Pico 4 is a VR headset launched in 2022 by ByteDance. Featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 and Pico OS 5.0, it offers high-quality VR experiences with a focus on comfort and performance.
Looking for alternatives to Pico 4? ConsiderPico 4 Pro, Rift S, Index, Quest Pro, Vision Pro, Vive Pro 2, HP Omnicept, and others for your VR needs.
Pico 4 Pro
A marvel in the realm of virtual reality hardware, the Pico 4 Pro boldly competes with Quest 2, striving to outshine its counterparts with its thoughtful pricing, rich content aspirations, southern Asia/Europe launch plans, and superior technology. An enterprise-centric gadget, the Pico 4 Pro is the lustrous offspring of Pico Neo 3 Link, a standalone headset that marked the first consumer venture of its parent company, ByteDance.
Pico 4 Pro: A Spectacular Symphony of Top Features
The Pico 4 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 processor, promising a refined, upbeat VR experience.
Its compact design, adorned with ‘pancake optics’ reduces bulk, enhancing your wearability.
A per-eye resolution of 2,160 × 2,160, higher than Quest 2’s 1,832 × 1,920, promising a graphical treat for your eyes.
A rear-mounted battery adds a touch of innovation, veering from traditional front-heavy designs.
Its tantalizing future plans include the launch of the Pico World social VR platform in 2023, promising immersivity like never before.
Feature
Benefit
Eye & Face Tracking
Provides more immersive and lifelike interactions.
105-degree Field of View
Gives expansive vision for an immersive experience.
Pico 4 Enterprise
Enhanced version for professional uses and exclusive features.
The limited software compatibility with Quest 2 limits the range of VR titles smoothly playable on Pico 4 Pro.
A slightly disappointing battery life of 2 hours, though continuous play is achievable with plug-in use.
Pico 4 Pro Pricing
Exuding dominance with competitive pricing, the Pico 4 Pro begins at $500 for a 128GB model, extending up to €500 for a storage upgrade to 256GB, an enticing move that undercuts Meta’s Quest 2, with the allure of enhanced storage.
Standing out: The Use Cases of Pico 4 Pro
Enterprise Use
Equipped with custom enterprise-targeted features such as device management software and tailored app stores, Pico 4 Pro conclusively serves the professional market with unique capabilities.
Consumer Use
As a standalone headset with high-end features, Pico 4 Pro extends a compelling argument for consumer use, particularly for gaming enthusiasts seeking superb visual quality and performance.
Crisp Visuals, Impeccable Resolution
Those yearning for crisp visuals and a high-resolution VR experience will find the Pico 4 Pro an appealing choice. Its superior resolution outstrips the Quest 2, PlayStation VR 2, and Quest Pro models.
Pico 4 Enterprise
The Pico 4 Enterprise is the latest virtual reality headset from Pico, tailored for business and enterprise use. With a 4K display powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2, it offers a smooth, high-resolution VR experience with minimal lag.
Pico 4 Enterprise Top Features
4K display with 2160 x 2160 resolution per eye
Runs on the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2
Lightweight and comfortably designed for extended use
Equipped with color pass-through display for real-world interaction
Wide software compatibility including Pico Store platform and SteamVR
Feature
Benefit
8GB of LPDDR5 memory
Faster processing and reduced lag
Integrated face, eye and hand tracking
Improved interactivity and immersive experience
Collects user data
Provides valuable insights for improving training or collaborative processes
Pico 4 Enterprise Limitations
Not designed for mixed or augmented reality use
Approximately 2 hours battery life
May require application adjustments for optimal use of its advanced features
Pico 4 Enterprise Use Cases
Use case 1: Training
The Pico 4 Enterprise is ideal for creating interactive training scenarios, thanks to its high visual fidelity and the ability to collect user data for effectiveness insights.
Use case 2: Collaboration
With its comfortable design and extensive software compatibility, the headset can support long-distance collaboration in a virtual environment, making it a valuable asset for globally spread enterprises.
Use case 3: Simulations and museography
The headset’s 4K+ display and optimized rendering make it perfectly suited for immersive simulations and museum related applications, offering users a realistic and engaging experience.
Cosmos Elite
Stepping into the VR frontier is the Cosmos Elite, a premium offering from HTC Vive that champions comfort and power. Balancing between the high-end and portable VR solutions, it’s a gear that doesn’t shy away from taking the road less traveled.
Cosmos Elite Top Features
Comfort-Driven Design with adjustable features, soft padding, and a strap that tailors to your fit.
