Welcome to the world of virtual reality! Today, we’re going to compare two popular VR headsets, the Oculus Quest and the Oculus Rift S, to help you decide which one is the best fit for you. Both headsets offer unique features and advantages, so let’s dive in and explore their differences.
Contents
PC Requirements: Standalone vs PC-Powered
The first consideration when choosing between the Quest and Rift S is whether you own a VR-capable PC. The Oculus Quest is a standalone device, meaning it doesn’t require a PC for operation. It has a Snapdragon 835 processor built into the headset and only requires a smartphone for initial setup. On the other hand, the Oculus Rift S needs to be connected to a PC with recommended specs, such as an i5 processor, GTX 970 or GTX 1060 graphics card, and 8GB of RAM. If you don’t have a VR-ready PC, the Quest is the more convenient option.
Graphics and Display
In terms of graphics, the Rift S provides a superior gaming experience compared to the Quest. Despite having a lower resolution, the Rift S’s single 2560×1440 LCD display with 1280×1440 pixels per eye running at 80Hz outperforms the Quest’s 2x 1600×1440 pixels per eye OLED panels running at 72Hz. The Rift S’s higher pixel density and PC-powered graphics deliver better graphical fidelity, especially in graphically intensive games. However, the Quest’s OLED panels offer better black levels for dark games like Beat Saber and Dance Central.
Freedom of Movement: Wireless vs Tethered
One significant advantage of the Quest over the Rift S is its wireless capability. With the Quest, you are completely untethered from a PC, providing a liberating and immersive experience. However, it’s important to note that taking the Quest outside is not recommended due to tracking issues under direct sunlight. Both the Quest and Rift S offer six degrees of freedom movement, allowing you to freely navigate the virtual world within your play space.
Game Compatibility
For game enthusiasts, game availability is a crucial factor. Many popular games like Beat Saber, SuperHot, Dance Central, and Shadow Point are available on both the Quest and Rift S. However, some games, including Stormland, No Man’s Sky, and Boneworks, can only be played on a PC-powered headset like the Rift S. If you’re interested in playing PC games, the Rift S is the better choice.
Battery Life and Comfort
The Oculus Quest has a limited battery life, estimated to be around 2-3 hours of playtime. However, using a battery pack to recharge while playing is possible. The Rift S, being PC-powered, doesn’t have this limitation. In terms of comfort, the Rift S offers a well-balanced fit and is comfortable for long gaming sessions. The Quest, however, can be front-heavy, potentially shifting during active games. This may require a tighter fit or the use of additional accessories like a VR hat.
Tracking and Audio
Both the Quest and Rift S use the Oculus Insight tracking system, which eliminates the need for external sensors. The Rift S, with its additional fifth camera placed on top of the headset, provides slightly better tracking overall. In terms of audio, both headsets feature the same audio design, pumping sound through the headstrap near the ears. Both headsets also have built-in microphones and a 3.5mm headphone jack for a more immersive audio experience.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve explored the differences between the Oculus Quest and Oculus Rift S, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. Each headset offers its own advantages, whether it’s the convenience of a standalone device with wireless freedom (Quest) or the superior graphics and PC gaming compatibility (Rift S). Regardless of your choice, both headsets provide a great VR experience.
If you want to learn more about the Oculus Quest and Oculus Rift S, visit Techal for detailed guides and accessory videos.
