NenaMark 2 for Android: a complete guide to the graphics test

If you have ever been interested in graphics performance on your Android smartphone, you have probably encountered name NenaMark 2. This benchmark, released back in 2011 by a Finnish company, still remains one of the most cited tests for assessing GPU capabilities in mobile devices. But what exactly does it check? Why are his results still relevant for comparing old and new smartphones? And how to conduct testing correctly in order to obtain reliable data? Rightware, still remains one of the most cited tests for assessing GPU capabilities in mobile devices. But what exactly does it check? Why are his results still relevant for comparing old and new smartphones? And how to conduct testing correctly to obtain reliable data?

In this article we will analyze NenaMark 2 in detail: from technical features to practical application. You'll learn what parameters it measures, how to interpret the scores, and why its results may differ from other benchmarks like 3DMark or GFXBench. Also, where is it safe to download the original version of the test and how to avoid fake applications that pretend to be Spoiler: despite its age, this benchmark remains a NenaMark.

Spoiler: despite its age, this benchmark remains a unique tool for comparing OpenGL ES 2.0 performance across devices from 2010 to 2016, especially when assessing legacy hardware or custom ROMs. But there are nuances that you should know about before starting.

What is NenaMark 2 and why do you need it

NenaMark 2 is a specialized benchmark for testing GPU performance (GPU) on mobile devices running Android. It was designed to evaluate the capabilities of OpenGL ES 2.0 a graphics API that was widely used in games and applications on Android before the advent of Vulkan and newer versions of OpenGL.

The main objective of the test is to simulate the real load on the GPU that modern (at the time of the benchmark's release) 3D games create. Unlike synthetic tests, NenaMark 2 uses dynamic scenes lighting, shadows, textures and physics, which allows you to more accurately assess how the device will cope with games like Asphalt 6 or Modern Combat 2.

• 📊 Test purpose: measurement FPS (frames per second) when rendering complex 3D scenes.
• 🔧 Technologies: OpenGL ES 2.0, shaders, dynamic lighting, shadows.
• 📱 Support: Android 2.1 and higher (but optimized for Android 4.0–6.0).
• ⚠️ Limitation: does not test OpenGL ES 3.0+ or Vulkan.

It is important to understand that NenaMark 2 — this not a universal test. It won't show how your smartphone will handle Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobileas these games use more modern graphics APIs. However, it remains a useful tool for:

• 🔄 Comparisons of older devices (before 2016).
• 🛠️ Assessing the impact of custom firmware on GPU performance.
• 📉 Diagnostics problems with graphics (for example, overheating or throttling).

How NenaMark 2 works: technical details

Unlike many modern benchmarks, NenaMark 2 does not just draw static objects, but simulates interactive 3D scene with dynamic elements. Let's look at what exactly happens during the test:

1. Loading the scene: the benchmark creates a virtual space with texture objects, light sources and shadows. All objects have physical properties (for example, reflection of light).
2. Rendering: The device's GPU must display the scene with the resolution 800×480 (default) or 1280×720 (in settings). The higher the resolution, the greater the load.
3. FPS measurement: the number of frames per second (FPS) is recorded for 60 seconds. The final score is the average FPS value for this period.
4. Stability analysis: the test monitors FPS drops, which may indicate throttling (reduced performance due to overheating).

The peculiarity NenaMark 2 is that it does not depend on the processor (CPU). The test is specially optimized so that the load falls on the GPU. This allows you to honestly compare the graphics capabilities of different devices, even if they have different processors.

Parameter	Value in NenaMark 2	Impact on the result
Resolution rendering	800×480 or 1280×720	Higher resolution reduces FPS by 30-50%
OpenGL ES version	2.0	Does not support OpenGL ES 3.x features
Duration test	60 seconds	Long test reveals throttling
Texture detail	Medium (2048×2048)	Affects video memory loading

Interesting fact: NenaMark 2 uses same graphics primitivesthe same engine Unity 3D version 3.x. Therefore, its results correlate well with performance in games created on this engine in 2011–2014.

Where to download NenaMark 2 for Android and how to avoid fakes

The original application NenaMark 2 was removed from Google Play in 2018, but it can still be found on third-party resources. However, there are risks here: many sites distribute modified or infected versions of the benchmark. Here's how to download it safely:

• 🔗 Official archive: check the forums XDA Developers or 4PDA - they often post original APKs from users with a good reputation.
• 🛡️ Hash check: original NenaMark2.apk (version 2.4) has an MD5 hash a1b2c3d4e5f6... (check on trusted resources). Verify it before installation.
• ⚠️ Avoid: sites like apkpure.com or apkmirror.com, if there is no confirmation from the moderators. It is better to download from specialized IT forums.

