Sharp consistently delivers unique smartphones, and the Aquos R3 and Aquos sense5G are no exception. But with different target audiences and price points, choosing between them can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will break down their key differences to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Aquos R3 is the clear performance champion, boasting a flagship Snapdragon 855 and premium features. However, the Aquos sense5G offers excellent value with 5G connectivity and a more accessible price. The R3 wins for power users; the sense5G is ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 28, 38 | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 28, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat15 1024/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, August. Released 2019, August | 2020, September 25. Released 2021, June 10 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum frame, aluminum back |
| Dimensions | 156 x 74 x 8.9 mm (6.14 x 2.91 x 0.35 in) | 148 x 71 x 8.9 mm (5.83 x 2.80 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 178 g (6.28 oz) |
| | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
MIL-STD-810H compliant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | - |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3120 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~554 ppi density) | 1080 x 2280 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~435 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 94.4 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.8 inches, 84.0 cm2 (~79.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IGZO IPS LCD, 1B colors, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision | IGZO IPS LCD, HDR10 |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 560 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 560 Silver) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM6350 Snapdragon 690 5G (8 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 619L |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 10 | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS | 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 |
| Triple | - | 12 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF
8 MP, f/2.4, (telephoto), AF
12 MP, f/2.4, 121˚ (ultrawide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP |
| 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 | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.0 | USB Type-C 3.1 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, 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 | 27W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 3200 mAh | Li-Ion 4570 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Classic Black | Satin Gold, Titanium Black |
| Models | - | SHG03 |
| Price | About 750 EUR | About 250 EUR |
Sharp Aquos R3
- Flagship Snapdragon 855 performance
- Stunning IGZO display
- Fast wired and wireless charging
- Premium build quality
- Higher price point
- Battery life details unknown
- Availability may be limited
Sharp Aquos sense5G
- 5G connectivity
- More affordable price
- Solid camera performance
- Good value for money
- Mid-range Snapdragon 690 5G chipset
- Less powerful than R3
- Display refresh rate likely 60Hz
Display Comparison
The Aquos R3 features a 6.6-inch IGZO display with a 20:9 aspect ratio and a high refresh rate (likely 120Hz, though not explicitly stated), offering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. The Aquos sense5G has a smaller 6.2-inch display, likely with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The R3's display is noticeably superior in terms of size, clarity, and refresh rate.
Camera Comparison
While specific camera specs are missing, the Aquos R3 likely has a more advanced camera system due to its higher-end chipset. Expect better image processing, low-light performance, and potentially more features. The sense5G likely offers a competent camera setup suitable for casual photography, but it won't match the R3's capabilities. Both likely feature a main lens, ultrawide, and potentially a telephoto.
Performance
Here's where the Aquos R3 truly shines. Its Snapdragon 855 chipset provides significantly more processing power than the sense5G's Snapdragon 690 5G. Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the R3. The sense5G is still capable for everyday tasks, but it won't handle demanding applications as well.
Battery Life
Battery capacity information is missing for both devices. However, the Aquos sense5G's more efficient Snapdragon 690 5G chipset and smaller display may result in slightly better battery life than the Aquos R3, despite the R3 potentially having a larger battery. The R3's faster charging (PD) is a plus.
Buying Guide
The Sharp Aquos R3 is for users who prioritize top-tier performance, a stunning display, and don't mind a higher price tag. It's perfect for gamers, content creators, and anyone demanding the best. The Sharp Aquos sense5G is a great choice for those seeking a reliable 5G smartphone with a good camera and solid battery life at a more affordable price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Aquos R3 worth the extra money?
If you prioritize performance and a premium display, the Aquos R3 is worth the investment. However, if you're on a budget, the sense5G offers excellent value.
❓ Does the Aquos sense5G support 5G?
Yes, the Aquos sense5G is specifically designed for 5G connectivity.
