The Sharp Aquos V and Zero 2 represent interesting points in the company’s smartphone history, showcasing a shift in processing power and charging technology. The V, released with the Snapdragon 835, aimed for a strong performance-to-price ratio. The Zero 2, leveraging the Snapdragon 855, targeted a more premium experience with improved efficiency and faster charging. This comparison dissects the key differences between these two devices, focusing on how the chipset advancements translate to real-world benefits.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing future-proofing and faster charging, the Sharp Aquos Zero 2 is the clear winner. The Snapdragon 855’s 7nm process and architectural improvements deliver noticeable performance gains and better power efficiency compared to the Aquos V’s Snapdragon 835. However, the Aquos V remains a viable option for budget-conscious users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 13, 20, 38, 40 | 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 (2CA) Cat9 450/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, November. Released 2019, November | 2020, May 22. Released 2020, May 22 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 157 x 76 x 9 mm (6.18 x 2.99 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 | 173 g (6.10 oz) | 141 g (4.97 oz) |
| | - | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2160 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~409 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.9 inches, 89.8 cm2 (~75.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.4 inches, 100.5 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | OLED, 1B colors, 240Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Kryo & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo) | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 (10 nm) | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 540 | Adreno 640 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | No |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 3.0 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.0, PDAF, OIS
13 MP B/W | 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 | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps (gyro-EIS) | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps (gyro-EIS) | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | 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 (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wired, PD2.0 |
| Type | Li-Ion 3090 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 3130 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Blue |
| Models | SH-C02 | SH-Z20, SHV47, 906SH |
| Price | About 210 EUR | About 670 EUR |
Sharp Aquos V
- More affordable price point
- Capable performance for everyday tasks
- Snapdragon 835 is still a functional chipset
- Less efficient Snapdragon 835 processor
- Likely lacks fast charging standards like PD2.0
- Potentially inferior camera performance
Sharp Aquos Zero 2
- More powerful and efficient Snapdragon 855
- PD2.0 fast charging support
- Improved image processing capabilities
- Higher price point
- May not offer a substantial performance leap for basic users
- Potentially larger file sizes due to improved image processing
Display Comparison
Unfortunately, display specifications are not provided. However, given the Aquos V’s positioning, it likely features an LCD panel, while the Zero 2, being a more premium device, may have incorporated OLED technology. The Zero 2’s higher price point suggests a potentially higher peak brightness and more accurate color reproduction. Bezels are likely comparable, reflecting design trends of the time. Without specific data, a definitive comparison is impossible, but the Zero 2 likely offers a superior visual experience.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications are not provided. However, based on the market positioning, the Aquos Zero 2 likely features a more advanced camera system. The Snapdragon 855’s image signal processor (ISP) is superior to the 835’s, enabling faster image processing, improved dynamic range, and better low-light performance. The Zero 2 likely incorporates larger sensor sizes and wider apertures, further enhancing image quality. While both phones likely offer standard features like HDR and scene detection, the Zero 2’s ISP provides a more sophisticated image processing pipeline.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Aquos V’s Snapdragon 835, built on a 10nm process, features an octa-core CPU configuration with 4 cores clocked at 2.35 GHz and 4 at 1.9 GHz. The Zero 2’s Snapdragon 855, fabricated on a more efficient 7nm process, boasts an octa-core CPU with a 1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485, 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485, and 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485 configuration. This 7nm process allows the 855 to deliver significantly improved performance per watt. The Zero 2’s CPU architecture is also more advanced, resulting in faster processing speeds and better multitasking capabilities. Users engaging in graphically intensive tasks like gaming will experience smoother frame rates and reduced thermal throttling on the Zero 2.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, the Zero 2’s inclusion of PD2.0 charging is a significant advantage. PD2.0 allows for faster and more efficient charging compared to older standards. While the Aquos V likely supports Quick Charge, PD2.0 offers broader compatibility and potentially higher wattage support. The Snapdragon 855’s 7nm process also contributes to better power efficiency, meaning the Zero 2 can potentially achieve longer battery life despite having a similar or even smaller battery capacity than the Aquos V.
Buying Guide
Buy the Sharp Aquos V if you need a capable smartphone on a tight budget and aren’t heavily reliant on demanding applications or extended gaming sessions. Its Snapdragon 835 still provides a smooth experience for everyday tasks. Buy the Sharp Aquos Zero 2 if you prioritize performance, faster charging with PD2.0 support, and a more efficient processor for longer battery life, even if it comes at a higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Snapdragon 855 in the Aquos Zero 2 get noticeably warmer than the 835 during prolonged gaming sessions?
While the Snapdragon 855 is more powerful, its 7nm process and improved thermal management generally result in lower temperatures compared to the 10nm Snapdragon 835 under sustained load. The Zero 2 is likely to exhibit less thermal throttling during extended gaming, maintaining higher frame rates for longer periods.
❓ Is the PD2.0 charging on the Aquos Zero 2 compatible with my existing USB-C chargers?
PD2.0 is backward compatible with older USB-C chargers, but you’ll only achieve the fastest charging speeds when using a PD2.0-compliant charger and cable. Using a standard USB-C charger will still charge the Zero 2, but at a slower rate.
❓ Will I see a significant difference in app loading times between the Aquos V and Zero 2?
Yes, the Snapdragon 855’s faster CPU and improved memory controller will result in noticeably quicker app loading times compared to the Aquos V. This difference will be particularly apparent with larger, more complex applications.
