In the world of smartphones, Sharp's two entries - the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro - are making waves with top-notch features suited to both enthusiasts and power users.
The Aquos R9 sits comfortably in the premium mid-range segment, ideal for users seeking high-quality performance without tipping into flagship territory. This phone combines impressive display specs, powerful camera options, and a robust build for a well-rounded experience. It's perfect for those who want solid specs and a dependable design without splurging on unnecessary luxuries.
Meanwhile, the Aquos R9 pro dives into flagship territory, crafted for those who crave an ultra-high-definition screen, next-gen processing power, and top-shelf camera technology. The R9 pro is Sharp's bid to compete at the very top, catering to heavy-duty users who demand peak performance in gaming, photography, and multitasking. However, casual users and those on a budget may find these features more than they need, especially given the price point.
Let's dig deeper into the standout features and specifications of these models.
Design and Build Quality
The Aquos R9 is a sleek and sturdy device with dimensions of 156×75×8.9 mm and a manageable weight of 195 grams. Its design incorporates a glass front protected by Gorilla Glass 5 and a Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back, paired with an aluminum frame for durability. Available in Forest Green and Snow White, it's both stylish and built to last.
The Aquos R9 pro has a larger form factor at 162×78×9.3 mm and a heavier build at 229 grams, giving it a robust, premium feel. Available in classic Black, it's sleek yet sturdy, appealing to those who appreciate minimalist designs.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
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General |
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Dimensions | H: 156 mm (6.14″), W: 75 mm (2.95″), D: 8.9 mm (0.35″) | H: 162 mm (6.38″), W: 78 mm (3.07″), D: 9.3 mm (0.37″) |
Mass | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 229 g (8.08 oz) |
Material | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for display protection; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back; aluminum frame | N/A |
Colors | Forest Green, Snow White | Black |
The bodies of the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro bring an appealing mix of durability, style, and size, with both models offering impressive protection standards and finishes that'll appeal to different user styles.
The Aquos R9 falls into the compact yet substantial category. It's sleek enough to be manageable for one-handed use, and the 195g weight gives it a solid presence without feeling too hefty. Users who want a comfortable everyday carry that won't drag down their pocket or bag should find the Aquos R9's dimensions ideal for extended use.
The Aquos R9 pro, by contrast, is larger and significantly heavier at 229 grams. This size fits a "pro" model, where the heft can add a reassuringly premium feel in hand but might be a touch bulky for users preferring a lighter device. Those who prioritize screen size and are okay with a bit more weight to get a sturdy build will find the pro model comfortable. The size may suit pockets of jackets and bags more comfortably than jeans or small clutches, though.
The Aquos R9 features Gorilla Glass 5 for display protection. Gorilla Glass 5 is designed to withstand drops from up to 1.6 meters onto rough surfaces and can handle accidental slips with relative ease. This is a major plus for day-to-day protection against accidental drops and rough handling, especially for anyone who frequently uses one's phone outdoors or on the go.
Sharp's choice to apply this material for display protection gives Aquos R9 users a screen that's durable enough for minor impacts while preserving visual clarity and touch sensitivity.
The Gorilla Glass Victus 2 used for the back on the Aquos R9 is a step up from earlier glass designs, crafted with improved scratch resistance and a greater focus on handling surface stress from rough or uneven drops. Placing Victus 2 on the back gives the phone extra durability if it's set down roughly or experiences small drops.
Plus, Victus 2 is designed for a smoother look and feel, enhancing the overall aesthetics and grip.
The Aquos R9's aluminum frame offers lightweight strength and a premium, sturdy structure around the edges. This frame is well-regarded for durability without adding much extra weight, and it's tough against bending and day-to-day wear. The aluminum finish also provides a sleek look, while keeping the edges relatively cool during intensive use.
In short, it's a sturdy choice for an upper midrange device like the Aquos R9, adding both durability and style.
Color is a personal choice that often reflects a user's personality and style. Here's a quick take on which personalities each color suits:
- Black: Black is a universal choice for those who prefer sophistication and a professional look. It hides smudges well, is timeless in appeal, and tends to match any outfit or accessory style, making it popular among those who like to keep things subtle and sleek.
