How do I choose the best cellphone for my family’s needs at PEP?

We want to help you make the smartest choice for your home! If you need a reliable phone for school communication, daily WhatsApp messages, or basic banking, an entry-level smartphone is a fantastic, budget-friendly option. If you need something simpler just to make calls and send SMSs to keep in touch with loved ones, our affordable feature phones are durable, cost-effective, and have batteries that last for days.

Are the cellphones bought at PEP locked to a specific network?

We offer both network-locked phones (which give you amazing value on specific networks like Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, or Cell C) and "Any Network" (open-market) phones. If you want to keep your existing SIM card, just look out for our "Any Network" deals, or choose a network-specific phone to enjoy great starter packs and airtime promos!

What do I need to bring to a PEP store to RICA my new SIM card?

Keeping you connected safely is our priority! To RICA your new SIM card in-store, please bring your green South African barcoded ID book, smart ID card, or valid passport, along with a recent proof of residence (not older than 3 months) such as a utility bill or bank statement. We'll get you up and running in no time.

Do PEP cellphones come with a warranty?

All cellphones purchased at PEP come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty (usually 12 to 24 months, depending on the brand). Keep your till slip safe as your proof of purchase, and if anything goes wrong under normal use, pop back into your nearest PEP store for assistance.

Can I buy a cellphone on account or using lay-by at PEP?

We understand the need to manage your family's budget responsibly. You can apply for a PEP Account in-store or online to buy your cellphone on easy credit terms. While we don’t offer traditional lay-by on cellular devices, Foneyam is a service that allows you to rent a smartphone for a period of time. It’s an affordable option to get access to a smartphone if you’re on a tight budget.

Does this take my SIM size, and can I keep my number?

Phones use nano, micro or standard SIM sizes, so check which the phone needs against your current SIM — you can usually get a replacement SIM in the right size from your network and keep your number by porting or a SIM swap. Confirm the SIM slot before buying. Match the SIM size and your network can move your existing number across.

Is the storage enough, or will it fill up with photos and apps?

Lower-cost smartphones can have limited built-in storage that fills quickly with apps, photos and WhatsApp media, so check whether the phone supports a memory (microSD) card to expand it, which is a cheap way to add space. For lots of photos, expandable storage matters. Check the storage size and whether you can add a memory card.