Cubot's KingKong Power 3 firmly establishes itself as a midrange rugged smartphone that caters to users who need durability without compromising on performance. With features like IP68/IP69K water and dust resistance, MIL-STD-810H certification, and a monstrous 10200 mAh battery, this phone is designed for adventurers, field workers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're someone who works in extreme conditions, enjoys hiking in remote areas, or simply needs a phone that can withstand the elements, the KingKong Power 3 is an ideal choice.
On the flip side, if you're looking for a sleek, lightweight device to slip into your pocket and show off at social gatherings, you might want to look elsewhere - the hefty weight and bulky build aren't designed for the fashion-forward or those with more delicate hands.
Let's dive into the details of what makes this rugged powerhouse stand out.
Body
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 takes ruggedness to the next level. Measuring 175.3×82.7×20 mm and weighing a substantial 425 grams, this phone is far from discreet, but that's the point. It's built like a tank, with LED stripes on the back (constituting a "breathing lamp") that light up for music, notifications, and calls - a cool touch that adds some flair to its tough exterior. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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General |
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Dimensions | H: 175.3 mm (6.9″), W: 82.7 mm (3.26″), D: 20 mm (0.79″) |
Mass | 425 g (14.99 oz) |
Colors | Black |
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 is unapologetically bulky. With those dimensions and tipping the scales at 425 grams, it's one of the heaviest smartphones on the market. This weight and thickness are due to the rugged build, reinforced to withstand drops and harsh environments, and the enormous 10200mAh battery, but it does make it quite a handful - literally.
For extended use, holding the KingKong Power 3 might feel a bit cumbersome, especially during long calls, texting, or gaming sessions. The sheer bulk and weight will cause hand fatigue over time. If you're sitting down, resting it on a surface while using it might ease some of the strain, but holding it continuously can get uncomfortable. This phone isn't exactly the most ergonomic or sleek device, and its rugged nature means you'll feel the size and heft in your hand after a while.
In terms of portability, you're probably better off carrying this phone in a bag rather than trying to stuff it into your pocket. Its thickness (20 mm) and weight make it a tight fit in most pockets, especially if you're wearing anything form-fitting. Even in looser pants, the bulk of the phone might make it feel awkward to move around. Plus, you'd constantly be aware of its presence due to its considerable heft.
Using the Cubot KingKong Power 3 with one hand is a bit of a challenge. The large 6.72-inch display, coupled with the weight, makes it hard to maneuver single-handedly. Reaching for the top corners of the screen requires quite a stretch, and due to the phone's weight distribution, there's a real risk of it slipping out of your hand. If you have smaller hands, you'll likely find one-handed use nearly impossible without some form of grip assist or case with a kickstand.
Overall, while the dimensions and weight are justified by its rugged features and massive battery, it does make the phone less comfortable to handle for long periods, less pocket-friendly, and difficult to use with one hand. That said, if you're looking for a rugged phone, you're probably expecting a bit of bulk, and in that context, the KingKong Power 3 delivers exactly what it promises - durability over elegance.
If we compare the KingKong Power 3 with the predecessor KingKong Power, it's larger and heavier, but has retained the same thickness. The KingKong Power was 169.9×80.2×20 mm and 382 g.
IP Rating and MIL-STD Compliance
(Related: IP ratings and MIL-STD explained.)
The Cubot KingKong Power 3, like the predecessor KingKong Power, boasts an IP68/IP69K rating, which means it's both dust-tight and waterproof (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes). Additionally, the MIL-STD-810H military standard ensures that the device can survive drops, shocks, and extreme temperatures. This makes it a reliable companion for those who live or work in harsh environments, like construction sites or the great outdoors.
The IP68 and IP69K ratings of the Cubot KingKong Power 3 are a testament to its durability. In the world of electronics, IP stands for Ingress Protection, and it's followed by two digits. The first digit (6 in this case) refers to the device's protection against solid objects like dust. An IP rating of 6 means the KingKong Power 3 is dust-tight, ensuring no harmful particles can infiltrate its internals.
