The world of virtual reality (VR) has come a long way since its inception, with numerous headsets vying for dominance in the market. Two of the most popular VR headsets are the Oculus Rift and the Oculus Rift S. While both headsets offer an immersive VR experience, there are some key differences between them. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of each headset and compare their features, performance, and overall value to help you decide which one is better.
Design and Build Quality
The Oculus Rift and Rift S have distinct designs, with the Rift S boasting a more streamlined and modern look. The Rift S has a more compact design, with the tracking system integrated into the headset itself, eliminating the need for external sensors. This design change makes the Rift S more convenient to set up and use, especially for those with limited space.
On the other hand, the original Rift has a more bulky design, with external sensors that require more space to operate. However, the Rift’s design allows for more flexibility and customization, with users able to adjust the headset’s fit and position to their liking.
Weight and Comfort
Both headsets are designed to be comfortable to wear, but the Rift S has a slight edge in this department. The Rift S weighs in at 470 grams, while the original Rift weighs 470 grams as well. However, the Rift S’s weight is more evenly distributed, making it feel lighter and more comfortable to wear.
The Rift S also features a new halo headband design, which provides a more secure and comfortable fit. The headband is adjustable, allowing users to customize the fit to their head shape and size.
Display and Graphics
The display and graphics capabilities of the Rift and Rift S are where the two headsets differ significantly. The original Rift features two OLED displays, each with a resolution of 1080 x 1200 pixels per eye. The Rift S, on the other hand, features a single LCD display with a resolution of 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye.
While the Rift S’s display resolution is higher, the OLED displays of the original Rift provide better contrast and color accuracy. However, the Rift S’s display is faster, with a higher refresh rate of 90Hz compared to the Rift’s 90Hz.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Requirements
The GPU requirements for the Rift and Rift S are also different. The original Rift requires a more powerful GPU to operate, with a minimum requirement of an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 480. The Rift S, on the other hand, can operate with a less powerful GPU, with a minimum requirement of an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 470.
This difference in GPU requirements makes the Rift S more accessible to users with lower-end hardware, but it also means that the Rift S may not be able to handle more demanding VR applications.
Tracking System
The tracking system is another area where the Rift and Rift S differ. The original Rift uses a Constellation tracking system, which requires external sensors to track the user’s head and controllers. The Rift S, on the other hand, uses an inside-out tracking system, which uses cameras on the headset itself to track the user’s head and controllers.
The inside-out tracking system of the Rift S provides more convenience and flexibility, as users don’t need to set up external sensors. However, the Constellation tracking system of the original Rift provides more accurate and precise tracking, especially in complex VR environments.
Controller Tracking
The controller tracking system is also different between the two headsets. The original Rift uses a separate tracking system for the controllers, which requires external sensors to track the controllers’ movement. The Rift S, on the other hand, uses the same inside-out tracking system to track the controllers, which can lead to less accurate tracking in some cases.
Content and Compatibility
Both the Rift and Rift S have access to the same content library, which includes a wide range of VR games, experiences, and applications. However, the Rift S is more compatible with lower-end hardware, making it a better option for users with less powerful computers.
The Rift S is also more compatible with Oculus’s newer VR technology, such as the Oculus Link, which allows users to play PC-based VR games on the Oculus Quest.
Backward Compatibility
The Rift S is backward compatible with most Rift games and experiences, but some older titles may not work properly or may require updates to function correctly.
Price and Value
The price of the Rift and Rift S is another important consideration. The original Rift is generally more expensive than the Rift S, especially when considering the cost of the external sensors and other accessories.
However, the Rift S is a more modern headset with more advanced features and better compatibility with newer VR technology. The Rift S is also more convenient to set up and use, making it a better value for users who want a hassle-free VR experience.
| Feature | Oculus Rift | Oculus Rift S |
|---|---|---|
| Display Resolution | 1080 x 1200 pixels per eye | 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz |
| GPU Requirements | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 480 | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 470 |
| Tracking System | Constellation tracking system | Inside-out tracking system |
| Controller Tracking | Separate tracking system | Inside-out tracking system |
| Price | Around $400 | Around $300 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Oculus Rift and Rift S are both high-quality VR headsets with their own strengths and weaknesses. The original Rift offers better display quality, more accurate tracking, and more flexibility, but it’s also more expensive and requires more powerful hardware.
