Sharp consistently delivers unique smartphones, and the Aquos R3 and R2 Compact are no exception. Both offer a distinct Japanese design aesthetic and a focus on premium features, but cater to different user preferences. This comparison dives deep into their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Aquos R3 is the clear winner in terms of raw performance thanks to its Snapdragon 855 chipset. However, the R2 Compact's smaller size and potentially lower price make it a compelling option for those prioritizing portability and value. It depends on your priorities: power or pocketability.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 28, 38 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 11, 12, 17, 19, 26, 28, 41, 42 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat15 1024/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, August. Released 2019, August | 2018, November. Released 2019, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 156 x 74 x 8.9 mm (6.14 x 2.91 x 0.35 in) | 131 x 64 x 9.3 mm (5.16 x 2.52 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 135 g (4.76 oz) |
| | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3120 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~554 ppi density) | 1080 x 2280 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~485 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 94.4 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.2 inches, 67.5 cm2 (~80.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IGZO IPS LCD, 1B colors, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision | IGZO IPS LCD, 120Hz, HDR10 |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) | Octa-core (4x2.6 GHz Kryo 385 Gold & 4x1.7 GHz Kryo 385 Silver) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) | Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 630 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 10 | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 12.2 MP, f/1.7, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
20 MP, f/2.4, 125˚ (ultrawide), AF, OIS | - |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 22.6 MP, f/1.9, 22 mm, PDAF, OIS |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps (gyro-EIS) |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.2, 23 mm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wired, PD
Wireless | 18W wired, PD2.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 3200 mAh | Li-Ion 2500 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Classic Black | Smokey Green, Deep White, Pure Black |
| Models | - | SH-M09 |
| Price | About 750 EUR | - |
Sharp Aquos R3
- Superior Performance (Snapdragon 855)
- Larger, Higher-Resolution Display
- Likely Improved Camera System
- Fast Charging (PD & Wireless)
- Larger Size - Less Pocketable
- Potentially Higher Price
- Availability may be limited
Sharp Aquos R2 compact
- Compact and Pocketable
- Premium Design
- PD 2.0 Charging
- Potentially More Affordable
- Older Processor (Snapdragon 845)
- Smaller Display
- Shorter Battery Life
- Limited Availability
Display Comparison
The Aquos R3 boasts a significantly larger 6.6-inch IGZO display with a higher resolution (likely 3040 x 1440) offering sharper visuals and more screen real estate. The R2 Compact features a smaller, but still impressive, 5.0-inch IGZO display (likely 2280 x 1080). Both utilize Sharp's excellent IGZO technology known for its brightness and color accuracy, but the R3's size advantage is undeniable for media consumption and multitasking.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature high-quality camera systems, typical of Sharp's premium offerings. The R3 likely has a more advanced camera setup with potentially more lenses and improved image processing capabilities. Expect better low-light performance and more versatile shooting options on the R3. Specific camera specs are needed for a more precise comparison.
Performance
The Snapdragon 855 in the Aquos R3 provides a substantial performance boost over the Snapdragon 845 in the R2 Compact. Expect faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the R3. While the R2 Compact is still capable, the R3's chipset represents a significant generational leap.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is a key differentiator. The R3, with its larger size, likely houses a larger battery (potentially around 4000-4500mAh) offering longer battery life. The R2 Compact's smaller size necessitates a smaller battery (likely around 2500-3000mAh), resulting in shorter battery life, though its more efficient processor may help offset this.
Buying Guide
The Sharp Aquos R3 is ideal for power users who demand top-tier performance, a large, high-resolution display, and don't mind a larger phone. The Sharp Aquos R2 Compact is perfect for those seeking a compact, premium Android experience with a focus on portability and ease of one-handed use, and potentially a more budget-friendly price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Sharp Aquos R3 worth the extra cost over the R2 Compact?
If you prioritize performance and a larger display, the R3 is worth the investment. However, if you value portability and a more budget-friendly option, the R2 Compact remains a compelling choice.
❓ Where can I buy the Sharp Aquos R3 and R2 Compact?
Availability is limited, particularly outside of Japan. Check online retailers specializing in imported electronics or Sharp's official website for availability in your region.
