Sharp AQUOS Crystal versus Apple iPhone 5s: first look

As we near the inevitable holiday season, we know that we’re on the verge of hearing, and eventually seeing the next-generation iPhone – whatever name Apple so happens to give it. When the time comes, it’s only natural to assume that the existing iPhone 5s will see its price lowered to make it a competitive offering in the mid-range category, which seems to be the trend if we’re to look at history. Now that the Sharp AQUOS Crystal has been announced, this edgeless display packing smartphone is already winning us over with its tempting price point.

Design

Staring at the two, there’s no denying the strong attraction our eyes are feeling with the Sharp AQUOS Crystal. Quite simply, its edgeless display is an instant attention grabber over everything else – it’s just different, you know? Positioned as a mid-ranger, its mostly plastic construction might not be thought as highly quality, but its hard-lined design cues give it a stylish and distinctive look.



Conversely, the iPhone 5s wins us over for its premium construction, high-quality choice of materials, and easy-to-grasp frame. However, the Sharp AQUOS Crystal’s size is pretty manageable on its own – rivaling that of the iPhone 5s’ slim size and lightweight feel. Considering that there’s a whole 1-inch difference in their display sizes, it’s pretty amazing that the Sharp AQUOS Crystal is just marginally larger.

Display

Reading into the specs, the Sharp AQUOS Crystal sports the higher resolution between the two – 720 x 1280 pixels versus the 640 x 1136 resolution of the iPhone 5s’ Retina display. Even though Sharp’s offering bests the iPhone 5s in this area, the 5-inch size of the Crystal’s display gives it a lower pixel density count of 294 ppi, which is a smidgen beneath the 326 ppi figure of the 4-inch sized Retinal display.



Regardless, we can proclaim that the two are sharp and detailed enough, especially from a normal viewing distance – making it tough to even distinguish the slight superiority of the iPhone 5s on paper. Other lovable qualities between the two displays are present, like their crisp viewing angles, potent brightness output, and superb color production. However, what keeps our eyes rolling back to the Sharp AQUOS Crystal’s display is the minimal bezel around its top and sides – it’s just mind blowing to tell you the truth!

Interface