If you’re in the market for a top-tier VR headset, the HTC Vive Pro 2 promises to deliver an unparalleled virtual reality experience with its impressive 5K display. This high-resolution screen, currently the best available to the average consumer, is a key feature that sets this headset apart. However, despite its incredible visuals, there are some hardware aspects that potential users should consider before diving in.
The original HTC Vive made significant waves in the VR landscape when it launched in 2016, thanks to its precise tracking and high-resolution screen. Since then, competitors like the Oculus Quest 2 and Valve Index have captured the attention of VR enthusiasts. With the HTC Vive Pro 2, HTC aims to reclaim its position as the leading manufacturer of premium VR headsets for PC use. Judging by its specifications, the Vive Pro 2 is among the most powerful and high-end VR headsets currently available.
Boasting a 5K (2.5K per eye) display and targeting a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, it’s visually the most impressive VR headset we’ve tested. The audio experience is also top-notch, featuring over-ear headphones with hi-res audio capabilities. The HTC Vive Pro 2 employs an outside-in tracking system, which is highly accurate in the right environment but requires a more complex setup with additional cabling and power outlets, potentially limiting its usability. Moreover, the wand-like controllers, which have seen little change over the years, feel outdated compared to the more ergonomic designs of current VR controllers that incorporate traditional control sticks.
Despite these caveats, the HTC Vive Pro 2 remains a highly recommended VR headset, particularly for those who have only experienced older generations of VR hardware. If HTC can refine the entire package, it stands a good chance of regaining its status as the best VR manufacturer.
Design
The HTC Vive Pro 2 features an incredibly sharp 4896 x 2448 display (2448 x 2448 per eye) with a super-smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a wide 120-degree field of view. Unlike all-in-one wireless headsets, the Vive Pro 2 focuses on delivering high-end capabilities that can only be achieved when connected to a powerful PC. This results in a much sharper display than the Oculus Quest 2, which also supports 120Hz refresh rates but only on select titles.
The quality of the screen goes beyond resolution. The headset uses a fast-switch LCD with RGB sub-pixels and IPD-adjustable goggles that support a 120-degree field of view, allowing users to catch action out of the corner of their eye thanks to a dual-stacked lens design. The LCD display has been reduced in size compared to previous models to supposedly improve heat management, although this is not entirely successful in practice.
Recommended PC Specifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-4590 or AMD FX 8350 (or better)
- Memory: 8GB RAM or more
- Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX1060 or AMD Radeon RX480 (or better)
- OS: Windows 8.1 or Windows 10
- Video Output: DisplayPort 1.2 (or newer)
- USB Ports: 1x USB 3.0 (or newer)
Recommended Requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-4590 or AMD FX 8350 (or better)
- Memory: 8GB RAM or more
- Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 or AMD Radeon RX 5700 (or better)
- Video Output: DisplayPort 1.4 (or newer)
- USB Ports: 1x USB 3.0 (or newer)
- OS: Windows 10
Comfort and Compatibility
While the HTC Vive Pro 2 includes ergonomic improvements like an adjustable IPD slider, a quick-lock headstrap and a wide facial interface to accommodate glasses wearers, it remains a bulky headset. The weight is evenly distributed to reduce neck strain, but the headset still feels quite encasing, especially with the built-in over-ear headphones.
These 3D spatial sound speakers provide immersive audio without completely isolating you from your surroundings and they can be adjusted using on-cup volume controls. The audio delivery is excellent, with rich bass and the option to connect high-quality headphones for an enhanced sound experience.
One significant comfort issue is the amount of heat generated by the screen, leading to steamy lenses. The close fit of the headset makes it challenging to keep it secure without causing lens fogging, especially for glasses wearers. Better ventilation around the goggles could have mitigated this issue and some users might accept a bit of light bleed to avoid foggy lenses.
Setup
The reliance on base stations for tracking with the HTC Vive Pro 2 can be a drawback, especially for those seeking quick, hassle-free VR engagement. Setting up the base stations and managing the tethered connection to the PC can be cumbersome, requiring adequate space to house two small tracking cubes around your play area. This trade-off is necessary to achieve the highest visual quality, though inside-out tracking systems, like those used in the Oculus Quest 2, are closing the gap.
The HTC Vive Pro 2 connects to your PC via a Vive Link box, which requires a power outlet, USB 3 connection and DisplayPort connection. This setup provides about 5 meters of cable length, allowing some freedom to move around. The headset uses Steam VR and Valve’s base stations for tracking, so if you’re familiar with setting up a VR headset through Steam VR, the process will be straightforward.
