Top 5 Best Mid-Range Phones of 2023, So Far!

Robert Cerff / 18-07-2023 / Tech

If you're looking for a powerful but affordable smartphone that won't cost you as much as a car deposit, you've come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of our top 5 best mid-range phones of 2023 so far, which offer great specs at prices that won’t require you to empty your savings account.

1.iPhone on a budget? The Apple iPhone SE 2022

Apple, the tech giant known for its high-priced gadgets, has actually made it onto a list of affordable smartphones. We’re just as shocked as you are! Apple broadened their horizons and made the coveted iPhone attainable to the masses with the iPhone SE range. The latest iPhone SE 2022 will make you feel like you're in business class even if you're on an economy budget. Powered by the renowned A15 Bionic chip, the same powerhouse found in the flagship iPhone 13 series, it unleashes blazing-fast performance that's buttery smooth. Say hello to computational photography, fast charging and a display that's so vivid you’ll have to hold onto your eyeballs. 

Apple iPhone SE 2022 specs

Display:

4.7-inch Retina HD | Camera: 12MP Main camera, 7MP selfie camera, & 4K video recording (24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps) |Chipset: A15 Bionic chip | Battery: 2018mAh | Charging: Up to 20W wired fast charging | Software: iOS 16 | Storage: 64GB, 128GB or 256GB |RAM: 4GB RAM

2.A mid-range legend: Huawei Nova Y91

Even without Google Mobile Services, Huawei is still holding strong as one of the most popular smartphone brands in South Africa, second only to Samsung. What a legend! It rules the mid-range segment, and right now, it doesn’t get better than the Huawei Nova Y91. It truly is an affordable beast, boasting a head-turning 50MP main camera with AI enhancements, an immersive user experience defined by a big, bright display and booming sound, and up to 29 hours of video playback on a single full charge. You can binge-watch for hours on end, helping you get one step closer to being a professional couch potato.

Huawei Nova Y91 specs

Display:

6.95-inch FullView |Camera: 50MP main camera, 2MP depth camera, 8MP selfie camera, & HD 1080p video resolution | Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 |Battery: 7000mAh | Charging: Up to 22.5W wired fast charging | Software: EMUI 13 | Storage: 256GB | RAM: 8GB

3.Spice up your life: Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

If variety is the spice of life, then Samsung is one red hot chilli pepper. The most popular smartphone brand in South Africa has plenty to offer for every budget. For those smack in the middle, look no further than the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G. It's everything you need in a new smartphone, delivering peak performance, a triple camera powerhouse for picture-perfect moments and a battery that lasts longer than the weekend. If you get the party started on Friday, this phone will still be kicking when you're drinking your first Monday morning coffee.

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G specs

Display:

6.4-inch Super AMOLED |Camera: 50MP main camera, 12MP ultra wide, 5MP depth camera, 32MP selfie camera, & 4K video resolution (30fps) | Chipset: Samsung Exynos 1380 |Battery: 5000mAh | Charging: Up to 25W wired fast charging | Software: Android 13 | Storage: 256GB| RAM: 8GB

4.Flipping the mid-range game on its head: Oppo A78 5G

Move over, smartphone giants! There's a new kid on the block. Launched in South Africa in 2021, Oppo made quite the entrance and sold out its first flip phone released in the country at the start of this year. And now, with the dazzling A78 5G, Oppo is setting its sights on the mid-range segment and bringing some serious competition. The phone charges at lightning-fast speeds of up to 33W and boasts advanced RAM expansion for the smoothest operation. But the real star of the show is the camera. With pro-level modes, this phone turns any environment into a Hollywood-worthy backdrop.

Oppo A78 5G specs

Display:

6.56-inch LCD |Camera: 50MP main camera, 2MP depth camera, 8MP selfie camera, & 4K video resolution (30fps) | Chipset: MediaTek 6833 |Battery: 5000mAh | Charging: Up to 33W wired fast charging | Software: ColorOS 13 | Storage: 128GB | RAM: 8GB

5.A taste of the good life: Honor X9a 5G

Another cheeky newbie causing a stir is Honor, formerly Huawei's little brother in the market. But now, it has broken free from Huawei and unveiled a mid-range smartphone that puts some top-tier flagships to shame. The Honor X9a 5G packs a dazzling 120Hz AMOLED display, a triple camera juggernaut that could make even professional photographers drool, and charging speeds so fast, they'll leave you gasping for breath at a rapid 40W. The Honor X9a 5G will give you a premium experience without stretching your budget. Who said you need to break the bank for a taste of the good life?

