The Cubot Cheetah price in Kenya ranges between KSh 15,000 and KSh 18,000, making it an affordable rugged smartphone for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals. This durable device has gained popularity in Kenya for its blend of toughness, performance, and budget-friendly pricing.
Are you searching for a rugged phone that won’t break the bank? The Cubot Cheetah delivers military-grade durability, a long-lasting battery, and reliable performance—perfect for Kenya’s demanding environments. Discover why this smartphone is a top choice for adventurers, construction workers, and anyone needing a tough yet affordable device.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the Cubot Cheetah’s exact pricing, key features, where to buy it, and how it compares to competitors. Unlock everything you need to know before making your purchase.
Current Price Range of the Cubot Cheetah in Kenya
The Cubot Cheetah is priced competitively in Kenya, falling into the budget rugged smartphone category. Below is a breakdown of its current price range based on retailer variations and market trends:
- Budget Range (KSh 15,000 – KSh 16,500): Found in smaller online stores or during flash sales, often with limited warranty.
- Mid-Range (KSh 16,500 – KSh 17,500): The most common price bracket from reputable sellers like Jumia or physical stores, including basic warranties.
- Premium Range (KSh 17,500 – KSh 18,000): Includes bundled accessories (cases, screen protectors) or extended warranties from authorized dealers.
Prices tend to fluctuate slightly during holidays (Black Friday, Christmas) with discounts of 5-10%. Import taxes and dollar exchange rates also influence long-term pricing trends.
Key Specifications of the Cubot Cheetah
The Cubot Cheetah stands out as a rugged yet feature-packed smartphone designed for durability and performance. Here are its essential specifications:
- Build & Durability: MIL-STD-810G certified with reinforced rubber edges, IP68 waterproof/dustproof rating, and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.
- Display: 5.5-inch HD+ IPS screen (1280 x 720 resolution) with wet-finger touch support.
- Performance: MediaTek MT6761 quad-core processor, 3GB RAM, and 32GB storage (expandable via microSD up to 128GB).
- Battery: 5000mAh non-removable battery with 5V/2A fast charging—ideal for Kenya’s power fluctuations.
- Camera: Dual rear cameras (13MP + 2MP) and an 8MP front camera with LED flash for low-light selfies.
- Connectivity: Dual SIM (4G LTE), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS—optimized for rural and urban coverage.
These specs make it perfect for outdoor work, travel, and harsh environments across Kenya.
Factors Affecting the Cubot Cheetah Price in Kenya
Several key elements influence the final retail price of the Cubot Cheetah in the Kenyan market. Understanding these factors helps explain price variations between sellers:
- Import Costs & Taxes: 16% VAT and customs duties add 20-25% to the base price before reaching local retailers.
- Currency Fluctuations: The KES/USD exchange rate directly impacts costs – a weak shilling increases prices by 5-10%.
- Retailer Markup: Physical stores add 15-20% margin versus online sellers at 10-15% due to higher overheads.
- Rugged Certification Costs: IP68 and MIL-STD-810G compliance adds 7-12% to production costs versus standard phones.
- Seasonal Demand: Prices spike 8-12% during rainy seasons (April-May, October-November) when demand for durable phones peaks.
- Accessory Bundles: Kits with extra batteries or industrial cases increase prices by KSh 1,500-3,000.
These variables create the KSh 3,000 price range observed across different sellers.
Where to Buy the Cubot Cheetah in Kenya
Kenyan buyers can purchase the Cubot Cheetah through multiple reliable channels, each with distinct advantages:
- Jumia/Kilimall: Best for competitive pricing (KSh 15,500-17,000) and nationwide delivery, though warranty claims may take longer to process.
- Authorized Dealers: Nairobi’s CBD stores like Gadget Central offer genuine products with immediate warranty support at slightly higher prices (KSh 17,500-18,000).
- County Tech Hubs: Physical stores in Kisumu (Mega Plaza), Mombasa (Nyali Centre), and Nakuru provide hands-on inspection before purchase.
