Sharp consistently delivers unique smartphones, and the Aquos R3 and Zero 2 are prime examples. Both boast impressive features, but cater to slightly different users. This comparison dives deep into their specs and performance to help you decide which one deserves your attention.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Aquos R3 edges out the Zero 2 thanks to its superior camera and potentially improved software support. While both share the Snapdragon 855, the R3's focus on photography and potentially longer software updates make it the slightly better choice, though the Zero 2 remains a compelling option.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 28, 38 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 28, 38, 39, 41 - Taiwan |
| 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 | 2020, May 22. Released 2020, May 22 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 156 x 74 x 8.9 mm (6.14 x 2.91 x 0.35 in) | 158 x 74 x 8.8 mm (6.22 x 2.91 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 141 g (4.97 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 6 |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3120 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~554 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 94.4 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.4 inches, 100.5 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IGZO IPS LCD, 1B colors, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision | OLED, 1B colors, 240Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 640 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | No |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM | 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS | UFS 3.0 |
| 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 | 12.2 MP, f/1.7, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
20 MP, f/2.4, 125˚ (ultrawide), AF |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive |
| 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 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 (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wired, PD
Wireless | Wired, PD2.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 3200 mAh | Li-Ion 3130 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Classic Black | Blue |
| Models | - | SH-Z20, SHV47, 906SH |
| Price | About 750 EUR | About 670 EUR |
Sharp Aquos R3
- Superior Camera System
- Potentially Longer Software Support
- High-Quality IGZO Display
- PD Wireless Charging
- Potentially Higher Price
- Availability Limited
- Design may not appeal to everyone
Sharp Aquos Zero 2
- PD 2.0 Fast Charging
- Sleek and Premium Design
- Flagship Performance (Snapdragon 855)
- Good Value for Money
- Camera Not as Advanced as R3
- Potentially Shorter Software Support
- Availability Limited
Display Comparison
Both phones feature Sharp's renowned IGZO display technology, known for its excellent color accuracy and brightness. The R3 likely has a slightly larger display and potentially a higher resolution, though specific details require further confirmation. Expect vibrant visuals and excellent outdoor visibility on both.
Camera Comparison
The Aquos R3 is heavily marketed around its camera capabilities, featuring a larger sensor and potentially improved image processing algorithms. The Zero 2's camera is still capable, but the R3 is expected to deliver superior image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Expect better detail and dynamic range from the R3.
Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 855, both devices offer flagship-level performance. Expect smooth multitasking, responsive gaming, and effortless navigation. Differences in real-world performance will likely be minimal, depending on software optimization and RAM management.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is a key differentiator. While specific capacities are not explicitly stated, the R3 is expected to have a larger battery to support its more demanding camera features. The Zero 2 benefits from PD 2.0 fast charging, potentially offering quicker charging times.
Buying Guide
The Sharp Aquos R3 is ideal for photography enthusiasts who value a high-end camera experience and potentially longer software support. The Aquos Zero 2 is a great choice for users seeking a premium Android experience with fast charging and a sleek design, especially if budget is a significant factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is IGZO display technology?
IGZO (Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide) is a display technology known for its excellent brightness, color accuracy, and power efficiency compared to traditional LCDs.
❓ Are these phones readily available outside of Japan?
Availability is limited. Both phones are primarily targeted at the Japanese market, making import necessary for buyers in other regions.
❓ How does the Snapdragon 855 perform in these phones?
The Snapdragon 855 provides flagship-level performance, ensuring smooth operation for most tasks and demanding games. Real-world performance will depend on software optimization.
