The Oculus Rift S and Oculus Quest 2 are two notable VR headsets that offer distinct benefits and experiences for VR enthusiasts. Here's a closer look at how they compare in terms of graphics power, availability, control schemes, wireless freedom, and overall performance.
Graphics Power
The Oculus Rift S is a tethered headset that connects to a PC for processing, delivering impressive graphics. In contrast, the Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone headset with a higher resolution and can also function as a tethered headset via an accessory cable. The Quest 2's ability to function both as a standalone and tethered device gives it an edge over the Rift S, making it the preferred choice in terms of graphics power.
Winner in this category: Oculus Quest 2
Availability and the Future
Oculus is phasing out the Rift S and focusing on the Quest platform going forward. This emphasis on future development and support makes the Quest 2 a better investment over the Rift S.
Winner in availability: Oculus Quest 2
Control Schemes
Both the Rift S and Quest 2 feature 6DOF (six degrees of freedom) motion tracking and similar Touch controllers, providing a comparable interactive experience in VR. The improved Guardian system in both headsets helps establish play area boundaries effectively.
Winner for control schemes: Tie between both headsets
Wireless Freedom
The Quest 2 excels in providing a wire-free experience, although it can be tethered with an accessory cable if needed. With a higher resolution and Snapdragon 865 processor, the Quest 2 enhances the VR experience without requiring cables for use.
Winner in wireless freedom: Oculus Quest 2
PC Play
For tethered VR, both the Rift S and Quest 2 (via Oculus Link) offer access to the Oculus Store's extensive library of games. While tethering to a PC can be a nuisance, both headsets provide similar experiences when it comes to PC play capabilities.
Winner in PC play: Tie between both headsets
| Category | Oculus Rift S | Oculus Quest 2 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphics Power | Impressive graphics via PC processing | Higher resolution, standalone or tethered functionality | Oculus Quest 2 |
| Availability and the Future | Phased out | Focus on future development and support | Oculus Quest 2 |
| Control Schemes | 6DOF motion tracking and Touch controllers | 6DOF motion tracking and Touch controllers | Tie |
| Wireless Freedom | Requires cables | Wire-free experience with optional tethering | Oculus Quest 2 |
| PC Play | Access to Oculus Store via tethering | Access to Oculus Store via Oculus Link | Tie |
| Overall Verdict | N/A | Versatile, standalone features, superior resolution, future-focused | Oculus Quest 2 |
Overall Verdict
When considering standalone features, lower price, and future development focus, the Oculus Quest 2 emerges as the recommended choice over the Rift S. Its versatility, superior resolution, and wireless functionality make it a dominant player in the current VR landscape.
Overall winner: Oculus Quest 2
