Sharp Aquos wish4: Rugged, Affordable, And Feature-Packed For The Everyday User

Design and Build Quality

Measuring 167×76×8.8 mm and weighing in at 190 grams, the Aquos wish4 is relatively easy to handle and fits comfortably in one hand. Its slim 8.8 mm profile adds to its portability, although it's a bit on the heavier side for an entry-level phone.

The front is made of glass, while the back and frame are plastic, which helps reduce overall weight and makes the device more impact-resistant. Sharp has opted for an eco-friendly build, with 60% of the plastics used being recycled - a nice touch for environmentally conscious users. It offers the Aquos wish4 in Black, Blue, and White, giving you a few classic yet appealing color choices to match your style.

Here are the relevant specs:

When it comes to the body of the Sharp Aquos wish4, it strikes a careful balance between size, weight, and durability, making it a comfortable option for day-to-day use. With those dimensions, the phone is slim enough to slip into most pockets and bags without taking up too much space, though it's still fairly substantial for an entry-level device.

At 190 grams, it has a bit of heft, which can feel reassuring but might feel slightly weighty for users accustomed to super-light devices. The dimensions and weight make it fairly comfortable for most users, though extended holding sessions (like watching long videos or gaming) might bring out some hand fatigue, particularly for users with smaller hands.

Still, for day-to-day tasks like browsing, texting, and casual scrolling, this size and weight provide a solid, balanced feel that doesn't feel overly heavy or cumbersome. It should slide comfortably into most jeans pockets, though tighter or slimmer clothing might feel a bit snug, as it is a larger-than-average entry-level phone.

The plastic back and frame of the Aquos wish4 are thoughtfully designed to add resilience without compromising on weight. Sharp's use of 60% recycled plastics in the construction is a welcome eco-conscious touch that should appeal to users who prioritize sustainability. Plastic may not feel as premium as glass or metal, but for a phone focused on ruggedness, it makes practical sense - it's less prone to shattering, helps reduce the device's weight, and offers a better grip than a glossy glass surface would.

Plastic has a texture that reduces fingerprint smudges and adds a bit of friction for extra grip, which helps prevent accidental slips. This build, paired with the IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, makes the Aquos wish4 resilient enough for those who tend to drop their phones or need extra durability.

The Sharp Aquos wish4 is available in Black, Blue, and White, each of which brings a unique personality to the device. Here's a quick look at who might enjoy each color:

• Black: Black is classic and understated, making it a versatile choice for users who value subtlety and professionalism. It's likely to appeal to those who prefer a sleek, business-friendly look, as well as people who want a device that looks clean and minimizes visible smudges or dirt.
• Blue: The Blue variant brings a refreshing vibe to the phone, appealing to users who want a bit of color without going too bold. It's often the preferred choice for younger users or those who like a splash of personality without stepping into vibrant hues. This shade of blue is likely balanced and easy on the eyes, adding a unique flair without being over-the-top.
• White: White gives the phone a fresh, clean look, often seen as stylish and minimalist. It can be an excellent choice for users who like their devices to stand out subtly, particularly those who are drawn to lighter aesthetics. However, white tends to show smudges more than darker colors, so it may require a bit more upkeep to keep it looking pristine.

In essence, the Aquos wish4's color options cater to a range of personalities - from minimalist to vibrant to professional - allowing you to find a style that resonates with your preferences. These shades add an element of personal expression, letting you choose a phone that feels a bit more "you".

IP Rating and MIL-STD Compliance

(Related: IP ratings and MIL-STD explained.)

With an IP68 rating, the Aquos wish4 can handle immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes and offers dust protection, making it suitable for outdoor use. It's also drop-resistant up to 1.2 meters and certified with MIL-STD-810H for durability, meaning it's designed to withstand various environmental stressors like high humidity, shock, and vibration.

For those new to it, what is "IP" in "IP68"? Ingress Protection, my friend! It's all about guarding your precious gadgets against intruders. In this case, the intruders are dust and water.