- Facebook Marketplace: Potential for bargains (KSh 14,000-16,000) but requires careful verification to avoid counterfeit units.
Tip: Always request IMEI verification and original purchase receipts when buying from physical stores or individual sellers.
Popular Brands and Alternatives to Cubot Cheetah
When considering rugged smartphones in Kenya, these alternatives offer different value propositions at various price points:
| Brand | Price Range (KES) | Key Features | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cubot Cheetah | 15,000 – 18,000 | IP68/MIL-STD-810G, 5000mAh, 5.5″ HD+ | Widely available online & stores |
| Blackview BV4900 | 18,500 – 22,000 | IP68/69K, 5580mAh, 5.7″ HD+ | Limited physical stores |
| Oukitel WP5 | 16,000 – 19,500 | 8000mAh battery, 5.5″ HD, NFC | Online only |
| Tecno Camon 19 Pro | 24,000 – 28,000 | 64MP camera, 5000mAh, splash-proof | All major retailers |
The Cubot Cheetah offers the best balance of price and rugged certification, while Blackview provides superior waterproofing. Oukitel leads in battery capacity, and Tecno offers better camera quality in a semi-rugged design. For those needing local warranty support, Tecno has the strongest service network across all 47 counties.
Budget-conscious buyers should consider refurbished Ulefone Armor models (KSh 12,000-15,000) available at Nairobi’s Simu Plaza, though with limited warranty coverage.
Essential Buying Tips for the Cubot Cheetah
Follow these expert recommendations to ensure you get a genuine, high-quality device at the best value:
- Physical Inspection: Check all ports have rubber seals intact, test buttons for responsiveness, and verify screen touch sensitivity (especially when wet).
- Seller Verification: Always ask for proof of KEBs certification and request to see multiple units to compare build quality.
- Warranty Details: Confirm if warranty covers water damage (rare) and whether repairs are handled locally or require China shipping.
- Battery Test: Demand to see actual battery health through engineering mode (*#*#4636#*#*) before purchase.
- Red Flags: Avoid sellers offering prices below KSh 14,000, those refusing to demonstrate waterproofing, or devices with mismatched IMEI numbers.
Pro Tip: Purchase during weekday mornings when stores are less busy to get thorough demonstrations and better bargaining leverage.
Final Verdict: Is the Cubot Cheetah Worth It?
Priced at KSh 15,000-18,000, the Cubot Cheetah delivers exceptional value as Kenya’s most affordable rugged smartphone with proper certifications. Outdoor workers should prioritize this model, while urban users may prefer semi-rugged alternatives like the Tecno Camon 19 Pro.
Always verify specifications with sellers and test waterproofing before purchase. For the best deals, check Jumia’s weekly tech sales or visit authorized dealers in Nairobi’s CBD for hands-on inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cubot Cheetah Price in Kenya
Does the Cubot Cheetah come with a warranty in Kenya?
Yes, authorized dealers provide a 12-month warranty covering manufacturing defects. However, water damage protection varies by seller – always verify warranty terms in writing. Unofficial imports may only have 3-6 months store warranty.
How does the price compare to similar rugged phones?
The Cheetah costs 20-25% less than Blackview models while offering comparable durability. It’s Kenya’s most affordable IP68-certified smartphone, though you sacrifice some camera quality and processor speed at this price point.
Where can I get genuine spare parts in Kenya?
Official service centers in Nairobi (Westlands) and Mombasa stock batteries (KSh 2,500), screens (KSh 4,000), and charging ports. Avoid counterfeit parts sold at Simu Plaza – they often fail waterproof tests.
Is the price likely to drop during holiday sales?
Expect 5-8% discounts during Black Friday and Christmas, mainly on Jumia. However, post-January price hikes of 3-5% are common due to new import taxes, making November-December the ideal buying period.
How can I verify I’m buying an original unit?
Check for holographic security stickers on the box, test all sensors using *#*#4636#*#*, and demand a receipt showing the IMEI. Original units have matte rubber edges without glue residues.
