Oculus Rift S vs Valve Index
SOURCE ARTICLES
Oculus Rift S review: a swan song for first-generation VR
www.theverge.com
The Oculus Rift S is a modest upgrade to the original Rift, with improved tracking and support for exclusive Oculus games. It still requires a gaming PC and is priced at $399. The new Insight tracking system eliminates the need for external cameras, making setup easier. However, the screen resolution is not significantly improved and the refresh rate has been downgraded. The design is clunky and utilitarian, but comfortable to wear. The Rift S is aimed more at developers than hardcore fans, and Oculus may be focusing on future upgrades.
Oculus Rift S Review
www.pcmag.com
The Oculus Rift S is an improved version of the original Rift headset. It has a higher resolution display and a camera array that eliminates the need for external sensors. The headset needs to be connected to a PC via a DisplayPort cable. It uses the same redesigned Oculus Touch controllers as the Oculus Quest. The Rift S offers access to a wide range of VR games and apps through the Oculus Store and can also be used with SteamVR, although some troubleshooting may be required. While the Rift S is a solid headset, the wireless Oculus Quest is seen as the future of VR.
Oculus Rift S review
www.techradar.com
The Oculus Rift S is a VR headset that offers an improved set-up experience and a more robust games library compared to its predecessor. It has a higher resolution but sacrifices audio quality and refresh rate. The headset is comfortable to wear but may not fit well with glasses. The Rift S is compatible with Steam VR but may have stability issues. It is also backward compatible with original Rift titles. The VR experience can vary from person to person, and the Rift S may not appeal to dedicated VR fans. The future of Oculus VR seems to lie with the Oculus Quest.
Valve Index review: The best premium VR headset for PC gamers
The Valve Index is a premium VR headset for PC gamers, offering outstanding design and comfort. It comes with excellent knuckle controllers that are considered the benchmark for VR input. The headset has a lower resolution than some competitors but offers the highest refresh rate, resulting in smooth gameplay. The audio and visual presentation are great, with rich colors and a wide field of view. The Valve Index is compatible with over 200 games on Steam and supports VR modes for popular titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator and No Man's Sky. The setup process can be frustrating, and the price is high at $999, but overall, it is one of the best PC-based VR headsets available.
One week with the Valve Index: A VR game-changer with a few question marks
The Valve Index is a VR headset that offers a boosted field of view and comfortable fit for long periods of use. It has a higher FOV than other consumer-grade headsets and can accommodate glasses. The complete package includes a headset, controllers, and tracking boxes. The Index is compatible with other SteamVR devices, allowing for mix-and-match options. The headset is connected to a gaming-grade PC and provides a virtual reality experience. The Index is not perfect, but it is a game-changer in the VR market.
Valve Index review
The Valve Index is a top-tier VR headset with impressive display resolution and refresh rate. It offers comfortable wear and outstanding audio quality. The new controllers allow for hand and finger tracking, although its practical use is limited. The setup process can be frustrating compared to inside-out tracking options. Despite its high price, the Valve Index doesn't offer a significantly better gaming experience compared to the more affordable Oculus Rift S.
Valve Index Review
The Valve Index is a highly recommended VR headset with superior tracking, a large field of view, and impressive refresh rates. It excels in games like Beat Saber and Half-Life Alyx, providing flawless tracking and accuracy. The comfort level is average, but it falls short in accommodating glasses. The visuals have a lower resolution but make up for it with a wide field of view. The headset is easy to use and has a convenient head strap system. The setup process requires external sensor units but offers excellent tracking. Overall, the Valve Index is a great value for those who prioritize tracking and performance.
Valve Index review
The Valve Index is a top-tier VR headset with a high-resolution display, wide field of view, and advanced finger-tracking controllers. It works well with older GPUs and offers a smooth performance. However, it is expensive and lacks compelling VR games on Steam. The design is comfortable and adjustable, but it requires external base stations for tracking. The sound quality is good, and the controllers have a decent battery life. Setting up the headset can be frustrating, and SteamVR can be unreliable. Overall, the Valve Index is a great VR headset, but its high price and competition from Oculus make it less appealing for some.
Valve Index VR Kit Review
The Valve Index VR Kit is an expensive PC-tethered VR system that includes a headset, controllers, and base stations. The headset itself is standard but has a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The controllers are the standout feature, with individual finger tracking and a more immersive feel. The system requires base stations for tracking, and the full kit costs $999. It is recommended for VR enthusiasts and dedicated PC gamers. The Oculus Quest 2 is a more affordable option for entry-level users. The Valve Index earns the Editors' Choice award for tethered VR headsets.
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AI COMPARISON
Comparison Table
| Feature | Oculus Rift S | Valve Index |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 563 g | 810 g |
| Adjustable IPD | Yes | Yes |
| Screen Size | 5.6" | 7" |
| Resolution | 3686400 px | 4608000 px |
| Field of View | 110° | 130° |
| Refresh Rate | 80Hz | 144Hz |
| Display Technology | LCD | IPS, LCD |
| Controllers Included | Yes | Yes |
| Position Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| USB Version | 3 | 3 |
| Wireless | No | No |
| Headset Jack 3.5mm | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Cameras | 5 | 2 |
| Tracking Area | 4.95 m² | Laser Tracking Required |
| Mic Count | 1 | 2 |
| Price | $299 | $999 |
| Compatibility Issues | Some with Steam VR | Fewer |
| Set Up Complexity | Easier, no external sensors | Requires base stations |
Summary
Oculus Rift S:
- The Oculus Rift S is a well-received VR headset praised for its ease of setup, comfort, and affordability. It simplifies the VR experience with internal tracking cameras and a single USB plus DisplayPort connection. The Rift S provides an upgraded resolution from its predecessor but lowers the refresh rate to 80Hz. It remains an attractive option for those new to VR or looking for exclusive Oculus games, but it may not satisfy hardcore enthusiasts due to its moderate refresh rate and compatibility issues with SteamVR.
Valve Index:
- The Valve Index stands out as a premium option for PC gamers, featuring a wider field of view at 130° and a higher refresh rate of 144Hz, offering a more immersive and smoother VR experience. It's recognized for superior design, comfort, and advanced controllers that include finger tracking. However, the Index requires a more complicated setup with external base stations and is significantly pricier at $999. Its support for a wider range of VR games and the high performance make it a preferred choice for long-term or serious VR users.
Recommendations
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For Casual or New VR Users: The Oculus Rift S is recommended for its affordability, comfort, and easier setup. It's ideal for users who have limited space or prefer a simpler system without external sensors.
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For Hardcore Gamers or VR Enthusiasts: The Valve Index is the better choice due to its higher refresh rate, wider field of view, and superior tracking capabilities. It's particularly suited for users who want the best immersive experience and are willing to invest in a high-end system.
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For Users with Limited Budgets: Oculus Rift S offers a compelling experience at a lower price point, making it accessible to more users who do not require the cutting-edge features of more expensive models.
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