Oukitel WP36 Pro: A Rugged Warrior For Adventurers And Field Workers

Rugged Design and Build Quality

The Oukitel WP36 Pro doesn't shy away from its rugged identity. Its dimensions of 172.2×80.7×19.1 mm and a hefty 393.7 g weight immediately signal its durability. The phone features Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for display protection, ensuring resistance to scratches and cracks. Here are the relevant specs:

With those dimensions and weighing a hefty 393.7 g, the Oukitel WP36 Pro is unmistakably bulky. While its size and weight reflect its rugged purpose, they make it less comfortable for extended handheld use. Holding the phone for long sessions, such as prolonged video watching or gaming, can lead to hand fatigue.

Its thickness (19.1 mm) and weight make it challenging to carry in smaller pockets comfortably. For those used to slimmer devices, the WP36 Pro may feel cumbersome. It's better suited for being carried in a backpack or utility pouch, especially for outdoor workers or adventurers who prioritize durability over portability.

The width (80.7 mm) and weight make one-handed use impractical for most people, particularly when reaching the top of the screen. A two-handed grip is the norm with this phone.

The inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for display protection is a notable strength. This material offers scratch resistance; everyday hazards like keys, coins, and rough surfaces are unlikely to leave marks on the screen.

Gorilla Glass 5 is designed to survive drops onto rough surfaces. When paired with the WP36 Pro's rugged design, it enhances the phone's ability to withstand accidental drops and bumps.

Despite its durability, Gorilla Glass 5 doesn't compromise the screen's visual quality and responsiveness, which is essential for smooth operation in both work and play scenarios.

In sum, while the WP36 Pro's dimensions and weight lean toward ruggedness rather than comfort, they serve its purpose as a durable, industrial-grade smartphone. It's not a device designed for casual users or those prioritizing sleek portability. Instead, it excels in environments where robust build quality and reliable performance outweigh the inconvenience of bulk.

The Gorilla Glass 5 adds a layer of confidence for users in rough conditions, ensuring the screen stays intact and usable even after drops and abrasions, making it a standout feature for the phone's target audience.

IP Rating and MIL-STD Compliance

(Related: IP ratings and MIL-STD explained.)

Certified with IP68/IP69K ratings, the WP36 Pro can withstand dust, water immersion (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes), and high-pressure water jets. Its MIL-STD-810H compliance means it's built to survive drops of up to 1.5 meters onto concrete, making it ideal for harsh terrains and tough work environments.

The IP68 and IP69K ratings of the Oukitel WP36 Pro are a testament to its durability. In the world of electronics, IP stands for Ingress Protection, and it's followed by two digits. The first digit (6 in this case) refers to the device's protection against solid objects like dust. An IP rating of 6 means the WP36 Pro is dust-tight, ensuring no harmful particles can infiltrate its internals.

The second digit (8 in IP68) signifies its resistance to water. An IP68 rating indicates that the phone is capable of withstanding immersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. So, whether it accidentally takes a plunge into a puddle or gets caught in a rainstorm, your WP36 Pro will emerge unscathed, ready for action.

The digit 9 and the letter K in IP69K hold special significance. The combination 9K means the device has undergone high-pressure, high-temperature water spray tests. In the case of the Oukitel WP36 Pro, it can withstand powerful, high-temperature water jets (up to 80 °C) aimed at it from different angles. This rating ensures that even in the most intense conditions, where water jets resembling a strong, focused steam of water are present, the phone remains resilient and functional.

The MIL-STD-810H compliance takes the WP36 Pro's durability to a whole new level. This standard, established by the US Department of Defense, outlines a series of stringent tests that a device must pass to be deemed 'military-grade' tough.

To achieve MIL-STD-810H compliance, the Oukitel WP36 Pro underwent a battery of tests that simulate the harshest conditions it might encounter in real-world scenarios. These tests include the following:

• High-Temperature Test: The phone was exposed to scorching temperatures (up to 75 °C) to ensure it doesn't falter even in the hottest environments.
• Low-Temperature Test: On the flip side, the WP36 Pro was subjected to freezing temperatures (up to -45 °C) to guarantee it remains operational in icy conditions.
• Drop Test: The phone faced drops from heights of up to 1.5 meters, simulating real-world accidents. Its ability to survive these falls showcases its durability, protecting it from everyday slips and tumbles.
• Vibration Test: The Oukitel WP36 Pro was shaken vigorously to mimic the vibrations it might endure during transportation, ensuring its internal components remain intact and functional.
• Humidity Test: Humidity can be a silent killer for electronics. The WP36 Pro was tested in high humidity environments to guarantee it won't succumb to moisture, even in tropical climates.
• Salt Fog Test: This test replicates exposure to salty sea air, making sure the WP36 Pro won't corrode when used near the ocean or in coastal areas.

