Oculus Rift S vs Quest: Which Vr Headset Reigns Supreme?
Virtual reality has exploded in popularity, offering immersive experiences that transport you to other worlds. But with so many options, choosing the right VR headset can be a challenge. Two popular contenders, the Oculus Rift S and the Oculus Quest, both promise amazing gaming and entertainment, but they offer distinct experiences.
This comparison dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Oculus Rift S and the Oculus Quest. We’ll explore their key differences, from the way they connect to your computer to their portability and the types of games they excel at. This will help you decide which headset is the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a seasoned VR enthusiast or a curious newcomer, understanding the strengths of each device is crucial. We’ll break down the pros and cons of the Oculus Rift S and the Oculus Quest, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and embark on your VR adventure.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Rift S | Quest |
|---|---|---|
| Tracking | Inside-out | Inside-out |
| Resolution Per Eye | 1280 x 1440 | 1440 x 1600 |
| Refresh Rate | 80 Hz | 72 Hz |
| Field of View | ~110 degrees | ~100 degrees |
| Audio | Integrated | Integrated |
| Microphone | Integrated | Integrated |
| Controllers | Touch Controllers | Touch Controllers |
| PC Required | Yes | No |
| Storage | N/A | 64GB / 128GB |
| Connectivity | DisplayPort & USB 3.0 | Wireless & USB-C |
| Weight | 563g | 571g |
| IPD Adjustment | Hardware | Software |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Oculus Rift S: Features a single fast-switch LCD panel with a resolution of 2560 x 1440. Offers a sharper image compared to the original Rift, but the LCD panel can sometimes produce a “screen door effect” and lacks the vibrant colors of OLED displays.
- Quest: Boasts dual OLED panels, one for each eye, with a resolution of 1440 x 1600 per eye. Provides rich colors and deep blacks, resulting in a more immersive visual experience, however this comes at the cost of screen-door-effect, and a slightly lower resolution per eye when compared to the Rift S.
- Winner: Quest
Tracking
- Oculus Rift S: Uses Oculus Insight tracking, relying on five built-in cameras to track the user’s movements and the controllers. Offers excellent tracking accuracy and a wider tracking volume, however, it requires a PC connection.
- Quest: Also employs Oculus Insight tracking with four built-in cameras. The tracking is generally very good, but the tracking volume can be slightly more restricted compared to the Rift S due to the number of cameras.
- Winner: Rift S
Processing Power
- Oculus Rift S: Relies entirely on the connected PC for processing power. This allows for high-fidelity graphics and demanding VR experiences, but requires a powerful PC.
- Quest: Operates as a standalone VR headset with its own built-in processor (Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2). This enables wireless VR experiences, but the graphical capabilities are limited compared to PC-powered VR.
- Winner: Quest
Portability & Setup
- Oculus Rift S: Requires a wired connection to a PC, which limits its portability. The setup involves connecting the headset and controllers to the PC, which is generally straightforward.
- Quest: Completely wireless and standalone, offering maximum portability. The setup is incredibly easy, just power it on and start playing.
- Winner: Quest
Audio
- Oculus Rift S: Features integrated “off-ear” speakers that provide positional audio. They are comfortable and allow you to hear your surroundings, but the audio quality isn’t as immersive as headphones.
- Quest: Also includes integrated “off-ear” speakers. The audio quality is similar to the Rift S, but the Quest also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening.
- Winner: Tie
Controllers
- Oculus Rift S: Uses the updated Oculus Touch controllers, which are comfortable and offer excellent tracking. The controller design is ergonomic and easy to use.
- Quest: Uses the same Oculus Touch controllers as the Rift S, providing the same high-quality feel and tracking.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Oculus Rift S: Discontinued, but originally priced around $399.
- Quest: Quest 2 starts at $299.
- Winner: Quest
Content Library
- Oculus Rift S: Accesses the Oculus Rift PC library, which includes a vast selection of VR games and experiences.
- Quest: Accesses the Oculus Quest store, offering a growing library of standalone VR titles, and can also connect to a PC to play PCVR games.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Visual Fidelity | Rift S |
| Portability | Quest |
| Ease of Use | Quest |
| Standalone Gaming | Quest |
| PC VR Gaming | Rift S |
| Comfort | Rift S |
What They Have in Common:
- Controllers: Both headsets utilize Oculus Touch controllers, offering a familiar and intuitive way to interact with virtual environments. These controllers provide precise tracking and a wide range of input options.
- Inside-Out Tracking: Both the Rift S and Quest employ inside-out tracking, eliminating the need for external base stations. This simplifies setup and allows for greater freedom of movement.
- Integrated Audio: Both headsets feature built-in audio solutions, providing an immersive sound experience without the need for separate headphones. This makes them convenient and easy to use.
- Integrated Microphone: Both headsets also have integrated microphones, enabling voice chat and communication within VR experiences. This is a standard feature for social and multiplayer gaming.
- Touch Controllers: The controllers are identical for both headsets, allowing for a consistent and familiar experience when switching between the two. The controllers provide haptic feedback, adding to the immersive feel.
Oculus Rift S Vs Quest Buying Guide
Price and Value
The Oculus Rift S, often found at a lower price point, presents a compelling entry point into PC VR gaming. However, its reliance on a PC limits its portability. The Quest, while more expensive initially, offers standalone VR capabilities, eliminating the need for a powerful gaming PC. Consider your existing hardware and desired flexibility when evaluating value. Factor in the cost of a gaming PC versus the convenience of wireless VR when determining the best value for your needs. Both offer access to the Oculus ecosystem, but the overall cost of ownership differs significantly.