Breaking down the two digits, the first digit, which is 6 in this case, tells us about the Sharp Aquos wish4's resistance to solids like dust. A 6 means it's practically dust-tight. No need to worry about tiny particles sneaking in and causing mischief.

And the second digit, which is 8, is the real star of the show. It signifies the device's resistance to liquids. An 8 means it can withstand being submerged in water. But, hold your horses, there's more to it. The number 8 in this case indicates that the Aquos wish4 can handle being submerged up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. So, it's not just a light drizzle protector; it can take a proper dunking.

IP68 isn't just a technical spec; it means you can live your life without constantly worrying about your phone's vulnerability to the environmental elements. Whether you're a bit clumsy with drinks or you enjoy the great outdoors, your Sharp Aquos wish4 is your reliable companion.

The MIL-STD-810G compliance takes the Aquos wish4'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 Sharp Aquos wish4 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 Aquos wish4 was dropped from various heights (up to 1.2 meters) and subjected to impacts to test its 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 wish4 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 wish4 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 wish4 ensures that it can handle extreme environmental conditions.

Display

(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)

The Aquos wish4's 6.6-inch IPS LCD display with a 90 Hz refresh rate is decent for a device in this price bracket. Its HD+ resolution of 720×1612 pixels results in a pixel density of about 267 PPI, which provides acceptable clarity for browsing, messaging, and social media use, though it may fall short for users accustomed to Full HD displays.. The IPS LCD technology means that contrast and color vibrancy won't match the depth seen on OLED displays. Still, the screen is large and bright enough for comfortable viewing in most settings.

Image credit: Sharp

Here are the relevant specs:

The Sharp Aquos wish4's display combines affordability with functionality. Its IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) technology offers a reliable, balanced visual experience. IPS displays generally offer good color accuracy and consistency, maintaining vibrant colors even at wide viewing angles. This means that, even when viewed from the sides, colors don't appear distorted or faded. It's ideal for tasks that involve color-critical details, like viewing images and light photo editing.

IPS LCDs tend to offer reasonable brightness levels, making them suitable for most indoor settings. However, they may struggle a bit under direct sunlight or very bright conditions, where higher-brightness OLED or AMOLED displays would have an edge. Still, for the price segment, the IPS LCD provides decent brightness and visibility.

Unlike OLED panels, which are prone to "burn-in" (image retention after prolonged display of static images), IPS LCDs are more resistant to this problem. This makes them a better option for users who keep their screen on for long periods, such as those who frequently use their phones for reading, browsing, or GPS navigation.

One of the standout features of the Aquos wish4's display is the 90 Hz refresh rate. While the difference between 60 Hz and 90 Hz may seem small, it's noticeable in everyday tasks, especially when scrolling through websites, social media feeds, or even while playing games.

A 90 Hz refresh rate provides smoother motion and a more fluid feel, creating a sense of responsiveness and polish. Though not on par with the 120 Hz or higher refresh rates seen on flagship devices, 90 Hz is a notable improvement over standard 60 Hz displays and adds a hint of modernity to an entry-level phone like this one. For budget-conscious users, it's a pleasant bonus that enhances user experience without a huge impact on battery life.

The 720×1612 pixel resolution with a 267 PPI (pixels per inch) density on the Aquos wish4 is a fair choice for its price bracket, but it has its limits. Here's what you can expect:

• Suitability for Day-to-Day Content: For general usage, such as reading emails, scrolling social media, watching HD YouTube videos, and browsing the web, this resolution is sufficient. Text and images will appear reasonably sharp and clear, and the phone's display can handle most casual content comfortably. This level of resolution conserves power as well, which can contribute to better battery life - a priority in this segment.
• Challenges with High-Definition and Detail-Oriented Content: The lower pixel density becomes noticeable with high-definition content, such as 1080p or 4K video, or when zooming into detail-heavy images. Users who frequently watch high-quality movies or engage in photo editing may notice a lack of fine detail compared to Full HD or higher resolutions. The 720p display may also fall short in certain gaming experiences, where detail in textures or sharpness of graphics might not look as crisp as on higher-resolution displays.
• Text and Small Graphics: For reading articles or viewing detailed documents, the display is serviceable but may not feel as sharp as higher-resolution screens. While large blocks of text remain clear, very small fonts or intricate graphics may not appear as crisp as they would on a Full HD screen.

