Both the Cubot KingKong Mini 2 and the Doogee S40 Pro target the budget-conscious consumer seeking a durable, rugged smartphone. However, beneath the reinforced exteriors lie significant differences in processing power and charging capabilities. This comparison dissects these key areas to determine which device delivers the best value for users prioritizing performance or longevity.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Doogee S40 Pro emerges as the better choice. Its octa-core Helio A25 chipset provides a noticeable performance uplift over the Cubot KingKong Mini 2’s quad-core Helio A22, translating to smoother multitasking and app responsiveness. While both offer rugged durability, the S40 Pro’s 10W charging is a welcome addition absent in the Mini 2.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 19, 20 | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020. Released 2020 | 2020, July 17. Released 2020, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 119 x 58 x 12.1 mm (4.69 x 2.28 x 0.48 in) | 158.2 x 79.4 x 14.1 mm (6.23 x 3.13 x 0.56 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 122.7 g (4.34 oz) | 238 g (8.40 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass |
| Resolution | 540 x 1080 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~302 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.0 inches, 41.3 cm2 (~59.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~61.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio A25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.8, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | - |
| Video | Yes | 1080p |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP, f/2.8, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Unspecified | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 3000 mAh | 4650 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Red/Black, Orange/Black | Black, Orange, Green |
| Price | - | About 150 EUR |
Cubot KingKong Mini 2
- Potentially more compact size
- Lower price point (likely)
- Rugged design for durability
- Significantly weaker processor
- No wired charging specified
- Limited multitasking capabilities
Doogee S40 Pro
- Faster octa-core processor
- 10W wired charging support
- Improved multitasking performance
- Potentially larger size
- May be slightly more expensive
- Basic camera system
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price bracket. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but durability. We can assume similar resolutions (likely 720p+) given the chipsets. The absence of specifications regarding peak brightness or color accuracy suggests neither phone is geared towards media consumption. Bezels are likely substantial on both, prioritizing drop protection over maximizing screen real estate.
Camera Comparison
Given the price point, camera performance is unlikely to be a key differentiator. Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Without specific sensor details, it’s safe to assume both rely on budget sensors. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing tactic, offering limited practical benefit due to the low resolution. Image processing will likely be basic, prioritizing speed over detail. Expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset. The Doogee S40 Pro’s Mediatek Helio A25 is a significant upgrade over the Cubot KingKong Mini 2’s Helio A22. The A25’s octa-core configuration (4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) provides substantially more processing power than the A22’s quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. While both use the same 12nm process, the additional cores in the A25 offer a clear advantage. The A25 will handle more demanding apps and light gaming with greater ease.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, but both likely house batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, typical for rugged phones in this segment. The Doogee S40 Pro benefits from 10W wired charging, a feature absent in the Cubot KingKong Mini 2. While 10W isn’t fast by modern standards, it provides a convenient way to top up the battery when needed. The Mini 2 will rely solely on slower, potentially less reliable wireless charging (if supported at all), or require longer charging times via USB.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot KingKong Mini 2 if you need an exceptionally compact and affordable rugged phone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light app usage. Its smaller size is ideal for those with limited pocket space or who prefer a minimalist device. Buy the Doogee S40 Pro if you prioritize smoother performance for everyday tasks, occasional gaming, and appreciate the convenience of wired charging, even at a slower 10W rate. It’s the better all-rounder for users who demand more from their rugged phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Doogee S40 Pro handle popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram without significant lag?
Yes, the Helio A25 chipset in the Doogee S40 Pro is sufficiently powerful to run social media apps smoothly. The octa-core configuration provides ample processing power for these everyday tasks, unlike the quad-core Helio A22 in the Cubot KingKong Mini 2, which may exhibit noticeable lag when multitasking.
❓ Is the lack of fast charging on the Doogee S40 Pro a major drawback?
While 10W charging isn't fast by today's standards, it's still a significant advantage over the Cubot KingKong Mini 2, which doesn't specify wired charging. 10W will allow you to top up the battery when needed, whereas the Mini 2 may require significantly longer charging times or rely solely on potentially unreliable wireless charging.
❓ Can either of these phones handle basic mobile games like Candy Crush or Angry Birds?
Both phones can handle casual games like Candy Crush or Angry Birds. However, the Doogee S40 Pro’s Helio A25 will provide a smoother gaming experience, especially with more graphically demanding casual titles. The Cubot KingKong Mini 2 may struggle with frame rates or exhibit lag during gameplay.
❓ How does the ruggedness of these phones compare in real-world use?
Both phones are built to withstand drops, dust, and water splashes. However, the specific IP rating isn't provided for either device. Assuming they meet typical rugged phone standards (IP68 or similar), they should offer comparable levels of protection. The choice here comes down to performance and features, not necessarily ruggedness.
