Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive XR Elite – Is Apple’s option worth it?
Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock
Table of Contents
Apple has recently announced their offering to the VR game. The Apple Vision Pro seeks to blend digital content with physical reality. Described as a spatial computer, the Vision Pro builds on augmented reality headsets such as Google Glass. The ground-breaking new VR headset offers a range of exciting new features promising to boost your social and working life, all supported by the familiar iOS system. But how does this upcoming model compare to the HTC Vive? In this article, we delve into the Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive XR Elite.
Interested in more Apple Vision Pro comparison pieces? We have the Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest Pro and the Apple Vision Pro vs PSVR2 just a click away. Let’s continue here first though.
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Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive XR Elite – Specs
Let’s get stuck into the major similarities and differences between Apple Vision Pro vs HTC XR Elite. Firstly, we are going to look over the specs table for each model and discuss the components that stand out. The Apple Vision Pro headset runs on powerful M2 and R1 chips. The R1 chip ensures a nearly lag-free real-time view, whereas the M2 has become well-known for its power on devices like the MacBook Air (2023). The Vision Pro has two panels, each with over 23 million pixels, exceeding the resolution of a 4K TV for each eye.
| Specs | Apple Vision Pro | HTC Vive XR Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Apple | HTC |
| Display | Internal: 23 MP total dual micro-OLED up to 100 Hz refresh rate External: “EyeSight” curved lenticular OLED | 4K Resolution, 90 Hz refresh rate, 110-degree FOV |
| Memory | 16GB | 12GB RAM, 128GB ROM |
| Platform | visionOS | PC-Compatible, Android Screen Mirroring capable |
| Weight | 600-650g | 625g |
| Cameras | Stereoscopic 3D main camera system, 18 mm, ƒ/2.00 aperture, 6.5 stereo megapixels | 4x Tracking cameras 16 MP RGB camera Depth sensor G-sensor Gyroscope Proximity sensor |
In comparison, the Vive XR Elite display has a resolution of 1920×1920 per eye. It is powered by the Snapdragon XR2 hardware platform. For context, this is the same system that the Meta Quest 2 uses. Let’s take a look at the control and battery components of these two models to see how they compare in these departments.
Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive: Controls
Both headsets are controlled via hand movements, but the XR Elite requires hand controllers.
Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive: Battery
Both headsets boast 2 hours of unconnected use time. They also both have external battery packs on the back of the headset.
Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive XR Elite – Price
Firstly, the cost. Currently, the HTC XR Elite comes with a $1,099 price tag. That’s pretty expensive. However, the Apple Vision Pro is set to launch with an MSRP cost of around $3,499. So although both are budget-busters, the Apple Vision Pro comes out as the more expensive piece of tech. Users of the Apple Vision Pro may need to empty their pocket for this new model.
What are the most impressive aspects of the Apple Vision Pro?
Apple Vision Pro is a forthcoming AR (augmented reality) headset from Apple that promises to elevate virtual reality to an extent where it is compatible with the physical world, so you can stay connected via the classic Apple apps whilst still being present at the moment. Examples include Facetime calls which give the illusion others are in the room with you, while you appear to them as a ‘Persona’ or digitalized version of yourself. You can also view TV, films, or old pictures and videos in a more immersive way than ever before. This enables you to effectively relive memories, with spatial audio boosting sound to recreate real-life environments.
Additionally, you’ll also be able to play Apple arcade games and probably more, but the focus will be on apps and recreating the iOS system in the real world. We don’t know all the details for sure yet, but we are guessing the operating system will link up to other devices like the Apple Watch, iPhone, Mac, and iPad.
How good is the HTC Vive XR Elite?
The HTC Vive, on the other hand, is a virtual reality device that has been around for some time. There are a few models, but we’ll be focusing on the most recent headset – the HTC Vive XR Elite. This is an elite piece of kit that brings the very best in VR gaming and boasts the accolade of the most-awarded headset at CES and MWC 2023.
The HTC Vive XR Elite, on the other hand, is a gaming-focused headset that offers a premium experience. Remarkably clear graphics, high-resolution displays, and a choice between all-in-one and PC-connected gaming make this a high-end device. A 90Hz refresh rate and a speedy processor enable reactions in milliseconds. The headset is also adjustable. You can switch between the classic ski goggles headset for intensive gaming sessions to a more lightweight pair of glasses when needed. We’ve also compared the HTC Vive XR Elite to the recently released PSVR-2.
Final thoughts
So here’s our round-up of the Apple Vision Pro vs HTC Vive XR Elite. Both of these headsets are great options, but they are specialized for different purposes. For gamers, the HTC Vive is your best bet. However, if you are an Apple enthusiast or interested in one of the most exciting and expansive augmented reality pieces of tech to emerge in recent years, you might want to start saving up for the Vision Pro.
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