Virtual reality (VR) headsets are getting more powerful and accessible every year. Two of the most popular consumer VR headsets today are the HP Reverb G2 and the Oculus Quest 2.
Both provide an immersive VR experience, but they have some key differences that may make one a better choice over the other depending on your needs.
In this detailed comparison guide, we’ll examine the specs, features, pros and cons of the Reverb G2 and Quest 2 to help you decide which VR system is the best fit for you.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs | HP Reverb G2 | Oculus Quest 2 |
| Resolution | 2160 x 2160 per eye | 1832 x 1920 per eye |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 72/90Hz |
| Field of View | 114 degrees | 89 degrees |
| Audio | Spatial audio speakers, dual mics | Spatial audio speakers |
| Tracking | Windows MR (controller tracking not as robust) | Oculus inside-out (more accurate) |
| Design | Tethered to PC | Completely standalone |
| Controllers | Reverb G2 controllers | Oculus Touch controllers |
| Built-in Software | None, relies on SteamVR | Oculus UI and content store |
| Price | $599 | $299 |
Overview And Key Features
The HP Reverb G2 is a PC-powered VR headset that offers high resolution visuals, adjustable comfort, and optimal audio. It connects to a compatible gaming PC to run VR experiences. Some of its key features include:
- Display Resolution: 2160 x 2160 pixels per eye
- Field of View: 114 degrees
- Refresh Rate: 90Hz
- Built-in Audio: Spatial audio speakers and dual microphones
- Tracking: Windows Mixed Reality inside-out tracking
The Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone wireless VR headset. It does not require a PC and contains all the processing power needed to run VR software directly on the headset. Highlights include:
- Display Resolution: 1832×1920 pixels per eye
- Field of View: 89 degrees
- Refresh Rate: 72Hz or 90Hz
- Built-in Audio: Spatial audio speakers
- Tracking: Oculus inside-out tracking
- Standalone operation without a PC
Both headsets use inside-out tracking which means they have built-in cameras that track your environment without the need for external sensors. The Reverb G2 offers a better display and audio quality, while the Quest 2 prioritizes freedom of movement and standalone versatility.
Visual Quality
One of the most important aspects of a VR headset is the visual experience it provides. This includes display resolution, field of view, refresh rate and optics.
The Reverb G2 shines in visual quality with 2160 x 2160 pixels per eye, delivering superbly sharp and detailed visuals. The Quest 2 falls slightly behind at 1832×1920 pixels per eye.
With a field of view of 114 degrees, the G2 also provides a slightly more immersive experience than the Quest 2’s 89 degrees FOV. Both headsets offer 90Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals and gameplay.
The Reverb G2 uses anti-screen door effect (SDE) optics to minimize the visible lines between pixels. The Quest 2 also reduces SDE well but some users may notice it slightly more than on the G2.
If you want the best possible VR visuals, the HP Reverb G2 is the winner. But the Quest 2 still provides an excellent visual experience at a more affordable price point.
Audio Quality
Good audio is key for an immersive VR experience. The Reverb G2 and Quest 2 take different approaches to audio.
The G2 incorporates high-quality near-ear speakers with spatial audio and noise cancellation. This provides a very natural soundscape that amplifies immersion in VR. Dual built-in microphones also enable easy chatting with others in VR.
The Quest 2 has decent built-in spatial audio speakers though the sound quality is not quite on par with the G2. You can improve audio on the Quest 2 by using headphones or earphones. The Quest 2 lacks built-in microphones so you’ll need a headset or mic for voice chat.
For the best integrated VR audio solution, the Reverb G2 is the winner. But the Quest 2 offers more flexibility to use your preferred audio accessories.
Tracking And Controllers
Both headsets use inside-out tracking meaning they have cameras that track your environment and movements without external sensors.
The Reverb G2 uses Microsoft’s Windows Mixed Reality tracking which works well for head tracking but can occasionally lose controller tracking, especially if they are out of line of sight.
The Quest 2 uses Oculus’ inside-out tracking which is generally more robust for both headset and controller tracking. The redesigned Quest 2 controllers are also more ergonomic and intuitive to use than the Reverb G2 controllers.
For most reliable inside-out tracking, the Oculus Quest 2 has an advantage over the HP Reverb G2.
Raw Power And Standalone Ability
When it comes to sheer processing power, the Quest 2 wins hands down because it contains the entire computing hardware needed to run VR experiences directly on the headset. This makes it completely wireless and standalone.
The Reverb G2 relies on an external PC for all of its power. It must be tethered to your PC with a long USB-C cable. So the G2 lacks standalone capability but taps into significantly more powerful graphics and processing from your computer.
The Quest 2 uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 platform with 6GB of RAM. This allows it to run complex VR games and apps, but graphics will not be as advanced as a PC-connected headset.
If complete freedom of movement is your priority, the Quest 2’s standalone design can’t be beaten. But the G2 offers far superior visuals through the power of a VR-ready gaming rig.
Also Read: Diffrences Between Oculus Quest 2 And Meta Quest 2.
Built-In Apps And Content Libraries
When it comes to built-in software, the Quest 2 once again benefits from being a standalone headset. It comes pre-loaded with a user interface and Oculus VR content store.
