Oculus Quest Vs. Rift: A Detailed Comparison

If you're looking for economically-priced VR headsets, Oculus provides you with two affordable options that give you value for your money. The Oculus Rift S sets you back $399, and the Quest 2 costs $299. The Rift S is a headset designed to tether to a PC, while the Quest 2 is intended to be an independent headset that can be connected to your PC as an option. In this article, we provide you with a detailed lowdown on the features and differences of the Oculus Quest and Rift S to aid you in making your decision. 

Graphic Quality

The first major difference between the Oculus Quest 2 and the Rift S is their graphic quality and resolution. The Quest 2 is a standalone headset and features an in-built Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor that provides 1832 x 1920 resolution on each eye with a 90Hz refresh rate. In addition, the headset features 6DOF motion tracking that uses cameras for more precision and gives a more authentic VR experience. It requires a USB-C cable to connect it to a PC and function as a tethered headset. In fact, many critics have lauded the versatility of the Quest 2 due to its versatility and ground-breaking resolution for a standalone VR headset. 

On the other hand, the Rift S is a solely tethered VR headset that is designed to work with a PC. However, it is worth noting that some gaming PC will be incompatible as it connects through a DisplayPort. It streamlines and refines several features in the original Rift model while still offering the same functions. Compared to the Quest 2, the Rift S provides a graphic resolution of 1280 x 1440, has a refresh rate of 80Hz, and uses your PC as a processor. This enables the Rift S to display excellent visual performance and sharper resolution that will not be possible in standalone headsets. 

Controller and Motion Tracking System

The Quest 2 and Rift S have similar motion-tracking and controller systems using 6DOF motion tracking and the Oculus Touch controllers. The 6DOF motion tracking feature allows the system to follow the position and orientation of the player, which allows for more accuracy and authenticity when it comes to movement in the 3D space of the VR world. 

Both headsets also utilize the Guardian system to set safe boundaries of the VR play area. They both have exterior-facing cameras that track the users' motion while they use the controllers to point and mark out the parameters of the play area. The controllers for both headsets feature analog sticks and buttons that emulate the conventional video game consoles, with a menu button, two face buttons, and triggers embedded where your index and middle fingers are located. In addition, they enhance motion-tracking by enabling the user to virtually grip and point with their hands. 

Wired vs. Standalone

The dealbreakers for many VR users are the enhanced immersion and freedom that the Oculus Quest 2 offers or a variety of entertainment and games that the Rift S can run. The standalone Quest 2 provides the user seamless andwireless playtime, which elevates the quality of their VR experience while still providing higher resolution and graphic quality that can run a substantial number of games on its own. While it can run into issues when it comes to games that require a higher processing rate, this can be solved with the Oculus Link cable. 

The Rift S is a tethered VR headset that can cause wire and cable management complications. This can be a nuisance for many players looking for that uninhibited and immersive experience that the Quest 2 provides. The Rift S overall also has a lower resolution quality than the Quest and utilizes the PC for its processing but offers a more extensive range of games available on the library that is not available to the standalone Quest 2. 

Upping the Realism Factor

Rebuff Reality aims to reimagine the boundaries of virtual reality. We're looking to take VR immersion and sensory experiences to greater heights with our high-performing accessories engineered with cutting-edge technology, so your playtime feels more authentic and visceral. 

For more information on our expansive assortment of VR peripherals and accessories, please do not hesitate tocontact us today!