The itel CITY 100, priced under KSh 12,000 combines value, durability, and AI features rarely seen at this price point.
With its launch, the budget smartphone scene in Kenya just got a new contender, worth of its salt.
The itel CITY 100 retails at around KSh 12,500 for the 4 GB RAM + 128 GB storage variant. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer, with some discounts dropping it closer to KSh 11,000. You’ll find it listed by vendors locally.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.75″ IPS LCD, 90 Hz, ~720×1600 px, 700 nits brightness |
| Processor & RAM | Unisoc T7250 (12 nm), Octa‑core, Mali‑G57 GPU, 4/6/8 GB RAM options |
| Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB internal, expandable up to 2 TB via microSD |
| Operating System | Android 14 with itel’s Pure 14.5 UI |
| Battery | 5,200 mAh, 18 W fast charging, 4-year battery health guarantee |
| Camera | Rear: 13 MP with LED flash & HDR, Front: 8 MP with flash, 1080p@30fps recording |
| Durability | Slim 7.65 mm unibody, IP64-rated (dust/splash), 1.5 m drop-tested |
| Extras | Side fingerprint reader, face unlock, IR blaster, dual speakers, FM radio |
| AI Suite | DeepSeek R1: image-to-text, AI writing, translation, voice camera, wallpaper generation, more |
What We Like
Long-Lasting Battery with 4-Year Warranty
At 5,200 mAh, this battery comfortably lasts through a full day of heavy use — from TikTok scrolling to WhatsApp chats and class lectures. The bonus? Itel promises four years of battery health, a first in this price segment.
Bright 90Hz Display
Even with just an HD+ resolution, the 6.75″ display holds up well outdoors, thanks to 700 nits of brightness. The 90Hz refresh rate is also a welcome feature for smoother scrolling and visuals.
AI Tools on a Budget
The DeepSeek R1 AI suite is surprisingly powerful. Think voice-activated photography, AI-powered image-to-text conversion, auto-translation — ideal for students, content creators, and anyone exploring productivity or creative tasks.
Durable Yet Sleek
IP64 water/dust resistance and drop-test certification make this phone ready for Kenya’s rougher environments. Yet, it still manages a slim, sleek design under 8 mm thick.
What’s Not So Great
Limited Performance for Gamers
While the Unisoc T7250 can handle casual use just fine, it begins to lag under stress — especially during gaming, multitasking, or video editing.
Average Cameras Without Stabilization
The 13 MP camera takes decent photos in daylight, but expect shaky videos and grainy low-light shots. There’s no OIS (optical image stabilization), which is typical at this price.
No Promised OS Updates
You get Android 14 out of the box, but don’t expect major Android version upgrades. Itel isn’t known for long-term software support.
Just HD+ Resolution
Though bright, the screen’s resolution is only 720p, meaning Full HD lovers might find it a little soft for reading or video playback.
Is it Worth Buying in Kenya?
Yes — if you know what you’re getting. The itel CITY 100 is perfect for:
- Students and first-time smartphone users
- Budget-conscious buyers needing long battery life
- People seeking basic AI features without spending a fortune
- Anyone looking for a secondary device that doesn’t compromise on essential features
However, if your priorities include high-performance gaming, crisp cameras, or long-term software updates, you may want to explore alternatives like the Redmi A3, Infinix Smart 8 Plus, or even refurbished Samsung Galaxy A-series models in the KSh 20k–30k range.
Final Recommendation
| Decision Point | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Price-to-Features Ratio | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Excellent) |
| Battery Life | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Outstanding) |
| Software/Update Reliability | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Below Average) |
| AI & User Experience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Impressive for the price) |
| Overall Rating | 7.8/10 — Solid value performer |
Go for it if you need a smart, durable, and battery-efficient smartphone under KSh 12,000.