- Forest Green: This unique shade speaks to nature lovers, minimalists, and users who want something a bit outside the traditional. Forest Green has a subtle elegance and appeals to those who like an earthy, understated look while still having a touch of individuality in their tech. It's also great for those who appreciate eco-conscious vibes without shouting it out.
- Snow White: Snow White brings a refreshing, clean, and somewhat futuristic aesthetic. It's great for people who like their devices to look crisp and modern. White colors also tend to feel lighter visually, so users who want a device that doesn't look or feel as hefty may be drawn to this option.
Overall, both the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro strike a good balance between sturdy design and a polished look. The Aquos R9's use of Gorilla Glass 5 on the display and Victus 2 on the back makes it durable without compromising on weight, while the Aquos R9 pro's additional heft aligns with its "pro" classification, ideal for users who prefer a larger device. The range of colors adds personality to each phone, making them attractive to a wide spectrum of users who value both form and function in their mobile tech.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
Both the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro carry an IP68 water and dust resistance rating (up to 1.5 m for 30 minutes), ensuring they can withstand most real-world scenarios. The Aquos R9 additionally boasts MIL-STD-810G compliance, which adds to its durability.
The "IP" stands for Ingress Protection, and it's followed by two digits. The first digit (6 here) represents the level of protection against solid objects or dust. A rating of 6 means the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro are dust-tight. No pesky particles are sneaking into these devices! They're a fortress against the tiniest invaders.
The second digit (8 here) is the aquatic superhero. A rating of 8 signifies exceptional water resistance. The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro can handle being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for a glorious 30 minutes. So, accidental drops in the pool or unexpected rain showers are nothing more than a splash in the park for these phones.
In simpler terms, with their IP68 rating, the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro are like a superhero in the tech world, impervious to both dust storms and water escapades. Whether you're conquering dusty trails or braving the rain, these phones stand tall, ready for any adventure you throw their way! Now, who said technology can't be an action-packed thriller?
The MIL-STD-810G compliance takes the Sharp Aquos R9's durability to the next level. This is a US military standard that outlines testing processes for evaluating the durability and environmental resilience of equipment.
To comply with MIL-STD-810G, the Aquos R9 had to undergo a series of rigorous tests designed to simulate real-world environments it might encounter. Here are some key tests involved:
- Temperature Tests: These tests test the device in extremely hot as well as extremely cold conditions (freezing or below-freezing temperatures) to ensure it operates properly. They also include rapid temperature changes (e.g., from a freezing cold environment to a hot one) to test durability.
- Humidity: Tests resistance to high humidity levels to ensure internal components don't get damaged or malfunction.
- Vibration: Simulates transportation and operational vibrations, like in vehicles or during equipment use in rugged terrain.
- Shock and Drop: The Sharp Aquos R9 was dropped from various heights or subjected to impacts to test their resilience to physical shocks.
- Water Resistance: This includes exposure to rain, immersion in water, and water spray tests to ensure the device can withstand wet conditions.
- Dust and Sand: The Aquos R9 was tested in dusty or sandy environments to see how well it resists particles that could affect its functionality.
- Altitude: Simulates high-altitude environments to ensure the device can function without being affected by lower air pressure.
- Solar Radiation: Tests long-term exposure to sunlight to ensure that UV rays don't damage or degrade the device.
- Fungus Resistance: Ensures the materials used in the Aquos R9 won't degrade due to mold or fungi in humid environments.
- Explosive Atmosphere: Tests the ability of the device to operate safely in environments where explosive gases or substances are present.
By passing the stringent MIL-STD-810G standard, the Sharp Aquos R9 ensures that it can handle extreme environmental conditions.
Display: Pro IGZO LTPO OLED at Its Best
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
Sharp has equipped the Aquos R9 with a 6.5-inch Pro IGZO LTPO OLED display. With a remarkable adaptive 240 Hz refresh rate, high brightness mode (HBM) at 1500 nits, and a peak brightness of 2000 nits, this display is stunningly vivid, even in direct sunlight. The screen is HDR and Dolby Vision-enabled, enhancing color vibrancy and detail. This display tech is designed for fluidity, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize display quality for both media and gameplay.
