Cubot offers a range of affordable smartphones, with the C9 and KingKong 8 representing distinct approaches. The C9 appears to be a more general-purpose device, while the KingKong 8 prioritizes durability and a more robust build. This comparison dives into the available specifications to determine which phone best suits your needs, particularly focusing on the KingKong 8's Mediatek MT8788V chipset.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and potential for moderate gaming, the Cubot KingKong 8 is the clear winner thanks to its Mediatek MT8788V processor. However, without detailed specifications for the C9, it remains a viable option for basic smartphone tasks if budget is the primary concern.
| 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, 17, 20, 28, 41 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | No | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021 | 2023, October 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021 | Available. Released 2023, October 23 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 43 x 43 x 10 mm (1.69 x 1.69 x 0.39 in) | 169.9 x 80.2 x 20 mm (6.69 x 3.16 x 0.79 in) |
| SIM | No | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 382 g (13.47 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 240 x 240 pixels (~265 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.28 inches | 6.53 inches, 102.4 cm2 (~75.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT8788V/WA (12 nm) |
| OS | Proprietary OS | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 16MB | 256GB 12GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
0.3 MP |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 16 MP |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | Unspecified |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 210 mAh | 10600 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Pink | Black, Red, Green |
| Price | - | About 170 EUR |
Cubot C9
- Potentially lower price point
- May be more compact and lightweight
- Simple and easy-to-use interface (assumed)
- Likely significantly lower performance
- Limited features and functionality
- Unknown camera quality
Cubot KingKong 8
- More powerful Mediatek MT8788V processor
- Reverse wired charging capability
- Potentially better camera performance
- Likely higher price point
- May be bulkier due to ruggedized design
- Battery life dependent on capacity (unknown)
Display Comparison
Unfortunately, display specifications for the Cubot C9 are unavailable. The Cubot KingKong 8's display details are also missing. Without knowing resolution, panel type (IPS vs AMOLED), or refresh rate, a direct comparison is impossible. However, given the price bracket, both are likely to feature IPS LCD panels with 720p or 1080p resolution. The absence of information on PWM dimming rates prevents assessment of potential eye strain.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications for both devices are largely unknown. Without sensor sizes, aperture values, or image processing details, a meaningful comparison is impossible. It's reasonable to assume both phones feature multiple rear cameras, but the quality will likely vary significantly. The absence of information regarding Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) suggests neither phone will excel in low-light photography. The KingKong 8’s potential for better image processing, driven by the more powerful chipset, may give it a slight edge.
Performance
The Cubot KingKong 8’s Mediatek MT8788V (12nm) chipset is the defining performance difference. This octa-core processor, featuring four Cortex-A73 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and four Cortex-A53 cores at the same speed, provides a significant performance boost over what is typically found in ultra-budget phones. The 12nm manufacturing process, while not leading-edge, offers a reasonable balance between power efficiency and performance. The C9, lacking any published chipset information, likely utilizes a significantly less powerful processor, suitable only for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light web browsing. This makes the KingKong 8 the better choice for multitasking and running demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for both devices is currently unspecified. The KingKong 8 does offer wired and reverse wired charging, a feature absent from any known specifications for the C9. Reverse wired charging allows the KingKong 8 to act as a power bank for other devices, a useful feature for outdoor enthusiasts or emergency situations. Without knowing the battery sizes and charging wattages, it’s difficult to determine which phone offers superior battery life, but the KingKong 8’s charging versatility is a clear advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot C9 if you need a very basic, affordable smartphone for essential communication and light tasks, and are willing to accept potentially limited performance. Buy the Cubot KingKong 8 if you prioritize a more responsive user experience, occasional gaming, and the added benefit of reverse wired charging, despite a likely higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How well can the Cubot KingKong 8 handle graphically demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
The Mediatek MT8788V chipset in the KingKong 8 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but likely at medium settings to maintain a stable frame rate. Expect some frame drops during intense action sequences. The C9, with its unknown chipset, is unlikely to provide a playable experience.
❓ Is the reverse wired charging on the Cubot KingKong 8 fast enough to significantly charge another phone?
The charging speed of the reverse wired charging feature on the KingKong 8 is dependent on the wattage output, which is currently unspecified. It will likely provide a slower charge compared to a dedicated wall charger, but it can be useful in emergency situations or when access to a power outlet is limited.
❓ What level of water and dust resistance does the Cubot KingKong 8 offer?
The 'KingKong' branding suggests a degree of ruggedization, but specific IP ratings (e.g., IP68) are not available in the provided data. It's reasonable to expect some level of protection against dust and splashes, but it shouldn't be considered fully waterproof without confirmation.