The second digit (8 in IP68) signifies its resistance to water. An IP68 rating indicates that the phone is capable of withstanding immersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. So, whether it accidentally takes a plunge into a puddle or gets caught in a rainstorm, your KingKong Power 3 will emerge unscathed, ready for action.
The digit 9 and the letter K in IP69K hold special significance. The combination 9K means the device has undergone high-pressure, high-temperature water spray tests. In the case of the Cubot KingKong Power 3, it can withstand powerful, high-temperature water jets (up to 80 °C) aimed at it from different angles. This rating ensures that even in the most intense conditions, where water jets resembling a strong, focused steam of water are present, the phone remains resilient and functional.
The MIL-STD-810H compliance takes the KingKong Power 3's durability to a whole new level. This standard, established by the US Department of Defense, outlines a series of stringent tests that a device must pass to be deemed 'military-grade' tough.
To achieve MIL-STD-810H compliance, the Cubot KingKong Power 3 underwent a battery of tests that simulate the harshest conditions it might encounter in real-world scenarios. These tests include the following:
- High-Temperature Test: The phone was exposed to scorching temperatures to ensure it doesn't falter even in the hottest environments.
- Low-Temperature Test: On the flip side, the KingKong Power 3 was subjected to freezing temperatures to guarantee it remains operational in icy conditions.
- Drop Test: The phone faced drops from heights, simulating real-world accidents. Its ability to survive these falls showcases its durability, protecting it from everyday slips and tumbles.
- Vibration Test: The Cubot KingKong Power 3 was shaken vigorously to mimic the vibrations it might endure during transportation, ensuring its internal components remain intact and functional.
- Humidity Test: Humidity can be a silent killer for electronics. The KingKong Power 3 was tested in high humidity environments to guarantee it won't succumb to moisture, even in tropical climates.
- Salt Fog Test: This test replicates exposure to salty sea air, making sure the KingKong Power 3 won't corrode when used near the ocean or in coastal areas.
By passing these tests, the Cubot KingKong Power 3 has proven its mettle, assuring users that it can withstand the toughest challenges thrown its way. So, whether you're scaling mountains, working on a construction site, or embarking on wild adventures, this phone has proven it can handle the pressure, literally! It's not just a smartphone; it's a robust, battle-tested device ready for any mission you undertake.
Display: Big, Bold, and Smooth
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The KingKong Power 3's 6.72-inch IPS LCD screen is surprisingly good for a rugged phone, offering a 1080×2408 resolution with a 20:9 aspect ratio and a pixel density of 393 PPI. That translates to sharp visuals and a great experience whether you're using GPS, reading documents, or streaming videos. This is a welcome feature in this segment, where rugged phones often skimp on display quality. While the screen-to-body ratio is modest at 75%, this is a fair trade-off for the extra protection that the thick bezels offer.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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Size | 6.72″ (171 mm) diagonal |
Type | IPS LCD, 120 Hz |
Resolution (px) | 1080×2408, about 393 PPI |
The Cubot KingKong Power 3's display features elevate its screen beyond the typical rugged device standard. The use of an IPS (In-Plane Switching) LCD panel is a solid choice for a rugged phone like the KingKong Power 3. While it may not offer the deep blacks and vibrant contrast of an OLED display, IPS panels excel in delivering consistently bright, accurate colors and wide viewing angles. This is especially important for rugged phones, where you might be outdoors or on a construction site, viewing your screen from less-than-ideal angles.
The IPS LCD ensures that no matter how you're holding or viewing the phone, the colors won't wash out. Another advantage of IPS LCDs is that they tend to be more durable and resistant to screen burn-in than OLED panels, making them ideal for a rugged phone that could see more outdoor exposure and prolonged use under tough conditions.
