The ZTE Nubia Music 2 is a unique entry in the budget smartphone market, designed specifically for music lovers. Building upon its predecessor, this device offers enhanced audio capabilities, a vibrant design, and essential smartphone functionalities at an affordable price point. This release also marked the sucessor of the same series, the ZTE Nubia Music that we have reviewed before as well.
Key Specifications
- Processor: Unisoc T7200
- Display: 6.7-inch HD+ LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
- RAM and Storage: 4GB RAM (expandable to 8GB with virtual RAM), 128GB internal storage, MicroSD Card Expandable
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 10W charging
- Cameras: 50MP main rear camera, 5MP front camera
- Audio: 2.1-channel system with three full-range speakers, DTS:X Ultra support
- OS: Android U (based on Android 14) and MyOS 14 UI from ZTE
Design and Display
The Nubia Music 2 retains a playful and vibrant aesthetic, available in Melody Wave and Pop Art color options. A notable design feature is the LED strips that pulsate in sync with your music, adding a visual flair to your listening experience.
The device sports a 6.7-inch HD+ LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals during navigation and media playback. While the HD+ resolution is modest, the high refresh rate enhances the overall viewing experience.
Audio Performance
The standout feature of the Nubia Music 2 is its 2.1-channel audio system, comprising three full-range speakers capable of delivering up to 95dB of sound. With DTS:X Ultra technology, users can enjoy spatial audio support, creating an immersive listening environment. This setup makes the device particularly appealing to music enthusiasts seeking a richer audio experience from a smartphone. Upon that, the audio can still be configurable through the audio settings with equalizer or pre-set environment mode.
While based on our testing and experience, it is not the highest audio quality that we tested on a phone, but based on the price, it’s one of the best we tested within the bracket that could rival some of the phones slightly above it’s price range. Also, you can use the phone as a Bluetooth speaker.
Performance and Software
Powered by the Unisoc T7200 chipset (a rebranded Unisoc T606), the Nubia Music 2 is suitable for everyday tasks such as browsing, media consumption, and light app usage. It comes with 4GB of RAM, expandable up to 8GB via virtual RAM, and 128GB of internal storage, providing adequate space for apps and media. If you need more space, you still can expand your storage via MicroSD Card Slot
The device runs on Android U, which is based on Android 14, offering a modern software experience with access to the latest features and security updates. There is still some bloatware but it is easily uninstalled and the overall UI is clean, close to the stock AOSP with some ZTE’s MYOS 14 integrations, apps and icons only.
Camera Capabilities
In the camera department, the Nubia Music 2 features a 50MP main rear camera and a 5MP front-facing camera. While not groundbreaking, this setup is sufficient for casual photography and video calls, capturing decent images in well-lit conditions. During night time, it is best to use the night mode to get the possibly usable and slightly detailed shots out, but noise on the images still exist though, and that is to be expected for a budget device. Video recording wise, same as the predecessor, you are pretty much limited to 1080P at 30FPS.
Battery Life
Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the Nubia Music 2 ensures a full day of usage on a single charge. However, the 10W charging support means that recharging the device may take longer compared to smartphones with faster charging capabilities, which is around 2 hours for this phone.
Pricing and Availability
The Nubia Music 2 is priced at MYR 389 (approximately $87 USD) and is currently available in Malaysia through online retailers such as Shopee and Lazada.
Verdict & Conclusion
The ZTE Nubia Music 2 stands out in the budget smartphone segment with its unique focus on audio performance and vibrant design. While it may not cater to users seeking high-end specifications or advanced camera systems, it offers a compelling package for music enthusiasts looking for an affordable device that delivers an enhanced listening experience.
For those prioritizing audio quality and seeking a device that reflects their musical interests, the Nubia Music 2 presents a noteworthy option in the budget smartphone market.
Review unit provided by ZTE Malaysia, for more information on the nubia Music 2, Click here to find out.