Dual high-res 1440-pixel display panels fronting the headset, serving up a visual feast.
A flip-up front panel for seamless VR to real-world transitions.
Integrated Headphones for immersive game audio and voice chat.
Optimized for high-end games powered by a RTX 2070 graphics card and above.
Built Quality
Excellent with a hard plastic adjustable headband
VR Gameplay
Stellar, especially with titles like Half-Life: Alyx, and Beat Saber
Screen Size and Resolution
Dual 3.4” LCD screens offering 1440 x 1700 pixels per eye with a max 110-degree field of view
Cosmos Elite Limitations
Requires ample space and struggles with imperfect controller tracking.
Set-up could get challenging due to space constraints and messy cables.
Relies on older Vive components with no significant upgrades in sight.
The weight could potentially hamper control comfort.
Cosmos Elite Pricing
The Cosmos Elite carries a price tag of $899/£899, a fair leap from its counterparts like Oculus Quest 2. It’s a premium buy, no doubt, but damn, does it deliver.
Cosmos Elite Use Cases
Use case 1: High-End Gaming
The Cosmos Elite, aided by a powerful PC, offers stand-out performance for demanding VR games and truly shines with titles like Half-Life: Alyx, and Beat Saber.
Use case 2: Productivity Software
It exceeds expectations with productive software, providing an immersive environment for work, proving that it’s not just fun and games.
Use Case 3: Graphic Design
When it comes to graphic design, the Cosmos Elite pulls no punches, ensuring detailed visualization and precision.
Quest Pro
Excelling in its role as a VR/AR headset for enterprise users, the Quest Pro designed by Meta offers seamless workflows integration at a professional level.
Quest Pro Top Features
Powerful processor: Equipped with a Snapdragon XR2+ processor, 50% stronger than that of Quest 2.
Superior storage and RAM: Boasts 12GB RAM and 256GB storage for enhanced performance.
High-end resolution: Delivers an impressive 1,920 x 1,800 pixels per eye, offering a local dimming backlight system and a color gamut that’s 130% larger than Quest 2.
Upgraded motion controllers: Redesigned from Quest 2 controllers, these controllers are lighter, less cumbersome, and include rechargeable batteries.
Integrated software: Comes with Meta Horizon Worlds, providing customized interfaces for collaborative work.
Feature
Details
Charging Cradle
Includes USB-C port, cable, wall adapter, recesses for charging both headset and controllers.
Design
Features a sleek, black, glossy front panel for a classy, professional look.
Head Strap
Designed with a padded wraparound band for improved comfort.
Quest Pro Limitations
High cost: At $1499.99, the Quest Pro is triple the cost of the Quest 2, making it a considerable investment.
Limited software: The Quest Pro’s upgrades are not extensively leveraged in consumer-focused software.
Quest Pro Pricing
The Quest Pro is priced at $1499.99, adhering to its high-end, professional target audience.
Quest Pro Use Cases
Use Case 1
With an array of advanced features, Quest Pro proves to be an apt choice for professionals seeking a VR/AR headset for synergistic workflow integration.
Use Case 2
Quest Pro is suitable for users prioritizing higher processing power and advanced features over monetary constraints.
Use Case 3
The high-resolution display and enhanced color gamut make the Quest Pro an ideal choice for users requiring an immersive VR/AR experience for collaborative workspaces.
HP Omnicept
HP Omnicept is an enterprise-focused, highly advanced VR headset reaching the market in May. Loaded with next-level features, this phenomenal device is more than just a headset—it’s a revolution in Augmented Reality! Imagine training, collaboration, and creation like you’ve never experienced before.
HP Omnicept Top Features
High resolution: Astounding clarity with 2160×2160 pixels per eye and a refresh rate of 90Hz.
Elite tracking: Includes innovative sensors for eye, mouth, and heartbeat tracking.
Privacy-focused: Sensor data is not stored on the headset, complying with GDPR guidelines for user privacy assurance.
User Experience: Strap tightening mechanism for superior fit and comfort.
Connectivity
USB-C, DisplayPort, and Power connectors with a 6m cable length for tracking.
Audio
Immersive 3D spatial audio via off-ear headphones with an in-built microphone.
Software Layer
‘Core’ Omnicept software for intuitive sensor data integration.
HP Omnicept Limitations
Pricing: Commands a premium price at $1,250.
Focus: Primarily designed for enterprise use, not targeted towards casual gamers.
HP Omnicept Pricing
Cost of the headset is $1,250 with software deployment cost chargeable via one-time licenses. Profit-based application developers will share 2% of revenue with HP.