The Aquos R9 pro's crown jewel is a superior 6.7-inch Pro IGZO LTPO OLED display, showcasing a breathtaking 1 billion colors, along with Dolby Vision and HDR. The adaptive 1 - 240 Hz refresh rate caters to both everyday scrolling and high-intensity gaming. With a QHD resolution of 1440×3120 pixels and a pixel density of about 513 PPI, the display is ultra-sharp, ideal for users who prioritize immersive viewing experiences.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
Size | 6.5″ (165 mm) diagonal | 6.7″ (170 mm) diagonal |
Type | Pro IGZO LTPO OLED, 240 Hz (adaptive) | Pro IGZO LTPO OLED, 1 - 240 Hz (adaptive) |
Resolution (px) | 1080×2340, about 396 PPI | 1440×3120, about 513 PPI |
Brightness | HBM: 1500 nits; Peak: 2000 nits | N/A |
Features | HDR, Dolby Vision | 1 billion colors, HDR, Dolby Vision |
The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro bring some of the most cutting-edge display tech available, which is especially evident in their Pro IGZO LTPO OLED displays. Pro IGZO LTPO OLED stands for Professional Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide Organic Light-Emitting Diode. This display technology is essentially an advanced combination of IGZO and LTPO OLED technologies, blending their benefits to create an ultra-responsive and color-rich display that is energy efficient and offers excellent refresh rate flexibility.
In terms of its key components, IGZO (Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide) is a high-mobility, transparent oxide semiconductor material. It offers faster electron mobility than traditional materials like amorphous silicon, which means the pixels can turn on and off more quickly, leading to smoother visuals, sharper image clarity, and lower energy consumption.
And LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) provides adaptive refresh rate support. While regular OLED displays are often locked at fixed refresh rates, LTPO allows the screen to dynamically shift refresh rates between a wide range (1 - 240 Hz in the pro), optimizing battery efficiency and enabling smooth scrolling when needed without unnecessary energy drain.
By combining these elements with OLED technology, which allows each pixel to emit its own light, Sharp's Pro IGZO LTPO OLED display offers the deep blacks and vibrant colors OLED is known for while enhancing energy efficiency and responsiveness.
The adaptive refresh rate on these displays can shift between lower rates (like 1 Hz) and 240 Hz based on the type of content being displayed. Low refresh rates (1 - 10 Hz) are used when the screen displays static content, like in reading mode, saving power. Higher refresh rates (120 - 240 Hz) kick in when scrolling through apps, playing high-frame-rate games, or interacting with fast-paced animations, resulting in fluid, stutter-free visuals.
The 240 Hz adaptive refresh rate is top-notch, enabling these phones to respond instantly to user input while conserving battery by lowering the refresh rate during less intensive use.
The Sharp Aquos R9 has a 1080×2340 pixel resolution on a 6.5-inch screen, yielding about 396 PPI (pixels per inch). This is sharp and detailed enough for most users, giving crisp visuals for media consumption, reading, and web browsing. The screen-to-body ratio of around 88.6% also ensures an immersive experience.
The Aquos R9 pro, with its 6.7-inch display and 1440×3120 pixel resolution, offers a stunning 513 PPI. This level of sharpness enhances detail visibility, especially useful when watching high-definition videos or editing photos, and it caters well to users who love immersive, ultra-clear visuals. This Quad HD+ resolution combined with a larger screen size gives the Aquos R9 pro an edge in media and productivity.
For a smartphone screen, brightness is a critical factor in usability, especially outdoors. The Sharp Aquos R9 boasts 1500 nits HBM (High Brightness Mode), which is incredibly bright and helps with clarity even under direct sunlight.
Further, its 2000 nits peak brightness is especially useful for HDR content, where scenes require high contrast and intense brightness to reveal detail in both shadows and highlights. These high brightness values make it ideal for users who are often outdoors or in brightly lit environments, ensuring the display remains visible and vibrant.
