HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S: How Do They Compare?

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs. Oculus Rift S is quite an important battle in the world of VR headsets, especially considering both are some of the best VR headsets out there today and also some of the most powerful money can buy.

Whilst the HTC Vive Pro 2 has been around since October 2021, the Rift S is now discontinued and you may be able to pick up one up second hand if you're just getting in VR.

Regardless of their respective release dates though, both headsets look like fantastic options, especially if you've got one of the best gaming PCs to pair to the headset up with.

If you're unsure of which one to pick up, we're here to help you choose and pick between a pair of marvellous headsets.

Let's get into it!

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S

There's definitely a look to think about when it compares to comparing the two headsets, including when it comes to their specs and large feature sets.

To help you decide, we've broken down the most integral points into their respective sections to portray which headset wins at which points and to make life easier.

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S Specs

Given the notion that both headsets are rather powerful in their own regard, it should come as in some instances, the spec sheets for these two headsets are pretty similar.

Compared with the Rift S, there are some elements of the Vive Pro 2 that could definitely be considered as being more powerful such as its resolution, which we're going to get into more detail on below.

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S Resolution

A key difference between the two headsets arise with their displays and most integrally their respective resolutions.

The HTC Vive Pro 2 offers up a total 5K resolution (2.5K per eye) which equates to 2448x2448 on its LCD panel, whilst the Rift S utilises a 1280x1440 resolution per-eye, also on an LCD panel.

In short, the Vive Pro 2 should be able to offer much more detailed images than the Rift S, although with similar contrast levels to its competitor, given both headsets utilise LCD panels.

This contrasts with upcoming headsets like the PSVR 2 which has been confirmed to be using OLED panels which will help it achieve practically infinite levels of contrast with more accurate colours, including deeper blacks.

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S Refresh Rate

It's also on the point of refresh rate where the Vive Pro 2 wins, offering a 120Hz refresh rate on its 5K panels, compared to the Rift S's 80Hz.

Having a high refresh rate can be rather handy, especially in VR where smooth, life-like movements are key to gameplay, so it can make the Vive Pro 2 seem like a better choice.

It's worth noting though that the Meta Quest 2 also has a 120Hz refresh rate and also wins on this point in the battle against the Oculus Rift S.

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S Price

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Credit: Oculus

It's worth noting that between the two headsets, even if the Rift S is now discontinued, you are getting a significant price cut compared to the Vive Pro 2.

The Oculus Rift S carries a retail price of $399.99, whilst the HTC Vive Pro 2 retails for $799 if you want just the headset, or for $1399, you can get the full set of the headset, two controllers and two base stations.

For those wanting to try out a dedicated PCVR headset for the first time, the Rift S looks to be the way to go, although if you want to go all-out and you've got the money to do so, the Vive Pro 2 does look like quite a significant upgrade.

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S Setup

For both headsets, the setup process for each seems to be pretty simple, and there are also some rather handy extra features once you've got them all setup.

Getting both headsets working is as easy as downloading the respective Vive or Oculus PC app and then plugging the headsets in and following the on-screen prompts to make sure everything is set up.

It may require additional installs such as the SteamVR client, but both headsets' software should walk you through this in a convenient manner

However, for both headsets, there are some handy party tricks they feature. For instance, you can connect the Oculus Rift S up to your Xbox One, and cast the HTC Vive to your TV too, which are just handy additional features if you'd like to use them.

HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Rift S Games

It's on the point of games where the paths of these two headsets converge, given that both headsets need to be connected to a PC to work and therefore rely on offerings provided by compatible outlets such as Steam.

Luckily, Steam has plenty of the best VR games available including the likes of Half-Life: Alyx, for starters, alongside some of the best indie games like the fan-favourite Beat Saber, which is always a bundle of fun.

These come alongside some of the best VR puzzle games if you're wanting a challenge, and you could also combine this with some of the best multiplayer VR games with titles such as Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes if you're wanting to have fun with friends.

In addition, as you're playing on PC, you've also got the ability to mod titles such as Skyrim VR and Blade & Sorcery, both of which come with some fantastic additions to enhance the playing experience.

All in all, both headsets, through their connection to Steam, should offer a brilliant selection of games for you to get stuck into.

Which Headsets Should You Go For?

In conclusion, we'd say that this all comes down to cost, and of course, your own personal preferences. We'd wholeheartedly recommend the HTC Vive Pro 2, as long as you've got the money to spend.

However, if you've got a little bit less, but still want a brilliant VR gaming experience, then the Oculus Rift S is still a fantastic headset with an 80Hz refresh rate, a marvellous selection of games and a much more affordable price point.

Both headsets are incredible in their own right, but the bottom line is to go with what you prefer, based on our breakdowns above, and your own preference.

Be sure to check back in with us for more VR guides, news and info, especially as 2022 looks to be a fantastic year for virtual reality with the potential release of devices such as the Meta Quest Pro and games like Lost Ember VR.

Read More: Oculus Quest 2 vs PSVR 2: How Do They Compare?