The rugged smartphone market caters to a specific user – those needing durability and reliability in challenging environments. The Doogee CS2 and Cat S62 Pro both aim to fulfill this need, but they take drastically different approaches to internal hardware. The CS2 utilizes a budget-focused Realtek chipset, while the S62 Pro boasts a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660. This comparison will dissect these core differences and determine which device offers the best balance of performance, features, and value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance and a smoother user experience, the Cat S62 Pro is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon 660 chipset provides a significant advantage in multitasking and demanding applications, justifying the likely price premium over the Doogee CS2. However, the CS2 may appeal to those on a very tight budget.
| 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, 20, 28, 38, 40 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/150 Mbps |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, May | 2020, June 28. Released 2020, August 17 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, May | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 6), plastic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 43.8 x 36.9 x 10.5 mm (1.72 x 1.45 x 0.41 in) | 158.5 x 76.7 x 11.9 mm (6.24 x 3.02 x 0.47 in) |
| SIM | No | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 35 g (1.23 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 | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 |
| Resolution | 240 x 240 pixels (~201 ppi density) | 1080 x 2160 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~424 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.69 inches | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~69.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core (4x2.2 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) |
| Chipset | Realtek 8762C | Qualcomm SDM660 Snapdragon 660 (14 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno 512 |
| OS | Proprietary | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | - | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 12 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF
FLIR thermal camera (Lepton 3.5 module) |
| Features | - | Thermal imaging, heat palettes, temp. spot meter, LED flash |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 8 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | No | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, heart rate | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 300 mAh | Li-Ion 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Rose Gold, Silver | Black |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 530 EUR |
Doogee CS2
- Likely more affordable price point
- Potentially longer battery life due to efficient chipset
- Rugged design for durability
- Significantly lower performance
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Inferior camera performance
Cat S62 Pro
- Superior performance with Snapdragon 660
- Better camera quality and image processing
- Smoother user experience and multitasking
- Likely higher price
- Potentially shorter battery life (depending on capacity)
- May experience more heat under heavy load
Display Comparison
Neither device's display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the Cat S62 Pro's positioning as a more premium device, it likely features a higher quality panel with better color accuracy and viewing angles. The Doogee CS2, targeting a lower price point, likely utilizes a more basic LCD. Bezels are also likely to be more pronounced on the CS2. Without specific nit brightness data, it's difficult to assess outdoor visibility, but Cat devices generally prioritize readability in direct sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a precise comparison is challenging. However, the Snapdragon 660 in the Cat S62 Pro includes an image signal processor (ISP) that is far more capable than what's found in the Realtek 8762C. This translates to better image processing, improved dynamic range, and faster autofocus. While both phones likely feature multiple cameras, the S62 Pro will likely deliver superior image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The presence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on the S62 Pro, a common feature in Qualcomm-powered devices, would further enhance image clarity.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Doogee CS2's Realtek 8762C is a low-power, entry-level SoC designed for basic smartphone functions. The Cat S62 Pro's Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 (14nm) is a significantly more powerful processor. The Snapdragon 660’s octa-core architecture (4x2.2 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) allows for far superior multitasking and application performance. The 14nm manufacturing process also contributes to better thermal efficiency, meaning the S62 Pro is less likely to throttle under sustained load. Users who rely on GPS navigation, mapping applications, or even moderately demanding games will experience a noticeable difference in responsiveness with the S62 Pro.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified for either device. However, the Realtek 8762C's lower power consumption suggests the Doogee CS2 might achieve comparable battery life to the Cat S62 Pro, despite potentially having a smaller battery. The Snapdragon 660, while more powerful, is also relatively efficient. Charging wattage is also unknown, but the S62 Pro, being a more premium device, is more likely to support faster charging technologies, reducing 0-100% charge times.
Buying Guide
Buy the Doogee CS2 if you need a basic, highly durable smartphone for essential communication and light tasks, and your budget is extremely limited. It's ideal for construction workers needing a backup phone or individuals in remote areas with minimal smartphone demands. Buy the Cat S62 Pro if you prefer a more responsive and capable device for everyday use, including navigation, photography, and occasional gaming. It’s suited for field service professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who demands reliable performance alongside ruggedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Doogee CS2 struggle with GPS navigation in remote areas?
The Realtek 8762C's limited processing power could result in slower GPS lock-on times and less accurate positioning, especially in areas with weak signal strength. The Cat S62 Pro's Snapdragon 660 offers a more robust GPS experience.
❓ Is the Snapdragon 660 in the Cat S62 Pro still capable of running modern apps and games?
While not a flagship processor, the Snapdragon 660 remains a capable SoC. It can handle most modern apps and games at medium settings, providing a smooth and enjoyable user experience. However, demanding titles may require reduced graphics settings.
❓ How does the Realtek 8762C handle multitasking compared to the Snapdragon 660?
Multitasking is a significant weakness of the Realtek 8762C. Switching between apps will likely be slower, and running multiple apps simultaneously may lead to noticeable lag. The Snapdragon 660 excels at multitasking, allowing for seamless transitions between applications.
❓ Given the rugged nature of both phones, are the displays particularly scratch-resistant?
Neither device's display specifications detail scratch resistance. However, rugged phones typically employ Gorilla Glass or similar protective layers. It's advisable to use a screen protector for both devices to prevent scratches and maintain display clarity.
