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

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The 5 Best Value Smartphones Of 2025 You'll Want To Buy

Looking for an affordable smartphone in South Africa? Discover 5 budget phones with 5G, top-end displays and impressive cameras. Which one’s your next pick?Decisions, Decisions Picking your next smartphone isn’t just about the flashy specs or the latest trends. You have to factor in how much you can afford to pay every month.If you’re looking for a 24- or 36-month plan, you need a phone that can keep up with you when it comes to work, play and snapping solid pics for The Gram.The good news is that 2025’s budget smartphones are spoiling us all for choice. You can now get reliable performance, great cameras and 5G connectivity without going into debt to get it.We’re breaking down five of the best value-for-money phones around right now: the still-strong Apple iPhone 13, Samsung’s new Galaxy A26, Huawei nova Y63, the sleek HONOR 200 Lite and the budget-friendly Spectra J1. Let’s find the one that ticks all your boxes.Why are Budget Smartphones such a Big Deal?Not long ago, budget smartphones meant settling for low-quality displays, weak performance and shaky reliability. If you wanted great features, you had to pay big.But in 2025, that’s all changed. Budget and mid-range phones now pack specs once reserved for flagships.AMOLED screens, 5G, faster chips and solid cameras are showing up in phones well under R10 000. Battery life? Many last over a day on only one charge. These days, affordable doesn’t mean bad quality. Whatever you’re in the market for – a crisp display, reliable speed or a battery that goes the distance – the choices keep improving.Apple iPhone 13The iPhone 13 may be from all the way in 2021 but it’s still a powerhouse device.  This is perfect for you if you want in on an Apple smartphone without paying for the newest model. Its sharp 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and dual 12MP cameras are great for photos and videos. Storage options range from 128GB to 512GB so you won’t run out of space. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, it handles gaming and multitasking like a champ and the battery can last up to 19 hours. No mid-day slumps here, proving once again that there are no bad Apples.Samsung Galaxy A26If you want something a little newer or you’re a Samsung loyalist, the Samsung Galaxy A26 is definitely worth checking out. Launched this year, it comes in White, Mint, Peach Pink and Black.The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display is bright and crisp, ideal for binge-watching or scrolling. With 6GB RAM and 128GB storage – expandable up to 2TB via MicroSD – you’ll have plenty of space. The 50MP rear camera takes solid shots and the 13MP front camera is great for selfies and video calls.Huawei nova Y63The Huawei nova Y63 is a great new entry-level option packed with features for everyday use. It has a large 6.7-inch display perfect for browsing and streaming plus 128GB of storage for all your apps and photos.Its 50MP AI dual rear camera delivers solid shots in good light while the 8MP front camera is perfect for selfies and video calls. With a hefty 6 000mAh battery, it’s built to last all day. Important because you never want to worry about running out of juice before bedtime.HONOR 200 LiteThe HONOR 200 Lite stands out with its vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, that delivers a premium viewing experience. Its 108MP main camera captures sharp, detailed photos while the 50MP front camera is perfect for bright selfies and smooth video calls.A 4 500mAh battery easily gets you through the day and the 35W HONOR SuperCharge powers you up fast. Overall, the HONOR 200 Lite packs a great display, strong cameras and decent battery life.Spectra J1Spectra is a South African brand of budget-friendly phones that still pack solid tech. The Spectra J1 is a great choice if you want a reliable everyday phone without spending a fortune. It sports a 6.56-inch screen which is big enough for comfy browsing and streaming but still easy to handle and carry around.Security is simple with fingerprint recognition for quick unlocking. The 13MP rear camera captures decent shots for social and casual snaps while the 8MP front camera handles selfies and video calls with ease. Plus the 5 000mAh battery keeps you powered all day, making the Spectra J1 a practical, no-fuss choice.The Verdict Choosing your next smartphone doesn’t have to drain your wallet or force you into settling for less. The best phone is the one that feels like it was made just for you, without a huge price tag. Ready to upgrade? Your next favourite smartphone is waiting. Check out our top deals here.FAQsIs the iPhone 13 a good buy in 2025? Yes! Though it launched in 2021, the iPhone 13 remains a powerful and reliable choice. It has a stunning Super Retina XDR display, solid dual cameras and the speedy A15 Bionic chip – all at a lower price than the latest models.Are there any reliable budget smartphones made in South Africa? Yes! The Spectra J1 is a great local option. It offers a large screen, fingerprint security, decent cameras and a powerful 5 000mAh battery.Are budget smartphones good for photography? Definitely! Phones like the HONOR 200 Lite with its 108MP camera and the Samsung Galaxy A26 with a 50MP shooter prove you can get sharp, detailed photos without paying flagship prices. They handle everyday snaps and selfies with ease.Are budget smartphones worth it for everyday use? Absolutely. With improved displays, cameras, battery life and faster processors, budget smartphones in 2025 are designed to handle daily tasks like work emails and social media without compromise or breaking your budget.Can budget smartphones handle gaming and multitasking? Yes, many budget phones now come with powerful processors and enough RAM to smoothly run games and multiple apps. The iPhone 13’s A15 Bionic chip and Samsung A26’s 6GB RAM offer reliable performance for gaming and streaming.Referenceshttps://www.samsung.com/za/smartphones/galaxy-a/galaxy-a26-5g-mint-128gb-sm-a266blgiafa/https://swappie.com/en/blog/is-it-still-worth-buying-an-iphone-13/https://consumer.huawei.com/za/offer/huawei-smartphones/nova-y63-buy/https://www.HONOR.com/global/phones/HONOR-200-lite/https://spectramobile.co.za/j1-2/

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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/

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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/

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