CUBOT KingKong Dura: A Rugged Phone with Removable Battery

Introducing the CUBOT KingKong Dura

The CUBOT KingKong Dura is a budget-friendly rugged smartphone designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and construction workers. The unique feature that sets it apart is its removable battery, which can be replaced with a second one included in the package, providing users with extended usage without needing to locate a charger.

30-Second Review

Most rugged phones focus on larger, heavier battery designs, but the KingKong Dura opts for a more practical approach with a removable 5000mAh battery. This design choice makes it slimmer than many competitors, measuring 13mm thick and weighing 299.5g. While it features a 6.88-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, it lacks 5G connectivity and comes powered by an entry-level Unisoc T620 chip, which may disappoint those seeking speed.

CUBOT KingKong Dura: Price and Availability

Currently retailing for approximately $190 in the US, €210 for EU customers, and £143 in the UK, the CUBOT KingKong Dura is available directly through CUBOT’s website and various online retailers. The phone comes in two configurations: one with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and another featuring 12GB of RAM and 256GB. The price difference between the two models is relatively modest, with EU prices being €209.99 for the lower model and €259.99 for the higher-spec version.

CUBOT KingKong Dura: Specs

Design and Build Quality

The KingKong Dura features a straightforward, utilitarian design typical of rugged smartphones. It avoids flashy embellishments in favor of a practical layout. With its 13mm thickness, it is designed to fit comfortably in a pocket without the bulky feeling many rugged devices typically have. The rear of the phone has a Lock/Unlock slider for battery removal and includes a small camping light, which adds a practical touch for outdoor use.

Hardware and Performance

At its heart, the CUBOT KingKong Dura is powered by the Unisoc T620, an entry-level chipset built on a 12nm process. While this chip is suitable for basic tasks, it falls short in performance compared to more modern processors, especially when it comes to gaming or multitasking. The device is limited to 4G connectivity, with WiFi restricted to the WiFi 5 standard. However, for users primarily engaged in outdoor tasks or long shifts away from a charger, this may not pose a significant issue.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a 64.2MP main camera and a 2MP macro lens, the KingKong Dura is designed for basic photography needs. While the main camera captures decent images in daylight, it struggles in lower light conditions. The macro camera, which is fixed-focus, underperforms and is not a recommended solution for close-up needs. The front-facing 16MP camera is acceptable for video calls and selfies but lacks any advanced features.

Usage and Battery Performance

The standout feature of the KingKong Dura is its battery system. Each battery has a capacity of 5000mAh, allowing users to swap batteries to extend their usage significantly during long days outdoors. With a 33W charging capability via USB-C, users can recharge their batteries quickly, even using one while charging the other. This unique feature provides an effective solution for those needing reliable power on the go.

Key Takeaways

• The CUBOT KingKong Dura features a removable 5000mAh battery with an additional battery included.
• Available at a starting price of $190, it's more affordable than many rugged phones.
• The device weighs 299.5g and measures 13mm thick, making it relatively lightweight for a rugged phone.
• It runs on the Unisoc T620 chipset and supports 4G connectivity only.
• The rear camera setup includes a 64.2MP main and 2MP macro camera, while the front camera is 16MP.

Final Verdict

Overall, the CUBOT KingKong Dura offers an appealing option for individuals requiring a rugged phone without the hefty price tag. Its removable battery feature is particularly advantageous for users who find themselves frequently away from charging sources. While it compromises on speed and camera capabilities, the Dura fulfills the basic demands of its intended users, making it a practical choice for outdoor use and long shifts.