Sharp consistently delivers unique smartphones, often prioritizing design and features over mainstream trends. The Aquos Sense5G and Aquos R3 represent different ends of Sharp's spectrum – one a mid-range 5G option, the other a flagship powerhouse. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Aquos R3 is the clear winner for performance and features, boasting a Snapdragon 855 and wireless charging. However, the Sense5G offers a more budget-friendly 5G experience. If you prioritize speed and premium features, the R3 is the choice; if budget is a concern, the Sense5G is a solid option.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41 | 1, 3, 7, 8, 28, 38 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 28, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat15 1024/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 25. Released 2021, June 10 | 2019, August. Released 2019, August |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| 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) | 156 x 74 x 8.9 mm (6.14 x 2.91 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 178 g (6.28 oz) | 185 g (6.53 oz) |
| | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
MIL-STD-810H compliant | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2280 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~435 ppi density) | 1440 x 3120 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~554 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.8 inches, 84.0 cm2 (~79.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.2 inches, 94.4 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IGZO IPS LCD, HDR10 | IGZO IPS LCD, 1B colors, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 560 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 560 Silver) | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6350 Snapdragon 690 5G (8 nm) | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 619L | Adreno 640 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB 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 | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-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 | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 16 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.1 | USB Type-C 3.0 |
| 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 (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 27W wired | Wired, PD
Wireless |
| Type | Li-Ion 4570 mAh | Li-Po 3200 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Satin Gold, Titanium Black | Classic Black |
| Models | SHG03 | - |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 750 EUR |
Sharp Aquos sense5G
- Affordable 5G
- Practical design
- Good battery life
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- Mid-range performance
- Less impressive display
- Basic camera features
- No wireless charging
Sharp Aquos R3
- Flagship performance (Snapdragon 855)
- Stunning IGZO display
- Advanced camera system
- Wireless charging
- PD fast charging
- Higher price
- Potentially shorter battery life under heavy use
- Less mainstream design
Display Comparison
The Aquos R3 features a significantly superior display. It likely boasts a higher resolution, better color accuracy, and potentially a higher refresh rate (likely 120Hz) compared to the Sense5G's display (likely FHD+ and 60Hz). Sharp's IGZO technology is a key differentiator, offering excellent brightness and contrast. The Sense5G's display is perfectly adequate, but the R3's is in a different league.
Camera Comparison
While both phones likely offer capable cameras, the Aquos R3 is expected to have a more advanced camera system. Expect better image quality, improved low-light performance, and potentially more advanced features like optical image stabilization (OIS) and enhanced video recording capabilities. The Sense5G's camera is likely good for everyday snapshots, but the R3 aims for a higher level of photographic excellence.
Performance
The Snapdragon 855 in the Aquos R3 provides a substantial performance advantage over the Snapdragon 690 5G in the Sense5G. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and significantly better gaming performance on the R3. The R3's CPU and GPU are simply more powerful.
Battery Life
Battery life is likely comparable between the two, given similar battery capacities (estimated around 4500mAh for both). However, the Aquos R3's more power-hungry Snapdragon 855 might result in slightly shorter battery life under heavy use compared to the Sense5G's more efficient Snapdragon 690. Both support wired charging, but the R3's PD support and wireless charging offer added convenience.
Buying Guide
The Sharp Aquos Sense5G is ideal for users seeking a reliable 5G smartphone with a focus on practicality and affordability. It's great for everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming. The Sharp Aquos R3 is for power users and photography enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance, a stunning display, and advanced camera capabilities, and are willing to pay a premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Aquos R3 worth the extra cost?
If you prioritize performance, a premium display, and advanced camera features, the Aquos R3's higher price is justified. However, if you're on a budget, the Sense5G offers a solid 5G experience at a more accessible price point.
❓ Does the Sense5G support 5G?
Yes, the Sharp Aquos Sense5G is specifically designed as a 5G smartphone, offering connectivity on 5G networks.
