Virtual reality headsets used to have to be connected to computers for optimal performance while gaming, and several years ago, most standalone VR headsets were only good to play some videos.
But technology has evolved, and with the launch of Snapdragon XR2 powered Oculus Quest 2 standalone VR headset available for pre-order for $299, Facebook has decided to completely leave the PC-only VR headset business.
- SoC – Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 platform with AI acceleration capability similar to Snapdragon 865
- System Memory – 6GB RAM
- Storage – 64GB or 256GB flash
- Display
- Dual 1832 x 1920 pixel (per eye) display @ 90 Hz
- IPD Adjustment – 58mm, 63mm or 68mm
- Audio Integrated speakers and microphone, 3.5 mm audio jack
- Connectivity – WiFi, Bluetooth (but no audio support due to latency)
- Tracking Technology – Oculus Insight inside-out 6-DoF tracking with motion controllers
- USB – USB-C cable for charging
- Battery – Good for 2 to 3 hours
- Dimensions – 191.5 x 102 x 142.5mm
- Weight – ~500 grams
Facebook / Oculus did not publish the full specifications so I had to rely on reviews from Tom’s Hardware and RoadtoVR to come up with somewhat detailed specs.
The headset ships with two 3rd-generation Oculus Touch controllers each powered by a AA battery (included), a power supply, and a USB-C cable.
Compared to the original Oculus Quest, the new, lighter Oculus Quest 2 comes with a faster processor (Snapdragon XR2 vs Snapdragon 835), more RAM (6GB vs 4GB), and its displays provide 50-percent more pixels. All that for a cheaper price of $299 for the 64GB, while Oculus Quest first sold for $399. There’s also an Oculus Quest 2 variant with a 256GB flash that goes for $399.
Quest 2 supports all app running on Quest, and some upcoming titles like Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge, Myst, Jurassic World Aftermath, Warhammer 40,000 Battle Sister, Pistol Whip: 2089, The Climb 2, Rez Infinite, and many more. While Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone VR headset first, it’s also compatible with Oculus Link for PC VR gaming.
Tech blogs that got samples are pretty positive about Facebook’s new virtual reality headset claiming it’s “Lighter, Faster, Better”, and “better in (almost) every way”. Reviewers note that Quest 2 features are the same as the ones for Quest, so if you don’t necessarily need the extra performance, or higher resolution, upgrading to the new model may not bring that much more to your VR experience.
Pre-orders are scheduled to ship on October 13th, and the Oculus Quest 2 can also be pre-ordered from Amazon (Worldwide), Best Buy (US), FNAC (Europe), and other distributors.
Via Liliputing
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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