As 5G networks continue to expand across South Africa, more people are starting to consider upgrading to 5G-capable smartphones. With major carriers like MTN, Vodacom, and Telkom investing in infrastructure, cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria are already experiencing faster internet speeds and improved network reliability.
The good news is that 5G smartphones are no longer limited to high-end buyers. In 2025, there are great options available across all price ranges. Whether you’re shopping on a tight budget or looking to invest in a flagship device, there’s something that suits your needs.
Below is a carefully curated list of the best 5G smartphones in South Africa, organized by budget range.
Budget Category (Under R6,000)
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Samsung continues to lead the budget segment with its Galaxy A15 5G, which combines reliable performance with a premium feel at a lower price.
- Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6100+
- Battery: 5000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Highlights: Offers a smooth display experience and stable performance for everyday tasks. The AMOLED screen is a rare feature at this price point.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G
Xiaomi has built a reputation for delivering excellent hardware for the price, and the Note 13 5G lives up to that standard.
- Display: 6.6-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6100+
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Highlights: It’s a great option for students or anyone wanting 5G and solid performance without spending much. The high refresh rate screen makes scrolling and gaming smoother.
Mid-Range Category (R6,000 – R12,000)
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
A strong mid-range contender, the Galaxy A35 5G balances design, performance, and long-term support.
- Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 1380
- Camera: 50MP main sensor
- Battery: 5000mAh with fast charging
- Highlights: Samsung’s reputation for quality displays and software updates makes this an ideal phone for users who want reliability and good performance for daily use.
Infinix Zero 30 5G
Infinix is quickly gaining traction in South Africa, and the Zero 30 5G offers exceptional value in the mid-range category.
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 144Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8020
- Camera: 108MP main camera
- Battery: 5000mAh with 68W fast charging
- Highlights: This phone offers near-flagship features, especially the display and charging speed, at a mid-range price. Great for mobile creators and social media enthusiasts.
Flagship Category (R12,000 and Above)
iPhone 15
For Apple users or those entering the iOS ecosystem, the iPhone 15 provides a future-proof option with 5G and premium features.
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
- Processor: A16 Bionic
- Camera: 48MP main camera with sensor-shift OIS
- Battery: Long-lasting with wireless charging support
- Highlights: Seamless integration with Apple devices and years of software updates. A solid long-term investment.
Samsung Galaxy S24
If you prefer Android, the Galaxy S24 is one of the best flagship options available in South Africa right now.
- Display: 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Camera: 50MP triple camera system
- Battery: 4000mAh
- Highlights: Compact, powerful, and packed with premium features. Ideal for professionals or tech enthusiasts.
Google Pixel 8
Although not officially sold through most local carriers, the Pixel 8 is becoming more accessible through online retailers and importers.
- Display: 6.2-inch OLED
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- Camera: 50MP main with cutting-edge AI processing
- Battery: All-day battery with fast charging
- Highlights: Excellent camera and the purest Android experience available, making it a favorite for tech-savvy users.
What to Consider Before Buying a 5G Smartphone
- Network Coverage: Check if your area supports 5G. It’s widely available in major cities but may still be limited in rural areas.
- Battery Life: 5G uses more power than 4G, so aim for a phone with at least a 5000mAh battery or strong battery optimization.
- Software Support: Choose a brand that provides consistent Android or iOS updates to extend the life of your device.
- Usage Needs: If you’re mainly browsing and messaging, a budget phone will suffice. For gaming, content creation, or business use, consider mid-range or flagship options.
Final Thoughts
With the growing availability of 5G in South Africa, 2025 is a great time to make the switch to a 5G-enabled smartphone. The market now offers options for every type of user, from affordable entry-level devices to premium flagships packed with features.
Before making a purchase, consider your personal needs, location, and how long you plan to use the device. Investing in the right smartphone today means staying connected faster and more efficiently tomorrow.
Let the technology work for you – not against your budget.