By passing these tests, the Oukitel WP36 Pro has proven its mettle, assuring users that it can withstand the toughest challenges thrown its way. So, whether you're scaling mountains, working on a construction site, or embarking on wild adventures, this phone has proven it can handle the pressure, literally! It's not just a smartphone; it's a robust, battle-tested device ready for any mission you undertake.

Display: Durable but Modest

(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)

The WP36 Pro features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720×1600 pixels. While the resolution and 269 PPI density are on the lower side, it's sufficient for basic usage and readability, though it may lack vibrancy compared to FHD displays.

Oukitel WP36 Pro display. Image credit: Oukitel

Here are the relevant specs:

While the WP36 Pro's display is functional for most basic tasks, there are clear trade-offs in terms of sharpness, vibrancy, and visibility under bright conditions. The IPS LCD technology is reliable, but not cutting-edge. IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) panels are known for their wide viewing angles - the WP36 Pro's display ensures that content remains visible without significant distortion or color shifting when viewed from different angles, which is useful in rugged outdoor environments where you might not always hold the phone directly in front of you.

While IPS panels generally offer accurate colors, the lack of HDR support and higher-end color calibration means this display won't deliver the vivid, punchy colors seen in OLED displays. IPS panels also consume more power than OLED displays because they rely on a backlight for illumination, which can affect the overall battery drain despite the phone's massive 10600 mAh battery.

The screen's 6.52-inch size provides a good balance between usability and content immersion. Its 20:9 aspect ratio is well-suited for vertical scrolling (e.g., social media, messaging) and horizontal viewing (e.g., video streaming).

However, the approximately 80% screen-to-body ratio is average for the rugged phones, with noticeable bezels that detract slightly from the viewing experience.

The 720×1600 pixels resolution translates to a pixel density of about 269 PPI (pixels per inch). While not groundbreaking, it suffices for everyday needs like:

• Casual Tasks: Browsing the web, reading emails, and using social media apps look fine on this resolution. Text is generally clear and legible.
• Video Streaming at HD: Watching YouTube or streaming videos in 720p HD quality is adequate and relatively sharp on a 6.52-inch screen, though it lacks the detail you'd see on a Full HD (1080p) display.

However, this resolution might feel insufficient for some more demanding tasks, such as:

• High-Quality Media Consumption: Movie enthusiasts and gamers might notice pixelation or a lack of sharpness when viewing intricate textures, especially compared to FHD+ or QHD displays.
• Reading Small Text or High-Detail Content: Dense text (e.g., eBooks, PDFs) or detailed visual content might not look as crisp.

With a peak brightness of 400 nits, the WP36 Pro struggles to stand out in a key area for rugged phones - outdoor visibility. This level of brightness is sufficient for use in offices, homes, and under moderate shade outdoors. However, in very bright sunlight or reflective environments, the screen may become hard to read, requiring you to seek shade or adjust viewing angles.

Phones with brightness levels of 700 nits or higher handle direct sunlight better, offering superior readability in bright environments. For a rugged phone often used outdoors, the 400 nits brightness is a notable shortcoming.

In conclusion, the WP36 Pro's display is functional but far from a standout feature. The IPS LCD technology and 720p resolution are sufficient for basic tasks, HD video streaming, and light outdoor use. However, content like 1080p or higher-quality videos, gaming, and detailed work (e.g., photo editing) might demand higher resolution and color fidelity.

The 400 nits brightness level limits usability in bright or sunny environments, a drawback for a phone aimed at rugged, outdoor use. If you often work in extreme lighting conditions or prioritize screen quality for high-definition media, this display may leave you wanting more. For casual users in typical conditions, though, it gets the job done.

Networks

(Related: Cellular networks explained.)

Navigating through the tech landscape, the Oukitel WP36 Pro supports the GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies.

GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.

SIM

The hybrid dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by) support offers flexibility for users who need to balance work and personal life on a single device.

The "hybrid" part means one of the SIM card slots serves a dual purpose. It can either hold a SIM card or a memory card for expandable storage - but not both simultaneously. This means you have to make a choice between expanding your device's storage capacity with a memory card and using two SIM cards.