Honor X9a 5G specs

Display:

6.67 inches-inch AMOLED |Camera: 64MP main camera, 5MP ultra wide & depth camera, 2MP macro camera, 16MP selfie camera, & 4K video resolution | Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 |Battery: 5100mAh | Charging: Up to 40W wired fast charging | Software: MagicUI 6.1 (based on Android 12 | Storage: 256GB | RAM: 8GB

Price-smashers that pack a punch at Mondo

Want a mid-range smartphone that hits all the right notes? Mondo is your go-to destination for amazing contract deals on these stellar devices and lots more. We've partnered with South Africa's top network providers to bring you the best smartphone deals from the biggest smartphone brands. Visit us today at www.mondo.co.za

TECH NEWS

previous
What to Expect from the Huawei nova Y73

Looking for the Huawei nova Y73? Get the latest on its design, camera, battery and software. We break down everything you need to know before buying.The New Huawei In Town There’s a new addition to Huawei’s line-up: the mysterious Huawei nova Y73. While Huawei hasn’t revealed all the details just yet, early leaks and official specs are already giving us a solid first look. This sleek mid-range device appears to prioritise design and performance and it's positioning itself as a serious contender in the budget-friendly smartphone space.We’re taking a deeper look at everything we know about the Huawei nova Y73 features so far, and whether it’s one to keep on your radar. (Spoiler: We vote yes!)But here’s why it gets our vote.The Huawei nova Y73 looks to be a global version of the Enjoy 80, Huawei’s China-only release. While the core specs appear similar, there are a few changes to look out for, including a reduced range of colour options. It’s not a complete one-to-one rebrand and these tiny adjustments could impact how the phone is received in different markets. Let’s check out what has already been shared about the global release of the Huawei nova Y73 so far.Design and DisplayWhile the original Enjoy 80 launched in four colours, the Huawei nova Y73 is expected to keep things minimal with just two options here in South Africa. Light Blue and Black. This limited range might be disappointing but Huawei’s nova line is known for sleek design, premium feel and great build quality and the Huawei nova Y73 looks set to follow suit.The Huawei nova Y73 comes with a 6.67-inch display, offering plenty of screen space for streaming, scrolling and gaming, while still feeling comfortable to use one-handed. It also features aluminosilicate glass for added durability and an always-on display for quick access to key info.Camera QualitySo far, it looks like the Huawei nova Y73 will come equipped with a 50MP main camera, giving you the tools to capture detailed shots whether you're out in bright daylight or snapping quick moments on the go.On the front, there’s an 8MP selfie camera that can handle video calls, selfies and content creation with ease. While this setup won’t compete with flagship cameras, it’s a decent offering for users who want cameras that get the job done in style but without the heavy price tag that often comes with phones that produce that quality.Battery and PerformanceThe Huawei nova Y73 packs a lot of power into its body thanks to the 6 620 mAh battery with 40W fast charging. It’s built to keep up whether you’re a casual scroller or a dedicated streamer binge-watching your favourite shows. It’s paired with 8GB of RAM, delivering smooth performance for everyday tasks, light multitasking and app switching without a