As South Africa moves closer to switching off 2G and 3G networks by December 31, 2027, it’s important for everyone—especially people in low-income communities—to have access to smartphones that support modern apps like WhatsApp. Without these devices, many could be left behind as mobile networks upgrade to newer technology.
Luckily, there are several budget-friendly smartphones available for under R500 that can run WhatsApp and keep you connected. This article takes a closer look at these affordable options, helping you choose the right phone without breaking the bank.
Top 10 Smartphones Supporting WhatsApp
1. Mobicel Astro – R449
Operating System: Android 8.1 Go
Display: 4-inch LCD
Processor: SC7731E
RAM: 512MB
Storage: 4GB, expandable via microSD up to 32GB
Cameras: 2MP rear, 0.3MP front
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G
Battery: 1,400mAh
Features: Touchscreen interface
Availability: Available at Pep Cellular stores
The Mobicel Astro runs on Android 8.1 Go, which supports WhatsApp. It’s a basic but reliable option for staying connected.
2. Vodacom Kicka 5 – R499
Operating System: Android Go
Display: 4.95-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 512MB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,800mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Ackermans Connect
With Android Go, the Vodacom Kicka 5 can install WhatsApp, making it a good choice for messaging and calls.
3. Hisense U605 – R 379
Operating System: Android 8.1 Go
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 1GB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 5MP rear, 2MP front
Connectivity: 2G, 3G
Battery: 1,500mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Pep Cellular
The Hisense U605 offers better camera quality compared to others in this price range, while still supporting WhatsApp.
4. Itel AC13 – R399
Operating System: Android 10 Go
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 512MB
Storage: 16GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,500mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Pep Cellular
With Android 10 Go, the Itel AC13 can run WhatsApp and gives you more internal storage than many other phones on this list.
5. Mobicel Rave – R449
Operating System: Android 11 Go
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 512MB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,500mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Pep Cellular
The Mobicel Rave runs Android 11 Go, making it one of the newest operating systems among phones under R500 that still supports WhatsApp.
6. Mobicel Star – R379
Operating System: Android 8.1 Go
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 512MB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,500mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Pep Cellular
The Mobicel Star offers WhatsApp compatibility at an even lower price, making it a great option if you’re really tight on budget.
7. Stylo 721 – R399
Operating System: Android 3.0 Honeycomb
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 1GB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,400mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Pep Cellular
Important note: Android 3.0 Honeycomb is no longer supported by WhatsApp. This phone won’t be able to install or use WhatsApp.
8. Mobicel Vibe – R499
Operating System: Android R Go
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 1GB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,500mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Ackermans Connect
The Mobicel Vibe comes with a newer Android version and enough storage for WhatsApp and other essential apps.
9. Mobicel Vibe Blue – R429
Operating System: Android R Go
Display: 4-inch
Processor: Not specified
RAM: 1GB
Storage: 8GB, expandable via microSD
Cameras: 2MP rear, VGA front
Connectivity: 3G
Battery: 1,550mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support
Availability: Available at Mr Price
The Mobicel Vibe Blue also runs Android R Go and provides similar features to the regular Mobicel Vibe, with a slightly larger battery.
10. MTN Smart S 3G – R249
Operating System: KaiOS 2.5
Display: 2.4-inch
Processor: SC7731
RAM: 256MB
Storage: 512MB, expandable via microSD up to 32GB
Cameras: 1.3MP rear and front
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 3G
Battery: 2,000mAh
Features: Dual-SIM support, FM radio
Availability: Available at MTN stores
The MTN Smart S 3G is not a typical smartphone but runs WhatsApp on KaiOS, which makes it a very affordable way to stay connected if you don’t need a touchscreen.
Related: Say Goodbye to WhatsApp on These Phones from May 2025
As South Africa prepares for the phase-out of 2G and 3G networks, having a smartphone that can keep up with modern communication needs is more important than ever. For individuals and families living on a tight budget, the idea of upgrading to a newer phone might feel overwhelming. But as this guide shows, you don’t need to spend a fortune to stay connected.
With several smartphones available under R500, you can still enjoy essential features like WhatsApp messaging, voice calls, and internet access. Whether you choose a device from MTN, Mobicel, Vodacom, or another affordable brand, these options ensure you won’t be left behind in the digital world.
Before buying, always check the latest availability and prices at local stores or online retailers. And remember—choosing a WhatsApp-compatible smartphone today helps you stay connected tomorrow as networks continue to evolve.
