Cubot offers two distinct entry-level smartphones: the J9, a basic and affordable option, and the KingKong 5 Pro, boasting a more modern chipset and a ruggedized design. This comparison dissects the core differences between these devices, focusing on how the chipset impacts real-world performance and which phone best suits different user needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro is the superior choice. Its Helio P22 chipset delivers significantly better performance than the J9’s MT6580, enabling smoother multitasking and a more responsive user experience. While the J9 offers extreme affordability, the performance gap justifies the price difference for all but the most basic users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020. Released 2020 | 2021 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 156.2 x 74.6 x 9.4 mm (6.15 x 2.94 x 0.37 in) | 165.8 x 81.4 x 18.8 mm (6.53 x 3.20 x 0.74 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 319 g (11.25 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~271 ppi density) | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~286 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 95.9 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.01 inches, 88.7 cm2 (~65.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6580 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6762D Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Triple | 13 MP, (wide), AF
2 MP
0.3 MP | 48 MP, (wide), AF
5 MP (macro), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 25 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Unspecified |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 4200 mAh, removable | 8000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Black, Green | Black |
Cubot J9
- Extremely affordable price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Suitable for basic communication tasks
- Significantly slower performance
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Outdated chipset architecture
Cubot KingKong 5 Pro
- Much faster and more responsive performance
- More efficient chipset for longer battery life
- Ruggedized design for increased durability
- Higher price compared to the J9
- May not be ideal for users with extremely limited budgets
- Rugged design may add bulk
Display Comparison
Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the J9’s older chipset, it likely features a lower-resolution panel with narrower viewing angles. The KingKong 5 Pro, benefiting from a more recent chipset, likely has a more vibrant and sharper display. The ruggedized nature of the KingKong 5 Pro may also necessitate a thicker, more durable glass covering, potentially impacting clarity slightly.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a precise comparison is difficult. However, it’s reasonable to assume the KingKong 5 Pro benefits from the increased processing power of its chipset, enabling faster image processing and potentially better image quality. The J9’s MT6580 may struggle with complex image processing algorithms, resulting in slower capture times and less detailed photos. The presence of a more modern ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Helio P22 likely contributes to improved dynamic range and noise reduction. Any 2MP macro cameras on either device should be considered marketing features rather than significant photographic assets.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Cubot J9’s MediaTek MT6580 is a quad-core processor built on a 28nm process. This older architecture struggles with demanding tasks and multitasking. Conversely, the KingKong 5 Pro utilizes the MediaTek MT6762D Helio P22, an octa-core processor fabricated on a more efficient 12nm process. The P22’s eight cores (four Cortex-A53 at 2.0 GHz and four at 1.5 GHz) provide a substantial performance boost, particularly in multi-threaded applications. The 12nm process also contributes to better power efficiency and reduced thermal throttling compared to the J9’s 28nm chip. This translates to a noticeably smoother user experience on the KingKong 5 Pro, especially when switching between apps or running multiple processes simultaneously.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device. However, the KingKong 5 Pro’s more efficient 12nm chipset will likely result in longer battery life despite potentially having a similar capacity to the J9. The P22’s ability to handle tasks more efficiently reduces power consumption. Charging wattage is also unknown, but the KingKong 5 Pro’s more modern design may support faster charging technologies, allowing for quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot J9 if you need a functional smartphone for essential tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing, and your budget is extremely limited. It’s a suitable option for first-time smartphone users or as a backup device. Buy the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro if you prioritize a smoother, more responsive experience, enjoy occasional gaming, or require a more durable, ruggedized phone capable of withstanding drops and harsh environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Cubot KingKong 5 Pro handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Helio P22 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it's capable of running PUBG Mobile at lower settings. Expect playable frame rates with reduced graphics quality. The MT6580 in the J9 would struggle significantly with this title.
❓ Is the ruggedized design of the KingKong 5 Pro worth the extra cost if I'm careful with my phone?
The rugged design provides peace of mind, even if you're generally careful. It offers protection against accidental drops, dust, and water splashes, extending the phone's lifespan. If you prioritize durability, the KingKong 5 Pro is a worthwhile investment.
❓ How much of a performance difference will I actually notice between the two chipsets in everyday use?
The difference is substantial. The KingKong 5 Pro will feel significantly snappier when opening apps, browsing the web, and multitasking. The J9 will exhibit noticeable lag and slowdowns, especially with multiple apps open.
❓ Does the Cubot J9 support modern apps and software updates?
The J9’s older chipset may limit its compatibility with newer apps and software updates. It’s likely to receive fewer updates than the KingKong 5 Pro, potentially leaving it vulnerable to security risks over time.
