Nubia A36 enters the market as an exceptionally affordable smartphone priced at just around $53. This makes it an attractive choice for users seeking a budget phone without sacrificing basic performance and design aesthetics. Its design notably resembles the premium look of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro, offering a sense of luxury even at a low price point.
The phone features a 6.75-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and a comfortable viewing experience. Although the resolution settles at 720p HD Plus, it is perfectly adequate for everyday use. The device runs on an Unisoc T7200 chipset, formerly known as the Unisoc T606, paired with 4GB of RAM and an additional 8GB of extended virtual RAM, totaling 12GB. This configuration supports multitasking reasonably well for its class.
Nubia A36 offers 64GB of internal storage, suitable for light applications and basic media. The 5000mAh battery supports daily usage and offers long endurance but charges slowly at 10 watts. This slow charging speed aligns with the cost-saving aspects of the device but may require patience during recharging. Audio is enhanced by DTS support, improving speaker output beyond typical standards.
The phone’s physical build includes a polycarbonate body with glass-like finishing and a rainbow effect on the camera module, reminiscent of flagship premium phones. Despite the plastic frame, it maintains a sturdy feel. A boxy frame design mimics the iPhone 17 Pro, adding to its visual appeal. Essential buttons for power and volume are side-mounted; however, a fingerprint sensor is not present, which is expected at this price point.
Connectivity options remain practical with a triple-slot setup allowing dual SIM cards plus a microSD card simultaneously. Notably, the 3.5mm headphone port remains, a feature increasingly rare in modern smartphones within a similar price range, proving beneficial for users with wired headphones.
The camera system includes a 13MP rear sensor capable of quick focusing and a 5MP front camera, which is suitable for video calls and basic selfies. The rear camera’s 23mm wide angle facilitates landscape and group pictures, with a portrait mode offering bokeh effects, although these are naturally less refined compared to high-end smartphones. Video capabilities likely max out at 1080p at 30fps without advanced stabilization features.
Running on Android 15 right out of the box, Nubia A36 shows no clear path for future software or security updates, which is typical for entry-level devices. The phone contains basic sensors such as a magnetometer for compass functionality and an ambient light sensor for automatic brightness adjustment, enhancing user convenience.
Performance-wise, the Unisoc T7200 chipset delivers acceptable results on benchmark tests like AnTuTu, handling everyday apps like WhatsApp, social media, and light gaming titles such as Mobile Legends and PUBG Mobile. It is not recommended for heavy graphical games like Call of Duty or Genshin Impact. The absence of NFC means it cannot be used for contactless payments or e-money balance checks, while a lack of gyroscope limits advanced gaming features.
The package comes complete with a transparent soft case, standard 10W charger with cable, SIM ejector tool, user manual, and a one-year official warranty. Official warranty support within Indonesia reduces concerns about after-sales service.
Nubia A36 is a well-rounded entry-level smartphone designed mainly for those needing reliable basic communication and occasional multimedia use on a tight budget. Its premium-styled design, practical features like triple card slots and 3.5mm audio jack, combined with sufficient battery life and smooth display, make it a compelling option for secondary phone users, older adults, or children. However, users requiring extended software support or intensive computing tasks should consider more advanced models to meet those needs.
