RealWear HMT-1 vs HoloLens 2: Which Headset Is Better?

For industrious workers operating in challenging environments, RealWear HMT-1 promises hands-free convenience with a sturdy build, superior audio capabilities, and extended battery life. If you seek heightened spatial awareness, advanced eye-tracking, and seamless real-time 3D interaction, lean towards HoloLens 2 despite its shorter battery lifespan.

Key Differences Between RealWear HMT-1 and HoloLens 2

• RealWear offers 100% hands-free operation and thrives in industrial conditions; HoloLens 2 has precise gesture controls and fits predominantly in enterprise-level use-cases.
• HMT-1 has extended battery life (9-10 hours); HoloLens 2 offers a shorter battery life (~3 hours).
• RealWear caters to 15 languages via voice commands; HoloLens 2 advances with eye-tracking and hand-tracking.
• HMT-1 costs $1,500 with a singular focus on practical industrial use; HoloLens 2 priced at $3,500 offers a broader spectrum of applications supported by AzureCloud.

Comparison	RealWear HMT-1	Microsoft HoloLens 2
Target Environment	Industrial Workers	Enterprise Market
Compatibility with Safety Equipment	Yes	No Information
Resolution	High-resolution micro display	2048×1080
Software Categories	4	Productivity and Education
Voice Control	Yes	Yes
Number of Supported Languages	15	No Information
Internal Memory and RAM	Internal: 32 GB, 3 GB RAM	64GB storage, 4GB DDR4 RAM
Battery Life	Up to 5 hours active use; 9-10 hours typical use	Approximate 3-hour battery life; reduces to two hours under rigorous use
Operating System	Android 10 (AOSP) + WearHF™ Hands-Free Interface	No Information
Applications	Document Navigator, camera with barcode reader, video recorder, media player	Operating system enabled solutions and application ecosystem
Price	$1,500.00 USD	$3,500.00 USD
Use in AR Applications	Yes	Yes
Comfort and Weight	High wearing comfort; lighter	Enhanced, 566 grams; equal to Oculus Quest 1, heavier than Quest 2
Functionality in Noisy Environments	Yes	No Information
Robustness and Resistance	Yes	No Information
Camera	16MP, video 30fps	8MP, video 1080 30fps
Display Type and Description	20° Field of View, 1m fixed focus, 24 bit color LCD, equivalent to 7” tablet	Waveguide Technology, 1440×936 pixels per eye

What Is RealWear HMT-1 and Who’s It For?

The RealWear HMT-1 is the first Android™ powered tablet-class wearable computer tailored for industrial workers, particularly those operating in tough environmental conditions such as hot, dusty or noisy areas. The cornerstone application areas for RealWear’s HMT-1 span manufacturing, oil and gas, logistics, and consumer goods sectors which align well with Industry 4.0 benchmarks.

Pros of RealWear HMT-1

• 100% hands-free operation coupled with robust voice control.
• Rugged construction suitable for extreme industrial conditions.
• High-resolution micro display emulating a 7” tablet-class screen.
• Supports 15 languages and optimized for versatile use cases including AR applications.
• Notably lighter and comfortable than competitor devices like Microsoft HoloLens 2.

Cons of RealWear HMT-1

• Relatively premium price point at $1,500.
• Limited field of view compared to some competitors.
• Despite excellent rugged design, service in extreme environments may affect longevity.

What Is HoloLens 2 and Who’s It For?

Microsoft’s HoloLens 2 is a sophisticated headset designed to bring augmented reality experiences vividly to life, primarily targeting enterprise users over gamers or tech enthusiasts. Beyond bringing productivity solutions to the workplace, HoloLens 2 promotes advanced learning experiences in the education sector.

Pros of HoloLens 2

• Weighing a mere 566 grams, the device emphasizes comfort without compromising on functionality.
• Powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 850 processor and 4GB DDR4 RAM resulting in an efficient device warranting enterprise use.
• Enhanced display resolution powered by 2k 3:2 light engines displaying 2048×1080 pixels per eye.
• Seamless eye & hand tracking and gestural interactivity.
• Versatile Microsoft Mesh platform for shared augmented reality experiences.

Cons of HoloLens 2

• With a steep price tag of $3500, the device may be considered a hefty investment for certain businesses.
• Average battery life restricted to 2-3 hours, determined by intensity of use.
• While robust, it’s slightly heavier than comparable devices like the Oculus Quest 2.

RealWear HMT-1 vs HoloLens 2: Pricing

While RealWear HMT-1 comes with a price tag of $1,500.00 USD, the HoloLens 2 from Microsoft is significantly more costly, standing at a price of $3,500.

RealWear HMT-1

The RealWear HMT-1, priced at $1,500.00 USD, is an industrial-grade wearable computer. It offers the efficiency of a hands-free Android™ tablet-class wearable, widely used for augmented reality applications in various industries such as manufacturing, oil/gas, automotive, consumer goods, and logistics. The price accounts for its notable features such as voice-based OS, powerful audio capabilities, unmatched noise cancellation, full-shift internal battery, and robustness in extreme industrial environments.

HoloLens 2

On the other hand, HoloLens 2 from Microsoft is a trailblazing headset, predominantly targeting the enterprise market, with a considerably higher pricing at $3,500. The price justifies its advanced features such as Solid hand-tracking, infrared cameras for eye-tracking, spatial sound, an extensive array of sensors, and particularly the access to collaborative platforms for shared AR experiences. Its seamless hand & eye tracking, gesture controls, and an extensive developer resource for creating custom apps make for a comprehensive end-to-end MR (Mixed Reality) enterprise solution.

RealWear HMT-1 vs HoloLens 2: Making the Right Choice

After dissecting features and confronting pros and cons, it’s judgement hour for the RealWear HMT-1 and HoloLens 2. Let’s align each with their optimal audience.

Industrial Laborers

Thanks to its unyielding durability and tireless battery, it’s apparent that the RealWear HMT-1 has an edge for operatives in heavy-duty settings. The fact it’s operational from -20° C to +50° C, makes it perfect for stricter industrial environments, from dusty construction zones to damp oil rigs.

Collaborative Professionals

The HoloLens 2 takes the throne when it comes to collaborative productivity in controlled experiences. Packed with eye-tracking and enhanced resolution, this choice is ideal for professionals in education, R&D, and tech sectors requiring interfacing with digital content.

Field Service Workers

The RealWear HMT-1 excels in proving its mettle to field service workers, with its noise cancellation and hands-free interface permitting seamless operation engulfed in interference. Coupled with a battery life lasting a full shift, the HMT-1 suits lengthy periods of technical work.

Enterprise Users

The HoloLens 2, with overlays that allow for a more immersive experience, excels as an enterprise-ready mixed reality device. The biometric security features, coupled with the ability to create custom apps, make it an able fit for high-tier developers and corporate users.

In a snapshot, the rugged RealWear HMT-1 proves ideally suited for demanding industrial environs, boasting a full-shift battery and sturdy build. Meanwhile, HoloLens 2 shines for productivity and collaboration, delivering immersive interface and custom application development capabilities to professionals and enterprise users.