HP Omnicept Use Cases
Use Case 1: Training
With high-quality visuals and biometric tracking, HP Omnicept offers a total game-changer in enterprise training scenarios, providing immersive and interactive experiences.
Use Case 2: Collaboration
HP Omnicept facilitates unique possibilities for innovative, VR-enabled collaboration for businesses, surpassing traditional limits.
Use Case 3: Creation
Developers leap the bounds of imagination with access to Omnicept SDK and ISV network, building remarkable VR solutions.
Rift S
Developed by Facebook Technologies and Lenovo, Rift S launched in March 2019 as the successor to the original Oculus Rift.
Rift S Top Features
Improved “inside-out” positional tracking system with Oculus Insight tracking tech.
Utilizes 5 built-in cameras for precise room-scale tracking.
Features high-resolution LCD display of 2560×1440 (1280×1440 per eye) with a refresh rate of 80Hz.
Passthrough+ feature for safety.
Facilitates software updates, access to games & VR content.
Feature
Benefit
Next-generation lens technology
Eliminates god rays
Comfortable design
Lenovo designed halo headband for better weight distribution
Adjustable IPD via software
Better user customization options
Rift S Downsides
Mixed reviews with criticism for incremental upgrade.
Single screen limits individual eye adjustments.
Ceased production in June 2021 may limit product support.
Rift S Pricing
Initially retailing at a price of $399.
Rift S Use Cases
Use case 1: Gaming
Immersive gaming is enhanced with precise room-scale tracking and high resolution displays,
Use case 2: VR content Development
Developers can leverage Rift S’s high-resolution display and comfortable design to create more immersive and user-friendly VR content.
Use case 3: Simulation
With Oculus insight tracking, simulation-based training and experiences can gain an added layer of realism.
Index
Index, a groundbreaking tool, is synonymous with tracking the popularity of programming languages. Its dynamic nature has led to significant tremors in the tech industry, notably the impending surpass of Java by C#.
Index Top Features
Tracks shifts in programming language popularity.
Predicts future trends.
Highlights significant changes, such as the uprising of free, open-source C#.
Monitors the effects of industry decisions like Oracle’s introduction of a paid Java 8 license.
Fosters a holistic understanding of the current digital landscape.
Provides comprehensive information on
Benefits
C#
Profit from its rise as it’s now free and open source.
Java
Stay informed and adapt strategies in response to its decline.
Kotlin
Maximize its usage: it’s easier to use and also free.
Index Limitations
Restricts perspectives to programming languages.
Doesn’t cover other industry areas such as emerging technologies.
Index Pricing
Index fits every techie’s budget; it’s free and open-source.
Index Use Cases
Use case 1: For Developers
Stay updated on the trends. Make informed decisions about which programming languages to learn or adopt into your tech stack.
Use case 2: For Businesses
When choosing a technological partner, understanding their preferred programming languages instrumentation can provide critical insights into their approach.
Use case 3: For Tech Enthusiasts
Assert your knowledge on the ever-evolving digital landscape. Discuss confidently on subjects like the rise of C# or the implications of Oracle’s move with Java 8.
Reverb G2
Enter the world of virtual reality with the powerful Reverb G2 by HP. This consumer-grade headset, designed for Microsoft’s Windows Mixed Reality platform, seats itself as a worthy contender in the realm of VR hardware.
Reverb G2 Top Features
A crisp 2160 x 2160 resolution per eye, coupled with an impressively fast 90Hz refresh rate
A memory-foam lined facemask and a full-cloth build for ultimate comfort
Convenience of external cameras for motion tracking, eliminating the need for sensors/beacons
Easy setup via Windows Mixed Reality Portal and compatibility with SteamVR
Improved motion controllers included in the package
Resolution
2160×2160 per Eye
Refresh Rate
90Hz
Tracking
External Cameras
Setup
Windows Mixed Reality, SteamVR
Additional Gear
Two Motion Controllers
Reverb G2 Downsides
Lower resolution and a higher price point compared to rivals like Oculus Quest 2 and Valve Index
Some hiccups with camera-based motion tracking, which may affect controller movements
Interface issues with Windows Mixed Reality platform
A high-performance PC is a requirement for operation
Reverb G2 Pricing
The Reverb G2 sits at a price point of $599.99. This is higher than the Oculus Quest 2 but it’s less expensive than the technologically superior Valve Index and HTC Vive Pro 2.
Reverb G2 Use Cases
Use case 1
For gamers, particularly those venturing into VR gaming, the Reverb G2 offers crystal-clear visuals and immersive experiences in games like Aim Lab VR, Nvidia VR Funhouse, Project CARS Pagani Edition, and VRChat.
