Sharp Aquos S3 High Complete Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Revealed

Overview of Sharp Aquos S3 High

The Sharp Aquos S3 High is a smartphone released in June 2018, known for its robust design and high-end specifications. It competes in the upper mid-range segment, combining performance, design, and functionality. With a noteworthy Snapdragon 660 processor and a focus on display quality, the Aquos S3 High aims to deliver a premium experience without the hefty price tag.

Design and Build

The Sharp Aquos S3 High features a sleek design with dimensions of 148.2 x 74.2 x 8 mm and a weight of 167.4 grams, making it both comfortable to hold and sturdy. The device sports a Hybrid Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) configuration, which provides flexibility for users who need dual network connectivity or additional storage via a microSD card.

Display

One of the standout features of the Sharp Aquos S3 High is its 6.0-inch IGZO IPS LCD display. This screen offers a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp images with its ~402 ppi density. With an ~84.5% screen-to-body ratio, the device provides an immersive viewing experience, ideal for multimedia consumption and gaming.

Performance and Hardware

At the core of the Sharp Aquos S3 High lies the Qualcomm SDM660 Snapdragon 660 chipset, built on 14 nm technology. The octa-core CPU, consisting of 4x2.2 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver, teamed with the Adreno 512 GPU, offers smooth performance for everyday use and moderate gaming. The phone is equipped with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, extendable via microSDXC, providing ample space for apps and media.

Camera Capabilities

The camera system of the Sharp Aquos S3 High is competitive, featuring a dual rear camera setup: a 12 MP primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, dual pixel PDAF, and a 13 MP secondary sensor offering 2x optical zoom. The main camera supports Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, and panorama modes, capable of capturing detailed images in various lighting conditions. The device also delivers Full HD 1080p@30fps video recording.

Front Camera

Selfie enthusiasts will appreciate the 16 MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture. This sensor combines a wide-angle lens with a 1/3.06" sensor size, enhancing the device's ability to take detailed selfies. The front camera also supports 1080p video recording at 30fps, ensuring high-quality video calls and vlogs.

Battery and Charging

The Sharp Aquos S3 High is powered by a 3200 mAh Li-Ion battery, which is non-removable. The device supports 18W wired charging through Quick Charge 3.0 and also offers 7.5W wireless charging via Qi technology, giving users flexibility and convenience in powering their device. Despite its power-efficient hardware, users have reported satisfactory battery life for typical daily usage patterns.

Software and User Experience

The device runs on Android 8.0 Oreo, providing a stable and user-friendly interface. While it may not have the latest Android version, the OS efficiently handles multitasking and daily operations thanks to its optimized performance coupled with the hardware capabilities.

Connectivity and Network

The Aquos S3 High supports multiple network technologies including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, and LTE, making it versatile for different users worldwide. It includes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, and Wi-Fi Direct initially for fast internet connectivity. Bluetooth 5.0 supports A2DP and LE for seamless wireless audio and data transfer.

Sound and Input/Output

This device is equipped with a loudspeaker and retains the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, offering quality audio output and compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. The inclusion of USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG support facilitates fast data transfer and connectivity with peripherals.

Additional Features

The Aquos S3 High incorporates various sensors, including a front-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors enhance user interactions with the device, providing added security and functionality. Additionally, the device supports NFC, expanding its usability with compatible devices and services.

Market Position and Price

The Sharp Aquos S3 High was released at an approximate price of 400 EUR, positioning it as an affordable alternative to flagship devices. Available in Black and Gold colors, the device aimed to capture the interest of users seeking a balanced performance and design without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In summary, the Sharp Aquos S3 High is a compelling smartphone offering from Sharp, featuring a comprehensive set of specifications that cater to various user needs. Its strengths lie in its impressive display, solid performance, and flexible camera capabilities. While it may not pack the latest software updates, its well-rounded package continues to offer value to users who prioritize practicality and performance over novelty features. The Aquos S3 High stands as a testament to Sharp's commitment to delivering quality technology at accessible prices.