Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 represents quite a formidable battle in the world of VR, especially when you note that the pair represent two of the best VR headsets available today.
There are of course some differences between the two headsets, which we'll get into in due course, but if you're looking to get into VR for the first time or just invest in a new device, we're here to help you decide.
Let's get into it!
Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2
When deciding which headset is best out of this pair of brilliant options, there's a lot to consider with things such as specs, the games they can play and their respective cost.
To help you out, we've broken down some of the most important points to demonstrate which headset wins and where.
Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Specs
To start things off, let's take a look at both headsets' spec sheets within the side-by-side comparison below:
| Valve Index | Oculus Quest 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution (Per-Eye) | 1440x1600 | 1832x1920 |
| HDR | No | No |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz (backwards compatible to 80Hz/90Hz & experimental 144Hz mode) | 72Hz/90Hz/120Hz |
| Panel Type | LCD | LCD |
| Field Of View | 130 degrees | 97 degrees |
| Tracking Type | 6DoF (marker-based) | 6DoF (Inside Out) |
| Hand Tracking | No | Yes |
| Eye Tracking | No | No |
| Finger Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | Built-in speakers/Headphone jack | Headphone jack |
| Mic | Yes | Yes |
| Wired/Wireless | Wired | Both |
| Weight | 809g | 503g |
There are some elements there where the Quest 2, interestingly, can be seen to win over the Valve Index, such as its resolution, although its field of view isn't as wide. We're going to get into more detail on some of these key features below, plus a whole lot more.
Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Resolution
In terms of their resolution, it's fair to say that there is a bit of a difference between the Valve Index and the Quest 2.
The Index makes use of a 1440x1600 resolution per-eye on LCD displays, whilst the Quest 2 features an 1832x1920 per-eye resolution, also on an LCD panel.
This puts the two headsets pretty close together and does mean they should both be able to offer up rather good quality images with plenty of detail, although the Quest 2 may just offer more with a higher-res panel.
They do both use LCD panels though which will put both on the back foot against some upcoming headsets like the PSVR 2 which will make use of OLED panels and offer a better contrast ratio and more accurate colours.
Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Refresh Rate
Whilst there is a difference on the part of their resolution, things become more similar for the Index and Quest 2 on the front of their refresh rate.
Both headsets have the power to output at 120Hz for super-smooth inputs, although it is worth noting that the Index and Quest 2 do support other refresh rates.
The Index also works at 80Hz and 90Hz, as well as featuring an experimental 144Hz mode, whilst the Quest 2 originally outputted at 72Hz, and a series of software updates brought that up to 90Hz and then 120Hz.
click to enlarge
+ 2Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Price
The starkest difference between these two headsets doesn't come from their spec sheets but from their pricing, interestingly.
The Valve Index will set you back $999 for a complete bundle that includes the headset, controllers and base station.
Read More: Should I Wait For Meta Quest 3?
By contrast, the Quest 2 costs $299 for a 128GB model and $399 for a 256GB model. Do note though, the Quest 2 doesn't have expandable storage, so if you do go for it, you'll have to choose what capacity you'd like wisely.
Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Setup
For both headsets, the setup procedure looks to be pretty convenient and intuitive.
In the case of the Quest 2, first-time setup requires you to download the Oculus App and also have a Facebook account to link and once you've sorted those, it's as simple as turning the headset on and following the on-screen prompts.
Things get a little bit more complicated for the Index simply due to the fact you need to place down the base stations to mark out the play area before you start, but once you've done this, you can plug the headset in and follow the steps.
click to enlarge + 2Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Games
You could argue that it's actually the Quest 2 that wins on games, given the fact you can use it as both a standalone headset and also as a tethered headset.
On its internal storage, you can download some of the best Quest 2 games directly from the Oculus Store which can include some of the best VR puzzle games like Cubism and also some of the best VR horror games like Blair Witch VR.
Moreover, the Quest 2 can play Steam games when connected to a PC, as the Valve Index can, which opens you up to a vast library that includes some of the best VR games, including Half-Life: Alyx and Sniper Elite VR.
Do note, to play Steam games on either headset though, you may need one of the best gaming PCs in order to get things running rather smoothly.
Valve Index vs Oculus Quest 2 Design
When it comes to design, there is a bit of difference between these two marvellous headsets.
The Quest 2 offers up a sleek modern look and weighs just 503g, whilst the Index weighs nearly double with a total mass of 809g. It still looks fantastic, but that higher weight is something to take note of.
Read More: Valve Index 2: Release Date, Rumours And Latest News
It is worth noting that the Quest 2 can also be seen to win on the front of accessories, as some of the best accessories available can certainly enhance your playing experience, including more supportive straps and cool headphones.
Which Headset Should You Go For?
In conclusion, we'd say that the decision as to what headset to go for, but if we had. choose between these two, we'd say the Quest 2 is the best option for most people.
This is down to factors such as its lower price, the fact it can be used with and without a PC and the vast selection of amazing games on offer.
However, if you've got the money to spend and a capable PC and you're looking to upgrade your existing setup, then going for the Valve Index is still an incredible option. It's a beast of a device, that's for sure.
All in all, though, both headsets are fantastic in their own ways, and we'd ultimately say to go with what you prefer and one that suits your needs the best.
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: HTC Vive Pro 2 vs Oculus Quest 2: How Do They Compare?