Use case 2
Reverb G2, with its high resolution and refresh rate, is ideal for designers and artists seeking vibrant virtual spaces to build and explore their creations.
Use case 3
Reverb G2 makes virtual interactions smooth and lifelike, opening up new opportunities for corporate training and education in a virtual environment.
Vive Pro
Engage with a heightened reality through the immersive Vive Pro 2 Headset, offering unparalleled visual gymnastics powered by Three.js JavaScript library.
Vive Pro Top Features
Includes a 2-month Viveport Infinity membership.
Implements Three.js for seamless web-based 3D animations.
Sets off GPU-accelerated 3D animations, eradicating dependency on proprietary browser plugins.
Access to OpenGL Shading Language (GLSL).
Highlight 1
Highlight 2
Contributions by developers like Cabello and Uličný that carved its path.
Advent of WebGL for rendering technology implementation.
Support from a remarkable community of over 1700 contributors on GitHub.
Extensive effects, scenes, cameras, animation types, lights, materials, shaders and more.
Vive Pro Downsides
Access to comprehensive API documentation still under construction. Substantive inquiries may lead to a waiting game.
Vive Pro Use Cases
Use case 1
Web developers and designers can harness the power of Three.js, making the Vive Pro key in designing user experiences that resonate in the realm of VR/AR.
Use case 2
For consumers attracted to high definition visual experiences, the Vive Pro brings a palette of vibrant, detailed sequences right into the comfort of their homes.
Use case 3
Academic and professional researchers in computer graphics can use Three.js and the Vive Pro to explore complex ideas in a 3D environment, giving them a powerful thinking and demonstration tool.
PSVR2
Introducing PSVR2, the epitome of next-generation virtual reality technology. Loaded with enhanced functionalities and a rich array of immersive games, PSVR2 stands as a formidable competitor in the VR hardware market.
PSVR2 Top Features
PSVR2 Sense Technology: A blend of headset vibrations, 3D audio, eye tracking, finger touch detection, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers for immersive gaming.
Extensive Game library: Titles like ‘Horizon Call of the Mountain,’ ‘Resident Evil Village,’ and ‘Demeo’ cater to diverse gaming preferences.
Compact Design: The slim, lightweight design, paired with an integrated vent for airflow, ensures premium comfort.
Enhanced Visuals: With its 4000 x 2040 HDR video format, you experience crystal-clear visuals like never before.
Mixed Reality Capabilities: PSVR2 features color cameras and a depth sensor, enabling an advanced mixed reality experience.
Features
Details
OLED Panel
2000 x 2040 resolution per eye, with 90Hz and 120Hz refresh rates for a sublime gaming experience
Sensors
Equipped with motion sensing and eye tracking sensors, ensuring precision in gameplay
Chipset
Furnished with the upgraded Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset for advanced graphics and performance
PSVR2 Limitations
May feel pricey to some users considering the base retail price is $549.99.
Field of vision restrictions due to lens limitations.
Requires a customized charging station, adding to the overall cost.
PSVR2 Pricing
With the base price of PlayStation VR2 starting at $549.99 and various bundles available, PSVR2 offers choices to fit different budget ranges. Additional purchases, such as the exclusive charging station for PS VR2 Sense controllers priced at $49.99, may augment the cost.
PSVR2 Use Cases
Use Case 1: Hardcore Gamers
PSVR2’s formidable processing power, combined with its teams of sensors and high-resolution displays, provides an ever-engaging experience for avid gamers.
Use Case 2: VR Enthusiasts
Whether exploring virtual landscapes or engaging in action-packed battles in immersive mixed reality, PSVR2 offers a hands-on VR experience; a must-try for every VR aficionado.
Use Case 3: Multimedia Consumers
From watching 2D/3D cinematic videos to virtual monitors from a computer, the PSVR2 caters to varied multimedia needs within its expansive and highly detailed view.
Vision Pro
Introducing, Vision Pro, a cutting-edge innovation offering an immersive, augmented reality experience, equipped with powerful features such as voice, eyes and hands control, and an atomized workspace. Its ability to project digital content in physical space sets it apart.
Vision Pro Top Features
Design: Resembling ski goggles, it comes with a lightweight aluminum body and a Light-Seal that fits user’s face to block outside light.
Cameras and Display: Packed with 12 cameras for 3D photos and videos, and a micro-OLED display offering better than 4K resolution.
Audio: Boasts immersive spatial audio from audio pods for an enhanced real-world experience.
