Phnom Penh

Mobile phones are an integral part of our life, and are especially handy when travelling. It gives us a chance to communicate to friends, family, book accommodation, find things to do and so much more.

But what happens you are travelling in Cambodia and lose your phone or tablet? Or if it breaks? What do you do?

I recently bought a new phone in Phnom Penh and after going online to compare the price of various stores in Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Phnom Penh, I decided to buy it here since it seems cheaper.

If you’re in Phnom Penh and if you’re thinking of buying a smartphone or tablet, here are some of the places I recommend you go to shopping in Phnom Penh:

1. Sorya Mall
Go to the Sony Shop at the 3rd floor

2. Celphone Market Near Sorya
This is just located at the right side of Sorya (if you’re facing the mall)

3. Central Market
Go to the center and you’ll easily spot the gadget sections. Sometimes they have second hand iphones, itouch, dslrs and other gadgets.

4. Street 126 (Near Central Market)
There maybe more than ten shops here selling brand new and second hand mobile phones and smart phones

Here are some tips that could help you grab a great deal here.

  1. Always Compare Price Before Purchase: Most expat forums that I’ve checked said that it’s more expensive to buy in Sorya Mall but after checking prices I realized that it does not apply to all the products especially if they have ongoing promotion.
  2. Check Online Prices: Check online prices before you go to stores so you have an idea how much the real price is.
  3. Bargain: Bargain hard but politely.
  4. Ask for Freebies: Ask for a free screen protector or a protective case. If they wouldn’t give it to you for free chances are they already hit the lowest price that they could go for. Ask for discount instead to the additional accessories that you need.
  5. With or Without Warranty: The price with warranty is different with the ones without. I opted to buy mine without warranty since I would be travelling anyway and they’re just offering local warranty. It would be great if you find a shop that offers global warranties to product.

For more recommendations view my travel guide to Cambodia.