Your SA Guide to Mobile Tech

The Pixel 10 is the better all-round phone and the one to buy if you want the strongest cameras, faster performance and longer-term value. The Pixel 9a is the smarter pick for South Africans who prioritise battery life and a lower purchase price.

For most South African buyers, the iPhone 17e is the better buy because it costs less, has the newer A19 chip and a much better selfie camera. Choose the iPhone 16 only if you specifically want the dual rear-camera setup and are happy to pay extra for it.

Choose the Galaxy S26 Ultra if you want the newest flagship, slightly better future-proofing, and the strongest long-term buy. Choose the Galaxy S25 Ultra if you find it discounted, because its real-world experience is so similar that it is the better value for most South Africans.

The Galaxy S25 is the better value buy for most South African shoppers, especially with 12GB RAM and a known starting price of R15,709. Choose the Galaxy S26 if you want the newest chip, Android 16, and the longest possible software runway.

Choose the Tecno Camon 30 Pro if you want stronger performance and a superior selfie camera. Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro if you want better battery life, a more impressive main camera, and the safer value buy at R6,799.