The Reverb G2 basically relies on SteamVR and Windows Mixed Reality apps. It does not have a distinct UI or content marketplace built-in.
The Oculus store has a vast library with over 350 apps and games to choose from. There is a good mix of free and paid content. Popular titles like Beat Saber and Vader Immortal are exclusives.
SteamVR also provides a huge selection of VR games and apps to use with Windows MR headsets like the Reverb G2. But you generally need to purchase and install VR software separately rather than having it readily available.
For the best out-of-box software experience, the Quest 2 is the winner. But the Reverb G2 gives you access to nearly all VR content on Steam.
Comfort And Ergonomics
Comfort is vital for an enjoyable VR session, especially if you plan to use your headset for prolonged periods. Both the Reverb G2 and Quest 2 are designed to be comfortable to wear for most users.
The Reverb G2 has a lightweight design and well-balanced distribution of weight. It has a soft rubberized face gasket that conforms well around your eyes and nose. The headstrap is easy to adjust and dial in.
The Quest 2 is slightly heavier than the G2 but counterbalances the weight smartly at the rear. It uses soft cloth material around the face instead of rubber. The headstrap is easy to tighten and loosen as needed.
Overall, both provide a comfortable fit for hour-long VR gaming sessions or movie viewing. The Quest 2 is usable for exercise and active games due to its untethered nature. The G2’s tethering cable limits energetic movement.
In terms of lenses, the Reverb G2 supports IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment so you can set the optimum distance between lenses to match your eyes. The Quest 2 lacks manual IPD adjustment which may impact comfort for some users.
For ergonomics and customizable fit, the Reverb G2 provides advantages in comfort. But both headsets are designed to be workable for most people.
Also Read: Is Dof Reality H3 Better Than P3?
Setup And Use Requirements
When it comes to setup and prerequisites, these headsets again differ quite a bit due to the Quest 2’s standalone design.
To use the Oculus Quest 2, all you need is the headset itself, the Oculus app on your mobile device or computer, and a Facebook account. Everything is contained in the headset so you can take it anywhere and get into VR within minutes.
The HP Reverb G2 relies on being connected to a gaming PC with Windows Mixed Reality compatibility. You’ll need Windows 10 and sufficient PC hardware (CPU, GPU) to meet VR requirements. The headset must remain tethered to your computer during use.
So the Quest 2 offers tremendous convenience and accessibility. But the G2 provides the best visuals by tapping into desktop-level processing power. It just takes more effort to get up and running.
Price Considerations
The Oculus Quest 2 is significantly more affordable than the Reverb G2, typically retailing for $299 USD versus $599 for the HP headset.
However, to use the Reverb G2, you will need an existing high-end gaming PC which is an added cost. A new VR-ready computer can easily cost over $1000.
So the overall investment for the Reverb G2 system is higher than the all-in-one Quest 2. But the G2 may be the better choice if you already own a capable gaming PC.
Both headsets normally require a Facebook account to access Oculus content. But the G2 can optionally run without one if you mainly use SteamVR.
For budget-conscious buyers or those new to VR, the Quest 2 is the most accessible high-end headset. The G2 appeals more to seasoned VR users with desktop PCs.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In terms of visual quality, field of view and audio, the HP Reverb G2 delivers a superior VR experience compared to the Oculus Quest 2.
However, the Quest 2 offers greater flexibility with its standalone wireless design and excellent built-in content library. For VR gaming on a PC, the G2 is the better choice but the Quest 2 is ideal for portable use.
The HP Reverb G2 generally provides better visuals, audio quality and field of view than Oculus headsets like the Rift S and original Quest. Newer Oculus models like the Quest 2 have closed the gap somewhat with improved displays.
Oculus headsets excel in aspects like tracking, controllers and mobile use. For PC VR, the G2 still holds an advantage in immersion but Oculus is more flexible.
The key differences are that the Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone wireless headset with all computing on board, whereas the HP Reverb G2 must be tethered to a gaming PC.
The G2 has higher resolution visuals, better audio and a wider field of view. But the Quest 2 offers better built-in apps, intuitive controls and freedom of movement. The G2 provides superior graphics from a PC while the Quest 2 emphasizes portability.
Yes, the HP Reverb G2 is an excellent VR headset for gaming. Its high resolution display, powerful PC connectivity and great audio make it very well-suited for immersive VR gaming.
The inside-out tracking could be more robust but overall the G2 provides an outstanding gaming experience combined with a capable computer.
Also Read: Choose Between HTC Vive And Valve Index.
Conclusion
Here’s a quick recap of the main strengths of each VR headset:
HP Reverb G2 key advantages:
- Sharper display resolution
- Better audio quality
- Wider field of view
- Manual IPD adjustment
- Access to SteamVR content
Oculus Quest 2 key advantages:
- Completely wireless operation
- More robust inside-out tracking
- Larger content library
- Intuitive controllers
- Lower price point
So in summary, the Reverb G2 is ideal for VR enthusiasts who want the best visual fidelity and audio immersion powered by a gaming PC. The Quest 2 appeals to newcomers and anyone who values standalone portability over top-end graphics.
Both headsets deliver an impressive overall VR experience. Choose based on your budget, existing equipment, and importance of mobility versus cutting-edge visual performance.