Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus Price in Kenya

Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus has been a standout device in the Kenyan smartphone market since its release in 2017. As we approach 2024, this flagship smartphone continues to impress with its timeless design, impressive performance, and a feature set that caters to the needs of Kenyan consumers. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the various aspects of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus and explore why it remains a compelling option in the Kenyan market.

Design and Display

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus boasts a sleek and premium design that has stood the test of time. The device features a metal and glass construction, with a curved display that seamlessly blends into the sides of the phone. Measuring 159.5 x 73.4 x 8.1 mm and weighing 173 grams, the S8 Plus offers a comfortable and ergonomic grip, making it easy to use with one hand despite its large display.

The highlight of the Galaxy S8 Plus is its stunning 6.2-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display, which offers a resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels and an 18.5:9 aspect ratio. The display delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles, providing an immersive visual experience for media consumption, gaming, and everyday tasks. The inclusion of Gorilla Glass 5 also ensures the display is protected against scratches and minor impacts.

Processor and Performance

Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is powered by the Exynos 8895 chipset, a flagship-grade processor that was top-of-the-line at the time of its release. This octa-core processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM, delivers a smooth and responsive user experience, even in 2024. The device is capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from multitasking to gaming, without any noticeable lag or slowdowns.

The Exynos 8895 chipset is based on a 10nm manufacturing process, which not only provides impressive performance but also ensures efficient power consumption. This, combined with the device’s 3,500mAh battery, results in a respectable battery life that should last the average Kenyan user through a full day of use.

Camera and Imaging

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is equipped with a capable dual-pixel 12MP rear camera, which delivers excellent image quality in a variety of lighting conditions. The camera features optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps to reduce blur and capture sharper images, even in low light. The camera also supports 4K video recording at 30fps, providing high-quality video capture for those who enjoy creating content.

On the front, the S8 Plus features an 8MP selfie camera that produces detailed and well-exposed self-portraits. The camera also supports various shooting modes and features, such as face detection and beauty mode, to enhance the overall selfie experience.

Storage and Connectivity

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is available in two storage variants in the Kenyan market: 64GB and 128GB. Both options provide ample storage space for apps, photos, videos, and other media. Additionally, the device supports microSD card expansion, allowing users to further expand the storage capacity up to 256GB.

In terms of connectivity, the Galaxy S8 Plus offers a comprehensive suite of options, including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB Type-C for charging and data transfer. The device also features a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is a feature that many Kenyan users still appreciate.

Software and User Experience

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus runs on the Android operating system, with the device currently supported up to Android 10. Samsung’s proprietary One UI software overlay provides a polished and user-friendly experience, with a range of customization options and features to enhance productivity and daily use.

One of the standout features of the S8 Plus is its support for Samsung’s DeX platform, which allows users to connect the device to a larger display and use it as a desktop-like experience. This feature can be particularly useful for Kenyan professionals who need to work on the go or in environments where a traditional computer may not be readily available.

Biometric Security

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is equipped with a fingerprint sensor, located on the rear of the device, which provides a convenient and secure way to unlock the phone. Additionally, the device supports iris scanning, which adds an extra layer of biometric security for those who prefer this method of authentication.

Price and Availability in Kenya

When the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus was first introduced in the Kenyan market in 2017, it carried a premium price tag, reflecting its flagship status. However, as newer models have been released, the price of the S8 Plus has become more accessible to Kenyan consumers.

In 2024, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus can be found in the Kenyan market for a price range of KES 30,000 to KES 40,000, depending on the storage variant and the retailer. This price point makes the device a compelling option for Kenyan users who are looking for a high-quality smartphone without the need to invest in the latest flagship model.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is primarily targeted at Kenyan consumers who value a premium smartphone experience, but may not necessarily require the latest and greatest features. This includes professionals, tech-savvy individuals, and those who appreciate the timeless design and reliable performance of the device.

The S8 Plus is well-suited for a variety of use cases, including:

• Multimedia consumption: The stunning AMOLED display and capable camera make the S8 Plus an excellent choice for watching videos, browsing social media, and capturing memorable moments.
• Productivity: The device’s performance, multitasking capabilities, and support for Samsung DeX make it a viable option for Kenyan professionals who need a smartphone that can double as a productivity tool.
• Gaming: The powerful Exynos 8895 chipset and the large display provide a satisfying gaming experience for Kenyan users who enjoy mobile gaming.
• General daily use: The well-rounded feature set and reliable performance of the S8 Plus make it a suitable choice for Kenyan users who require a dependable smartphone for their everyday needs.

Comparison with Competitors

When compared to other flagship smartphones available in the Kenyan market, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus holds its own. While newer devices may offer slightly more advanced features, the S8 Plus still manages to compete in key areas such as design, display quality, camera performance, and overall user experience.

Some of the key competitors to the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus in the Kenyan market include the Google Pixel 5a, the OnePlus 9, and the iPhone 12 Mini. While these devices may offer newer processors, improved cameras, or additional features, the S8 Plus remains a compelling option for Kenyan users who prioritize a premium smartphone experience at a more accessible price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Timeless and premium design
• Stunning Quad HD+ AMOLED display
• Powerful Exynos 8895 chipset and 4GB of RAM
• Capable dual-pixel 12MP rear camera
• Reliable battery life and fast charging support
• Fingerprint sensor and iris scanning for biometric security
• Expandable storage via microSD card

Cons:

• No longer receives the latest Android OS updates
• Camera performance may not be as advanced as newer flagship models
• Relatively high price point compared to mid-range and budget smartphones
• Lack of 5G connectivity

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus remains a compelling flagship smartphone option in the Kenyan market, even in 2024. Its timeless design, impressive display, reliable performance, and capable camera make it a well-rounded device that caters to the needs of a wide range of Kenyan consumers. While newer smartphones may offer more advanced features, the S8 Plus continues to deliver a premium user experience at a more accessible price point.

For Kenyan users who are looking for a high-quality smartphone that can handle their daily tasks, media consumption, and occasional gaming, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is a solid choice that stands the test of time. Its combination of performance, features, and value proposition make it a compelling option in the Kenyan smartphone market.

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