The 6.72-inch display size strikes a balance between providing ample screen real estate for tasks like GPS navigation, reading, and media consumption, while still being manageable (though admittedly pushing the limits of portability).
At around 75% screen-to-body ratio, the display is functional but does come with thick bezels, especially compared to flagship phones. This is typical for rugged devices, where extra bezel space can add durability and prevent the screen from shattering during falls. The slightly lower screen-to-body ratio ensures the screen is well-protected without sacrificing too much display space.
IPS displays also typically have decent brightness levels, especially so for rugged phones, which are designed for use in environments where direct sunlight may be common. However, an AMOLED screen would have offered better sunlight legibility, though for its price and class, the IPS LCD should serve well in most conditions.
One of the standout features of the Cubot KingKong Power 3's display is its 120 Hz refresh rate. This makes the phone feel smooth and fluid, particularly when scrolling through apps, swiping between screens, and playing games. This higher refresh rate essentially means the screen refreshes 120 times per second, making animations, transitions, and fast-moving content appear more fluid. While this isn't always a must-have feature for rugged phones, it's a nice bonus that enhances the overall user experience.
The 120 Hz refresh rate makes interactions with the phone feel snappy, which is particularly beneficial for users who need responsive performance while working in the field. Additionally, it's worth noting that many rugged phones tend to skimp on the refresh rate, so having 120 Hz in the KingKong Power 3 is a pleasant surprise in this category.
The display's 1080×2408 px resolution, with its 20:9 aspect ratio, delivers around 393 pixels per inch (PPI), which ensures that images and text appear sharp and detailed. Whether you're zooming in on maps, watching videos, or reading long-form content, the display provides a crisp experience with little visible pixelation.
This resolution also ensures that the phone handles multimedia well - streaming HD content or playing games looks sharp, although this is contingent on the device's processing power.
Overall, the Cubot KingKong Power 3's display is one of its strongest features. The IPS LCD panel ensures wide viewing angles, accurate colors, and durability, while the 1080×2408 resolution delivers sharpness and clarity for most tasks.
The 120 Hz refresh rate is a welcome addition, offering a smooth experience that's rarely seen in rugged phones. While it doesn't have the deep blacks of OLED or the slim bezels of premium flagships, for a rugged device, this display performs exceptionally well.
For comparison, the predecessor Cubot KingKong Power featured a 6.5-inch, 1080×2400 px IPS LCD display with a 60 Hz refresh rate.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE, ensuring decent network connectivity for most users.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.
SIM
The hybrid dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by) support offers flexibility for users who need to balance work and personal life on a single device.
The "hybrid" part means one of the SIM card slots serves a dual purpose. It can either hold a SIM card or a memory card for expandable storage - but not both simultaneously. This means you have to make a choice between expanding your device's storage capacity with a memory card and using two SIM cards.
Chipset - Performance: Powered by MediaTek
Under the hood, the Cubot KingKong Power 3 is powered by the MediaTek MT8781 chipset, although details on the exact CPU and GPU are unspecified. However, given the memory and storage configuration (see next section), performance should be smooth for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even some gaming. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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Chipset | Mediatek MT8781 |
CPU | Unspecified |
GPU | Unspecified |
For comparison, the predecessor KingKong Power featured the Mediatek MT8788V/WA chipset, housing an octa-core CPU (4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 + 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A53).
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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RAM | 12 GB |
Internal Storage | 256 GB |
Memory Card Slot | microSDXC (shares with SIM) |
The option to expand storage via microSD (albeit using a shared SIM slot) adds versatility, especially for those who need additional space for large files like offline maps, videos, and work documents.
For comparison, the predecessor Cubot KingKong Power came with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSDXC card (slot shared with SIM).
Camera System: A 100 MP Powerhouse
Cubot has taken its camera game up a notch with the KingKong Power 3. The dual rear camera system is headlined by a massive 100 MP wide lens with PDAF, promising impressive detail and clarity in photos. While rugged phones aren't typically known for their photography prowess, this setup suggests that the KingKong Power 3 could rival mainstream smartphones in terms of image quality, particularly in well-lit conditions.