The Aquos R9 pro's ability to display 1 billion colors offers a visual experience that's a step above the typical 16 million colors seen in standard displays. This wide color gamut brings out more subtle shades and gradients, providing a more true-to-life representation, especially in nature scenes, graphic design, and HDR video content.
This is a feature that creative professionals, photographers, and videophiles will appreciate.
Both the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro support HDR (High Dynamic Range), allowing for better color contrast and a wider range between the darkest and brightest parts of the display. This makes movie watching and gaming more engaging, as HDR content (from platforms like Netflix and gaming titles) reveals greater detail in both shadowy and bright areas.
Dolby Vision is an advanced form of HDR that adjusts the color and brightness scene by scene, giving an even more immersive experience. With Dolby Vision support, the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro can provide rich detail and excellent brightness adaptation across scenes, making them ideal for cinephiles and anyone who loves watching high-quality video content on one's mobile device.
In conclusion, the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro displays offer a host of high-end features that elevate the visual experience. The Pro IGZO LTPO OLED technology brings together fast response times, adaptive refresh rates, and energy efficiency. Both phones bring intense brightness levels that will perform well outdoors, and the adaptive refresh rate promises a seamless and battery-friendly experience regardless of what's on-screen.
For the Aquos R9 pro, the inclusion of a Quad HD+ resolution, 1 billion colors, and Dolby Vision support pushes it firmly into premium territory, catering to users who value precision in color and clarity.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Networking is the invisible thread that connects us all in the digital world! The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro, with their support for the networking quartet of GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G technologies, are like well-connected socialites in the world of networks.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality. And of course, the star of the show - 5G. It's the future, promising blazing-fast download and upload speeds, reduced latency, and a world of possibilities for future applications.
SIM
The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro support both Nano-SIM and eSIM, offering flexibility for users who travel frequently or manage multiple numbers.
Chipset - Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, a 4-nm chipset with an octa-core CPU and Adreno 732 GPU, the Aquos R9 is well-equipped for smooth performance across most applications. Whether multitasking or running graphics-intensive apps, it offers enough power for everyday use. The Aquos R9 pro runs on the powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset (4 nm), an octa-core processor with the latest Adreno 735 GPU. This configuration ensures lightning-fast performance, whether gaming, streaming, or multitasking, without compromise. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
Chipset | Qualcomm SM7675-AB Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 (4 nm) | Qualcomm SM8635 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4 nm) |
CPU | Octa-core (1×2.8 GHz Cortex-X4 + 4×2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 + 3×1.9 GHz Cortex-A520) | Octa-core (1×3.0 GHz Cortex-X4 + 4×2.8 GHz Cortex-A720 + 3×2.0 GHz Cortex-A520) |
GPU | Adreno 732 | Adreno 735 |
The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro come equipped with Qualcomm's latest-generation Snapdragon chipsets tailored to provide a balance of power and efficiency across their mid-range and high-end segments. The Aquos R9's Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 is a powerhouse among upper-midrange SoCs (System on Chips) and, with its efficient 4-nm process, brings a mix of performance and battery savings. This SoC is designed to handle day-to-day multitasking, gaming, and media playback with ease, while still conserving energy.
The Aquos R9 pro's Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 is an impressive high-end chipset, and with its 4-nm architecture, it brings even greater efficiency and power than previous generations. This chipset is specifically tuned for flagship-level performance, delivering top speeds and excellent graphics rendering while remaining energy-efficient.
The CPUs in both these chipsets are built around an octa-core configuration, which includes three types of cores optimized for specific tasks:
- 1×Cortex-X4 (2.8 GHz in Aquos R9, 3.0 GHz in Aquos R9 pro): This core is known as the "Prime" core, which focuses on peak performance. It's responsible for the most intensive tasks like rendering 3D graphics, high-frame-rate gaming, and heavy multitasking. This core activates when the phone needs all its power for a brief period, delivering ultra-fast performance.
The Aquos R9 pro's Prime core offers an even higher peak performance than the Aquos R9's setup, optimized for the most intensive operations like real-time rendering, high-end gaming, and rapid AI processing. With a 3.0 GHz clock speed, this core ensures the device feels ultra-responsive during bursts of intense processing.
