Is the word aparelho the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

No

While the core dictionary definitions of "aparelho" (referring to an apparatus, machine, or dental braces) are the same in both dialects, there is a difference in typical usage and pronunciation. In Brazil, "aparelho" is frequently used as a generic, catch-all term for electronic gadgets, handheld devices, or any small electronic unit (like a smartphone). In Portugal, while the word is used for machinery or dental braces, people are much more likely to use more specific vocabulary, such as "telemóvel" for mobile phones, "dispositivo" for digital devices, or "equipamento" for audio/electronic systems. Additionally, the pronunciation differs: Brazilian Portuguese features more open, melodic vowels, while Continental Portuguese uses more closed, reduced vowels.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. Eu preciso trocar o meu aparelho. (I need to change my braces.)
2. O meu aparelho está sem bateria. (My device/phone is out of battery.)
3. O aparelho de som é muito antigo. (The stereo system is very old.)
4. Aquele aparelho da academia é pesado. (That gym machine is heavy.)
5. Esse aparelho é muito tecnológico. (This device is very high-tech.)

Portuguese (Portugal) Examples:

1. Eu preciso de trocar o meu aparelho dentário. (I need to change my dental braces.)
2. O meu telemóvel está sem bateria. (My mobile phone is out of battery.)
3. O equipamento de som é muito antigo. (The sound equipment is very old.)
4. Aquele equipamento do ginásio é pesado. (That gym equipment is heavy.)
5. Este dispositivo é muito tecnológico. (This device is very high-tech.)