After downloading, be sure to:

1. Check application permissions (the original only requests access to storage to save logs).
2. Run the test in isolated mode (for example, via Shelter or Island, if you are afraid for security).
3. Compare the interface with screenshots from reviews (the original contains no advertising or suspicious buttons).

⚠️ Attention: Some "optimized" versions of NenaMark 2 may show inflated results by simplifying scenes or disabling some effects. Trust only the original APK from the developer forums.

How to properly conduct testing in NenaMark 2

For the test results to be reliable, you need to follow several rules. Firstly, close all background applications even instant messengers can affect productivity. Secondly, make sure that the smartphone does not overheat. Here are step-by-step guide:

1. Preparing the device:
   • Battery charge - at least 50%.
   • Turn off Wi-Fi/mobile data (if not needed for logging).
   • Activate Do Not Disturb mode.
2. Test settings:
   • Select resolution: 800×480 (for weak devices) or 1280×720 (for flagships).
   • Disable "Vsync" in the benchmark settings (if there is an option).

Start:

• Put the smartphone on a flat surface (do not hold it in your hands - this distorts the temperature readings).
• Do not interact with the screen during the test.

The test lasts exactly 60 seconds. Upon completion, you will see:

• 📊 Average FPS —the main indicator.
• 📈 Stability graph —shows whether there were drawdowns due to throttling.
• 🔍 Detailed log (if saving in file).

⚠️ Attention: if FPS is high in the first 10 seconds and then drops sharply, this is a sign of throttling due to overheating. Repeat the test after cooling the device (for example, by placing it in a cool place for 15 minutes).

For maximum accuracy, it is recommended to run 3–5 launches and take the average value. A spread between launches of more than 10% may indicate unstable operation of the GPU or drivers.

What to do if NenaMark 2 crashes?

If the benchmark crashes on startup, try:

1. Install an older version (for example, 2.3 instead of 2.4).

2. Disable all energy-saving modes in Android settings.

3. Check compatibility with your version of OpenGL ES through the app OpenGL ES Caps Viewer.

4. On rooted devices, you can try changing the GPU governor to performance via Kernel Adiutor.

How to interpret the results: what do the scores mean?

Results NenaMark 2 are measured in frames per second (FPS). The higher the value, the better the GPU performance. However, it is important to understand the context: what was a good result in 2012 may be considered very poor today. Here is an approximate scale for devices of different years:

FPS range (800×480)	Performance assessment	Device examples
< 15 FPS	Very weak GPU	Samsung Galaxy Ace, HTC Wildfire
15–30 FPS	Average level (2012–2014)	Samsung Galaxy S2, Xiaomi Mi 2
30–50 FPS	Good result (flagships 2013–2015)	Sony Xperia Z, LG G2
> 50 FPS	Excellent GPU (flagships 2015+)	Samsung Galaxy S6, OnePlus 2

It is important to consider screen resolution your device. For example, if you have a smartphone with a resolution of 1920×1080, but you test in 800×480, the results will be inflated. For a fair comparison with other devices, use the settings:

• 📱 For HD screens (1280×720) - test in 1280×720.
• 📱 For Full HD (1920×1080) - use 1280×720 (native resolution will give too low FPS).

Also pay attention to FPS stability. If the graph shows sharp drops (for example, from 40 to 20 FPS), this may mean:

• 🔥 GPU overheating (a common problem on devices with a metal body).
• ⚡ Insufficient power (for example, when the battery).
• 🛠️ Problems with drivers (relevant for custom firmware).

💡

NenaMark 2 does not take into account modern technologies like tessellation or compute shaders (OpenGL ES 3.1+). Therefore, it is incorrect to compare its results with benchmarks like 3DMark Sling Shot, which test new APIs.

Comparing NenaMark 2 with other benchmarks

NenaMark 2 is not the only test for evaluating graphics on Android. Let's compare it with popular alternatives to understand when to use which benchmark:

Benchmark	Tested API	Advantages	Disadvantages
NenaMark 2	OpenGL ES 2.0	Good for older devices, stable results	Outdated, does not test new GPU functions
3DMark (Ice Storm)	OpenGL ES 2.0/3.0	Cross-platform, more modern scenes	Requires a lot of memory, not all devices support
GFXBench	OpenGL ES 3.1, Vulkan	Tests new APIs, detailed analytics	Too difficult for weak devices
Antutu 3D	OpenGL ES 3.0/Vulkan	Integrated into Antutu Benchmark, convenient	The overall score depends on the CPU, not just the GPU

When to choose NenaMark 2:

• 📅 You are testing the device older than 2016.
• 🔧 You need to evaluate GPU stability under long-term load.
• 📊 You are comparing devices with the same graphics API (OpenGL ES 2.0).

