Top 5 Affordable Smartphones in Ethiopia (2025)
In 2025, having a smartphone is more essential than ever in Ethiopia. From TikTok and Telegram to mobile banking and digital IDs, a phone is more than just a tool—it’s your connection to the world. But not everyone can afford a flagship phone like the Samsung Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15 Pro. That’s why affordable smartphones are becoming the top choice for most Ethiopians.
This guide helps you choose the best affordable smartphones available in Ethiopia for 2025, based on:
- Local pricing in Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
- Features and performance
- Availability and support
- Real-world use like TikTok, banking apps, and battery life
Let’s break down the top 5 affordable smartphones you can buy in Ethiopia right now.
1. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Price in Ethiopia: 18,000 – 28,000 ETB
Best for: Students, content creators, general users
Key Features:
- 6.5″ Super AMOLED Display (90Hz)
- MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ 5G Chipset
- 4GB–8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB Storage
- Android 14 with One UI 6
- 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
Why it’s great:
The Galaxy A15 5G stands out in 2025 as a top choice for budget-conscious users who still want modern features. The AMOLED screen is bright and smooth, perfect for watching videos and using social media apps. Unlike many cheap phones, Samsung provides solid software updates — an underrated advantage.
Downsides:
- No charger included in the box
- No IP rating or water resistance
2. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
Price in Ethiopia: 25,000 – 33,000 ETB
Best for: Camera lovers and display fans
Key Features:
- 6.5″ Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Exynos 1280 Processor
- 50MP rear camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
Why it’s great:
If you want smooth performance and solid photography without spending over 35,000 ETB, the A25 5G is a great upgrade from the A15. The 120Hz display is rare in this price range, especially with a Samsung-quality AMOLED panel. Photos and videos look excellent even in low light.
Downsides:
- A bit pricey for some
- Availability might be limited in smaller towns
3. ZTE Nubia Focus 5G
Price in Ethiopia: 10,000 – 13,000 ETB
Best for: Storage, camera, and performance on a tight budget
Key Features:
- 6.56″ IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh
- 108MP main camera
- 8GB RAM, 256GB storage
- 5,000mAh battery, 33W fast charging
Why it’s great:
This phone is a hidden gem. You get a 108MP camera, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage at a price almost no one can beat. If you’re looking to shoot content for TikTok or YouTube and don’t want to run out of space, this phone is unbeatable in its category.
Downsides:
- Not AMOLED
- May lack long-term software support
4. Poco M7 Pro 5G
Price in Ethiopia: 20,000 – 26,000 ETB
Best for: Gamers, multitaskers, and power users
Key Features:
- 6.67″ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh
- MediaTek Dimensity 7025
- 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
- 5,100mAh battery with 45W fast charging
Why it’s great:
The Poco M7 Pro is a performance-focused budget beast. From PUBG to multitasking with Telegram, Facebook, and browser tabs, this phone can handle it. The 120Hz AMOLED panel is great for gaming and content, and 45W fast charging gets you going fast.
Downsides:
- MIUI software is sometimes buggy
- Limited after-sales support in Ethiopia
5. Itel A50
Price in Ethiopia: 8,500 – 12,000 ETB
Best for: First-time users, ultra-budget buyers
Key Features:
- 6.6″ HD+ IPS screen
- Unisoc T603 chipset
- 2GB–4GB RAM, 64GB–128GB storage
- Android 13 Go Edition
- 5,000mAh battery
Why it’s great:
The Itel A50 is made for the everyday Ethiopian who just needs a phone for calls, banking, Facebook, and watching TikTok. It’s one of the few under 10K ETB that feels decent in hand and doesn’t lag for light usage.
Downsides:
- No 5G or high refresh rate
- Not suitable for gaming or content creation
📊 Comparison Table
| Phone | Price (ETB) | Display | RAM/Storage | Battery | 5G Support | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy A15 5G | 18K – 28K | AMOLED 90Hz | Up to 8GB / 256GB | 5,000mAh / 25W | Yes | Balanced Use |
| Galaxy A25 5G | 25K – 33K | AMOLED 120Hz | Up to 8GB / 256GB | 5,000mAh / 25W | Yes | Display & Camera |
| ZTE Nubia Focus 5G | 10K – 13K | LCD 120Hz | 8GB / 256GB | 5,000mAh / 33W | Yes | Storage & Camera |
| Poco M7 Pro 5G | 20K – 26K | AMOLED 120Hz | 6GB / 128GB | 5,100mAh / 45W | Yes | Performance & Gaming |
| Itel A50 | 8.5K – 12K | HD+ IPS | Up to 4GB / 128GB | 5,000mAh | No | Basic Usage |
🔍 Buying Tips for Ethiopia in 2025
- Avoid fake phones — especially from unauthorized sellers in Merkato or online. Always ask for the box and check the IMEI.
- Look for warranty — Samsung and Xiaomi phones sometimes come with regional warranty.
- Ask about software updates — Brands like Samsung and Xiaomi provide better support.
- Always check the price from multiple shops — Prices vary in shops, online stores, and even by city.
✅ Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
- If you want a reliable phone for daily use: Go for the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G.
- If you love photography or TikTok videos: The Samsung Galaxy A25 5G is worth it.
- For super low-budget + big storage: Try the ZTE Nubia Focus 5G.
- Gamers and performance lovers? Poco M7 Pro 5G is perfect.
- On a tight budget under 10K ETB? The Itel A50 is the best entry-level option.