BD top picks: Best mid-range Samsung phones in Nigeria

Samsung's wide range of Android smartphones, from budget-friendly to high-end flagships, has earned the smartphone giant a huge loyal following for years. As with every other phone, when buying a Samsung phone in Nigeria, it's essential to carefully consider three key factors:

• Your Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend.
• Your Needs: Identify your primary uses–whether you want to use the phone for gaming, vlogging, or casual everyday tasks.
• The Availability of Parts: Ensure you can find replacement parts locally if needed.

If you're looking for a value-packed mid-range Samsung device, we've simplified your search in this guide. These affordable options don't compromise on essential features or specs. Plus, Samsung's extended software support makes them an even smarter investment.

We've carefully selected the best mid-range Samsung smartphones and their prices in Nigeria, but first let's understand what makes a phone "mid-range" before diving into our top picks for 2024.

What is a mid-range phone?

The term "mid-range" refers to smartphones that strike a balance between flagship features and budget-friendly prices. These phones typically cost between $250 and $700 (or roughly ₦270,000 - ₦560,000 in Nigeria).

While they might involve some compromises compared to top-tier models, such as slightly less powerful processors or less premium build materials, they often offer excellent value with features like long battery life, capable cameras, and good performance for everyday tasks.

Quick list of the 10 best midrange Samsung phones

Below is a rundown of our top picks for the best mid-range Samsung phones in 2024:

1. Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus 
2. Samsung Galaxy S10 
3. Samsung Galaxy A15 
4. Samsung  Galaxy A72 
5. Samsung Galaxy M52
6. Samsung Galaxy A54 
7. Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus
8. Samsung ZFlip 3 
9. Samsung Note 20 5G 
10. Samsung Galaxy A24 

Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus - (₦230,000/$143)

The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus, released in 2018, remains a powerful smartphone with its stunning 6.2-inch curved display, versatile dual-lens camera, and fast processor. Its unique features like super-slow-motion video, AR Emoji, and Bixby voice assistant offer additional capabilities.

However, it's important to consider some  drawbacks it has in 2024. The battery life may struggle with heavy use, and unfortunately, the phone is nearing the end of its software support with no major OS updates past Android 12. 

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 189g
• Dimensions: 158.1 x 73.8 x 8.5 mm
• OS:  Android 8.0 (Oreo), upgradable to Android 10, One UI 2.5.
• Screen size: 6.2-inch, Super AMOLED display
• Resolution: 1440 x 2960
• CPU: Exynos 9810 (10nm) - EMEA or Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) - USA/LATAM, China 
• RAM: 4GB / 6GB
• Storage: 64GB / 256GB
• Battery: 3500mAh, with 15W fast charging
• Rear camera: 12MP (main)  + 12MP (telephoto) 
• Front camera: 8MP + 2MP (iris scanner)

Samsung Galaxy A15 (₦300,000/$187)

The new Samsung Galaxy A15 has so much to offer for its starting price of ₦300,000 in Nigeria. Samsung updated the design of their A-Series phones in 2022 to mimic the design of the S series flagship phones, so at a glance, this phone looks like a high-end phone, and you won’t feel left out. It has a 6.5-inch display with a waterdrop notch and thick bezels, which may not look very modern compared to other phones in 2024 and may interfere with some apps or games that use the full-screen mode. 

The phone runs on Android 14 and benefits from Samsung’s generous software upgrade policy, which promises four years of system updates. The Galaxy A15 also features a 50 MP main camera and a 13MP selfie camera, which can take decent photos in good lighting conditions. The Galaxy A15's battery life is also impressive, lasting for more than 14 hours for some users making the device a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable mid-range Android phone. However, if you want a more premium design, a faster performance, or a better camera, you may want to consider other options, such as the Samsung Galaxy A25.  

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 200g
• Dimensions: 160.1 x 76.8 x 8.4 mm
• OS: Android 14, One UI
• Screen size: 6.5-inch, Super AMOLED display
• Resolution: 1080 x 2340
• CPU: Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) 
• RAM: 4GB / 8GB
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 5000mAh, with 25W fast charging
• Rear camera: 50MP (main) + 5MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) 
• Front camera: 13MP

Samsung Galaxy A72 (₦280,000/$174)

The A72, a former top-of-the-line A Series phone, boasts a powerful Snapdragon 778G chipset, a 108MP camera, and an AMOLED 120Hz display. With its recent Android 14 update, it remains a compelling choice for spec-conscious users who favour the Snapdragon chip over certain newer Exynos processors. While it might not be the most cutting-edge compared to recent releases, the Android 14 support extends its lifespan and keeps it feeling fresh. The No-5G Samsung Galaxy A72 is available in four attractive colours: Violet, Blue, White, and Black

