The Rise of Kenya’s Used Smartphone Market: Opportunities and Risks in 2025

In Kenya, owning a smartphone is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. With mobile money, e-commerce, social media and remote work all relying on mobile connectivity, demand for smartphones has gone up. But with new devices getting expensive, many Kenyans are turning to second-hand and refurbished phones.

Here’s a closer look at the used smartphone market in Kenya in 2025—why it’s booming, who’s buying and what you need to watch out for.

Why the Market Is Growing

1. New Phones Are Too Expensive

Premium phones like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models are out of reach for many Kenyans. With the iPhone 13 still selling for over KES 80,000, budget-conscious buyers are turning to second-hand alternatives.

2. Reliable Second-Hand Platforms

Online platforms like Jiji, PigiaMe and Facebook Marketplace have made it easy to find and compare used phone deals. New entrants and refurbished dealers are also emerging in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and other towns.

3. Refurbished Phones as a Middle Ground

Retailers like Phone Place Kenya and official partners for Samsung, Infinix and Tecno are now selling refurbished phones with warranties, which gives consumers more confidence than buying from the streets.

Who’s Buying Used Phones in Kenya?

• University students looking for affordable internet access

• Small business owners using smartphones for mobile banking and transactions

• First-time smartphone users upgrading from feature phones

• Parents buying devices for kids for online classes or communication

Risks to Watch Out For

While buying second-hand makes sense financially, it comes with risks. Here are the red flags:

✅ 1. Stolen Devices

Many second-hand phones sold on social platforms are stolen. Always ask for receipt or original box and verify the IMEI number on https://www.imei.info.

✅ 2. Locked Phones

iPhones may be iCloud locked, and Android devices may have FRP (Factory Reset Protection) enabled. These render phones useless if not properly unlocked.

✅ 3. Battery Health Issues

Used phones often come with degraded batteries. Ask the seller to show battery health report especially for iPhones.

Tips for Safe Purchases

1. Meet in public places like malls or coffee shops—avoid backstreets or isolated spots.

2. Insist on testing the device—insert your SIM, check network signal, camera, sound, and storage.

3. Use reputable sellers or stores, especially those offering a limited warranty.

4. Check IMEI status for theft records or blacklist reports before buying.

Opportunities for Buyers and Sellers

For tech-savvy Kenyans, the used phone market is also a business opportunity:

• Phone flipping: Buying low and reselling with value-added features like screen protectors or new batteries

• Repair and refurbish: Fixing damaged phones for resale

• E-commerce growth: Launching niche sites that focus on affordable second-hand gadgets

In Short

Kenya’s used smartphone market is no longer a niche—it’s a mainstream solution for millions. If you’re buying or selling, take time to verify devices and be aware of the risks.

Smartphones connect us to opportunity. But smart buying decisions will protect you from loss, fraud or disappointment.