hitch.While storage hasn’t been officially confirmed, it’s expected to launch with either 128GB or 256GB. It will be a win either way because these are both great options for users who store plenty of photos, apps and offline content.On the software side, the Huawei nova Y73 will run EMUI 15, based on Android 12, offering a familiar Android experience with Huawei’s own custom features and optimisations.Overall ValueThe Huawei nova Y73 delivers solid value for money, especially for users prioritising battery life, sleek design and reliable day-to-day performance without breaking the bank. However, it’s worth noting the phone does not include a microSD card slot, so you’ll need to make do with the internal storage available. If storage is important to you, the 256GB version is definitely the better choice to avoid running out of space.Of course, like other recent Huawei models, the Huawei nova Y73 does not support Google services. While Huawei’s AppGallery continues to grow and improve, the absence of Google apps may be a dealbreaker if you rely heavily on Google’s ecosystem.But if you’re using your phone for all the basics – picture taking, calls, social scrolling – you’ll still be able to with the Huawei AppGallery’s offerings.Verdict While the Huawei nova Y73 won’t blow you away with flagship-level specs like say a Huawei Mate X model might, it’s also not going to throw your budget out the window.Its 50MP camera, large 6.67-inch display and huge 6 620 mAh battery make it a strong contender for anyone wanting a quality specs out of their new device but don’t want to compromise on having a dependable, easy to use and easy to afford device.From the released details, it looks like the Huawei nova Y73 balances solid performance and stylish design with features that matter most to users. If you’re looking for an affordable phone that covers the essentials and offers reliable battery life, the Huawei nova Y73 definitely deserves a closer look before you make your next smartphone decision.FAQsWhen will the Huawei nova Y73 be released globally? Huawei hasn’t announced an exact global release date for the Huawei nova Y73 yet but it’s expected to launch soon as a global version of the Enjoy 80, with some tweaks to colour options and specs, in South Africa.Does the Huawei nova Y73 support Google services and expandable storage? Like other recent Huawei models, the Huawei nova Y73 does not support Google services, which may be a drawback for some users. It also lacks a microSD card slot, so you’ll need to choose between the 128GB or 256GB internal storage options based on your needs.What colours will the Huawei nova Y73 be available in? The Huawei nova Y73 will launch in two colours- Light Blue and Black. This is a scaled-back choice compared to the Enjoy 80’s four options but both shades look sleek and stylish.Is the Huawei nova Y73 good for gaming and multitasking? Thanks to 8GB of RAM, the Huawei nova Y73 handles everyday multitasking and light gaming smoothly. It’s not a powerhouse for heavy gaming but should be fine for casual players.How does the Huawei nova Y73 compare to other mid-range phones? The Huawei nova Y73 stands out for its large battery, decent camera and stylish design at a budget-friendly price. Its biggest downside is the lack of Google services, which might steer some buyers towards other brands.References:https://www.mobgsm.com/news/huawei-nova-y73-is-coming-soon-with-an-underpowered-chipsethttps://www.huaweicentral.com/huawei-nova-y73-launching-soon-as-rebranded-version-of-enjoy-80/