- 4× Cortex-A720 (2.6 GHz GHz in Aquos R9, 2.8 GHz in Aquos R9 pro): These four Performance cores handle demanding tasks like heavy apps, gaming, and advanced multitasking. They pick up tasks that don't quite need the full power of the Cortex-X4 but still require ample performance, ensuring the phone stays snappy without draining too much power.
The pro's Performance cores clocked slightly higher than those in the vanilla Aquos R9, allowing the pro model to handle heavier multitasking, advanced apps, and graphics-intensive tasks more smoothly and efficiently.
- 3× Cortex-A520 (1.9 GHz GHz in Aquos R9, 2.0 GHz in Aquos R9 pro): Finally, the Efficiency cores handle lightweight, routine tasks like web browsing, texting, and background processes. These cores are all about conserving battery while keeping the device responsive for basic actions, prolonging battery life.
The Aquos R9 pro's efficiency cores, with a slightly higher clock speed than those in the Aquos R9, further contribute to the former's responsiveness in everyday tasks, while still conserving power during basic use.
The Adreno 732 GPU in the Aquos R9 is capable of rendering high-quality graphics at smooth frame rates for most mid-to-high range games. While it doesn't compete with flagship-level GPUs, it's more than sufficient for casual gaming, video playback, and even some heavier gaming at reduced settings.
The Aquos R9 pro's Adreno 735 GPU is a substantial step up from the Aquos R9's Adreno 732, designed for flagship-level performance. It offers higher frame rates, advanced graphical effects, and greater energy efficiency, making it ideal for high-definition gaming, complex 3D visuals, and smooth video playback, particularly in 4K. This GPU's power will shine in high-end games and graphics-intensive applications, where visual quality is crucial.
In summary, both the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro pack impressive internals suited to their target audiences. The Aquos R9's Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 offers a powerful and efficient package for most users who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. The Aquos R9 pro's Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, on the other hand, is perfect for power users and mobile gamers, delivering peak performance and superior graphics rendering.
With these CPU and GPU combinations, both models can handle a wide range of tasks, from simple daily apps to high-end games, with the Aquos R9 pro's chipset and GPU bringing an extra layer of smoothness and speed for intensive use. These setups are crafted for performance when needed but stay efficient for day-to-day tasks, making both phones versatile and robust options in their respective categories.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
RAM | 12 GB | 12 GB |
Internal Storage | 256 GB UFS 4.0 | 512 GB |
Memory Card Slot | microSDXC | No |
Cameras
The Aquos R9 brings a dual-camera system comprising two 50.3 MP lenses, both packed with advanced imaging technology. The primary wide-angle camera with dual-pixel PDAF captures crisp details with OIS support. Meanwhile, the ultrawide 50.3 MP lens with a 122° field of view lets you capture expansive scenes without sacrificing quality. The 50.3 MP front camera also supports autofocus, delivering high-res selfies.
The Aquos R9 pro elevates its camera game with a triple Leica lens setup, each at 50.3 MP. The primary wide lens with OIS ensures incredible detail and clarity. The 65 mm telephoto lens offers 2.8x optical zoom for crisp portraits, and the ultrawide lens with a macro mode handles intricate close-ups. The 50.3 MP front camera completes the package, producing high-quality selfies.
Rear Camera
The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro both offer high-quality camera systems that blend high megapixel counts with versatile lenses and stabilization features, making them well-suited for mobile photographers of various skill levels. Let's break down the main camera setups, lens types, and advanced features they bring to the table. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) | 3 (Triple) |
Resolution (Megapixels) | 50.3 MP (wide), 50.3 MP (ultrawide) | 50.3 MP (wide), 50.3 MP (telephoto), 50.3 MP (ultrawide with macro mode) |
Focal Length | 23 mm, 13 mm | 23 mm, 65 mm, 13 mm |
Aperture | f/1.9, f/2.2 | f/1.8, f/2.6, f/2.2 |
Sensor Size | 1/1.55″, 1/2.55″ | 1/0.98″, 1/1.56″, 1/2.5″ |
Autofocus | Dual-pixel PDAF, PDAF | PDAF, PDAF, PDAF |
Image Stabilization | OIS, N/A | OIS, OIS, N/A |
Field of View | N/A, 122° | 86°, N/A, 122° |
Optical Zoom | N/A, N/A | N/A, 2.8x, N/A |
Video Recording | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 30/60 fps, gyro-EIS | Yes, gyro-EIS, Dolby Vision HDR |
Other Features | Leica lenses, LED flash, panorama, HDR | Leica lenses, LED flash, panorama, HDR |
The Aquos R9's 50.3 MP (f/1.9) wide lens is the go-to lens for most scenarios, capturing high-resolution images with a natural perspective similar to human vision. With a large 1/1.55″ sensor and dual-pixel PDAF for fast and accurate autofocus, it's designed for clear, crisp images, even in lower light.
