Cubot offers a range of affordable smartphones, and the C21 and P50 represent two compelling options for users on a tight budget. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality, they differ significantly in internal hardware, particularly in processing power. This comparison will dissect these differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Cubot P50 emerges as the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio P22 chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the C21’s unknown processor, making it more suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming. While the C21 may be cheaper, the P50’s improved performance justifies the likely price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | N/A | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 40 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | No | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, November | 2022 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, November | Available. Released 2022 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Zinc alloy frame | - |
| Dimensions | 46.5 x 46.5 x 13 mm (1.83 x 1.83 x 0.51 in) | 156.2 x 74.6 x 9.4 mm (6.15 x 2.94 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | No | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | - |
| Resolution | 360 x 360 pixels (~386 ppi density) | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.32 inches | 6.22 inches, 96.6 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Proprietary OS | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128MB | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Triple | - | 12 MP, (wide), 1/2.9"
5 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 20 MP, (wide), 1/2.8" |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | Unspecified |
| USB | No | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, heart rate, SpO2, blood pressure | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 300 mAh | 4200 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver | Black, Green |
| Price | About 40 EUR | - |
Cubot C21
- Potentially lower price point
- May be more compact due to simpler hardware
- Basic smartphone functionality
- Unknown processor performance
- Likely limited multitasking capabilities
- Potentially poor camera quality
Cubot P50
- Mediatek Helio P22 provides better performance
- Octa-core CPU enables smoother multitasking
- More responsive user experience
- May be slightly more expensive
- Limited display specifications
- Camera quality likely average for the price range
Display Comparison
Unfortunately, display specifications for the Cubot C21 are unavailable. The Cubot P50’s display details are also limited, but we can infer it’s likely a standard IPS LCD panel given its price point. Without knowing the resolution, brightness, or refresh rate of either device, a direct comparison is impossible. However, given the P50’s slightly higher positioning, it may benefit from a marginally better panel quality, potentially with slightly improved color accuracy. Users seeking vibrant colors or high brightness will likely be disappointed by both options.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications for the Cubot C21 are unavailable. The Cubot P50’s camera details are also limited, but it’s common for phones in this price range to feature a primary sensor paired with lower-resolution auxiliary lenses. Without knowing the megapixel count or aperture of the P50’s main sensor, it’s difficult to assess its image quality. It’s safe to assume that both phones will struggle in low-light conditions. The absence of information on the C21’s camera makes a meaningful comparison impossible, but the P50 likely offers a more consistent experience due to its known chipset’s image signal processor (ISP).
Performance
The core difference between these two devices lies in their chipsets. The Cubot P50 is powered by the Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm), featuring an octa-core CPU clocked at 2.0 GHz, all Cortex-A53 cores. This is a relatively basic but capable processor for entry-level smartphones. The Cubot C21’s processor remains unknown. The Helio P22’s 12nm manufacturing process offers a degree of efficiency, but it’s not a powerhouse. The P50 will handle multitasking and app loading significantly faster than the C21, assuming the C21 uses a significantly less powerful chipset. The P50 is the clear winner for users who value responsiveness and smooth operation.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for both the Cubot C21 and P50 are unknown. However, given the P50’s slightly more powerful processor, it may require a larger battery to achieve comparable battery life. Without knowing the battery size or charging wattage, it’s impossible to determine which phone offers better endurance or faster charging speeds. Users should expect both devices to last a full day with moderate usage, but heavy users may need to top up the battery before the end of the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot C21 if you prioritize absolute minimum cost and only need a phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and very light app usage. It’s a suitable option for first-time smartphone users or as a temporary device. Buy the Cubot P50 if you want a smoother, more responsive experience for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and occasional gaming. The P50’s Helio P22 chipset offers a tangible upgrade in performance, making it a more future-proof investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Cubot P50 be able to run popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio P22 chipset in the Cubot P50 is capable of running popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram without significant lag. While it won’t offer a high-end experience, it provides a usable and reasonably smooth experience for these applications.
❓ Is the Cubot C21 a good option for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the Cubot C21 is a suitable option for users who primarily use their phone for calls and texts. Its basic functionality is sufficient for these tasks, and its potentially lower price point makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users. However, be aware that performance will be limited for anything beyond basic communication.
❓ Can I expect to play mobile games on the Cubot P50?
You can play some mobile games on the Cubot P50, but don’t expect high frame rates or graphics settings. The Helio P22 can handle less demanding games, but more graphically intensive titles will likely require reduced settings or may experience noticeable lag. It's suitable for casual gaming, but not for serious mobile gamers.
