With superior audio and display capabilities, the HTC Vive Pro offers an impressive upgrade for tech enthusiasts and professionals willing to bear its steep cost. HTC Vive, with its all-inclusive and more affordable bundle, remains a solid choice for casual users or those new to VR.
Key Differences Between HTC Vive Pro and HTC Vive
- HTC Vive Pro exhibits enhanced features including sharper screens, improved audio system, and a second outward-facing camera for 3-D tracking stereoscopic vision.
- HTC Vive Pro’s design is comfortable and secure, however, it carries a higher price tag and does not include base stations or motion controllers, which are available for an extra cost.
- HTC Vive, while it provides less advanced visuals and audio, provides a more inclusive package, featuring controllers and room-scale tracking hardware within its lower price.
- The HTC Vive and Vive Pro are both tethered to a computer, despite the Pro’s minor visual and audio enhancements.
| Comparison | HTC Vive Pro | HTC Vive |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | Two years after HTC Vive | April 2016 |
| Design | Comfortable, secure, navy blue color | Designed to accommodate customers who wear glasses |
| Pricing | $799 (excluding base stations, motion controllers). Core bundle available at extra $300 | $799 for just the headset. |
| Audios | Improved audio capabilities with built-in headphones | Have a microphone for noise cancellation. |
| Hardware | Two cameras for 3-D tracking stereoscopic vision | Sold with existing base stations and controllers |
| Resolution | Features AMOLED screens – dual 3.5-inch 1440×1600, 615ppi | 5K resolution with full kit |
| Viewing Experience | Improved VR experience compared to the original Vive | Room-scale laser motion tracking with full kit |
| Controllers | Improved gaming controls, functional and reliable | Controllers provided |
| Target Market | Enthusiasts, Professionals, those with a lot of disposable income | Targeted towards enterprise and professional market |
| Features | Sharper screens, high-quality built-in headphones, dual outward-facing cameras | Inside-out motion tracking, support for interchangeable faceplates |
What Is HTC Vive Pro and Who’s It For?
HTC Vive Pro is a virtual reality headset defined by its advanced features, like dual 3.5-inch AMOLED displays, integrated quality headphones, enhanced game controls, and 3-D tracking stereo cameras. Targeting the tech-enthusiasts and professionals, its competitive price demands a distinctive purchase decision, whereby the entire experience is optimized for those keen on high-quality VR experiences.
Being an evolution of the original HTC Vive, the Vive Pro offers to its users an immersive gaming experience powered by sharper screens and an impressive 615ppi pixel density. This innovative VR technology is a significant upgrade providing users with sharper visuals, and better audio quality.
Pros of HTC Vive Pro
- Sharper AMOLED screens provide better visuals
- Integrated high-quality headphones for superior sound
- Dual cameras for enhanced 3-D tracking vision
- Improved game controls elevate the VR gaming experience
Cons of HTC Vive Pro
- Steep price restricts its market primarily to enthusiasts and professionals
- Does not include base stations and motion controllers
- Ideal VR capabilities remain pretty much similar to the original HTC Vive
What Is HTC Vive and Who’s It For?
HTC Vive is a VR brand by HTC Corporation, offering a range of VR hardware including headsets and accessories, and software services aimed initially at gaming but now diversified into business and arts. A collaboration with Valve Corporation, HTC Vive uses the proprietary SteamVR system. Being released in April 2016, HTC Vive has continuously evolved its offerings for its users.
With products such as Vive Pro, Vive Cosmos, and Vive Focus catering to varying demands of the market, HTC Vive is suitable for both casual and professional users who demand high-end graphics, immersive VR experiences, and device compatibility. Its 5K resolution, high refresh rates, and other integrations make HTC Vive a compelling choice for VR enthusiasts.
Pros of HTC Vive
- Accommodates users wearing glasses
- High-resolution display and high refresh rate
- Range of accessories allow extensive device compatibility
- Contactless VR applications using WiGig technology
Cons of HTC Vive
- Initial high cost due to HMD-only package
- Vive Cosmos designed for “stationary” experiences only
- Requires extra devices like base stations and controllers for full functionality
Your Ultimate VR Decision: HTC Vive Pro or HTC Vive?
As AR/VR enthusiasts, developers and gamers, you’re faced with a decision — HTC Vive Pro or HTC Vive? Let’s break down the endgame.
For the VR Virtuosos
If your VR journey transcends beyond mere amusement, say hello to the HTC Vive Pro. With dual outward-facing cameras, sharper screens, high-quality built-in headphones, and an upgraded, crisp display, it brings your VR goals to life. Bear in mind, this superior piece of tech comes at a premium price of $799, excluding base stations and motion controllers. But for enduring performance and immersive experiences, it’s a worthy investment.
Gaming Gurus
When it comes to gaming, both the Vive and Vive Pro have their merits. Where the Vive offers solid wheelhouse features at an affordable price, the Vive Pro improves the visuals and controller fluidity, making for an enriched gaming experience. Again, weigh out your need for poppy graphics against the more reasonable cost of the original Vive.
Developers Delight
Developers, the Vive is your jam. With its compatibility for the SteamVR ecosystem, evolving VR applications in business, arts, gaming, and an affordable access point into the VR domain, it’s a no-brainer. Plus, the promise of enhanced capability with various accessories paves the way for versatile development opportunities.
When it boils down to HTC Vive Pro vs HTC Vive, your choice hinges on function and fees. For upgraded visuals, audio perfection, and pro-level immersion, the HTC Vive Pro leads. However, if budget and a strong platform for development take precedence, the Vive holds its ground valiantly.
