN Ultra Home PlansMTN’s Ultra Home packages frequently include the H155 at reduced rates, especially during month-end or holiday promos. MTN offers slightly higher FUP thresholds and expanding 5G coverage.Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Huawei H155The Huawei H155 is one of South Africa’s best 5G home routers for 2025, but it shines brightest for specific users.Perfect For:Renters and families in metro areasStudents in shared accommodationRemote workers who need stable Wi-Fi during load-sheddingConsider Alternatives If:You use more than 500GB per month, fibre is still better valueYou need multiple Ethernet ports or advanced settingsYou live in a low-coverage or rural areaFinal Score: 4.5 / 5It’s a budget-friendly 5G router that delivers strong speeds, simple setup, and reliable connectivity as long as your area has decent 5G coverage.Conclusion: South Africa’s Smart 5G UpgradeThe Huawei H155 proves you don’t need fibre to enjoy fast, reliable home internet. It’s small, efficient, and performs exceptionally well for its price point making it a top pick for South Africans who want a quick, flexible, and affordable 5G connection.Before buying:Check your 5G coverage with Vodacom or MTNChoose unlocked models for more freedomWatch for promo bundles to maximise savingsWhether you’re binge-watching rugby, working remotely, or surviving another round of load-shedding, the H155 delivers speed, simplicity, and value.FAQsHow fast is the Huawei H155 in South Africa?Expect 450–650 Mbps in metro zones, with bursts over 1 Gbps in tower hotspots. Speeds drop to 50 Mbps after FUP limits.Can I use MTN and Vodacom SIMs interchangeably?Only if the device is unlocked. Carrier-locked units work exclusively on their network.Does it work during load-shedding?Yes. With a 12 W power draw, it’s inverter-friendly and ideal for UPS setups.Is it better than fibre?If you already have fibre, stick with it. But for renters or homes without fibre coverage, the H155 is a powerful plug-and-play alternative.How do I check 5G coverage?Visit:Vodacom Coverage MapMTN Coverage MapReferencesVodacom 5G Home Internet Plans – Official Pricing & BundlesMTN 5G Coverage Map – Network Availability CheckerHuawei H155 Technical Specifications – Huawei Official SiteVodacom Network Coverage Map – Regional 5G AvailabilityMTN Home Internet Plans – Contract and Bundle Options

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