Welcome to the world of virtual reality with Techal! In this article, we are going to take a closer look at the brand new HTC Vive Cosmos. Thanks to HTC’s generosity, we had the chance to review and share our first impressions of this cutting-edge VR headset. From unboxing to setup and gameplay, we will cover it all. So, let’s dive in!
Unboxing and Setup
The first thing you notice when unboxing the Vive Cosmos is the attention to detail. Each component has its own compartment, making for a premium unboxing experience. Inside the box, you will find the headset itself, two Vive Cosmos controllers, a link box, a power adapter, a USB 3.2 cable, and a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable.
Setting up the Vive Cosmos is a breeze. Simply download the required software from the official Vive website and follow the installation instructions. The setup process will guide you through adjusting the IPD (interpupillary distance) for optimal comfort and show you how to connect everything to the link box. Within 30 minutes, you’ll be all set and ready to explore the virtual world.
First Impressions
Let’s talk about the comfort of the Vive Cosmos. The halo head strap is comfortable and adjustable, although some users may find that it wobbles a bit during quick head movements. The flip-up display is a convenient feature, but it does allow for a bit of light leakage. The headset also features a manual IPD adjustment, which is a welcome addition. However, it’s worth noting that the displays cannot be moved forwards and backwards, which may affect the field of view for some users.
In terms of audio, the built-in headphones offer a satisfactory sound quality, but they can be unclipped if you prefer to use your own headphones. This flexibility is a nice touch. As for the optics, the Vive Cosmos features two LCD panels with a resolution of 1440×1700 pixels per eye and a field of view of around 110 degrees. The lenses used provide a clear view, although godrays can be noticeable in contrasting scenes.
Controller Tracking and Gameplay
The Vive Cosmos utilizes six cameras for inside-out tracking. However, in our experience, the tracking performance was subpar compared to previous Vive headsets. There were issues with controller drift and limited tracking when the controllers were placed behind the user or near the headset. The controllers themselves have a sturdy design, with thumbsticks and buttons that feel comfortable. However, the grip button is just a clicky button, which can detract from the natural feel of hand interactions in games.
When it comes to game compatibility, the Vive Cosmos falls short. Not all games on Steam VR or Viveport support the Cosmos headset, which can be frustrating for users. Compatibility issues were especially noticeable in games like Pavlov and Superhot, where hands got stuck in the floor. HTC has acknowledged these issues and is working to resolve them, but it’s something to consider before purchasing the headset.
FAQs
Q: Is the Vive Cosmos compatible with all VR games?
A: Currently, not all games on Steam VR or Viveport support the Vive Cosmos. It’s recommended to check for compatibility before purchasing games.
Q: Can I use my own headphones with the Vive Cosmos?
A: Yes, the built-in headphones can be unclipped from the head strap, allowing you to use your own headphones with a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Q: How is the comfort of the Vive Cosmos?
A: The halo head strap is adjustable and comfortable, although it may wobble during quick head movements. The flip-up display is convenient but may allow for light leakage.
Q: Does the Vive Cosmos have a manual IPD adjustment?
A: Yes, the Vive Cosmos features a manual IPD adjustment, allowing users to customize the visual experience for optimal comfort.
Conclusion
In its current state, the Vive Cosmos falls short of expectations. Compatibility issues, subpar controller tracking, and limited game support make it hard to recommend this headset. If you’re on a budget, the Oculus Rift S or Quest are better alternatives. For those seeking a high-end experience, the Valve Index is the way to go. HTC has acknowledged the issues with the Cosmos and is working to address them, so it might be worth revisiting the headset in the future. Stay tuned for updates!
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Disclaimer: This article is based on our personal experience with the Vive Cosmos and may not reflect the experiences of all users.
