Cubot offers a range of affordable smartphones, with the C7 and KingKong 5 Pro representing different approaches to value. The C7 appears to be a more standard offering, while the KingKong 5 Pro prioritizes durability and a degree of performance uplift with its Mediatek Helio P22 chipset. This comparison aims to dissect the differences, given the limited information available on the C7.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a balance of affordability and usability, the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro is the stronger choice. Its Mediatek Helio P22 chipset provides a demonstrable performance advantage over the unknown internals of the C7, making it better suited for everyday tasks and light gaming. The ruggedized design is a bonus.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | N/A | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | No | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021 | 2021 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021 | Available. Released 2021 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 44 x 44 x 12 mm (1.73 x 1.73 x 0.47 in) | 165.8 x 81.4 x 18.8 mm (6.53 x 3.20 x 0.74 in) |
| SIM | No | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 34 g (1.20 oz) | 319 g (11.25 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 240 x 240 pixels (~220 ppi density) | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~286 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.54 inches | 6.01 inches, 88.7 cm2 (~65.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6762D Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Proprietary OS | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | - | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, (wide), AF
5 MP (macro), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 25 MP |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | Unspecified |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | Unspecified |
| USB | No | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 260 mAh | 8000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Pink | Black |
Cubot C7
- Potentially lower price point
- May be more aesthetically conventional
- Likely lighter weight due to less ruggedization
- Unknown performance capabilities
- Likely inferior camera quality
- Potentially shorter software support lifespan
Cubot KingKong 5 Pro
- Mediatek Helio P22 provides better performance
- Ruggedized design offers superior durability
- Likely better camera capabilities
- Bulkier and heavier due to rugged construction
- Potentially higher price than the C7
- Design may not appeal to all users
Display Comparison
Without specific display details for the Cubot C7, a direct comparison is difficult. The KingKong 5 Pro's display, while likely a standard IPS LCD, benefits from the phone's ruggedized construction, potentially including reinforced glass. Display quality on both devices is expected to be adequate for their price point, but the C7's panel may be lower resolution or have narrower viewing angles. The KingKong 5 Pro's display is likely optimized for outdoor visibility, a common feature in rugged phones.
Camera Comparison
Given the lack of camera specifications for the Cubot C7, it's reasonable to assume a simpler camera setup. The KingKong 5 Pro, while not boasting flagship-level cameras, likely features a more capable primary sensor. Image processing on the KingKong 5 Pro will likely be geared towards producing usable images in challenging conditions, a common requirement for rugged phones. Any 2MP macro or depth sensors on either device should be considered supplementary and not relied upon for high-quality results.
Performance
The Cubot KingKong 5 Pro's Mediatek MT6762D Helio P22 (12nm) is the clear performance leader here. Its octa-core CPU, comprised of four 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 cores and four 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores, provides a significant advantage over whatever processor powers the C7, which remains unspecified. The 12nm fabrication process of the Helio P22 also contributes to improved power efficiency compared to older, larger node processors likely found in the C7. This translates to better multitasking and smoother app loading times on the KingKong 5 Pro.
Battery Life
Battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns and the C7's battery capacity, which is currently unknown. The KingKong 5 Pro's battery size, combined with the relatively efficient Helio P22 chipset, should provide all-day battery life for moderate users. Charging speeds are also likely to be faster on the KingKong 5 Pro, given its more modern chipset and potentially higher wattage charging support.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot C7 if you prioritize absolute minimal cost and are willing to accept potentially limited performance and features. It's likely aimed at users with very basic smartphone needs. Buy the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro if you need a phone that can withstand drops, dust, and water, and you want a smoother experience for social media, messaging, and casual gaming thanks to the Helio P22's octa-core architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Mediatek Helio P22 in the KingKong 5 Pro capable of playing modern mobile games?
The Helio P22 can handle many popular mobile games, but you'll likely need to lower graphics settings for more demanding titles like PUBG or Call of Duty Mobile to achieve smooth frame rates. It's suitable for casual gaming and less graphically intensive games.
❓ How durable is the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro, and what kind of protection does it offer?
The KingKong 5 Pro is designed to meet MIL-STD-810G standards for ruggedness, meaning it can withstand drops, shocks, dust, and water immersion (typically IP68 or IP69K rated). This makes it ideal for outdoor use and demanding environments.
❓ What kind of software updates can I expect on the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro?
Cubot's software update track record is not as consistent as larger brands. Expect at least security patches for a reasonable period, but major Android version updates are less guaranteed. The KingKong 5 Pro likely launched with Android 8 or 9, and may receive an update to Android 10 or 11.