PC Requirements vs. Standalone VR
The Rift S necessitates a PC meeting specific hardware requirements, including a dedicated graphics card. The Quest, operating independently, frees you from these constraints. This makes the Quest an attractive option for those without a gaming PC or who prefer a more mobile VR experience. The Rift S’s performance is tied to the PC’s capabilities, leading to potentially higher graphical fidelity. The Quest offers a more accessible entry point, particularly for beginners or those seeking simplicity in setup and use.
Gaming Library and Content Availability
Both headsets share access to the Oculus store, ensuring a wide selection of VR games and experiences. The Rift S, by connecting to a PC, can also access SteamVR, expanding its library further. The Quest, while having a slightly smaller native library, continuously adds new titles and offers the ability to stream PC VR content via Oculus Link or Air Link. Consider your preferred games and platform compatibility when making your choice. Both headsets offer a robust and growing selection of VR content.
Tracking and Immersion
The Rift S utilizes inside-out tracking, providing excellent tracking capabilities with its five built-in cameras. The Quest also features inside-out tracking, offering similar performance. Both systems track head and hand movements, allowing for natural interactions within VR environments. The Rift S’s tethered design means you’re limited by the cable length. The Quest’s wireless nature provides a greater sense of freedom and immersion, allowing for larger play spaces and unrestricted movement, enhancing the overall experience.
Comfort and Design
The Rift S boasts a comfortable design with a halo headband, distributing weight evenly. The Quest is also designed with comfort in mind, considering its standalone nature. The Quest’s design accommodates the onboard processing hardware, potentially making it slightly heavier than the Rift S. Personal preferences for weight distribution and design will play a role in your choice. Try both headsets if possible, to gauge which one feels more comfortable during extended play sessions. Consider the weight distribution and overall feel.
Future-Proofing and Upgradability
The Quest, as a standalone device, has a longer lifespan due to its upgradability and continued software support. The Rift S is tied to the PC’s capabilities, potentially limiting its future-proofing. Consider the long-term investment and the potential for future VR advancements. The Quest is more future-proof due to its standalone nature, allowing for upgrades and updates over time. The Rift S is reliant on the PC’s capabilities. The Quest has the potential to evolve with software updates.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Oculus Rift S If…
- You prioritize higher visual fidelity and a smoother refresh rate.
- You already have a VR-ready PC.
- You want a more comfortable and balanced headset design.
- You prefer a wired connection for a more reliable experience.
Buy Quest If…
- You want a completely wireless and portable VR experience.
- You value the freedom to play VR anywhere without a PC.
- You want access to a wider library of games, including standalone titles.
- You are looking for an easy-to-set-up and user-friendly VR system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the Oculus Rift S and the Quest?
The primary difference lies in their functionality: the Rift S is a PC-tethered headset, requiring a gaming PC, while the Quest is a standalone VR device. This means the Quest operates independently, offering greater portability, whereas the Rift S relies on the power of your PC for processing and graphics rendering. This fundamental distinction impacts price, convenience, and overall user experience.
Does the Oculus Rift S require a PC?
Yes, the Oculus Rift S necessitates a PC that meets the minimum hardware specifications. This includes a dedicated graphics card, a compatible processor, sufficient RAM, and a USB 3.0 port. Without a PC meeting these requirements, the Rift S will not function. The PC handles the processing and graphics rendering for the VR experience, which is then displayed on the headset.
Can the Oculus Quest play PC VR games?
Yes, the Oculus Quest can play PC VR games through Oculus Link, which uses a USB-C cable to connect to your PC, or wirelessly via Air Link. This allows the Quest to access the same library of games as the Rift S, effectively bridging the gap between standalone and PC VR. This functionality expands the Quest’s gaming library significantly.
What is inside-out tracking?
Inside-out tracking uses cameras on the headset to track the user’s movements and the position of the controllers within the play space. This eliminates the need for external sensors, making setup and use easier. Both the Rift S and Quest utilize inside-out tracking, providing a seamless and immersive VR experience without external equipment.
Which headset is more portable?
The Oculus Quest is significantly more portable due to its standalone nature. It doesn’t require a PC or any external devices for operation, allowing you to take it anywhere with ease. The Rift S, being tethered to a PC, is limited to the location of your gaming setup. The Quest offers the ultimate portability.
What is Oculus Link?
Oculus Link is a feature that allows the Oculus Quest to connect to a PC via a USB-C cable and play PC VR games. It effectively turns the Quest into a Rift S, providing access to a wider library of games and potentially improved graphics depending on your PC’s capabilities. It greatly enhances the Quest’s versatility.
Which headset is better for beginners?
The Oculus Quest is generally better for beginners due to its simplicity and ease of setup. Its standalone nature eliminates the need for a gaming PC and complicated setup procedures. It offers a more accessible entry point into VR. The Rift S requires PC setup which can be more complex for new users.
Final Verdict
The Oculus Rift S offers a good PC VR experience at a reasonable price, while the Quest provides the freedom of standalone VR. The Quest’s portability, ease of use, and wireless capabilities make it a more versatile and accessible option for most users.
Winner: Oculus Quest