The Huawei P9, a flagship smartphone released in 2016, has been a topic of interest for many tech enthusiasts in South Africa. With its impressive features, sleek design, and innovative camera system, it’s no wonder why many are eager to get their hands on this device. However, one of the most pressing questions on everyone’s mind is: how much is the Huawei P9 in rands? In this article, we’ll delve into the pricing details, explore the phone’s features, and provide a comprehensive review to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Huawei P9’s Pricing Structure
The Huawei P9’s price in South Africa varies depending on several factors, including the storage capacity, condition, and retailer. When the phone was first released, the recommended retail price was around R12,999 for the 32GB model and R14,999 for the 64GB model. However, prices have fluctuated over time due to various market and economic factors.
New vs. Refurbished vs. Used: What’s the Difference?
When purchasing a Huawei P9, you’ll come across three main options: new, refurbished, and used. Each option has its pros and cons, which affect the pricing.
- New: A brand-new, sealed Huawei P9 with a warranty, typically priced between R8,000 to R12,000, depending on the storage capacity and retailer.
- Refurbished: A pre-owned Huawei P9 that has been inspected, repaired, and tested to meet manufacturer standards, usually priced between R5,000 to R9,000.
- Used: A pre-owned Huawei P9 sold by an individual or third-party seller, often priced lower, but with varying conditions and no warranty.
Where to Buy the Huawei P9 in South Africa
You can purchase the Huawei P9 from various retailers, both online and offline. Here are some popular options:
Online Retailers
- Takealot: Offers new and refurbished Huawei P9 models with competitive pricing and free shipping.
- Amazon: Provides a wide range of new and used Huawei P9 options, including international sellers.
- Huawei’s Official Website: Sometimes offers promotions, discounts, or bundle deals on the P9.
Offline Retailers
- Vodacom: Offers the Huawei P9 on contract or prepaid plans, with various data and voice options.
- MTN: Sells the Huawei P9 on contract or prepaid plans, with different data and voice options.
- Cell C: Offers the Huawei P9 on contract or prepaid plans, with various data and voice options.
Key Features of the Huawei P9
The Huawei P9 boasts an impressive array of features that make it a desirable smartphone. Some of the key highlights include:
Camera System
- Dual-Lens Camera: A 12MP RGB sensor and a 12MP monochrome sensor work together to capture stunning images with improved contrast and depth.
- Leica Optics: The P9’s camera system is co-engineered with Leica, a renowned optics brand, ensuring exceptional image quality.
Performance and Battery Life
- Kirin 955 Processor: A fast and efficient processor that handles demanding tasks with ease.
- 3,000mAh Battery: A long-lasting battery that provides up to 2 days of moderate use.
Display and Design
- 5.2-Inch Display: A vibrant and responsive display with a high pixel density.
- Metal Unibody: A sleek and durable design that feels premium in the hand.
Is the Huawei P9 Still Worth Buying in 2023?
While the Huawei P9 is an older model, it still offers impressive features and performance. However, it’s essential to consider the following factors before making a purchase:
Software Updates
- Android Version: The P9 runs on Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) out of the box, but it’s upgradable to Android 7.0 (Nougat).
- Security Patches: Huawei has stopped releasing regular security patches for the P9, which may leave it vulnerable to security exploits.
Hardware and Performance
- Processor and RAM: The Kirin 955 processor and 3GB/4GB RAM provide smooth performance, but may struggle with demanding tasks.
- Storage: The 32GB/64GB internal storage may not be sufficient for heavy users, but it’s expandable via microSD.
Conclusion
The Huawei P9’s price in South African rands varies depending on the storage capacity, condition, and retailer. While it’s an older model, it still offers impressive features and performance. However, it’s essential to consider the software updates, hardware, and performance before making a purchase. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a great camera system, the Huawei P9 might be an excellent choice.
What are the key features of the Huawei P9?
The Huawei P9 boasts an impressive array of features that make it a top contender in the smartphone market. One of its standout features is its dual-camera setup, which is co-engineered with Leica, a renowned camera brand. This setup allows for exceptional image quality, with features like optical zoom, monochrome mode, and professional mode. Additionally, the P9 has a sleek and durable design, with a metal unibody construction and a 5.2-inch Full HD display.