Chipset - Performance: Functional for Everyday Tasks

Powered by the MediaTek MT8788 chipset, the WP36 Pro delivers decent midrange performance. Its octa-core CPU with two types of cores ensures smooth multitasking and reliable daily operation. The Mali-G72 MP3 GPU handles graphics, although it may struggle with intensive gaming. Here are the relevant specs:

The Oukitel WP36 Pro is powered by the MediaTek MT8788 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU and Mali-G72 MP3 GPU. This mid-tier configuration is designed for balanced performance in everyday tasks but may face limitations with demanding applications. The MediaTek MT8788 is built on a 12-nm process, which, while slightly dated, ensures a good balance between power efficiency and performance.

This chipset is positioned in the lower midrange segment, suitable for routine use in budget-friendly and rugged devices. However, it lacks the raw performance and energy efficiency of newer chipsets built on more advanced 6-nm or 5-nm processes.

The CPU features an octa-core setup divided into two types of cores. Even though both types of cores are clocked at the same 2.0 GHz, they are designed for different purposes:

• Cortex-A73 (Performance Cores): These cores are larger and more powerful, designed for tasks requiring higher computational strength, such as running apps, gaming, and multitasking. They excel in burst performance but consume more power.
• Cortex-A53 (Efficiency Cores): These smaller cores handle less demanding tasks, such as background processes, standby modes, and light app usage like messaging and music streaming. Their design prioritizes energy efficiency, allowing the phone to conserve battery during everyday use.

The combination of core types is known as big.LITTLE architecture, a strategy that balances power and efficiency by assigning tasks to the most suitable cores.

The triple-core Mali-G72 MP3 GPU is a decent performer for light to moderate graphics tasks. It supports:

• Casual Gaming: Games like Candy Crush and Clash Royale will run smoothly.
• Moderate 3D Gaming: Titles like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile will be playable at lower graphics settings but may exhibit frame drops during intense action scenes.
• Video Playback: The GPU can handle 1080p video playback comfortably but may struggle with 4K content or video rendering tasks.

With these components working in tandem, the WP36 Pro's processing prowess is adequate for casual tasks like:

• Everyday Use: Browsing, messaging, calling, and video conferencing run smoothly.
• Media Streaming: Streaming apps like YouTube and Netflix at 720p to 1080p are well within its capabilities.
• Light Productivity: Apps like Google Docs, Sheets, and email clients work without noticeable lag.
• Casual Gaming: As long as graphics demands are modest, the phone performs acceptably.

However, more demanding tasks may push its limits, such as:

• High-Performance Gaming: Demanding titles like Genshin Impact and Apex Legends Mobile will require sacrifices in graphics settings and may still exhibit performance hiccups.
• Heavy Multitasking: While 6 GB of RAM helps, the CPU and GPU may bottleneck performance when running multiple resource-intensive apps simultaneously.
• Advanced Productivity and Content Creation: Video editing, 3D modeling, or handling large datasets in productivity apps could overwhelm the hardware.
• Future-Proofing: The MT8788 may struggle to keep up with more demanding apps or games as software evolves and optimization for older chipsets diminishes.

In summary, the MediaTek MT8788, paired with its CPU and GPU, delivers a functional experience for the WP36 Pro's target audience, focusing on durability and practical performance rather than cutting-edge processing power. The choice of big.LITTLE architecture makes sense for rugged users who need efficient battery use without compromising on occasional performance bursts, ensuring the phone serves its purpose effectively in the field.

For casual users, the phone is more than adequate, but for power users or those demanding cutting-edge performance, this configuration will feel underpowered, particularly in gaming or resource-heavy tasks.

Memory and Storage: Generous for the Price

Here are the relevant specs:

With 6 GB of RAM and 256 GB of UFS 2.1 storage, the WP36 Pro offers ample room for apps, files, and media. The microSDXC card support, albeit using a shared SIM slot, provides further storage flexibility.

Camera System: Basic but Useful

The dual rear camera setup includes a 13 MP main sensor and a 2 MP macro sensor. While the camera system is basic, the LED flash ensures usability in low-light conditions.

The 5 MP front-facing camera is adequate for casual selfies and video calls, though it won't impress photography enthusiasts. Both cameras can record 1080p videos at 30 fps.

Rear Camera

Oukitel WP36 Pro main camera setup. Image credit: Oukitel

The Oukitel WP36 Pro features a dual-lens main camera setup, including a 13 MP primary lens and a 2 MP macro lens. While this configuration is modest compared to modern multi-camera systems, it caters to basic photography needs rather than aspiring to high-end photography. Here are the relevant specs:

Specification	Oukitel WP36 Pro
Number of Cameras	2 (Dual)
Resolution (Megapixels)	13 MP (wide, Sony IMX135 sensor), 2 MP (macro)
Aperture	f/2.2, N/A
Sensor Size	1/3.1″, N/A
Autofocus	AF, N/A
Video Recording	1080p at 30 fps
Other Features	LED flash

The 13 MP main sensor is designed for general-purpose photography, such as landscapes, portraits, and everyday shots.

