Buying a new smartphone is exciting. However, the mobile market in Pakistan is very tricky. One small mistake can cost you a lot of money. From PTA taxes to “patched” phones, there are many traps.
If you are planning to upgrade, read this first. Here are 7 critical mistakes to avoid when buying a new mobile in Pakistan.
Not Checking the PTA Approval Status
This is the most common mistake. People buy a phone and realize later that the SIM card doesn’t work. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) requires all phones to be registered.
How to avoid this:
- Always check the IMEI number on the box.
- Send the IMEI to 8484 via SMS.
- Use the PTA DVS app to verify the status.
- Only buy “PTA Approved” phones to avoid heavy tax bills later.
Falling for “Patched” or “VIP Approved” Scams
In local markets, sellers often offer “CPID” or “Patched” phones. These are usually flagship phones at very low prices. They use a fake IMEI to bypass PTA taxes.
These phones are risky. A simple software update can block your SIM again. You might also lose access to banking apps or official security updates. It is always better to buy an official warranty phone.
Ignoring the 5G Future
Pakistan is moving toward 5G. Many people still buy 4G-only phones to save a few thousand rupees. This is a mistake if you want to keep your phone for 2 or 3 years.
5G will soon be more common. Buying a 5G-enabled device now will make your phone “future-proof.” Brands like Samsung, Redmi, and Infinix now offer 5G in the mid-range category.
Buying Refurbished Phones as “New”
Some shopkeepers sell “kit” phones or “repacked” units as brand new. These are often used phones from abroad that are polished to look new.
Signs of a repacked phone:
- The plastic seal looks loose or heat-shrunk manually.
- The IMEI on the box does not match the phone.
- The warranty card is missing or already expired.
- Always buy from authorized dealers like Airlink, Mercantile, or official Mi stores.
Focusing Only on Mega-Pixels
Don’t be fooled by a “200MP” camera tag. In Pakistan’s budget market, high numbers often mean low quality. A 50MP camera with a good sensor is better than a 108MP camera with a cheap one.
Look for reviews of the image processing. Check if the phone supports 4K video or has OIS (Optical Image Stabilization). These features matter more than just the pixel count.
Forgetting About After-Sales Service
Some brands offer great specs but have no service centers in Pakistan. If your screen breaks or the battery dies, you won’t find original parts.
Stick to brands that have a strong presence here. Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi have many service centers. This makes it easy to claim your warranty if something goes wrong.
Overlooking the Processor for Gaming
Many buyers only look at RAM (like 8GB or 12GB). But the processor (chipset) is the real engine. A phone with 12GB RAM and a weak processor will still lag during PUBG or multitasking.
Avoid old chips like the Helio G35 or Snapdragon 680 if you are a heavy user. Look for at least a Dimensity 700 series or Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 for a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Buying a mobile in Pakistan requires a bit of research. Don’t rush into a deal that looks too good to be true. Always prioritize PTA approval and official warranties over “grey market” savings.