Overall, the Aquos wish4's display does a good job in its segment, combining an IPS LCD's reliability and color consistency with the added smoothness of a 90 Hz refresh rate. For users who rely on their phone for everyday tasks - like social media, streaming basic HD content, and browsing - it's more than adequate.

However, users looking for a cinematic video-watching experience or very sharp visuals in games may feel that the resolution doesn't quite meet those demands. For such use cases, a Full HD display would offer a noticeable improvement.

In short, the Aquos wish4's display is great for budget-conscious users who prioritize smooth operation and durability over ultra-crisp visuals, aligning well with the phone's affordable and rugged profile.

Networks

(Related: Cellular networks explained.)

Networking is the invisible thread that connects us all in the digital world! The Sharp Aquos wish4, with its support for the networking quartet of GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G technologies, is like a well-connected socialite 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 wish4 supports dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by). This capability adds a layer of convenience for those juggling work and personal life on a single device.

Chipset - Performance

The Aquos wish4 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700, a 7-nm chipset that, while entry-level, is capable of handling everyday tasks with ease. The octa-core processor setup (comprising two types of cores) and Mali-G57 MC2 GPU are not designed for intense workloads but can handle basic multitasking, web browsing, and social media apps smoothly. However, heavy gaming and high-powered applications may strain the device, resulting in occasional lags. Here are the relevant specs:

The MediaTek Dimensity 700 packs an octa-core CPU and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. For an entry-level to mid-range device, this setup provides a balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for day-to-day tasks but with certain limitations for heavier usage.

The MediaTek Dimensity 700 is a 7-nm chipset built for budget-friendly devices that still need a boost in connectivity and efficiency. While it doesn't compare to flagship-level processors, the Dimensity 700 is optimized to provide stable and capable performance in most casual scenarios.

Additionally, it offers 5G support, which is a nice touch in this price segment, allowing you to access faster network speeds without paying a premium.

The Dimensity 700's octa-core CPU is organized in a big.LITTLE architecture with two types of cores designed for different tasks:

• Performance Cores (2×2.2 GHz Cortex-A76): These two high-performance Cortex-A76 cores handle demanding tasks like gaming, app launches, multitasking, and other CPU-intensive processes. The Cortex-A76 cores provide a significant speed boost for occasional heavy tasks and help maintain fluidity when the phone is under load. However, since there are only two of these cores, the phone has limited processing power compared to higher-end devices that come with more performance cores or cores with higher clock speeds.
• Efficiency Cores (6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55): The remaining six cores are Cortex-A55, which are optimized for energy efficiency and handle lighter tasks, such as background processing, texting, streaming, and general browsing. These cores help conserve battery life by taking on tasks that don't need a lot of processing power. This is ideal for the Aquos wish4's intended audience, as it helps keep the phone running efficiently throughout the day.

This combination of cores is ideal for a balanced workload, allowing the Aquos wish4 to handle everyday tasks smoothly while extending battery life by only activating the more powerful cores when necessary.

The Mali-G57 MC2 GPU in the Aquos wish4 is a dual-core version of ARM's G57, which is typically found in mid-range devices. It can handle basic graphics tasks and light gaming without significant stuttering or lag.

For popular casual games, like Candy Crush and Subway Surfers, the Mali-G57 MC2 performs well, delivering smooth gameplay without major hiccups. However, when it comes to more demanding games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile, the graphics settings may need to be dialed down to medium or low to avoid frame drops or lag.

The GPU is capable of rendering HD video content smoothly, so you can enjoy video streaming on platforms like YouTube and Netflix without issues. However, for Full HD or higher-resolution playback, the display's 720p resolution could limit the experience more than the GPU itself.