Read More...

Huawei Nova Y72 or Y73? What You Need to Know

Shopping for a budget smartphone in South Africa? We break down the Huawei nova Y72 vs the Y73. We’re looking at everything you need to know to make the smart phone choice.Head-to-Head So, you need a new phone and you’ve been looking at the Huawei nova Y72. But now things have heated up because the Huawei nova Y73 just hit the market. Confused about which one you should pick? The newer one with the slightly better specs or the older version with the lower price tag?You’re not alone!These two models have similar names and similar designs. But does a new number really mean that big of a difference?The Huawei nova Y72 is already out, offering solid performance, a big battery and a sleek design at great value. The nova Y73 meanwhile is new to the South African market and is said to bring a few key upgrades.So which one’s for you – the tried and tested Huawei nova Y72 or the possible step up?Whether you’re upgrading from an old Huawei, switching brands or buying your first Huawei, we’ve got you covered.Let’s compare the Huawei nova Y72 and Huawei nova Y73 side by side, so you can pick what fits your lifestyle (and budget) best.First ImpressionsWhen it comes to displays, the Huawei nova Y72 gives you a bit more to work with. Its 6.75-inch LCD screen offers a slightly larger screen which is perfect for video calls, reading on your phone or watching content.The Huawei nova Y73 is expected to have a 6.67-inch LCD screen. The size difference is incredibly small. The viewing experience you’ll get should still feel sharp and responsive.Design-wise, the Huawei nova Y72 keeps things simple but eye-catching with Black and a bold Green option. Meanwhile, the Huawei nova Y73 is rumoured to step things up with aluminosilicate glass – a more durable material that not only looks sleek but offers better resistance to scratches and drops. It’s expected to come in Black and a soft Light Blue, giving it a modern and minimalist edge.If screen size is your priority, the Huawei nova Y72 has the edge. But if you’re after a refined build and stronger finish, the Huawei nova Y73 is worth holding out for.Specs ShowdownHuawei nova Y72Colours: Green and BlackDisplay: 6.75-inch LCD screenCameras: 50MP main camera, 8MP front-facing camera (f/2.0)Battery: 6 000 mAh Super Battery with 22.5W SuperChargeMemory & Storage: 8GB RAM + 128GB storageExtra Features: X Button for easy app accessOperating System: EMUI 12Huawei nova Y73Colours: Light Blue and BlackDisplay: 6.67-inch LCD screenCameras: 50MP main camera, 8MP front-facing cameraBattery: 6 620 mAh with 40W fast chargingMemory & Storage: 8GB RAM with expected storage options of 128GB or 256GBOperating System: EMUI 15 based on Android 12Pros and ConsHuawei nova Y72ProsLarger 6.75-inch display- great for video consumptionLong-lasting 6 000 mAh batteryBudget-friendly with decent performanceX Button is handy for quick app accessConsSlower 22.5W charging compared to the Y73Only available in a 128GB storage optionOlder EMUI 12 interfacesHuawei nova Y73ProsDouble the fast-charge option at 40WAluminosilicate glass adds a layer of durability and protection from nasty drops and scratches Always-on display for glanceable infoEMUI 15 brings a more modern software experienceExpected 256GB storage option availableConsSlightly smaller 6.67-inch screenA slightly higher price tag since it is a newer smartphoneWhich One Should You Pick?If a bigger screen and longer battery life are priorities for you then the Huawei nova Y72 is the smartphone for you. Its 6.75-inch display gives you more room to scroll, stream and multitask, while the 6 000 mAh battery gets you through the day. It’s a practical pick but not a bad option at all.On the other hand, if you’re open to spending a little more for faster charging, a newer user interface and a slightly more refined, stronger feel, the Huawei nova Y73 could be worth the upgrade. With its modern design, 40W fast charging and EMUI 15 software experience, it’s better suited for users who want a device that can keep up with heavier usage and stay current a little longer.Final ThoughtsBoth the Huawei nova Y72 and nova Y73 hold their own in the budget smartphone arena, which means your decision really comes down to what fits best with your everyday needs. Whether you lean toward the Huawei nova Y72’s bigger screen or the Huawei nova Y73’s faster charging and updated software, you’re getting a phone that’s reliable, stylish and more than capable of giving you an enjoyable, lasting smartphone experience.FAQsWhat are the main differences between the Huawei nova Y72 and nova Y73? The Huawei nova Y72 offers a larger 6.75-inch display, a 6,000 mAh battery with 22.5W charging and EMUI 12, while the Huawei nova  Y73 has a slightly smaller 6.67-inch screen, a bigger 6,620 mAh battery with faster 40W charging and runs EMUI 15. The Huawei nova Y73 also comes with improved durability features and an always-on display.Which phone has a better battery life, the Huawei nova Y72 or Huawei nova Y73? Both phones have solid battery life. The Huawei nova Y72’s 6 000 mAh battery is known for its long-lasting performance, making it perfect for heavy users who want to go all day without charging. The Huawei nova Y73’s slightly larger 6 620 mAh battery supports faster 40W charging so you can top up quicker if you’re short on time.Are the Huawei nova Y72 and Y73 good for gaming? Both phones have 8GB of RAM, which is decent for casual gaming and everyday multitasking. Neither is a powerhouse gaming phone, but they can handle popular titles smoothly for most users.Does the Huawei nova Y73 have better charging than the nova Y72? Yes, the Huawei nova Y73 supports 40W fast charging, which means you can recharge your phone much faster compared to the Huawei nova Y72’s 22.5W SuperCharge. This is great if you need to quickly boost your battery between meetings or classes.Which Huawei nova phone has more storage options? The Huawei nova Y72 comes with a fixed 128GB storage, while the nova Y73 is expected to offer both 128GB and 256GB options. If you need extra space for apps, photos and videos, the Y73 gives you more flexibility.References:https://www.mobgsm.com/news/huawei-nova-y73-is-coming-soon-with-an-underpowered-chipsethttps://www.huaweicentral.com/huawei-nova-y73-launching-soon-as-rebranded-version-of-enjoy-80/https://consumer.huawei.com/za/phones/nova-y72/

Read More...

