SteamVR vs OpenVR – Which Has a Wider Reach?

OpenVR’s multivendor support and open-source flexibility makes it a superior choice for developers aiming for broad device compatibility. However, SteamVR’s comprehensive feature set and robust support for immersive gaming experience make it the ideal choice for high-end, game-focused VR experiences.

Key Differences Between SteamVR and OpenVR

• SteamVR’s primary service is delivering a comprehensive VR experience with room set-up and device management, while OpenVR is more of a software development kit (SDK) and application programming interface (API).
• OpenVR supports multivendor, including Oculus Rift and Windows MR, while SteamVR primarily supports its own HMDs with added compatibility for select other brands.
• SteamVR supports the creation of 3D environment on a PC, while OpenVR’s main application lies in developing VR software and games.
• SteamVR operates autonomously within the Steam client or standalone in corporate settings, whereas OpenVR depends on linking with SteamVR hardware or other VR devices.
• CyberShoes and Cyberchair by SteamVR enhances user immersion through natural walking movements, OpenVR lacks such bespoke peripheral supports.

What Is SteamVR and Who’s It For?

SteamVR, an offspring of Valve, is a runtime within the Steam client that powers virtual reality (VR) experiences. It automates VR headset management, extends a rich play area setup, device management, and in-app purchasing with Steam’s microtransactions API. SteamVR is not just for gamers but for VR enthusiasts looking for immerse experiences and corporates seeking stand alone use.

SteamVR is also for interactive 3D environment creators and tech manufacturers like Nintendo with its Virtual Cockpit. Its accessories and devices like HTC VIVE (or VCV1), base stations, and Controllers serve those in need of positional tracking in VR.

Pros of SteamVR

• Powers comprehensive 360-degree full room VR experiences
• Microtransactions API enabling in-app purchases
• Partnerships with HTC for hardware like VCV1

Cons of SteamVR

• Compatibility issues reported with Meta Quest 3
• Exclusive system requirements could limit user base

What Is OpenVR and Who’s It For?

OpenVR, a Valve brainchild, is a software development kit (SDK) doubling as an application programming interface (API). Designed to interface between VR hardware and software, OpenVR is for tech developers seeking multi-vendor adaptability for devices like HTC Vive and Oculus Rift.

Through OpenVR, game developers can create immersive experiences by leveraging its support for multiple tracked objects, models, and textures. It benefits creators using various Unity versions, with its numerous modes and settings serving diverse creation needs.

Pros of OpenVR

• Multi-vendor support facilitating creation of diverse VR experiences
• Open source nature fostering collaborations
• Support for multiple tracked objects, models, and textures

Cons of OpenVR

• Complexity in fetching of values and tracking predictions
• Possibility of outdated API support

Code Examples for SteamVR & OpenVR

SteamVR

This code snippet creates a SteamVR environment, loading a custom VR Model. Note this example is built on the Unity3D platform, utilizing the Valve.VR namespace. Unity3D (2019.3 or newer) and the SteamVR Plugin are prerequisites.

using UnityEngine;
    using Valve.VR;

    public class SteamVRExample : MonoBehaviour
    {
        public GameObject vrModel;

        private void Start()
        {
            if (!SteamVR.active)
            {
                SteamVR.Initialize();
            }

            CreateVRModel();
        }

        private void CreateVRModel()
        {
            if (vrModel == null)
            {
                Debug.Log("Custom VR Model not set. Loading default model...");
                vrModel = SteamVR_RenderModel.models[0];
            }

            Instantiate(vrModel);
        }
    }

OpenVR

The following C++ snippet interfaces with OpenVR to read and print the positional data of a VR device. Prior requirements include the OpenVR SDK (version 1.14.15 or above) and a C++ compiler that supports the C++11 standard at minimum.

 #include <openvr.h>
    #include <iostream>

    int main() {
        vr::EVRInitError eError = vr::VRInitError_None;
        vr::IVRSystem* m_pHMD = vr::VR_Init(&eError, vr::VRApplication_Scene);

        if (eError != vr::VRInitError_None)
        {
            std::cout << "Unable to init OpenVR!" << std::endl;
            return 0;
        }

        vr::TrackedDevicePose_t trackedDevicePose;
        vr::VRControllerState_t controllerState;
        vr::VRSystem()->GetControllerStateWithPose(vr::TrackingUniverseStanding, vr::k_unTrackedDeviceIndex_Hmd, &controllerState, sizeof(controllerState), &trackedDevicePose);

        if (trackedDevicePose.bPoseIsValid)
        {
            vr::HmdMatrix34_t mat = trackedDevicePose.mDeviceToAbsoluteTracking;
            std::cout << "Device position: x=" << mat.m[0][3] << ", y=" << mat.m[1][3] << ", z=" << mat.m[2][3] << std::endl;
        }

        vr::VR_Shutdown();
        return 0;
    }

Forging the Future: Which Technology Takes the Reigns – SteamVR vs OpenVR?

As the reader journeys to the cusp of the tech sphere, the quest for the superior virtual reality platform: SteamVR or OpenVR commences.

Game Developers

For game developers seeking refined control over hardware-software interfacing, SteamVR, with its advanced device management capabilities wins hands-down. Dynamically handling device pairing, firmware updates, and audio customizations, it sings a tune of effortless efficiency, while extending microtransaction API for in-app purchasing. Your coding masterpiece deserves a platform to shine.

Augmented Reality Creators & Corporate Users

OpenVR’s characteristic flexibility with its SDK/API interface, multi-vendor support, and Unity plugin compatibility make it the go-to choice for AR creators and those seeking potent standalone VR solutions in corporate settings. Stand on the shoulders of tech giants, make AR/VR magic.

VR Enthusiasts & Gamers

Immerse yourself in the thrilling realms of VR through SteamVR’s comprehensive 360-degree, room-recognition offerings. Feel the goosebumps as you step into meticulously crafted 3D environments, transport yourself into the heart of action using versatile accessories like CyberShoes and SteamVR Controllers. The affinity to its HMDs like the HTC VIVE, or others such as Oculus Rift, make it an irresistible choice for gamers.

Deftly straddling the line between robust hardware interfacing and flexible software interaction, SteamVR steals the show for game developers and VR enthusiasts, while OpenVR shines for AR creators and standalone corporate ventures. Choose wisely, future is but one decision away.