The second camera is a 5 MP macro lens, which is handy for close-up shots of objects like plants, insects, and machinery - perfect for documenting your outdoor adventures or fieldwork.
On the front, a 32 MP selfie camera ensures that even your self-portraits look sharp, though bear in mind that rugged phones are generally more utilitarian than fashion-conscious.
Rear Camera
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 surprises with a solid camera setup, especially considering its rugged category, where photography is often an afterthought. The phone boasts a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 100 MP wide lens and a 5 MP macro lens. This combination delivers versatility for both everyday shots and close-up photography, a mix that's uncommon in rugged phones, which typically focus on durability over image quality. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) |
Resolution (Megapixels) | 100 MP (wide), 5 MP (macro) |
Autofocus | PDAF, N/A |
Video Recording | Yes |
Other Features | LED flash |
The 100 MP wide lens is the star of the show. This sensor, with its massive pixel count, is designed to capture incredibly detailed images. The higher the megapixels, the more detail the camera can capture, and 100 megapixels is substantial even by flagship phone standards.
This means that, in good lighting conditions, the KingKong Power 3 should produce sharp, vibrant images with lots of fine details. This camera will be especially handy for landscapes, architecture, and other scenarios where capturing intricate detail is important.
A sensor this large also gives you the flexibility to crop into photos while still retaining good resolution. This is ideal for users who need to capture a wide scene but may want to zoom in on specific details later, such as documenting work sites, equipment, and landscape features while on outdoor adventures.
The 5 MP macro lens is designed for close-up photography, enabling you to capture small details that would typically be lost with the main camera. This lens is useful for things like shooting flowers, insects, and machinery up close, where sharpness and detail matter. While 5 MP is relatively low in resolution, it's sufficient for macro shots since the goal is to focus on tiny subjects within a very short distance.
For outdoor enthusiasts or field workers, the macro lens can be quite practical - whether you're photographing plants in nature, documenting wear and tear on equipment, or capturing intricate details on small objects. The resolution might not be the sharpest, but for most users, it's functional for up-close work.
The primary 100MP camera comes with PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus), a feature typically found in higher-end smartphones. PDAF uses special sensors to quickly determine the correct focus point by comparing the phase of light coming into the camera. This results in faster and more accurate focusing, which is especially beneficial for rugged phone users who may need to snap quick photos in fast-moving or challenging environments.
For example, if you're out in the field or documenting something on the go, the fast autofocus will help you get sharp images without the frustration of waiting for the camera to focus properly. PDAF is a significant upgrade over traditional contrast-based autofocus systems, which tend to be slower and less accurate, especially in low-light or high-motion scenarios.
The LED flash is a standard but essential feature for low-light photography or for use as a flashlight in rugged environments. While it's not going to transform night photography into a flagship-level experience, the LED flash will help you capture usable images when there isn't enough ambient light. It's also practical for more utilitarian purposes, like when you need to illuminate a dark work area or signal your location.
The combination of the LED flash with the large 100 MP sensor could potentially result in decent low-light shots, but don't expect miracles in extremely dark conditions.
Overall, for a rugged smartphone, the Cubot KingKong Power 3 packs a more than capable camera system. The 100 MP wide lens delivers impressive detail, while the 5 MP macro lens adds versatility for close-up shots. Features like PDAF ensure that focusing is fast and accurate, a key advantage when you need to capture quick shots in tough conditions. The LED flash is a practical addition that enhances low-light capabilities and doubles as a handy utility tool.
While this setup isn't designed to compete with flagship camera phones, it's far beyond what you'd typically expect from a rugged phone. The KingKong Power 3 offers enough power and flexibility to handle most photography tasks, making it a strong option for outdoor adventurers, field workers, and anyone who needs a durable phone with reliable camera performance.