The Aquos R9 pro's 50.3 MP (f/1.8, 86° FoV) wide lens is built for capturing sharp and vivid shots in various lighting conditions. With an impressive 1/0.98″ sensor, it collects more light than standard smartphone sensors, making it particularly effective for low-light photography. It also features PDAF and OIS, ensuring both quick focusing and stable shots, especially in dim environments.
The 50.3 MP (13 mm, f/2.2) ultrawide lens in these phones is perfect for scenic landscapes, group photos, and capturing a broader view. It delivers a super-wide 122° field of view. Its high megapixel count means that details remain sharp, while PDAF ensures fast focusing for moving subjects. This lens makes it easier to capture wide perspectives without needing to step back physically.
With the added macro mode, this versatile lens captures ultra-wide shots and close-ups of small subjects, like flowers and textures, with excellent detail. PDAF on this lens ensures quick focus even in challenging conditions, making it easier to switch between wide landscapes and close-up shots.
The Aquos R9 pro's telephoto lens (50.3 MP, 65 mm, f/2.6) offers a 2.8x optical zoom, making it ideal for close-up shots and portrait photography, as it creates a natural background blur (bokeh effect) without relying on digital zoom. It uses a 1/1.56″ sensor for detailed captures, and OIS helps maintain clarity and sharpness, even when zoomed in.
Among the camera features, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) is a fast and accurate autofocus system that works by measuring phase differences in incoming light.
In dual-pixel PDAF, every pixel on the sensor is used for phase detection, leading to even quicker and more reliable focusing, especially in low-light or moving-subject scenarios. Dual-pixel PDAF is notably advantageous in dynamic environments where capturing fast-moving subjects is essential.
OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) physically stabilizes the lens or sensor, counteracting hand movements to ensure sharper images and smoother video.
In low-light photography, OIS can extend the exposure time without blur, which is especially useful for night shots.
Both phones employ Leica lenses, which are crafted with precision to produce clear, high-fidelity images with Leica's characteristic color science.
Leica optics are respected for delivering high contrast and color accuracy, which is evident in the quality of photos taken on the Aquos R9 series.
LED flash provides additional light in low-light settings, ensuring subjects are well-lit without harsh overexposure. This is also effective for balanced lighting when ambient light is insufficient.
Panorama mode stitches multiple images together for ultra-wide landscape shots, while HDR combines multiple exposures to balance shadows and highlights, ideal for high-contrast scenes.
Among the video recording features, gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) uses the phone's gyroscope to detect movement and stabilize video footage, minimizing shakes and jitters in handheld shots.
Gyro-EIS provides smoother, more stable video, which is essential for capturing high-quality video on the go without requiring a tripod.
Dolby Vision HDR is an advanced HDR standard that adds a rich dynamic range to videos, making darks deeper, brights brighter, and colors more vibrant.
Dolby Vision HDR enhances video quality, producing cinema-grade footage that stands out on compatible displays.
In conclusion, the Sharp Aquos R9 is a highly capable shooter with its dual Leica lens setup and advanced stabilization, ideal for users who want versatile shooting modes with reliable image quality. Meanwhile, the Aquos R9 pro steps up with a triple camera setup that includes a telephoto lens for optical zoom, Dolby Vision HDR for cinema-quality video, and macro mode for close-ups.
Both models excel in various shooting conditions, with the pro model offering additional features for those who prioritize a more advanced, professional-level camera experience.