The Rift S, on the other hand, offers a more modern design, better compatibility with newer VR technology, and a more convenient setup process. However, it may not offer the same level of display quality or tracking accuracy as the original Rift.
Ultimately, the choice between the Rift and Rift S depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more advanced VR experience with better display quality and more accurate tracking, the original Rift may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more convenient and affordable VR solution with better compatibility with newer VR technology, the Rift S is definitely worth considering.
So, is the Rift better than the Rift S? It depends on what you’re looking for in a VR headset. If you prioritize display quality and tracking accuracy, the original Rift may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize convenience, affordability, and compatibility with newer VR technology, the Rift S is definitely worth considering.
What are the main differences between Oculus Rift and Oculus Rift S?
The main differences between Oculus Rift and Oculus Rift S lie in their display resolution, graphics processing, and tracking systems. Oculus Rift S features improved graphics processing and a higher display resolution compared to its predecessor. Additionally, the Rift S uses inside-out tracking, which eliminates the need for external sensors.
In contrast, the original Oculus Rift relies on outside-in tracking, requiring users to set up external sensors around their play area. This difference in tracking systems affects the overall user experience, with the Rift S offering more convenience and flexibility. However, both headsets provide an immersive VR experience, making them suitable for gaming and other applications.
Which headset has better graphics quality?
Oculus Rift S has better graphics quality compared to the original Oculus Rift. The Rift S features a higher display resolution of 1832 x 1920 per eye, resulting in sharper and more detailed visuals. Additionally, the Rift S uses improved graphics processing, which enables smoother and more realistic graphics rendering.
In contrast, the original Oculus Rift has a lower display resolution of 1080 x 1200 per eye. While it still provides a good VR experience, the graphics quality is not as crisp and detailed as the Rift S. However, the original Rift is still capable of delivering high-quality graphics, especially with well-optimized games and applications.
Is the Oculus Rift S more expensive than the original Rift?
The Oculus Rift S is generally priced similarly to the original Oculus Rift. However, prices may vary depending on the region and retailer. In some cases, the Rift S may be slightly more expensive than the original Rift, especially when considering bundle deals or promotions.
Despite the similar pricing, the Rift S offers several upgrades and improvements over the original Rift, making it a better value for money. The improved graphics quality, inside-out tracking, and enhanced convenience features make the Rift S a more attractive option for those looking for a high-end VR experience.
Can I use the same controllers with both headsets?
Yes, the Oculus Rift S is compatible with the same controllers as the original Oculus Rift. The Oculus Touch controllers, which come bundled with both headsets, provide a seamless and immersive VR experience. The controllers feature hand tracking, allowing users to interact with virtual objects in a natural and intuitive way.
However, it’s worth noting that the Rift S also supports the new Oculus Touch controllers with improved tracking and ergonomics. These new controllers offer enhanced comfort and precision, making them a great option for those looking to upgrade their VR experience.
Do both headsets require a powerful computer to run?
Yes, both the Oculus Rift and Oculus Rift S require a powerful computer to run smoothly. The recommended system specifications for both headsets include a high-end graphics card, a fast processor, and sufficient RAM. This ensures that the headsets can deliver high-quality graphics and a smooth VR experience.
However, the Rift S has slightly lower system requirements compared to the original Rift, making it more accessible to users with lower-end hardware. Nevertheless, a powerful computer is still necessary to take full advantage of the headsets’ capabilities and enjoy a seamless VR experience.
Can I play the same games on both headsets?
Yes, both the Oculus Rift and Oculus Rift S are compatible with the same games and applications. The Oculus Store offers a wide range of VR content, including games, experiences, and social apps. Users can access the same library of content on both headsets, ensuring a consistent and immersive VR experience.
However, some games and applications may be optimized specifically for the Rift S, taking advantage of its improved graphics processing and inside-out tracking. In these cases, the Rift S may offer a more enhanced and realistic experience compared to the original Rift.
Which headset is more suitable for beginners?
The Oculus Rift S is more suitable for beginners due to its ease of use and convenience features. The inside-out tracking system eliminates the need for external sensors, making it easier to set up and use the headset. Additionally, the Rift S offers improved graphics quality and a more immersive VR experience, making it a great introduction to virtual reality.
In contrast, the original Oculus Rift requires more setup and configuration, especially with the outside-in tracking system. While it’s still a great headset, the Rift S is more user-friendly and accessible to those new to VR. The Rift S also offers more guidance and tutorials, helping beginners get started with their VR journey.