HTC Vive has always been the most expensive option on the VR market. With the price recently reduced to around $499, the device still remains very pricey and unavailable for many people looking to try quality VR. But why the high price?
What sets HTC Vive apart from the competitors is the unmatched immersion ability. Even though the VR market is still in its infancy, this headset has already created a top segment by showing what a premium experience looks like.
HTC Vive Specifications
• Two AMOLED Displays (in pixels): 2,160 x 1,200
• Refresh rate: 90 Hz
• Field of View: 110 degrees
• Two tracking sensors
• Two HTC Vive controllers
• Weight: 555 g
• Bluetooth
• Tracking Area: 15 x 15 ft
• Connectivity: USB 2 (USB 3.0 in Pro Version)
• OS: Windows, Linux
$896.00
Amazon.com Design:
The HTC Vive headset looks like something that was created in the future. The rounded shape of this great-looking thing creates an aggressive look that we’ve never seen before. The look is further enhanced by the matte black color. Bravo, HTC designers!
The outside of the headset is equipped with numerous sensors that track the location of the user. A new head strap design (which uses a series of Velcro straps) allows easy adjustment for a better experience; for example, by using a small dial on the side of the headset, you can adjust the distance between the eyes.
Controllers and Tracking HTC Vive
The dual, intuitive controllers that come with the headset are unique. They are made of solid plastic that feels quality. There are plenty of well-designed buttons and controls for the users to interact with the virtual environment; for example, the designers have placed the triggers in a way so you will feel like you’re holding a gun (good news for those who love shooting games).
The built-in sensors allow to track the controllers almost perfectly and directly interact with various objects in the virtual environment (there are two tracking stations, too). To activate a button on the grip to pick up items during games, just clench your fist more tightly. It really feels like you’re trying to pick something in real life, so great job once again, HTC designers.
Displays
The heart of the headset is the two AMOLED screens with 2,160 x 1,200 pixels. They have a very high frame rate, so you’ll need a powerful graphics card. See the full list of minimum requirements below.
Quality of VR
The quality of VR experience given by HTC Vive is hard to describe in words. Well, it’s totally worth the price because it provides really immersive experience (and it’s the only room-scale solution at the moment).
Minimum Requirements
CPU: Intel Core i5-4590 / AMD FX-8350
Operating system: Windows 10/8.1
RAM: 4 GB
Graphics Card: Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 290
Downsides
There is one main downside reported by users of HTC Vive at this point: the wired design. Some users claimed to trip over the wire and damage the connection cable – something that should not be an issue if you’re paying this kind of money.
The product comes with a helpful step-by-step setup guide, where the manufacturer recommends at least a 2 x 1.5 meter space for the user. However, to avoid tripping over cables, you can increase the space to 2 x 2 meter one.
HTC Vive VR Headset Pros:
• Incredibly immersive room-scale experience
• Decent launch library
• Can be used either standing or seated
• Easy installation
• Reliable hardware
HTC Vive Virtual Reality Cons:
• High price
• Connection cords can get in the way
• Not wireless
• Needs lots of space
• Requires powerful PC
The Verdict HTC Vive:
If you’re a fan of VR, you should definitely try Vive. Currently the best solution on the market, it delivers incredible, immersive free-moving VR that will definitely be a remarkable experience.
