Safaricom’s Neon smartphone series is one of the most affordable ways for Kenyans to join the smartphone world. Devices like the Neon Kicka 5 and Neon Ray Pro are priced between Ksh. 3,000 and Ksh. 7,000 which is very attractive. But here’s the catch: they are locked to Safaricom’s network and that can be a big drawback for many users.
Unlike carrier contracts in the US where you can unlock your phone after meeting the payment obligations—Safaricom does not offer official unlock options for Neon devices. If you’re thinking of using other networks like Airtel or Telkom on these devices, here’s why you might want to think again.
1. Locked to Safaricom with No Official Unlock Path
Let’s start with the obvious: Neon phones are network-locked and Safaricom does not provide unlock codes—not even after the warranty period or full payment. This is a big limitation if you’re looking for flexibility. Unlike international standards where unlocking is just a request away, you’re stuck unless you explore third-party solutions.
Yes, some users have resorted to vendors online or repair shops downtown (especially in River Road, Nairobi) for unlock services, but these are unofficial, and results vary. Even if successful, you risk your phone’s security, stability and usability in the process.
2. Unlocking Will Void Your Warranty
The low price tag of Neon phones comes with a perk: 1-year warranty from Safaricom. However, once you modify the software, change the IMEI or unlock the device using third-party methods, your warranty becomes void.
This might not be a big deal if your device is already out of warranty, but for new buyers, it’s a big loss—especially if something goes wrong with the hardware or software soon after purchase.
3. Unlocking Costs Almost as Much as Buying a Better Alternative
Let’s do the math.
- Neon Kicka 5 retails for around Ksh. 3,499
- Neon Ray Pro goes for about Ksh. 6,500
- Third-party unlocking services? Anywhere from Ksh. 1,500 to Ksh. 2,500
Why go through all the hassle of unlocking and risk ruining your phone when better options exist?
4. Single SIM Only
Another limitation of the Neon series is no dual SIM support—a feature that’s now standard on most entry-level Android phones.
Even if you’re a loyal Safaricom user, you won’t be able to use two SIM cards on a Neon phone. You’ll have to choose between having one line for MPESA and another for data or calls. That’s a big compromise especially in a market where dual SIM is a necessity, not a luxury.
5. Underwhelming Specifications
The affordability of Neon devices comes at the cost of performance.
Kicka 5 has only 512MB of RAM
Neon Ray Pro has only 1GB of RAM
For today’s apps, even basic ones like WhatsApp or Facebook Lite, this memory is not enough. Multitasking is slow, gaming is limited, and app compatibility is getting worse. If you want to do anything beyond texting or basic browsing, you’ll hit a wall fast.
6. Unlocked Alternatives Are Available
If your reason for considering a Neon phone is cost, it’s worth looking at factory-unlocked alternatives that are in the same price range. Some to consider:
Xiaomi Redmi 7A
Itel A58
Infinix Smart 6
Tecno Pop series
These phones come unlocked, with better specs, dual SIM slots and reliable warranty. And during sales like Jumia’s Birthday Sale prices drop even lower giving you more value.
Final Thoughts
Yes, Safaricom Neon phones are affordable but they are not flexible. If you plan to use SIM cards from different carriers, unlock the phone or expect decent performance Neon phones are not the way to go.
They are good as entry level, Safaricom only devices for basic users—maybe a first smartphone for a child or a backup device. But if you want network freedom, functional specs or device longevity spend a little more for an unlocked alternative.
Bottom Line:
Don’t buy a Safaricom Neon phone with the intention of unlocking it. The restrictions, risks and costs are not worth it.