Other notable features of the Huawei P9 include its powerful Kirin 955 processor, 3GB or 4GB of RAM, and a long-lasting 3000mAh battery. The device also runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, with Huawei’s EMUI 4.1 skin on top. Furthermore, the P9 has a fingerprint sensor, USB-C port, and supports 4G LTE connectivity. Overall, the Huawei P9 is a well-rounded smartphone that offers a great balance of performance, camera capabilities, and design.
How much does the Huawei P9 cost in South African Rands?
The price of the Huawei P9 in South African Rands varies depending on the storage capacity and condition of the device. Brand new, the 32GB model typically costs around R8,000 to R10,000, while the 64GB model costs around R10,000 to R12,000. However, prices can fluctuate depending on the retailer, promotions, and availability.
It’s also worth noting that prices for used or refurbished Huawei P9 devices can be significantly lower, ranging from R4,000 to R8,000, depending on the condition and storage capacity. It’s essential to research and compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal. Additionally, some retailers may offer bundles or promotions that include accessories or other perks, which can add value to the overall purchase.
Is the Huawei P9 worth buying in 2023?
While the Huawei P9 is an older device, it still offers great value for its price. The device’s camera capabilities, performance, and design hold up well even today. Additionally, the P9 has received several software updates, including Android 7.0 Nougat and EMUI 5.0, which have improved its overall user experience.
However, it’s essential to consider the device’s limitations, such as its older processor and limited storage capacity. If you’re looking for a device with the latest features and specifications, you may want to consider newer models. Nevertheless, if you’re on a budget or want a reliable device for basic tasks, the Huawei P9 is still a great option. It’s also worth noting that the P9’s price has decreased significantly since its release, making it a more affordable option.
How does the Huawei P9 compare to other smartphones in its class?
The Huawei P9 competes with other mid-range to high-end smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S7, Google Pixel, and OnePlus 3. In terms of camera capabilities, the P9’s dual-camera setup is one of its standout features, offering exceptional image quality and versatility. However, other devices may offer better performance, display quality, or software features.
Ultimately, the choice between the Huawei P9 and other smartphones depends on your specific needs and preferences. If camera capabilities are a top priority, the P9 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a device with the latest features, faster performance, or a more premium design, you may want to consider other options. It’s essential to research and compare different devices to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
What are the pros and cons of buying a used Huawei P9?
Buying a used Huawei P9 can be a cost-effective way to acquire a high-quality smartphone. One of the main advantages is the significantly lower price point, which can be up to 50% lower than the original retail price. Additionally, many used devices are still in excellent condition, with minimal wear and tear.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Used devices may not come with a warranty, and the battery life may be reduced due to wear and tear. Additionally, you may need to perform a factory reset to remove the previous owner’s data, which can be time-consuming. It’s essential to purchase from a reputable seller, inspect the device carefully, and test it thoroughly before making a purchase.
Can I upgrade the Huawei P9’s software to the latest version?
The Huawei P9 has received several software updates since its release, including Android 7.0 Nougat and EMUI 5.0. However, the device is no longer eligible for major Android updates, and the latest software version available is EMUI 9.1, based on Android 9.0 Pie.
While it’s not possible to upgrade the P9 to the latest Android version, you can still update to the latest available software version. To do this, go to Settings > System > System update, and follow the prompts to download and install the update. It’s essential to ensure that your device is connected to a stable internet connection and has sufficient battery life before attempting to update the software.
Is the Huawei P9 compatible with 5G networks?
No, the Huawei P9 is not compatible with 5G networks. The device only supports 4G LTE connectivity, which was the standard at the time of its release. While 4G LTE offers fast data speeds, 5G networks provide even faster speeds and lower latency.
If you need a device that supports 5G connectivity, you may want to consider newer models, such as the Huawei P30 or P40 series. These devices offer 5G connectivity, as well as other advanced features like improved cameras, faster processors, and longer battery life. However, if you’re not concerned about 5G connectivity, the Huawei P9 is still a great option for basic tasks and everyday use.