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 203g
• Dimensions: 165 x 77.4 x 8.4 mm
• OS: Android 11, upgradable to Android 12, One UI 4.1
• Screen size: 6.7-inch, Super AMOLED display
• Resolution: 1080 x 2400
• CPU: Qualcomm SM7125 Snapdragon 720G (8 nm)
• RAM: 6GB / 8GB
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 5000mAh, with 25W fast charging 
• Rear camera: 64MP (main) + 8MP (telephoto) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 5MP (macro)
• Front camera: 32MP

Samsung Galaxy M52 (₦225,000/$140)

The Samsung Galaxy M52 5G sits at the top of the M series, offering a more powerful processor, higher refresh rate display, and 5G connectivity compared to its siblings. While it shares many features with the recently released A52s, the M52 5G boasts the slightly faster Snapdragon 778G processor and runs on OneUI 6.0. 

However, the M52 5G makes some compromises. The cameras are considered below average and the phone lacks adaptive refresh rate for its 120Hz displays. Additionally, the 5000mAh all-day battery life is hampered by slower charging speeds.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 173g
• Dimensions: 164.2 x 76.4 x 7.4
• OS: Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5
• Screen size: 6.7-inch, Super AMOLED Plus display 
• Resolution: 1080 x 2400
• CPU: Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm)
• RAM: 6GB / 8GB
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Rear camera: 50MP (main) + 5MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) 
• Front camera: 32MP

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G (₦560,000/$349)

For those seeking a feature-rich, powerful smartphone without the flagship tags, the Galaxy A54 5G presents an excellent choice. Samsung's A-series has consistently delivered outstanding value in the mid-range market, and the A54 continues this trend.  Its specs rival those of the pricier S23, making it a compelling option.  It, however, uses Samsung's in-house Exynos 1380 processor (a slight step down from the Snapdragon chip found in flagships) and swaps the telephoto camera for a macro camera. The A54 is widely available across Samsung outlets in Nigeria.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 202g
• Dimensions: 158.2 × 76.7 × 8.2
• OS: Android 13, upgradable to Android 14, One UI 6
• Screen size: 6.4-inch
• Resolution: 1080 x 2340
• CPU: Exynos 1380 (5 nm)
• RAM: 6GB / 8GB
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Rear camera: 50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultra-wide) + 5MP (macro)
• Front camera: 32MP

Samsung Galaxy S10 (₦225,000/$140)

The Samsung Galaxy S10 offers a premium smartphone experience despite being released in 2019. It boasts fast and reverse wireless charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC + Samsung Pay, and a beautiful 6.1-inch Super AMOLED HDR10+ Infinity display. However, the in-display fingerprint sensor can be unreliable and the 3,400mAh battery may not last a full day of heavy use. The colour options for this device include Prism White, Prism Black, Prism Blue, Flamingo Pink, Canary Yellow, and Prism Green.

One additional tradeoff is the chipset: the Galaxy S10 features either a Qualcomm SM8150 processor (US/China markets) or a Samsung Exynos 9820 processor (including Nigeria). The Exynos version may offer slightly lower performance compared to the Qualcomm variant.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 157g
• Dimensions: 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8
• OS: Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12, One UI 4.1
• Screen size: 6.1-inch, Dynamic AMOLED display
• Resolution: 1440 x 3040 
• CPU: Exynos 9820 (8 nm)  - EMEA/LATAM or Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) - USA/China
• RAM: 4GB / 8GB
• Storage: 64 B/ 512GB
• Battery: 3400mAh, with 15W fast charging and 5W reverse wireless charging 
• Rear camera: 12MP (main) + 12MP (telephoto) + 16MP (ultrawide)
• Front camera: 10MP

Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus (₦330,000/$205)

The Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus impresses at ₦330,000 with its well-rounded features. Its versatile cameras rival the best, while the customizable software lets you personalize your experience. But the true star is the display – a stunning high-resolution panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate (at Full HD+ resolution) that sets a new standard.

