Be it at Game or Pep, this article explores the world of Samsung phones under R3000 with remarkable features. By combining sophisticated functionalities with sturdy construction and elegant aesthetics, these devices push the boundaries of what is attainable on a budget.
Only four Samsung devices are worth your money in the sub-R3000 price range and any other affordable option not included here definitely falls within the ranks of the best Samsung phones under R2000.
As we delve into the varied offerings of Samsung, Mamzanzi aims to provide insights for the astute consumer who prioritises affordability without sacrificing quality.
Although there are some mobile devices under R2000 that stand toe-to-toe with offerings on this page, this article is a meticulously curated assortment of Samsung phones that demonstrate that excellence can still be attained on a modest budget, without sacrificing practicality, aesthetic appeal, or financial viability.
1. Samsung Galaxy S10e
The Samsung Galaxy S10e, which was unveiled on March 8, 2019 after its introduction on February 20, 2019, is a diminutive juggernaut in the Galaxy S10 lineup. Available on AliExpress at R2,850 (inc. shipping cost), the streamlined construction of this Samsung phone under R3000 measures 142.2 x 69.9 x 7.9 mm and weighs 150g.
It features Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back, and an aluminium frame for added durability. Notably, the device is water and dust resistant to the extent of IP68, permitting it to withstand 30 minutes of submersion at a depth of 1.5 metres.
Boasting an impressive 83.3% screen-to-body ratio, the 5.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display features Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection and HDR10+ functionality. It dominates the front of the device. With a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels and a 19:9 aspect ratio, it guarantees a pixel density of around 438 ppi, which is responsible for delivering a vivid and detailed visual encounter. The device’s always-on display offers additional convenience.
The Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) chipset for the USA/China variant or the Exynos 9820 (8 nm) chipset for EMEA/LATAM powers the Galaxy S10e, which runs on Android 9.0 (Pie) and is upgradable to Android 12 with One UI 4.1. The octa-core CPU configurations vary in accordance with regional specifications, resulting in potent performance.
The device provides memory flexibility through the utilisation of a shared SIM slot for dual SIM variants and a microSDXC card slot. Internal storage options include 128GB with 6GB RAM, 128GB with 8GB RAM, or 256GB with 8GB RAM, all of which support UFS 2.1 technology.
With its dual primary cameras—a wide lens of 12 MP and an ultrawide lens of 16 MP—the camera captures minute details with accuracy. In addition to 4K@60fps and HDR10+, the video capabilities include stereo sound recording. The wide aperture of the 10 MP profile camera contributes to the device’s photographic capabilities.
Stereo speakers provide immersive audio experiences, while the incorporation of a 3.5mm port guarantees adaptability. The device also features AKG-tuned 32-bit/384 kHz audio.
A side-mounted biometric sensor, an accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass, and barometer are among the sensory components that improve user interaction.
A 3100 mAh non-removable Li-Ion battery powers the Galaxy S10e and supports PD2.0 and 15W wired charging, 15W wireless charging (Qi/PMA), and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
2. Samsung Galaxy A05
The Galaxy A05, which was introduced on October 15, 2023, is a Samsung phone under R3000 that combines contemporary attributes with an affordable price point.
Featuring a glass front, plastic rear, and plastic frame, this smartphone, which is sold on Takealot at R2,299 achieves a harmonious equilibrium between a substantial display and effortless handling, boasting dimensions of 168.8 x 78.2 x 8.8 mm and a weight of 195 g.
The device provides users with the choice between utilising a single Nano-SIM (single SIM) or a dual Nano-SIM (dual standby) for SIM cards.
This Samsung phone under R3000 features a 6.7-inch PLS LCD display that has a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio. It maintains a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 82.1% and has an approximate pixel density of 262 ppi.
The Mediatek MT6769V/CZ Helio G85 (12nm) chipset powers the Android 13-powered Galaxy A05, which features an octa-core processor (2×2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6 x 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) and Mali-G52 MC2 GPU.
