Budget smartphones continue to improve every year, and the itel City 100 is a clear example of how far entry-level devices have come in 2026. Recently introduced in Indonesia, this new model focuses on delivering strong everyday performance, long battery life, and practical features without stretching your wallet. Priced at under $70, it aims to attract students, first-time smartphone buyers, and anyone looking for a reliable secondary device.
What immediately stands out about the itel City 100 is its slim profile. Measuring just 7.65 mm thick, it feels surprisingly sleek for a phone that packs a large battery. The lightweight and comfortable design makes it easy to use for long periods, whether you are browsing social media, watching videos, or chatting with friends.
Large 6.7-Inch Display with Smooth 90Hz Refresh Rate
The itel City 100 features a 6.7-inch display that offers an immersive viewing experience for its price range. The screen supports a 90Hz refresh rate, which means smoother scrolling and more fluid animations compared to standard 60Hz panels commonly found in budget phones. For daily tasks like swiping through apps or scrolling through feeds, the difference is noticeable.
Another practical highlight is its 700 nits peak brightness. This ensures better visibility when using the phone outdoors in bright sunlight. Whether you are replying to messages on the go or watching a quick video outside, the display remains clear and readable. For a sub-$70 device, this level of screen performance adds significant value.
Flexible Connectivity and Triple SIM Convenience
The itel City 100 offers a thoughtful selection of connectivity features. It includes a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, which is now becoming standard even in budget segments. Users also get a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing them to use traditional wired earphones without the need for adapters.
One of its most practical features is the triple card slot. This setup allows you to use two SIM cards alongside a dedicated microSD card simultaneously. Many smartphones force users to choose between a second SIM or expandable storage, but the itel City 100 removes that limitation. This is especially useful for people who manage separate work and personal numbers while still needing extra storage for photos and apps.
Performance That Handles Everyday Tasks with Ease
The itel City 100 comes in two RAM variants: 6GB and 8GB. Both versions include 128GB of internal storage using UFS 2.2 technology. This storage type is faster than older eMMC systems typically found in budget devices, which means apps open more quickly and file transfers feel smoother.
For daily usage, the phone performs reliably. Browsing the web, streaming videos, messaging, and using social media apps all run without noticeable lag. Multitasking is also handled well, allowing users to switch between apps without frustrating slowdowns.
When it comes to gaming, light titles such as Mobile Legends or Subway Surfers run comfortably. More demanding games like Genshin Impact can be played too, though lowering the graphics settings is recommended for smoother performance. For casual gamers, the itel City 100 provides more than enough capability.
Massive 5200mAh Battery with Bypass Charging Technology
Battery life is where the itel City 100 truly shines. Equipped with a 5200mAh battery, it easily lasts from morning to night on a single charge. For moderate users, it may even stretch into a second day without needing a recharge. This makes it ideal for students, office workers, and travelers who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day.
The standout feature, however, is its bypass charging technology. This system allows power to flow directly to the phone when gaming or performing heavy tasks while plugged in, instead of constantly charging the battery. As a result, heat buildup is reduced and long-term battery health is better preserved. This feature is rarely seen in phones at this price point, making the itel City 100 particularly appealing for gamers on a budget.
Dynamic Bar Adds a Modern Touch
The itel City 100 also introduces a feature called Dynamic Bar, a small animated notification area at the top of the display. It functions in a similar way to interactive notification zones seen in premium devices, providing visual alerts for calls, messages, and other updates.
Beyond functionality, this feature gives the phone a more modern and stylish appearance. The smooth animations make everyday interactions feel more polished, helping the device stand out from other budget smartphones that often lack such creative touches.
Designed for Practical Users
This phone is clearly targeted at practical users who prioritize battery life, reliability, and value. Students who spend hours online attending classes or watching educational content will appreciate the long battery life. Workers who depend on messaging apps and calls throughout the day will benefit from the dual SIM flexibility. Casual gamers and social media users will enjoy the smooth 90Hz display and dependable performance.
However, users who demand high-end camera systems or advanced flagship features may need to look at more expensive options. The itel City 100 focuses on essentials rather than pushing the limits of mobile photography or premium materials.
Impressive Value for the Price
At under $70, the itel City 100 offers features that were once reserved for mid-range devices. A large 6.7-inch 90Hz display, UFS 2.2 storage, 5200mAh battery, bypass charging, triple card slot, and slim 7.65 mm design combine to create a well-rounded package.
In a crowded budget smartphone market, standing out is not easy. Yet the itel City 100 manages to do so by focusing on real-world usability and long-lasting battery performance rather than flashy marketing claims.
Final Verdict
The itel City 100 proves that an affordable smartphone does not have to feel basic. With its slim design, dependable performance, generous battery capacity, and innovative bypass charging technology, it delivers outstanding value for everyday users. While it may not compete with premium flagships in photography or raw power, it confidently serves its purpose as a reliable, budget-friendly device built for daily life.