The phone feels as premium as its price tag suggests. Crafted from glass and metal, it's well-built and comfortable to hold despite its size. The centred punch-hole camera adds to the sleek design. While the 120Hz refresh rate doesn't extend to the full Quad HD+ resolution, the trade-off helps to maintain battery life.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 186g
• Dimensions: 161.9 x 73.7 x 7.8 mm
• OS: Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5
• Screen size: 6.7-inch, Dynamic AMOLED 2X display 
• Resolution: 1440 x 3200
• CPU: Exynos 990 (7 nm+) - Global or Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) - USA
• RAM: 8GB / 12GB
• Storage: 128GB / 512GB
• Battery: 4500mAh, with 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging
• Rear camera: 12MP (main) + 64MP (telephoto) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 0.3MP (depth)
• Front camera: 10MP

Samsung Galaxy ZFlip 3 (₦400,000/$249)

The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is Samsung’s third generation of foldable phones, and it aims to attract more customers with its improved features. The phone has a more affordable price than its predecessors, and it comes in a variety of colours. However, the base model has limited colour options and does not include a charger in the box. You can choose from different storage options, depending on your needs.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 183g
• Dimensions: 86.4 x 72.2 x 15.9-17.1mm folded / 166 x 72.2 x 6.9mm unfolded
• OS: Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5
• Screen size: 6.7-inch, Dynamic AMOLED 2X display (inner) / 1.9-inch, Super AMOLED display (outer)
• Resolution: 1080 x 2640 (inner) / 260 x 512 (outer) 
• CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 3300mAh, with 15W fast charging and 10W wireless charging
• Rear camera: 12MP (main) + 12MP (ultrawide) 
• Front camera: 10MP

Samsung Note 20 5G (₦385,000/$240)

The Galaxy Note 20 5G's build is a point of debate: it features Gorilla Glass upfront but a plastic rear. Despite the controversial choice, the phone retains features often associated with glass-back models, including wireless charging and IP68 dust and water resistance.

An exciting upgrade is the S-Pen's reduced latency. Dropping to 26ms (from 42ms on previous models) means faster, more responsive input.  As with other Galaxy Note 20 series phones, the processor varies depending on the region: US models feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 Plus and Adreno 650 GPU, while Nigeria and the rest of the world get the Exynos 990 and Mali-G77 MP11 GPU.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 192g (Sub6 5G) or 194g (mmWave 5G)
• Dimensions: 161.6 x 75.2 x 8.3 mm
• OS: Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5
• Screen size: 6.7-inch, Super AMOLED Plus display
• Resolution: 1080 x 2400
• CPU: Exynos 990 (Global) or Snapdragon 865+ (USA)
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 4300mAh, with 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging
• Rear camera: 12MP (main) + 64MP (telephoto) + 12MP (ultrawide) 
• Front camera: 10MP

Samsung Galaxy A24 ((₦280,000/$174)

Priced at ₦280,000, the Samsung Galaxy A24 offers a decent mid-range experience. It features a plastic build but adheres to Samsung's 2023 design trend with a flat back and minimalist camera layout. An Infinity-U display houses the selfie camera, and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button offers convenient unlocking.

The A24 boasts a versatile camera setup for photos and videos, even performing well in low-light situations. It's powered by a Mediatek MT8781 Helio G99 processor, also found in phones like the Oppo Reno 8T and Infinix Zero 20. This octa-core chip balances performance and power efficiency.

Finally, the Galaxy A24 ensures you stay connected on the go with dual-SIM capabilities, 4G LTE, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6, and NFC.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 195g
• Dimensions: 162.1 x 77.6 x 8.3 mm
• OS: Android 13, upgradable to Android 14, One UI 6
• Screen size: 6.5-inch, Super AMOLED display
• Resolution: 1080 x 2340
• CPU: Mediatek Helio G99
• RAM: 6GB / 8GB
• Storage: 128GB
• Battery: 5000mAh, with 25W fast charging
• Rear camera: 50MP (main) + 5MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) 
• Front camera: 13MP
  

How we made our picks

To select the best mid-range Samsung phones, we carefully considered several factors:

• Price: We focused on phones within the ₦270,000 – ₦560,000 range, ensuring the best possible value.
• Performance: We prioritised phones with specifications that indicate smooth performance, long battery life, and reliable software support. We'll base final recommendations on in-depth reviews and testing.
• Camera: We evaluated camera specifications on both the front and rear, paying attention to resolution, versatility, and features like night mode and portrait mode.
• Display: We looked for specifications suggesting bright displays with high resolution and refresh rates, offering a pleasing viewing experience.
• Features: We considered additional features like 5G connectivity, wireless charging, water resistance, and stereo speakers to identify phones that stand out.

Note that: While we haven't fully tested these specific models yet, we'll base our subsequent recommendations on thorough reviews and testing to better inform you about other Samsung phones and the wider smartphone market.

Read Also: 10 best Infinix Phones to Buy in 2024