Cubot KingKong Ace 3 vs. Cat S75: A Deep Dive into Rugged Smartphone Performance

The rugged smartphone market caters to a specific need: durability. However, performance and features still matter. We pit the Cubot KingKong Ace 3, a value-focused option, against the Cat S75, a more premium offering, to determine which delivers the best balance of toughness and technology.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing raw performance and future-proofing, the Cat S75 is the clear winner thanks to its superior Dimensity 930 chipset. However, the Cubot KingKong Ace 3 provides a compelling alternative for those on a tighter budget who value faster wired charging and don't need top-tier processing power.

PHONES
Phone Names Cubot KingKong Ace 3 Cat S75
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 661, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 32, 38, 39, 40, 41
5G bands-1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 23, 28, 38, 40, 41, 75, 77, 78, 255, 256 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE, 5G
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
Launch
Announced2024, June 282023, February 24
StatusAvailable. Released 2024, July 23Available. Released 2023, July
Body
Build-Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), plastic back, aluminum frame
Dimensions173.9 x 81.8 x 12.7 mm (6.85 x 3.22 x 0.5 in)171 x 80 x 11.9 mm (6.73 x 3.15 x 0.47 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight284 g (10.02 oz)268 g (9.45 oz)
 -IP68/IP69 dust/water resistant (up to 5m for 35 min) Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8m MIL-STD-810H compliant
Display
Protection-Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Resolution1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~401 ppi density)1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density)
Size6.58 inches, 104.3 cm2 (~73.3% screen-to-body ratio)6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~76.7% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 90HzIPS LCD, 120Hz
Platform
CPUOcta-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetMediatek Helio G88 (12 nm)Mediatek Dimensity 930 (6 nm)
GPUMali-G52 MC2IMG BXM-8-256
OSAndroid 14Android 12
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)
Internal256GB 8GB RAM128GB 6GB RAM
Main Camera
Dual100 MP, (wide), PDAF 5 MP (macro)-
FeaturesLED flashDual-LED flash, HDR, panorama
Single-8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Triple-50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF 8 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide) 2 MP (macro)
VideoYes1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single32 MP8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
VideoYes1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack -No
35mm jackUnspecifiedNo
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE5.1, A2DP, LE
NFCYesYes
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDSGPS (L1+L5), GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS
RadioUnspecifiedUnspecified
USBUSB Type-C, OTGUSB Type-C 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
Features
SensorsFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compassFingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
 -Emergency SOS via satellite (Bullitt Satellite Connect service)
Battery
Charging33W wired15W wireless
Type5100 mAhLi-Po 5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsBlack/OrangeBlack
Models-BM1S1B
Price-About 600 EUR

Cubot KingKong Ace 3

  • Faster 33W wired charging for quick power-ups.
  • Likely more affordable price point.
  • Rugged design for durability in harsh environments.

  • Significantly less powerful Mediatek Helio G88 chipset.
  • No wireless charging support.
  • Potentially lower display quality.

Cat S75

  • Superior performance with the Mediatek Dimensity 930.
  • Convenient 15W wireless charging.
  • More efficient 6nm process for better battery life.

  • Slower 15W wireless charging compared to the Cubot's wired speed.
  • Likely a higher price tag.
  • May not offer the absolute fastest wired charging speeds.

Display Comparison

Neither device's display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the Cat S75's higher price point, it likely features a more color-accurate panel and potentially higher peak brightness. Rugged phones often prioritize durability over display quality, so expect both to have robust glass protection, but potentially lower peak brightness than flagship smartphones. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both to reinforce structural integrity.

Camera Comparison

Without detailed camera specifications, a precise comparison is difficult. However, the chipset difference suggests the Cat S75 will have a more capable image signal processor (ISP), leading to better image processing, noise reduction, and dynamic range. While both phones likely feature multiple cameras, the Cat S75’s processing power will allow it to extract more detail and clarity from its sensors. The presence of OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) on the Cat S75, a common feature in phones with higher-end chipsets, would further enhance image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. We can assume both will include a standard macro lens, but its utility will be limited by the sensor size.

Performance

The Cat S75’s Mediatek Dimensity 930 (6nm) represents a substantial leap in performance over the Cubot KingKong Ace 3’s Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm). The Dimensity 930 utilizes more efficient 6nm fabrication, allowing for higher clock speeds (2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 vs 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75) and improved sustained performance. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience on the Cat S75. The Helio G88 is adequate for basic tasks, but will struggle with graphically intensive games or demanding applications. The Dimensity 930’s architecture also benefits from a more modern GPU, further widening the performance gap.

Battery Life

Battery capacity isn't specified for either device. However, the Cat S75 compensates for potentially lower mAh with 15W wireless charging, a feature absent on the Cubot KingKong Ace 3. The Cubot counters with significantly faster 33W wired charging, allowing for a full charge in a shorter timeframe. The 6nm process of the Dimensity 930 in the Cat S75 is more power-efficient, potentially offsetting a smaller battery capacity with longer real-world usage. The choice here depends on user preference: convenience of wireless charging versus speed of wired charging.

Buying Guide

Buy the Cubot KingKong Ace 3 if you need a highly durable phone for demanding physical work and prioritize fast 33W wired charging for quick top-ups. Buy the Cat S75 if you prefer a more refined user experience, benefit from the significantly faster Dimensity 930 processor for multitasking and demanding apps, and appreciate the convenience of 15W wireless charging.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the Dimensity 930 in the Cat S75 get noticeably hot during extended gaming sessions?
While the Dimensity 930 is a powerful chip, its 6nm fabrication process is relatively efficient. Cat phones are also designed with thermal management in mind for rugged use. However, prolonged, high-intensity gaming will inevitably generate heat. Expect some warmth, but likely not to the point of significant throttling or discomfort, especially compared to older 12nm chips like the Helio G88.
❓ Is the 33W charging on the Cubot KingKong Ace 3 fast enough for all-day use, even with heavy usage?
33W charging is considered fast charging and will significantly reduce charging times compared to standard charging. While it won't be as quick as some 65W or 120W solutions, it should be sufficient to top up the battery during breaks or overnight, even with heavy usage. The lack of wireless charging means you'll need to rely on a wired connection.
❓ How does the ruggedization of the Cat S75 impact its size and weight compared to a standard smartphone?
Ruggedization inherently adds bulk and weight. The Cat S75 will be noticeably thicker and heavier than a typical smartphone due to its reinforced chassis, port covers, and robust materials. This is a trade-off for increased durability and drop protection. If a slim and lightweight design is a priority, these phones are not ideal.