The combined power of the Dimensity 700 chipset, octa-core CPU, and Mali-G57 GPU make the Sharp Aquos wish4 adequate for a variety of casual tasks, including:

• Everyday Multitasking: Switching between apps, browsing, social media, and messaging apps run smoothly for the most part. The 4 GB or 6 GB RAM complements the processor well, ensuring that there's enough memory to support these actions without noticeable slowdowns.
• Moderate Productivity Work: For users needing to edit documents, manage emails, or use productivity apps, the Aquos wish4 is up to the task. Even light multitasking between productivity apps and web browsing is manageable, thanks to the dual Cortex-A76 cores.
• Casual Gaming and Streaming: As mentioned, casual gaming and HD video playback are well within the capability of the phone's processing power.

However, for certain tasks, the Aquos wish4 may start to feel limited, such as:

• High-Performance Gaming: Demanding games like Genshin Impact or graphically intense apps will push the Mali-G57 MC2 GPU to its limits, resulting in noticeable slowdowns, reduced visual quality, and potential frame drops. While the phone can technically run these games, they'll likely need to be played on lower settings for a smooth experience.
• Advanced Multitasking: Users who frequently switch between several demanding apps or keep numerous tabs open may experience slower app loading times and some lag. With only two high-performance cores, the phone isn't designed for intensive multitasking sessions.
• Heavy Image or Video Editing: While basic photo editing should be manageable, intensive tasks like video editing or large image file processing would challenge this setup. The CPU and GPU are not optimized for heavy multimedia work, which would demand a higher-end processor with a more powerful GPU.

Overall, the Sharp Aquos wish4 offers a balanced processing setup, making it a great choice for users who prioritize reliability and efficiency over raw power. It's ideal for casual tasks, productivity apps, and everyday multitasking.

For users who expect smooth gaming or graphics performance at higher settings or need a device for heavy multitasking, a more powerful processor and GPU configuration would be essential.

For an entry-level to mid-range device, the Aquos wish4's chipset, CPU, and GPU make it a good budget-friendly choice with adequate processing power for the essentials - just don't expect it to shine in power-hungry applications.

Memory and Storage

Here are the relevant specs:

With up to 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, the Aquos wish4 offers sufficient capacity for standard app usage and file storage. The microSDXC slot allows for expanded storage, which is ideal for users with larger multimedia collections.

Cameras

The 50 MP single rear camera is a solid offering for budget users, especially those who mainly capture photos for social media or casual purposes. With PDAF, the Aquos wish4 ensures relatively quick and accurate focusing, even in well-lit environments. Video recording comes with gyro-EIS, helping reduce shakiness and providing smoother footage, though it lacks the finesse of optical stabilization.

The front camera is a modest 8 MP sensor, capturing decent selfies in well-lit conditions, although low-light performance may struggle. The front camera supports 1080p video at 30 fps, making it suitable for casual video calls or social media content.

Rear Camera

Image credit: Sharp

The Sharp Aquos wish4 offers a respectable main camera setup for its price range, featuring a 50 MP sensor with some handy tools to help you capture quality shots in most everyday scenarios. While it's not a multi-camera setup like those on pricier models, the wish4's camera still packs enough features to make it a good option for casual photography and social media. Let's break down the camera's standout features. Here are the relevant specs:

Specification	Sharp Aquos wish4
Number of Cameras	1 (Single)
Resolution (Megapixels)	50 MP (wide)
Focal Length	26 mm
Aperture	f/1.8
Autofocus	PDAF
Video Recording	Yes, gyro-EIS
Other Features	LED flash, panorama, HDR

The 50 MP, f/1.8 sensor is impressive for a phone in this segment, allowing for crisp, detailed shots. With such a high-resolution sensor, the camera can capture plenty of detail in well-lit conditions, giving photos sharpness that can even handle minor cropping without losing too much clarity.

The wide f/1.8 aperture lets in a good amount of light, which helps improve image quality in both daylight and low-light settings, albeit to a limited extent. Low-light photography will still suffer from some graininess due to the lack of advanced image stabilization, but this aperture makes it a bit more versatile.

PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) is a valuable feature on this camera, especially for a single-lens setup. PDAF uses phase detection technology to quickly and accurately lock onto a subject, making it easier to capture moving objects or spontaneous shots without too much focus hunting.

This is particularly useful when taking pictures of moving subjects, like pets or kids, as it reduces the chances of blurry shots due to missed focus.

While the Aquos wish4's camera setup isn't equipped with OIS (optical image stabilization), it includes gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization), a software-based stabilization that leverages the phone's gyroscope to reduce shakes during video recording. Gyro-EIS is a welcome addition, especially in a budget-friendly device, as it smooths out minor hand movements and allows for steadier handheld video capture.

With gyro-EIS, the camera compensates for small, unintentional movements, making it possible to record smoother videos, even if you're on the move. This is especially useful for casual vlogging, social media videos, or simply capturing memories without the need for a tripod.

The LED flash on the Aquos wish4 is straightforward but effective for low-light scenarios. While it's not as powerful or evenly distributed as a multi-LED or dual-tone flash, it provides adequate illumination when natural lighting is insufficient.

This is ideal for quick snaps in darker environments or for adding a little fill light when taking portraits or close-up shots in dim settings.

The panorama mode lets you capture wide-angle images by stitching together multiple shots into one extended photo. This is perfect for landscape photography, large group photos, or any setting where a single shot doesn't capture the entire scene.

The quality of panoramic images on this device may vary depending on lighting conditions and how steady your hand is while panning, but it's a great addition for adding versatility to the camera's abilities.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode is a crucial feature in most smartphone cameras today, as it helps balance out high-contrast scenes, such as landscapes with bright skies or indoor shots with limited lighting. When HDR is enabled, the camera takes multiple exposures of the same scene and combines them, resulting in a final image that captures more detail in both bright and dark areas.

On the Aquos wish4, HDR works best in well-lit conditions but can be useful in tricky lighting to add depth and contrast to your photos. It's especially handy for scenes where there might otherwise be a loss of detail in the highlights (like the sky) or shadows (like under trees).

Overall, the Sharp Aquos wish4's camera, while relatively simple, is impressive for its price range, offering versatility and solid performance for users who want an affordable smartphone with reliable photography features. Here's a quick summary of what this camera setup is suited for:

• Casual Photography: For users who enjoy taking snapshots on the go, the 50 MP camera offers plenty of detail. PDAF and HDR add convenience and quality to quick captures.
• Social Media Ready: The camera is great for sharing content online. HDR and panorama modes give you some creative options, and EIS means smoother videos for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
• Everyday Video Recording: Although it lacks optical stabilization, gyro-EIS makes a difference for stable videos, ideal for casual video capture or sharing moments on social media.

However, users looking for extensive camera versatility, like zoom lenses or dedicated portrait modes, may find the single-lens setup limiting. Still, for the price, the Aquos wish4 offers a well-rounded and effective camera with features that help you get more out of everyday photos and videos.

Battery and Charging

(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)

Here are the relevant specs:

The Aquos wish4 is powered by a 5000 mAh non-removable battery, which is robust for a budget smartphone. Given its HD+ display resolution and relatively power-efficient chipset, you can expect long-lasting performance - easily a full day with regular usage, possibly stretching to a day and a half with light use.

Sound

(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)

Here are the relevant specs:

The Sharp Aquos wish4 includes a loudspeaker for speakerphone calls and casual media playback.

Connectivity

The Sharp Aquos wish4 doesn't compromise on connectivity and convenience. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.

The Aquos wish4 boasts Bluetooth 5.3, 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.

The Sharp Aquos wish4 features the GPS positioning system for accurate navigation and location services.

The Sharp Aquos wish4 features NFC, which is a huge plus, enabling contactless payments - a feature not always available in budget phones. This technology also allows you to 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, 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 wish4 comes 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 wish4.
• 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is Sharp Aquos wish4 release date?

  The Sharp Aquos wish4 was released in September 2024. It was announced on the 29th July, 2024.