The memory configuration of this device is a 64GB storage with 4GB RAM, both of which employ eMMC 5.1 technology. Additionally, a microSDXC card port is included for expanding storage.
In addition to LED illumination, the dual primary camera configuration includes a 50 MP wide lens (f/1.8) with autofocus and a 2 MP depth sensor (f/2.4). The f/2.0 aperture, single-lens, 8 MP portrait camera is designed to capture memorable moments.
The Galaxy A05 features a 3.5mm port for adaptable audio options and a loudspeaker that guarantees an immersive audio experience.
Although it does not possess NFC capabilities, the Galaxy A05 makes up for this deficiency with practical sensors such as a proximity sensor and accelerometer.
A robust, non-removable Li-Po 5000 mAh battery powers the device and enables wired charging at a rate of 25 W, allowing for quick and simple power restoration.
3. Samsung Galaxy S9
The Galaxy S9, which was introduced on March 9, 2018, continues to be a formidable Samsung phone under R3000 with its streamlined design. The device in question is 163 grammes in weight, 147.7 x 68.7 x 8.5 mm in size, is constructed of aluminium , features a Gorilla Glass 5-protected glass front and rear and is priced just R2455 (shipping inc.) on AliExpress.
Its 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display supports HDR10 and provides an awe-inspiring visual experience with a pixel density of approximately 570 ppi and a resolution of 1440 x 2960. Android 8.0 (Oreo), which can be upgraded to Android 10, powers the device, which is powered by the Exynos 9810 (10 nm) chipset in EMEA and the Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) chipset in the USA/LATAM and China.
The Galaxy S9 provides users with sufficient storage space with its 4GB RAM, which is expandable via microSDXC on the dual SIM model, and internal storage capacities of 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB. Its primary camera, a 12 MP single lens with dual-pixel PDAF and OIS, is capable of recording high-quality images and videos at 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps, and 720p@960fps.
The profile camera configuration comprises a 2 MP retinal scanner camera and an 8 MP wide lens. Dual video calls and Auto-HDR are supported, and videos can be recorded at 1440p@30fps.
A variety of sensors are integrated into the Galaxy S9, such as a biometric scanner, fingerprint sensor located on the rear, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer, heart rate, and SpO2.
The apparatus is equipped with a 3000 mAh non-removable Li-Ion battery that facilitates 15W conventional charging and, subject to market conditions, wireless charging via Qi/PMA technology.
Owing to its high-quality construction and extensive feature set, the Galaxy S9 continues to be a dependable option for individuals in search of a Samsung under R3000 with an harmonious combination of aesthetic appeal and powerful performance.
4. Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
Prototyped on November 11, 2020, the Galaxy A42 5G, is a Samsung phone under R3000 distinguished by its streamlined appearance and impressive technical attributes. Priced at R2650 (shipping incl.) on AliExpress, its weight of 193 g and dimensions of 164.4 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm contribute to its contemporary yet comfortable appearance.
The phone is equipped with a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display that features a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio. This renders the visuals vivid and provides an 84.3% screen-to-body ratio.
Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5, and an octa-core processor, Adreno 619 GPU, and Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750 5G (8 nanometer) chipset operate this affordable Samsung phone under R3000.
Utilising UFS 2.1 technology, the Galaxy A42 5G offers versatile storage alternatives, including an internal storage capacity of 128GB and RAM selection of 4GB.
Featuring a 48 MP wide lens, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, a 5 MP macro lens, and a 5 MP depth sensor, its quad-camera configuration provides a range of photographic capabilities. In addition to 4K@30fps video recording, the primary camera includes LED illumination, panorama, and HDR capabilities.
The phone features a 20 MP broad front camera that supports HDR and can record 1080p@30fps videos for taking photos.
The 5000 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery on the Galaxy A42 5G is capable of 15W wired charging.
The Samsung Galaxy A42 5G, which combines 5G connectivity, capable cameras, and dependable performance, is designed to accommodate users who desire a smartphone experience that is abundant in features.
