BenQ C36 Comprehensive Review Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview

The BenQ C36 was launched in April 2008 as a feature phone that catered to basic user needs with a few added functionalities. With its lightweight design and straightforward interface, the device mainly targeted markets looking for reliable, no-nonsense mobile communication tools. Its simple yet effective features made it a viable option for many consumers during its time.

Design and Build

The BenQ C36 features a compact and lightweight build, with dimensions measuring 108 x 47.2 x 14.2 mm and weighing just 78 grams. Its small form factor made it very portable and easy to handle. The phone sports a lustrous blue color, adding a touch of style to its functional design. Built with a removable back, this device facilitated easy battery replacement, which was common for feature phones of that era.

Display

The device comes equipped with a 2.0-inch TFT display, capable of displaying 256K colors, adding vibrancy to the basic user interface. With a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels and an approximate pixel density of 141 ppi, the screen offered clear and readable text, though it wasn’t suited for high-definition media consumption. The screen-to-body ratio stands at around 24.7%, typical for mobile phones designed in this category.

Camera

The BenQ C36 features a basic 1.3 MP single rear camera capable of capturing straightforward photographs and supporting video recording. While this wouldn’t satisfy modern-day photography enthusiasts, it sufficed for capturing impromptu moments, which was useful during its release period. There is no front-facing selfie camera, which is consistent with the design of many feature phones from that time.

Memory and Storage

Though internal memory wasn’t specified, the phone offered expansion of storage through a dedicated microSD card slot. This feature allowed users to store more media and personal data without worry. Having a memory card slot was a distinct advantage for users who needed additional storage capacity beyond the basic phonebook and call record features which retained up to 10 dialled, 10 received, and 10 missed calls.

Network and Connectivity

Operating on GSM technology, the BenQ C36 was compatible with GSM 900 / 1800 frequency bands, offering decent network coverage for voice communications. It supported GPRS Class 12 for basic data service, although it lacked EDGE, meaning data speeds were considerably lower compared to more advanced mobile technologies. Connectivity options were minimal, with no Bluetooth or WLAN features, but it did include a USB 1.1 port for simple wired connections. The phone also featured an FM radio with scheduled recording, which added a multimedia aspect to the otherwise basic communication device.

Battery Life

The BenQ C36 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 640 mAh battery. The battery life provided up to 180 hours of standby time and approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes of talk time, which was adequate for light daily use. The benefit of a removable battery allowed users to replace it as necessary, extending the overall longevity of the device.

Sound and Audio

Audio options on the BenQ C36 included a loudspeaker for hands-free calls and media playbacks, but it lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack, which limited private listening options. The device supported various alert types including vibration, downloadable polyphonic ringtones, and audio file formats such as MP3, AAC, WAV, AMR, MIDI, and composer tunes.

Software and User Interface

As a feature phone, the BenQ C36 did not operate on advanced smartphone operating systems prevalent today. It allowed for SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging, and supported Java applications, including games, via the MIDP 2.0 standard. The browser was limited to WAP 2.0/xHTML, catering only to basic web browsing needs.

Conclusion

The BenQ C36 served as a functional and reliable communication tool during its release era. Its straightforward design, coupled with basic features such as a camera, FM radio, and removable storage, provided substantial benefits for users seeking a cost-effective and easy-to-use mobile phone. Though it lacks the modern conveniences seen in contemporary smartphones, it is a testament to the era of feature phones, offering essential functionalities without the complexities of modern technology.