10 Best Helpful Mom-Friendly Apps In 2025

Discover 10 mom-friendly apps perfect for mothers in South Africa – featuring top mental health apps for moms, smart organisation tools and more to keep up with your busy life.Something for Mom May is the month of Moms and because we know mother’s juggle a lot – from diaper bags to deadlines, school projects and dinner – we’ve found the best apps out right now to help Moms cope with the motherload.School runs, snack time or Zoom fatigue, staying on top of everything isn’t easy – but it can be more manageable with the right tools.We’ve rounded up 10 smart, mom-approved apps that help with everything from meal planning to baby tracking and the ever elusive – me-time.The best part? These apps run smoothly on both mid-range and flagship smartphones so you don’t need the newest device to get the job done!Contents Apps for Mental Health and MindfulnessApps for Building Community and Boosting WellnessApps for Parenting and ProductivityApps for Financial WellnessApps for Mental Health and MindfulnessThree apps that deliver support you can actually feel.Honestly – AI Daily JournalIf journaling has been on your To-Do List for a while but you haven’t found the time for it yet, talking to Honestly might be for you. The Honestly App turns voice notes into smart journal entries using AI and even picks up on patterns in your mood and thoughts. Its built-in mood tracker helps you spot emotional highs and lows before they spiral. The best part of this app is that it’s completely hands-free and super intuitive, so you’ll be able to “journal” your thoughts and feelings while on the go. Just make sure your phone’s running iOS 15.0+ or Android for smooth performance. The app is free to start but you can upgrade for more options that range between R180 – R360/year. HeadspaceHeadspace is a long-time favourite for a reason. Its 3-minute meditations are perfect for those “I just need a breather, right now” moments. The app runs well on mid-range smartphones with at least 4GB RAM, and a yearly subscription is around R1 600 but there are free mediations available too.Mindful MamasAccording to this app, many moms say Mindful Mamas has helped them feel more present, grounded and “like the mom they want to be”. With 500+ guided meditations for every stage of motherhood, Mindful Mamas brings calm when it counts. And it’s there for you right from inception, navigating pregnancy hormones or post-bedtime burnout. It works best on phones with a solid processor to keep audio smooth. A yearly subscription is around R1 600 but it’s worth it if you’re craving more control and less overwhelm.Apps for Building Community and Boosting WellnessTwo apps to find mom friends and stay fit.PeanutFind moms who become your friends. Peanut is the place to be if you’re looking to connect with like-minded moms, swap advice and find support in group chats. The app works well even on budget smartphones with just 2GB RAM, making it an excellent option for moms with limited Wi-Fi access.7 Minute WorkoutIt’s tough to get to the gym every day. So for the days when you need to fit in a quick workout, there’s the 7-Minute Workout app. The app provides quick, equipment-free workouts that you can slot into your morning, break or evening so you won’t have to miss out on a mood booster. It’s lightweight and runs smoothly even on older Android/iOS devices.Apps for Parenting and ProductivityFour apps that will save every time and have no one asking; “What’s for dinner?”CoziA family assistant in your pocket. This free organiser has shared calendars and to-do lists to keep everyone in sync and make sure mom isn’t doing everything on her own. It’s super light on storage so it works great on budget phones and you can get use out of it at no cost or for a more tailored experience, the premium version (R450 – R900/year) unlocks extra features – like meal planning.Baby ConnectIf you’re new at parenting and need a way to keep track of feeds, naps and nappy changes, Baby Connect has your back. It’s a once-off buy for about R90 and lets you sync baby data across devices so mom and dad are always on the same page. Perfect for sleep-deprived parents who thought the other checked baby’s nappy before bed.TinybeansTinybeans is a free photo-sharing app that helps you capture your baby’s milestones and share them with family and friends. For those wanting to share high-quality images, it works best with phones that have a decent camera, like the Samsung Galaxy A-series. It’s perfect for staying connected with loved ones, no matter the distance.Plan to EatNever again stare into the fridge at 5:45 pm and wonder, “What now?” Plan to Eat lets you save recipes, drag and drop them into a calendar, whip up a grocery lists and create fully tailored meal plans. The one downside of this Mom-friendly app is that it costs around R1 100/year and needs about 3GB of RAM to run smoothly so make sure your phone can keep up!Apps for Financial Wellness One app that helps track and grow your finances.Vault22This savings and budgeting app is considered one of SA’s best kept financial secrets. It’s a product of financial facility OldMutual but you don’t have to be a customer to get the perks. The app gives you  the ability to link all your financial stakes so you have a holistic view of your financial health. With Vault22’s tips and suggestions you’ll be able to stay on track with your savings goals and highlight where you can do better.And the best part of this app? It’s 100% free.Let your smartphone work for you. Try a few of these apps and see what makes your day easier, calmer or just a bit more organised.FAQSIs there a free app to connect with other South African moms?Yes! Peanut is a free app designed to connect moms through group chats and local meetups. It works smoothly on budget smartphones and uses minimal data- perfect for busy moms looking to build a support network without extra costs.Which mental health apps are best for moms?Mental health apps like Headspace, Honestly and Mindful Mamas are mom-approved favourites. Whether you need quick meditations, AI-powered journaling or parenting-specific mindfulness exercises, these tools offer mental support.What is the best meal planning app for busy moms?Plan to Eat takes the stress out of “What’s for dinner?” You can save recipes, plan your week and build a shopping list in minutes. It’s a total time-saver, especially when your toddler’s yelling for snacks.Which app is best for tracking baby milestones in South Africa?The Wonder Weeks is a one-time purchase that helps South African moms track baby development milestones and tricky growth phases. It's easy to use, runs on Android 5.0+ and gives helpful insights so you can better understand your baby’s mood or cries.Are there apps for moms dealing with overwhelm or burnout?Absolutely. Apps like Mindful Mamas and Honestly are built to support moms emotionally. They offer guided meditations, voice journaling and mood tracking to help you feel less alone, more grounded and a little more in control- even when everything else feels like a circus.

Read More...

next