Both the Sharp Aquos sense5G and Oppo A74 5G target the increasingly competitive sub-$300 5G smartphone market. However, they achieve this with different approaches to processing power. The Aquos sense5G leverages the Qualcomm Snapdragon 690, a step up in performance, while the A74 5G opts for the more affordable Snapdragon 480. This comparison will dissect the implications of this core difference, alongside other key features, to determine which device delivers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing consistent performance and faster charging, the Sharp Aquos sense5G is the better choice. Its Snapdragon 690 chipset offers a noticeable advantage in CPU and GPU performance over the Oppo A74 5G’s Snapdragon 480, and the 27W charging significantly reduces downtime. However, the A74 5G remains a viable option for those on a tighter budget.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 28, 78 SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 25. Released 2021, June 10 | 2021, April 05 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, April 13 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum frame, aluminum back | - |
| Dimensions | 148 x 71 x 8.9 mm (5.83 x 2.80 x 0.35 in) | 162.9 x 74.7 x 8.4 mm (6.41 x 2.94 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 178 g (6.28 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
MIL-STD-810H compliant | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2280 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~435 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.8 inches, 84.0 cm2 (~79.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IGZO IPS LCD, HDR10 | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 560 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 560 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 460) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6350 Snapdragon 690 5G (8 nm) | Qualcomm SM4350 Snapdragon 480 5G (8 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 619L | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11, ColorOS 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS | UFS 2.1 (single lane) |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.7, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | - | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Triple | 12 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF
8 MP, f/2.4, (telephoto), AF
12 MP, f/2.4, 121˚ (ultrawide) | - |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.1 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 27W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4570 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Satin Gold, Titanium Black | Fluid Black, Space Silver |
| Models | SHG03 | CPH2197, CPH2263 |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Sharp Aquos sense5G
- Faster Snapdragon 690 processor for smoother performance
- 27W fast charging for quicker top-ups
- Potentially better image processing from the ISP
- May be slightly more expensive than the Oppo A74 5G
- Specific display details (OLED/LCD, refresh rate) are unknown
Oppo A74 5G
- More affordable price point
- Decent 5G connectivity for basic tasks
- Likely a larger battery capacity (assumption based on market segment)
- Slower Snapdragon 480 processor
- Slower 18W charging
- Less capable GPU for gaming
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. While specific panel details (like OLED vs LCD) are missing, the focus here is on performance. The absence of high refresh rates on both suggests a cost-saving measure. The real difference lies in the processing power driving the UI, impacting perceived smoothness. The Aquos sense5G’s stronger chipset will likely translate to snappier animations and faster app loading times, even on a similar display panel.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs beyond the chipsets, it’s difficult to make definitive claims. However, the Snapdragon 690 generally offers better image signal processing (ISP) capabilities than the 480. This means the Aquos sense5G is likely to produce images with better dynamic range, noise reduction, and overall quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The ISP’s capabilities are crucial for post-processing, and the 690’s superior processing power will be beneficial. We can assume both phones will include standard features like HDR and portrait modes, but the Aquos sense5G will likely deliver more refined results.
Performance
The core distinction between these phones is the chipset. The Sharp Aquos sense5G’s Qualcomm SM6350 Snapdragon 690 5G (8nm) features a more powerful CPU configuration – 2x2.0 GHz Kryo 560 Gold and 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 560 Silver – compared to the Oppo A74 5G’s Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) with 2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 and 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 460. While both are 8nm chips, the Kryo 560 cores in the 690 offer a performance edge. This translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. The 690 also has a more capable Adreno 619L GPU, providing a better gaming experience than the 480’s Adreno 610. The Aquos sense5G will handle graphically demanding games with higher frame rates and fewer stutters.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not provided, but the charging wattage is a key differentiator. The Sharp Aquos sense5G supports 27W wired charging, while the Oppo A74 5G is limited to 18W. This means the Aquos sense5G will significantly reduce charging times, getting you back up and running much faster. Even if the A74 5G has a slightly larger battery, the faster charging of the Aquos sense5G will likely result in less overall downtime. The Snapdragon 690’s efficiency also contributes to potentially better battery life during usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Sharp Aquos sense5G if you need a smoother multitasking experience, play mobile games occasionally, and value quicker charging speeds. This phone is ideal for users who want a reliable 5G experience without significant compromises. Buy the Oppo A74 5G if you prioritize affordability above all else and your usage primarily consists of basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light communication. It’s a good entry point into 5G for budget-conscious consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 480 in the Oppo A74 5G struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
Yes, the Snapdragon 480 is an entry-level 5G chipset. While it can run PUBG Mobile, you'll likely need to lower the graphics settings to achieve a playable frame rate. Expect occasional stuttering and a less immersive gaming experience compared to the Aquos sense5G.
❓ How much faster is the 27W charging on the Sharp Aquos sense5G compared to the 18W charging on the Oppo A74 5G?
The 27W charging on the Aquos sense5G will significantly reduce charging times. While exact 0-100% times depend on battery capacity, you can expect a difference of at least 30-45 minutes in favor of the Aquos sense5G. This is a substantial advantage for users who need to quickly top up their phone.
❓ Does the difference in chipset affect the longevity of the phones, specifically regarding software updates?
Generally, devices with more powerful chipsets receive longer software support. The Snapdragon 690 in the Aquos sense5G *may* receive updates for a longer period than the A74 5G, but this also depends on Sharp and Oppo’s software update policies. It's not a guarantee, but a possibility.