Front Camera
The selfie camera in both phones sits inside a centered punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
Resolution | 12 MP (wide, RGBW) | 50.3 MP (wide) |
Focal Length | 23 mm | 23 mm |
Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.2 |
Autofocus | AF | N/A |
Field of View | N/A | 84° |
Video Recording | Yes | Yes |
Battery and Charging
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
Battery Type | Non-removable | Non-removable |
Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
Wired Charging | Unspecified | Yes |
Wireless Charging | No | Yes |
With a 5000 mAh battery, the Aquos R9 promises solid endurance. While charging details aren't specified, the robust capacity is a major plus, especially with the efficient Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chip.
The Aquos R9 pro shares the same 5000 mAh battery capacity but adds wireless charging, giving it an edge in convenience over its sibling. This battery is well-suited to power-hungry users who need a phone that can last a full day, even with heavy use.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Aquos R9 | Aquos R9 pro |
---|---|---|
Loudspeaker | Yes (stereo speakers) | Yes |
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No | Unspecified |
Others | Snapdragon Sound | N/A |
The stereo speakers in the Aquos R9 are enhanced with Snapdragon Sound, delivering rich audio, although the absence of a 3.5 mm jack might be a drawback for wired audio fans.
Snapdragon Sound is a comprehensive audio platform created by Qualcomm, the mastermind behind the Snapdragon chipset residing within the Aquos R9. It's not just a single feature but a synergy of technologies aimed at delivering an immersive and high-quality audio experience. With support for high-resolution audio, you can enjoy your favorite music with exceptional clarity and detail. For those who revel in wireless audio, Snapdragon Sound brings low-latency Bluetooth connectivity to the table, which means that the audio you hear is in near-perfect sync with the video you're watching - crucial for gaming, video streaming, and virtual meetings. It also enhances your communication experience; with advanced noise cancellation algorithms, your voice comes through crystal clear during calls, even in noisy environments.
Connectivity
Stay connected wherever you go with the Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro's comprehensive connectivity suite. With support for Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6/7, these phones cover all the bases, ensuring you can connect to any Wi-Fi network, old or new.
The Aquos R9 duo boasts Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring a seamless and high-quality connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
With GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS support, you can navigate with confidence, whether exploring new cities or embarking on outdoor adventures.
The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro feature NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.
Last but not least, both models support the trusty USB-C - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology.
Sensors
The Sharp Aquos R9 and Aquos R9 pro come equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the Aquos R9 model, and the in-display, ultrasonic type in the Aquos R9 pro.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
- Color Spectrum Sensor: (Aquos R9 pro only.) Measures and analyzes the colors of ambient light in the visible spectrum, ensuring that the device's camera and display consistently deliver true-to-life colors, regardless of the lighting conditions.
Verdict: Which Sharp Model is Right for You?
The Sharp Aquos R9 offers competitive features for its mid-range price, blending strong performance and durability. It is a solid option for users seeking premium mid-range performance without crossing into flagship pricing territory. Its display, camera, and robust design are notable strengths, making it a great fit for media enthusiasts and casual gamers. While it may lack the advanced chipset of its flagship counterpart, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 is more than capable of handling demanding apps and day-to-day tasks with ease.
For power users, however, the Sharp Aquos R9 pro is the clear choice. With its QHD display, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, and a versatile triple camera setup, the pro is a serious contender in the flagship category. Its additional features, like wireless charging and higher display resolution, justify the premium price for those who crave a high-end experience.
Both models showcase Sharp's commitment to quality and performance. The Aquos R9 hits the sweet spot for those who want high-quality features at a reasonable price, while the Aquos R9 pro delivers flagship-level specs for users who demand the best from their devices.
Feature (top) image credit: Sharp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Sharp Aquos R9 release date?
The Sharp Aquos R9 has been released in September 2024. It was announced on the 18th July, 2024.
What is Sharp Aquos R9 pro release date?
The Sharp Aquos R9 pro has been announced on the 29th October, 2024. It is expected to release in December 2024 or in the first quarter of 2025.
What is Sharp Aquos R9 price?
The Sharp Aquos R9 is priced at about USD 600.