For comparison, the older Cubot KingKong Power featured a triple camera setup, consisting of a 48 MP wide lens supporting PDAF; a 20 MO night vision camera with two infrared emitters; and a 2 MP macro lens. It could also record videos and its feature set included LED flash.
Front Camera
The selfie camera sits inside a centered, waterdrop notch on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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Resolution | 32 MP |
Video Recording | Yes |
For comparison, the predecessor KingKong Power featured a 16 MP selfie shooter, housed inside a punch-hole cut-out in the display. It was capable of recording videos.
Battery: A Mammoth 10200 mAh
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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Battery Type | Non-removable |
Capacity | 10200 mAh |
Wired Charging | 33 W |
Others | Reverse wired |
One of the standout features of the KingKong Power 3 is its 10200 mAh battery, which is designed to keep you connected for days, not hours. Whether you're camping in the wilderness or working long hours in the field, this phone's battery life won't let you down.
It supports 33 W wired charging, so even though the battery is massive, you won't have to wait all day to juice it back up. The reverse wired charging feature is a nice bonus, allowing the phone to double as a power bank in case your other devices need a boost.
For comparison, the older KingKong Power came with a 10600 mAh battery with 33 W wired charging support. It too featured reverse wired charging.
Audio: Loud and Clear
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Cubot KingKong Power 3 |
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Loudspeaker | Yes (3 W, up to 3.5 W output power, 123 dB loudness) |
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No |
Another notable feature of the KingKong Power 3 is its loudspeaker, which pumps out an ear-splitting 123 dB. Whether you're in a noisy work environment or using it as a portable speaker while camping, the sound output ensures you'll hear every notification, call, and playlist. However, audiophiles may be disappointed by the absence of a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a trade-off likely made to maintain the phone's rugged integrity.
The 123 dB loudspeaker on the KingKong Power 3 is impressively loud compared to your common smartphone speakers. To put this into perspective, here are the decibel levels of some common sounds:
- Normal conversation: Approximately 60-70 dB
- City traffic (from inside a car): Around 85-90 dB
- Motorcycle engine: Approximately 95-100 dB
- Rock concert: Can range from 110-120 dB
- Chainsaw: Around 110-120 dB
- Jet engine at takeoff: Can exceed 120 dB
As you see, the 123 dB loudspeaker of the KingKong Power 3 rivals the sound levels of a rock concert or a chainsaw, making it exceptionally loud for a smartphone speaker. Whether you're watching videos, playing games, or listening to music, this device offers an unparalleled auditory experience.
For comparison, the predecessor Cubot KingKong Power featured a single loudspeaker.
Connectivity
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 covers the connectivity essentials, with the various options contributing to a well-rounded connectivity suite. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The KingKong Power 3 boasts Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. It supports A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming.
The GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, and BDS support ensures pinpoint location tracking, which is crucial for outdoor adventures or work in remote areas.
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 features NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
Sensors
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the KingKong Power 3.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
If you're in the market for a rugged smartphone that can survive the toughest conditions without sacrificing modern smartphone features, the Cubot KingKong Power 3 is a fantastic choice. Its durability, massive battery, and impressive camera make it an all-rounder for extreme environments. The 120 Hz display is a nice touch that pushes it beyond the usual "rugged" stereotype, adding a layer of performance and smoothness rarely seen in this category.
However, its bulky size and hefty weight make it a tough sell for casual users or those who prioritize portability. Additionally, while the performance should suffice for most users, details about the CPU and GPU remain unclear, so it may not satisfy power users or gamers looking for a high-end processing experience.
At the end of the day, the KingKong Power 3 is a rugged warrior with enough power and stamina to get you through anything life - or nature - throws at you.
Feature (top) image credit: Cubot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Cubot KingKong Power 3 release date?
The Cubot KingKong Power 3 has been announced in September, 2024. It is expected to release in October 2024.