So, you want to get into VR but don’t know which headset to choose? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’re breaking down everything you need to know about the Meta Quest 2 and HTC Vive Pro 2.
Okay, let’s jump straight into the most important factor for most of us, price. Both the Quest 2 and HTC Vive Pro 2 have very different price points, with the Vive costing £718.99 for just the headset. However, the once price to performance king Meta Quest 2 is set to increase by around £100 in August. So, if you’re looking to get into VR gaming with the Quest at the original price of £298.99 for the 128GB version or £398.99 for the 256GB version, act fast.
The Tech Spec
Comparing these two VR headsets by price alone is unfair as they both offer different features. Let’s take a look at some of the key details.
Meta Quest 2
Specification
| Fully wireless virtual reality |
| PCVR compatible via link cable or wireless with AirPlay |
| 1832 x 1920 pixel per eye resolution |
| Inside out tracking |
| Snapdragon XR2 |
| 6GB RAM |
| 128/256 GB storage |
The Meta Quest 2 offers fully wireless VR with an onboard operating system and games shop, featuring AAA titles like I Expect You To Die and The Walking Dead Saints and Sinners. In addition, PCVR games can be played via a tether cable or streamed wirelessly to the headset via Air Link. Sound is provided by two speakers built into the head strap that sits just above your ears, with the option to use headphones via the 3.5mm jack or USB-C port.
The Meta Quest 2 VR headset is available in both a 128GB and 256GB variant. However, at launch, the original options were 64GB and 128GB. Despite the small storage size similar to that of a modern phone, the Quest 2 can still hold plenty of games without the need to uninstall one to make space for another. What’s more, for any PCVR applications, you won’t need to install anything to the Quest.
HTC Vive Pro 2
Specification
| Dual RGB LCD Screens |
| 2448 x 2448 pixel per eye resolution |
| 90/120hz refresh rate |
| 120-degrees field of view |
| Hi-Res audio |
| Dual microphones |
| Steam VR Tracking v2.0 |
| PCVR (wireless with adapter) |
The HTC Vive Pro 2 packs a punch with a 5K resolution and a 120-degree field of view. This VR headset offers a near-natural vision with lifelike high-resolution displays and high-fidelity audio. In addition, a 120Hz refresh rate not only looks buttery smooth but helps reduce motion sickness. Finally, the lighthouse tracking system allows for full-body tracking, letting you move freely in games and social apps.
Unlike the Quest, the HTC Vive Pro 2 requires a PC at all times. This limitation makes sense, thanks to the significant enthusiast features the Vive offers, such as the ability to add full body tracking alongside face tracking. Perfect for social apps and games like VR Chat. The Vive Pro 2 is available as a full kit with tracking lighthouses and controllers or as a standalone headset.
Do You need a Facebook account to use the Meta Quest 2?
Come one, come all, and rejoice, for Meta has finally announced that beginning this August users will no longer need a Facebook account to use their Quest VR headset. As the rollout begins, you can instead create a Meta account, with current users having until Jan 1 2023 to switch to a Meta account.
Wireless VR?
The holy grail of VR gaming, wireless offers a genuinely unbeatable gaming experience with all the fun and no tangled cables. There are two types of wireless VR – Standalone wireless VR and wireless PCVR.
Standalone Wireless VR
Currently, an exclusive feature of Meta’s Quest line-up of headsets, both the Quest 1 and Quest 2 allow you to play hundreds of VR games such as Beat Saber, Resident Evil 4, and plenty more titles without the need to connect to your PC.
Tips For New and Returning Quest 2 Users
Wireless PCVR
Wireless PCVR is exactly what it says on the metaphorical tin. PCVR but without wires. Both the Meta Quest 2 and HTC Vive Pro 2 are capable of wireless PCVR, meaning you can play all of your VR games from stores like Steam without the need for pesky cables to get tangled in. Whilst HTC Vive Pro 2 does require the official wireless adapter, Quest Air Link allows you to remotely connect to your gaming PC via the Windows Oculus app. In this app, you can purchase PCVR titles, manage your headset, and more. You’ll need to have this application installed on your PC to play PCVR games wirelessly, but you don’t need to purchase your games from Meta. SteamVR is fully compatible with the Quest 2.
Ready to Jump Into VR?
Virtual reality offers a whole new way to play games, and with so many AAA and indie titles to choose from, such as Half-Life Alyx and Hitman 3 alongside a range of exceptional VR headsets to choose from, there has never been a better time. Which VR headset is your choice?
- 5 min read
Robert Mullane
Author
When not working, you'll find me in VR or losing in bottom-tier Valorant matches. I write about all topic's tech and gaming with a particular focus on representation in gaming, virtual reality, and LGBTQ+ themes. If you're still not fed up with me, you can also catch me over on the Overclockers UK TikTok and YouTube accounts.
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