You’ll need to place the base stations high up in opposite corners of your play space, ideally above head height and angled slightly downwards. A minimum play area of 2m x 1.5m is recommended for room-scale play, but smaller spaces can work for seated experiences. The Steam VR setup software guides you through the process, including establishing ground level and defining your play space boundaries. Proper placement and angling of the base stations are crucial to avoid tracking errors, such as being misjudged as shorter than you are.
Performance
Despite some comfort and heat issues, the HTC Vive Pro 2 offers an unparalleled VR experience from a visual standpoint. The high-resolution screen and fast refresh rate provide an immersive sense of presence and realism, provided you have a high-end PC to support it. This is arguably the best-looking VR headset available for home use.
Popular VR titles like Half-Life Alyx and Lone Echo benefit immensely from the Vive Pro 2’s superior optics and audio, adding polish, fidelity and atmosphere to the experience. Even older VR games see a noticeable improvement in detail and immersion with the upscaled resolution. For instance, Batman Arkham VR looks more detailed and atmospheric, with environments like Wayne Manor and the Bat Cave appearing more vibrant and detailed.
However, the wand controllers feel outdated compared to the ergonomic designs of Oculus or Valve Index controllers. Additionally, the controller battery life could be better, lasting around 5 hours of playtime.
The HTC Vive Pro 2 has access to a vast library of games through the Steam store and HTC also offers its own store via Viveport. Titles like Half-Life Alyx, Superhot VR, Beat Saber and The Room VR are just a few examples of what’s available. HTC’s Viveport Infinity subscription provides unlimited access to numerous titles for a monthly fee. While there are unofficial methods to access Oculus-exclusive games, these are not officially supported by Facebook or HTC.
The HTC Vive Pro 2 stands out with its high-resolution display, smooth refresh rate and excellent audio quality, making it one of the best VR headsets on the market. However, its reliance on base stations for tracking, the cumbersome setup process and some comfort issues related to heat generation and controller design are notable drawbacks. Despite these caveats, the Vive Pro 2 offers a highly immersive VR experience that can impress even the most discerning VR enthusiasts. If HTC can address these issues, it could reclaim its position as the leading VR headset manufacturer.
FAQs
How does the HTC Vive Pro 2’s tracking system work?
The HTC Vive Pro 2 uses an outside-in tracking system with base stations. This method is very accurate but requires a more complex setup, including mounting the base stations and ensuring they are properly angled and positioned.
Can I use the HTC Vive Pro 2 with older HTC Vive accessories?
Yes, the HTC Vive Pro 2 is compatible with all existing HTC Vive accessories, including Vive Trackers, Vive Facial Tracker, Vive wand controllers and Steam VR accessories such as the Valve Index knuckle controllers. Oculus controllers are not compatible.
What are the comfort issues associated with the HTC Vive Pro 2?
Some users may find the headset bulky and experience discomfort due to the heat generated by the screen, which can lead to steamy lenses. The fit can be challenging to adjust for both secure placement and ventilation, especially for glasses wearers.
How do the audio features of the HTC Vive Pro 2 enhance the VR experience?
The HTC Vive Pro 2 includes built-in over-ear headphones with 3D spatial sound, providing immersive audio without completely isolating you from your surroundings. The audio is rich with deep bass and the headset supports Hi-Res audio, allowing the use of high-quality headphones for an enhanced sound experience.
What is the setup process for the HTC Vive Pro 2?
Setting up the HTC Vive Pro 2 involves connecting it to your PC via a Vive Link box, which requires a power outlet, USB 3 connection and DisplayPort connection. The base stations need to be mounted high in opposite corners of your play space and the setup process includes establishing the ground level and defining the play space boundaries through Steam VR.
How does the HTC Vive Pro 2 perform with VR games?
The HTC Vive Pro 2 offers unparalleled fidelity with its high-resolution screen and fast refresh rate, enhancing the sense of presence and realism in VR games. Titles like Half-Life Alyx and Lone Echo benefit greatly from the headset’s superior optics and audio, while even older VR games see improved detail and immersion.
What is the battery life of the HTC Vive Pro 2 controllers?
The controllers for the HTC Vive Pro 2 have a battery life of around 5 hours of playtime, which could be better compared to some other VR controllers on the market.
What VR content is available for the HTC Vive Pro 2?
The HTC Vive Pro 2 has access to a vast library of games through the Steam store, as well as HTC’s own Viveport store. Popular titles include Half-Life Alyx, Superhot VR, Beat Saber and The Room VR. The Viveport Infinity subscription offers unlimited access to many titles for a monthly fee. Unofficial methods exist to access Oculus-exclusive games, though they are not officially supported.