iPhone 5

Description

The iPhone 5, released in September 2012, was a groundbreaking device at it’s time. It was Apple’s first iPhone to feature a 4-inch Retina display, Lightning connector, and a thinner, lighter aluminum body. While it has been discontinued for years, the iPhone 5 still appears in the Nigerian second-hand and UK-used market at very low prices.

For Nigerians looking for an affordable iPhone option, especially for basic usage like calls, messaging, and light browsing, the iPhone 5 may still serve as an entry level device.

The iPhone 5 came with a 4-inch Retina display, powered by the Apple A6 chip and running on iOS 6 at launch. It has an 8MP rear camera, a 1.2MP front camera, and a 1440mAh battery.

Although Apple stopped software updates for the iPhone 5 long ago, it remains a classic choice for budget-conscious users in Nigeria who want the Apple brand name without spending much.

iPhone 5 Price in Nigeria 2025 Updated

You can buy the iPhone 5 with the following budgets

iPhone 5 UK Used Price in Nigeria: ₦18,000 – ₦25,000

Refurbished Price: ₦22,000 – ₦30,000

Brand New (Rare): ₦35,000 – ₦45,000

Prices depend on condition, seller, and availability since the phone is discontinued.

iPhone 5 Full Specifications

Here is the iPhone 5 full specifications.

Network: 2G / 3G / 4G LTE

Display: 4.0-inch Retina IPS LCD, 640 x 1136 pixels

Processor: Apple A6 (32-bit, dual-core 1.3GHz)

GPU: PowerVR SGX543MP3

RAM: 1GB

Storage: 16GB / 32GB / 64GB (non-expandable)

Rear Camera: 8MP, LED flash, HDR

Front Camera: 1.2MP, FaceTime HD

Battery: 1440mAh, non-removable

Operating System: iOS 6 (upgradable to iOS 10.3.4 – last update)

Build: Aluminum body, 112g weight

Colors: Black/Slate, White/Silver

Pros and Cons

Pros

Very cheap in 2025 compared to newer iPhones.

Lightweight and compact design.

4G LTE support.

Still useful for basic calls, texts, and browsing. 

Cons

Outdated hardware and software (stuck at iOS 10).

Small screen by today’s standards.

Poor battery life compared to modern iPhones.

Limited app support (many modern apps no longer compatible).

iPhone 5 Reviews in Nigeria with User Insights and Videos

Nigerians who still use or buy the iPhone 5 usually do so for secondary use or as a backup phone.

Performance: Handles calls, SMS, and basic WhatsApp but struggles with heavy apps.

Battery: Weak, often requires replacement.

Value: Affordable way to own an iPhone brand.

Drawback: Not recommended as a primary phone in 2025.

Watch YouTube Video Review of iPhone 5

Comparison with Alternatives

iPhone 5s: Better with Touch ID and slightly improved performance.

iPhone SE (2016): Same design but far stronger specs.

iPhone 6: Larger display and better software support.

Budget Androids (e.g., Itel, Tecno): Offer better battery and updated apps at similar prices.

Factors Affecting the Price of iPhone 5  in Nigeria

Condition (UK used vs refurbished vs fairly used locally)

Storage option (16GB vs 64GB)

Battery health and replacement status

Availability (rarer now, so prices vary widely)

Location (Lagos and Abuja often cost more than smaller cities)

Where to Buy iPhone 5 and Buying Guide

Online: Jumia, Jiji, Konga, Slot Nigeria

Physical Stores: Computer Village (Lagos), Slot outlets, Pointek, 3C Hub

Buying Guide

Always check battery health before buying.

Test network connectivity and cameras.

Ensure it is factory unlocked for Nigerian networks.

Prefer buying with at least 1-week warranty.

Frequently asked questions

Here are the frequently asked questions about iPhone 5

Q1: How much is iPhone 5 in Nigeria now?

A: Between ₦18,000 – ₦25,000 for UK used.

Q2: Can iPhone 5 still use WhatsApp in 2025?

A: Yes, but only older versions; new WhatsApp updates may not be compatible.

Q3: Is iPhone 5 still worth buying in Nigeria?

A: Only as a secondary/backup phone. Not recommended for heavy users.

Q4: Does iPhone 5 support 4G LTE in Nigeria?

A: Yes, but only on limited bands (check with your network provider).

Q5: What is the difference between iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s?

A: iPhone 5s adds Touch ID, a faster processor, and longer iOS support.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The iPhone 5 is no longer a practical primary smartphone in 2025, but it can still be used as a budget iPhone for calls, SMS, and light browsing. If you want the Apple experience at the lowest possible cost, it may be worth buying.

Recommendation

For most Nigerians, the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or SE (2016) will be better alternatives at slightly higher prices.