SteamVR offers a powerful full-room VR experience extending to social interactivity and overlay applications, ideal for dedicated gamers and content creators. Virtual Desktop, supports streaming PCVR games and desktop applications, suited for users seeking workstation utility in a virtual environment, though compatibility restrictions apply.
Key Differences Between SteamVR and Virtual Desktop
SteamVR powers complete VR experiences with its own hardware, Virtual Desktop streams PCVR games and desktop applications.
Virtual Desktop establishes Remote connections, SteamVR functions are tethered to PC.
While SteamVR offers a VR-based social platform, Virtual Desktop focuses on productivity with multi-monitor setup.
SteamVR’s system compatibility is broad, Virtual Desktop is limited by certain firewall, antivirus, and network conditions.
Comparison
SteamVR
Virtual Desktop
Functionality
Powers virtual reality experiences via the Steam client.
Allows to play SteamVR or Oculus Rift games on VR ready PC.
Setup
Automatically installed when VR headset is connected to PC.
Requires connection to same router/network as headset for setup.
Playing and streaming VR content, browsing and viewing 360 photos, 360 videos, operating desktop applications.
Product Development
SteamVR’s first commercial product, the HTC Vive or VCV1, was released in April 2016.
Developed for Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.
Compatibility
Works with its own HMDs (like Vive) and others (like Rift), compatibility issues with Meta Quest 3 using air link reported.
Able to stream to Oculus Go, GearVR, Oculus Rift, and HTC Vive.
Connectivity
Steam Controllers support positional tracking.
Connects wirelessly to computers over Wi-Fi, supports Bluetooth mice, keyboards and gamepads.
Customer Feedback
Users reported compatibility issues between SteamVR and Meta Quest 3 when using air link in mid-2022.
Amazon user logged 3255 hours using Virtual Desktop for work and gaming, praising its effectiveness.
System Requirements
OS: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1 or later, Windows 10, Processor: Intel Core i5-4590/AMD FX 8350, Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970, AMD Radeon R9 290.
Requires a VR ready PC running Windows 10 or 11.
What Is SteamVR and Who’s It For?
SteamVR is an advanced, feature-packed VR platform developed by Valve as an extension of Steam. It’s a comprehensive solution for enjoying and creating immersive 3D environments and experiences. With its various cutting-edge technologies, like the CyberShoes for increased immersion and consistent software improvements, it truly embodies the revolution of virtual reality since the 1980s.
Primarily, SteamVR is targeted towards tech enthusiasts, gamers and developers who desire a holistic VR journey. With its versatile software, wide device compatibility, and a broad array of functionalities like overlay applications and in-app purchases, it caters to a diverse demographic of VR users.
Pros of SteamVR
Extensive 360-degree full room VR experience
Compatibility with various VR devices
Support for multiple features such as in-app purchases, overlay applications, and external accessories
Cons of SteamVR
Users have reported compatibility issues when using air link with Meta Quest 3
High system requirements, possibly inaccessible for lower-end setups
Lack of multi-platform support, exclusive to Windows
What Is Virtual Desktop and Who’s It For?
Virtual Desktop is a sophisticated software that enables seamless VR experiences and optimizes productivity. Developed for the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, it offers promising tools such as secure streaming, microphone passthrough, and gamepad emulation. Virtual Desktop allows users to navigate impressive VR realms, empowering them to maximize limitless screen space with resizable screens.
The technology is primarily designed for VR-ready PC users and gamers who fancy interacting with desktop applications in a virtual environment. The expansive spectrum of use cases, from web browsing and media viewing to gaming and document editing, makes it an effective tool for both work and entertainment.
Pros of Virtual Desktop
Powerful platform for facilitating remote connections over the internet
Compatible with numerous hardware such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive
Supports 3D SBS movies, complete with resizable screens for multitasking
Cons of Virtual Desktop
Incompatibility with Mac for gaming functionalities
Potential issues with antivirus software that might block the Streamer App
No ‘free-to-play’ offer – requires purchase on various platforms
SteamVR vs Virtual Desktop: Making the Right Choice
If you’re on the fence about SteamVR and Virtual Desktop, we’ve compiled a verdict that aligns your needs and preferences with the right technology.
For Game Makers & Developers
With SteamVR‘s comprehensive features such as room setup, device management, and overlay application creation, we recommend it for game makers. Its extensive compatibility with multiple HMDs provides flexibility for developers.
Virtual Reality Enthusiasts
The immersive VR experiences offered by SteamVR, including 360-degree VR and walking movements reproduction through CyberShoes, make it the clear choice for VR enthusiasts. Benefits like social connectivity within VR cement its stand.
Remote Workers
Virtual Desktop is more suited for those who rely on VR for work. It allows effective multitasking with resizable screens, supports browsing and viewing 360 media, and facilitates comfortable navigation with Bluetooth peripherals.
Streaming Savvy Users
Given its robust streaming capabilities, the choice for streaming-savvy users is Virtual Desktop. It enables secure, high-quality, latency-optimized gaming experiences.
The Budget Conscious
Choose Virtual Desktop if budget is a concern. Despite being a paid tool, it offers value for money with a wide range of functionalities and excellent aftersale support.
Roll out the verdict: If gaming and comprehensive VR experiences are your priority, SteamVR is the clear choice. For remote work and streaming-oriented needs, the winner is Virtual Desktop.
Grant Sullivan
Content writer @ Aircada and self proclaimed board game strategist by day, AI developer by night.