Stand-alone Device: Can function as a computer or iPad, with access to an extensive app store without needing controllers.
Interaction: Utilizes Precise Eye Tracking and allows real-time hand gestures, offering an immersive and streamlined user experience.
OS: Runs on Apple’s first spatial operating system, VisionOS.
Duration
External battery supports up to 2 hours usage
Security
Incorporates unique Optic ID security system
Compatibility
Mac-compatible, can double as 4K external monitor
Vision Pro Downsides
High Price: The device costs a whopping $3,499.
Battery Constraints: Users need an external battery pack for its operation.
Connectivity Issues: A dangling cable is present due to the external battery.
Vision Pro Pricing
The Vision Pro costs $3,499, with a cheaper version expected to be priced between $1,500 and $2,500.
Vision Pro Use Cases
Collaboration
Due to its high spatial computing capability, Vision Pro is ideal for workspace collaboration.
Entertainment
Vision Pro can transform any space into a personal theater, making it a game-changer in the entertainment industry.
Connectivity
With its interactive features like FaceTime, Vision Pro is useful for users seeking high connectivity.
Vive Pro 2
A razor-sharp, immersive AR/VR headset, the Vive Pro 2 packs a punch with its precision and advanced features. Coupled with three.js, the cross-browser JavaScript library, it offers a plethora of 3D animations and effects to immerse you in a different reality.
Vive Pro 2 Top Features
Includes 2-month Viveport Infinity membership for access to thousands of VR games, apps, and videos
Three.js cross-browser JavaScript library API for creating 3D computer graphics in web browsers
Offers plane, cube, sphere, torus, and 3D text geometric offerings for diverse experiences
Feature
Description
GLSL capabilities
Access to the shader language for interactive 3D graphics.
Deserialization
Supports JSON, glTF, OBJ, USDZ formats.
Public forum and wiki
Community support and resources to get the most out of the device.
Vive Pro 2 Downsides
No explicit pricing mentioned. Uncertainty can be a deterrent for some users.
API documentation is still under construction. Potential for confusion in understanding device operations.
As of version 118, WebGL 2.0 is used by default. May pose compatibility issues with older systems.
Vive Pro 2 Use Cases
Use case 1
The Vive Pro 2 is an excellent tool for game developers, providing a versatile platform for creating and testing VR experiences with rich 3D animations and effects, thanks to the combined power of WebGL and three.js.
Use case 2
For education and training professionals, the Vive Pro 2‘s immersive capabilities can result in highly engaging, interactive learning environments that could revolutionise traditional teaching methods.
Use case 3
3D designers can use the Vive Pro 2 as a tool to visualize and interact with their creations in ways not previously possible. The device’s in-depth manipulation of geometries and perspective gives designers a new dimension to work and innovate.
Vive
Vive is a high-end VR headset developed by Valve and HTC, specifically tailored for gaming and VR experiences that require powerful processing and immersive graphics.
Vive Top Features
Motion tracking for a realistic gaming experience
High-resolution screens and graphics
Freedom of movement within a 15 x 15-foot room
Attached motion controllers for enhanced VR immersion
Large VR content library, including popular titles like Half-Life: Alyx and Beat Saber
Compatibility with Valve Index Controllers for a superior grip and tracking accuracy
Upgrade Option
HTC Vive Pro 2 with the highest-resolution screen
Soundscape
Includes on-ear headphones; replaceable with USB-C headphones for personalized audio comfort
Field of View
Wide field of view at 120 degrees for expansive virtual experiences
Vive Downsides
Requires VR-ready PC for optimum performance, potentially adding to costs
No traditional gamepads included; employs specially designed controllers
Standard controllers can feel awkward, necessitating Valve Index Controllers for a better experience
Demands a high-end computer to realize its full potential
Vive Pricing
The pre-launch price for the Vive headset is estimated around $799. Consider that a VR-ready PC, which can cost about $1,000, might be an additional requirement.
Vive Use Cases
Advanced Gaming
With its top-notch graphics, wide FOV, and room-scale tracking, Vive is an ideal fit for gamers seeking a high-resolution, immersive VR experience.
Professional Training
Because of its precision tracking and realistic visuals, industries can leverage Vive for high-quality VR-based training in fields like medicine, aerospace, and many more.
Education
Vive’s expansive content library and impressive hardware make it a wonderful tool for educational institutes to provide a compelling, immersive learning atmosphere for students.
Tiffany Brise
Content writer @ Aircada, patiently awaiting a consumer AR headset that doesn’t suck.