When is it better to use alternatives:

• 🎮 You care about performance in modern games (use GFXBench or 3DMark Sling Shot).
• 🖥️ You are testing a device with Vulkan or OpenGL ES 3.1+.
• 📱 You need complex test (CPU + GPU + memory) - then Antutu or Geekbench.

⚠️ Attention: results NenaMark 2 and 3DMark can be very different even on the same device, since they use different graphics engines and scenes. You should not compare scores directly. - focus on the relative difference between devices in one benchmark.

Typical errors during testing and how to avoid them

Many users make mistakes that distort the results NenaMark 2Here are the most common ones and how to make them. avoid:

• ❌ Testing on a discharged battery.

  When the charge level is below 20%, many devices activate a power-saving mode, which limits GPU performance. Solution: charge the smartphone to at least 50% or connect it to a charger (but not all devices allow testing at charging).

• ❌ Ignoring overheating.

  If the smartphone has heated up to 40°C+, the GPU will begin to throttle (reduce frequency). Solution: let the device cool for 10-15 minutes before test or use a cooling pad.

• ❌ Background processes.

  Even messengers like Telegram or WhatsApp can load the CPU, which indirectly affects the GPU. Solution: Close all applications through the task manager or use Do Not Disturb mode.

• ❌ Incorrect resolution.

  Testing on 800×480 on a Full HD screen will give inflated results. Solution: choose a resolution close to the native one (but not exceeding it).

Another common problem is incompatibility with new versions of Android. On devices with Android 10+ NenaMark 2 may not launch due to outdated libraries. In this case: Incompatibility with new versions of Android data-i="274">Check if your antivirus is blocking the launch (sometimes old APKs are marked as suspicious).

1. Try installing NenaMark 1 (it is simpler and works more often on new OSes).
2. Use an Android 7–9 emulator (for example, via Genymotion).
3. Check if your antivirus is blocking the launch (sometimes old APKs are marked as suspicious).

Why do the results differ in different benchmarks on the same device?

Different benchmarks use different graphics engines and scenes. For example:

- NenaMark 2 focuses on. OpenGL ES 2.0 and simple shaders.

- GFXBench tests tessellation and compute shaders (OpenGL ES 3.1+).

- 3DMark uses more complex physical calculations.

Therefore, one device can show high FPS in NenaMark, but a low score in GFXBench, if it The GPU is weak in modern technologies.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about NenaMark 2

❓ Why does NenaMark 2 show low FPS on my 2020+ flagship?

Modern smartphones are optimized for OpenGL ES 3.x and Vulkan, A NenaMark 2 tests outdated OpenGL ES 2.0In addition, new GPUs may artificially limit performance in older APIs to save energy. For an up-to-date assessment, use GFXBench or 3DMark Sling Shot.

❓ Can NenaMark 2 be used to test tablets?

Yes, the benchmark supports tablets, but keep in mind that on high-resolution screens (for example, 2560×1600) the test may not start or show extremely low FPS. For tablets, it is recommended to select the resolution 1280×720 in the settings.

❓ Where can I find the NenaMark 2 results database for comparison?

The official database is no longer updated, but archived results can be found:

• On the forums XDA Developers (section "Benchmarking").
• In old reviews of smartphones on GSMArena or AnandTech (2011–2015).
• In thematic groups on VKontakte or Telegram dedicated to retro devices.

❓ Why did the NenaMark 2 results worsen after updating the firmware?

This may be due to:

• 🔧 Unoptimized GPU drivers in custom firmware.
• ⚡ Lack support OpenGL ES 2.0 in the new version of Android.
• 🔥 Aggressive throttling settings (for example, in power-saving cores).

Try to return the stock firmware or find a version with fixed drivers for your GPU (for example, Adreno, Mali or PowerVR).

❓ Are there any analogs of NenaMark 2 for iOS?

There are no similar benchmarks on iOS, since Apple prohibits direct GPU tests in the App Store. However, you can use:

• GFXBench Metal (tests the Metal API).
• 3DMark (available for iOS, but with restrictions).
• Basemark GPU (supports Metal and OpenGL ES).