The rugged smartphone market caters to a specific user: those needing a device that can withstand harsh conditions. The Cubot KingKong X, with its modern Mediatek Dimensity 7050 chipset, enters the arena challenging the established Cat S62 Pro, powered by the older Qualcomm Snapdragon 660. This comparison dissects their core differences, focusing on performance, battery endurance, and the practical implications of their hardware choices.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing performance and battery life, the Cubot KingKong X emerges as the clear winner. Its Dimensity 7050 chipset offers a significant leap in processing power and efficiency compared to the Snapdragon 660 in the Cat S62 Pro, translating to a smoother user experience and longer runtime. While the Cat S62 Pro has brand recognition, the KingKong X delivers more for the money.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/150 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, June 28 | 2020, June 28. Released 2020, August 17 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 23 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 6), plastic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 170.9 x 82.2 x 18.7 mm (6.73 x 3.24 x 0.74 in) | 158.5 x 76.7 x 11.9 mm (6.24 x 3.02 x 0.47 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 388 g (13.69 oz) | 248 g (8.75 oz) |
| | - | IP68/IP69 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 35 mins)
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8m
MIL-STD-810H compliant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Mohs level 6 | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~401 ppi density) | 1080 x 2160 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~424 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.58 inches, 104.3 cm2 (~74.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~69.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.6 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.2 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) | Qualcomm SDM660 Snapdragon 660 (14 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MC4 | Adreno 512 |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 256GB 16GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 100 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP (macro) | 12 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF
FLIR thermal camera (Lepton 3.5 module) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | Thermal imaging, heat palettes, temp. spot meter, LED flash |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 32 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | Unspecified | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 33W wired, PD | - |
| Type | 10200 mAh | Li-Ion 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 280 EUR | About 530 EUR |
| EU LABEL |
|---|
| Battery | 15:41h endurance, 1400 cycles | - |
| Energy | Class G | - |
| Free fall | Class A (270 falls) | - |
| Repairability | Class C | - |
Cubot KingKong X
- Significantly faster processor (Dimensity 7050)
- Longer battery life (15:41h endurance)
- Faster charging (33W with PD)
- Likely more modern display technology
- Less established brand reputation
- Potential software update support concerns
Cat S62 Pro
- Established brand in the rugged phone market
- Proven durability and reliability
- Potentially better software support (depending on Cat's policy)
- Familiar Qualcomm ecosystem
- Outdated processor (Snapdragon 660)
- Likely shorter battery life
- Slower charging speeds
- Less capable camera system
Display Comparison
Neither device's display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the Cat S62 Pro's age, it likely utilizes an older LCD panel with lower peak brightness and color accuracy compared to what is typically found in newer devices like the KingKong X. The KingKong X, benefiting from more recent display technology, likely offers a more vibrant and visually appealing experience. Bezels are also likely to be slimmer on the KingKong X, contributing to a more modern aesthetic.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a precise comparison is difficult. However, the age of the Cat S62 Pro suggests its camera system will be less advanced than what's typically found in newer rugged phones. The KingKong X likely benefits from improved image processing algorithms and potentially larger sensor sizes, leading to better low-light performance and dynamic range. The inclusion of features like advanced HDR modes and potentially 4K video recording are also more probable on the KingKong X. We can assume the Cat S62 Pro's camera is adequate for basic photography, but the KingKong X is likely to offer a more versatile and capable imaging experience.
Performance
The performance gap between the Cubot KingKong X and Cat S62 Pro is substantial. The KingKong X’s Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6nm) boasts a modern CPU architecture – 2x2.6 GHz Cortex-A78 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores – significantly outperforming the Cat S62 Pro’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 (14nm). The 6nm fabrication process of the Dimensity 7050 is far more efficient, resulting in lower heat generation and sustained performance under load. The Snapdragon 660, while capable for everyday tasks, will struggle with demanding applications and multitasking. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother gaming, and a more responsive overall experience on the KingKong X.
Battery Life
The Cubot KingKong X boasts a 15:41h endurance rating and supports 33W wired charging with PD, while the Cat S62 Pro’s battery performance is not specified. The KingKong X’s endurance suggests a well-optimized power management system coupled with the efficiency of the Dimensity 7050 chipset. The 33W charging allows for significantly faster replenishment compared to the likely slower charging speeds of the Cat S62 Pro. Furthermore, the KingKong X’s battery is rated for 1400 cycles, indicating a longer lifespan before significant degradation.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot KingKong X if you need a rugged phone that can handle demanding tasks like mobile gaming, video editing, or running multiple apps simultaneously, and if long battery life is a priority. Its modern chipset and fast charging capabilities make it ideal for users who are constantly on the go. Buy the Cat S62 Pro if you prioritize a well-established brand with a proven track record in the rugged phone space, and your usage is primarily focused on basic communication, navigation, and light productivity tasks. It's a solid, reliable option for those who don't require cutting-edge performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Mediatek Dimensity 7050 in the Cubot KingKong X overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
The Dimensity 7050's 6nm fabrication process is designed for improved thermal efficiency compared to the 14nm Snapdragon 660. While any processor can generate heat under sustained load, the KingKong X is less likely to experience significant throttling during gaming due to its more efficient architecture and potentially better cooling solutions.
❓ Is the Cat S62 Pro still a viable option for basic communication and navigation, even with its older processor?
Yes, the Cat S62 Pro remains a functional device for core tasks like making calls, sending texts, and using navigation apps. However, users should expect slower app loading times and a less responsive experience compared to newer devices. It's best suited for users who prioritize durability and reliability over performance.
❓ How does the 1400 battery cycle rating of the Cubot KingKong X translate to real-world usage?
A 1400 cycle rating means the battery is designed to retain a significant portion of its original capacity after 1400 full charge-discharge cycles. This suggests the KingKong X's battery will maintain good health for a longer period compared to phones with lower cycle ratings, potentially lasting several years with typical usage.
