The Valve Index and the Oculus Rift S are two of the most popular virtual reality (VR) headsets currently available on the market. While both offer immersive VR experiences, many people wonder which one is worth buying. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both headsets to help you decide if the Valve Index is worth it over the Rift S.
Display
The Valve Index boasts a resolution of 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye, which is slightly higher than the Rift S’s 1280 x 1440 pixels per eye. Additionally, the Index offers a higher refresh rate of 120Hz compared to the Rift S’s 80Hz. This means that motion in games and other experiences will be smoother and less likely to induce motion sickness.
Winner: Valve Index
Field of View
The Valve Index has a wider field of view than the Rift S, offering an impressive 130 degrees compared to the Rift S’s 110 degrees. This can make a significant difference in immersion, as it allows for a more expansive view of your virtual surroundings.
Controllers
The controllers for both headsets are quite different. The Oculus Touch controllers that come with the Rift S allow for natural hand movements, including finger tracking. They are also lightweight and comfortable to hold.
The Valve Index controllers offer even more advanced hand tracking with individual finger sensors and pressure sensitivity. They also have an ergonomic design that makes them feel like natural extensions of your hands.
Winner: Tie (depending on personal preference)
Tracking
Both headsets use inside-out tracking, meaning they use cameras on the headset itself to track your movements rather than external sensors placed around your play area like older VR systems did.
However, while inside-out tracking is generally more convenient and easier to set up, the Valve Index uses additional external sensors for even more precise tracking. This allows for more accurate and realistic movements in VR.
Price
The biggest difference between the two headsets is their price. The Valve Index is significantly more expensive than the Rift S, with a price tag of $999 compared to the Rift S’s $399. This higher cost may not be worth it for some users, especially those who are new to VR or on a tight budget.
Winner: Rift S
Conclusion
Overall, both headsets offer impressive VR experiences. The Valve Index has better display specs, wider field of view, and more advanced tracking, making it the better choice for serious gamers and VR enthusiasts who want the most immersive experience possible. However, the high cost may not be worth it for everyone.
On the other hand, the Oculus Rift S offers an excellent VR experience at a much lower price point. It’s a great choice for those who are new to VR or on a budget but still want a high-quality headset.
Ultimately, which headset is right for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Consider what matters most to you in a VR headset and choose accordingly.