The f/2.2 aperture, while not particularly large, allows adequate light for decent image capture in well-lit conditions. However, low-light photography may be challenging, as the sensor would struggle with noise and detail loss.

The 2 MP macro lens lets you capture details of objects at very close range, such as intricate textures and small objects like flowers and insects.

With a relatively low resolution, the macro lens is more of a novelty. Its quality won't match dedicated macro cameras or even higher-resolution multi-purpose sensors.

Among the camera features, AF (Autofocus) ensures better sharpness for subjects, especially in dynamic or fast-moving scenarios.

This feature is crucial for capturing clear and focused shots in a rugged environment, where conditions might not be ideal.

The LED flash ensures visibility in dark environments, making it useful for nighttime photography, especially in rugged or outdoor conditions.

It's particularly helpful for close-range shots or as a makeshift flashlight, adding to the phone's utility in outdoor scenarios.

In terms of video recording, the 1080p resolution at 30 fps is standard for this segment, allowing smooth and clear video recording in everyday settings.

However, without features like optical image stabilization (OIS) and advanced video codecs, videos may appear shaky, especially during handheld recording in motion.

Given these lenses and features, the WP36 Pro's main camera is adequate for everyday imaging needs, including:

• Daylight Photography: Casual users can capture decent photos in well-lit environments, such as outdoor landscapes and group shots.
• Rugged Utility: Designed for durability rather than artistic photography, the camera works well in scenarios like construction sites or adventure trips where photo quality isn't the priority.
• Documentation Needs: It's well-suited for tasks like photographing documents, products, or surroundings in functional settings.

However, while sufficient for basic needs, this camera setup is not designed for more demanding tasks, such as:

• Low-Light Photography: The lack of advanced image processing or a larger aperture limits its ability to capture detailed, noise-free photos in dim conditions.
• Professional Videography: Without OIS and advanced frame rate options, it's unsuitable for cinematic video production.
• Advanced Photography: Features like ultra-wide, telephoto, and high-resolution lenses (e.g., 50 MP or more) are missing, making it less versatile for creative endeavors.

The Oukitel WP36 Pro's camera system is designed for users who need durability and functionality over artistry. Adventurers, construction workers, and field professionals will appreciate the ability to document scenarios reliably in harsh conditions. Those with basic photography needs for social media or personal use will find it adequate.

However, users seeking vibrant, high-resolution, or professional-grade images will find this setup lacking. For users focused on vlogging or creating polished video content, the absence of advanced features like 4K recording and stabilization could be a dealbreaker.

In conclusion, the 13 MP + 2 MP camera system on the WP36 Pro emphasizes practicality and durability over advanced photography. It suits the rugged ethos of the device but is not designed to compete with phones that prioritize high-end camera performance.

Battery Life: A Powerhouse

(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)

Here are the relevant specs:

One of the standout features of the WP36 Pro is the massive 10600 mAh Li-Po battery, capable of lasting multiple days on a single charge. The phone supports 15 W wired charging, which is relatively slow for such a large battery, and reverse wired charging, letting you use it as a power bank for other devices.

Audio: Loud and Clear

(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)

Here are the relevant specs:

The WP36 Pro compensates for the lack of a 3.5 mm headphone jack with a powerful loudspeaker capable of reaching 128 dB maximum loudness. This makes it suitable for outdoor environments where sound clarity is essential.

Whether you're in a noisy work environment or using it as a portable speaker while camping, the WP36 Pro's sound output ensures you'll hear every notification, call, and playlist.

Connectivity

The Oukitel WP36 Pro doesn't compromise on connectivity and convenience. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.

The WP36 Pro boasts Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.

The Oukitel WP36 Pro features GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS positioning systems for accurate navigation and location services.

The Oukitel WP36 Pro features NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.

The presence of an FM radio is a nice touch for those who enjoy listening to broadcast radio.

Last but not least, the trusty USB-C 2.0 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 2.0 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.

Sensors

The Oukitel WP36 Pro comes equipped with the following sensors:

• Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
• Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the WP36 Pro.
• Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
• Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
• Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is Oukitel WP36 Pro release date?

  The Oukitel WP36 Pro has been released in November 2024. It was announced on the 8th October, 2024.