It was a resounding defeat for the Irish forces. This was due in large part to the reluctance of the Spanish troops to leave the protection of the walled city of Kinsale and join the battle until it was over. O'Neill retreated back to Tyrone with his battered troops.
It was a decisive loss for the Irish forces. This was mainly because the Spanish troops were hesitant to leave the fortified city of Kinsale and participate in the battle until it concluded. O'Neill withdrew back to Tyrone with his weakened troops.