PSVR2 Vs Vive XR Elite

Sony's PSVR2 platform is certainly a powerful system but is it strong enough to take on the Vive XR Elite

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Every tech nerd and pro gamer wants to read about or experience the recently launched PSVR2 by Sony for its PlayStation 5. Although expensive, it has many futuristic features that improve the VR gaming experience. For example, apart from the headset, the PSVR2 Sense controllers have adaptive triggers that can result in more realistic gameplay. 

However, Sony is not the only company with a VR console. HTC will also launch a well-suited competitor to the PSVR2, which they call the XR Vive Elite. Do they have differences? Let’s find out together.

PSVR2 Vs Vive XR Elite: Specs and Features

Following are some key features and specifications of the PSVR2 and Vive XR Elite:

HTC Vive XR Elite | VR Headset + Controllers

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SpecificationsPSVR2HTC Vive XR Elite
ProcessorCustom 7nm AMD Zen 2 CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2
Res2000 x 20401920 x 1920
Field of View110 degrees110 degrees
ScreenHDR OLEDLCD
BatteryUp to 5 hours of rechargeable batteryUp to 15 hours of rechargeable battery
RAM512MB DDR412GB
Storage826GB128GB
PSVR2 Vs Vive XR Elite: specs comparison

Looking at the above table, it is safe to say that both PSVR2 and Vive XR Elite are heavyweights in the pound-to-pound fight. First, let’s look at the display panel. Sony’s PSVR2 has an HDR display with 4K resolution. Apart from gaming, you can have an advanced graphics experience watching your favorite movie. 

On the other hand, HTC’s HD LCD panel is not far behind in visual performance. So, like in PSVR2, you can enjoy your favorite movie and 3D art or play VR games on Vive XR Elite by HTC.

Furthermore, PSVR2 outperforms the Vive XR Elite in refresh rate, which is vital for smooth gameplay. The PSVR2 has a 120Hz refresh rate, while the Vive XR Elite has up to 90Hz. 

Another essential difference where the Vive XR Elite defeats the PSVR2 is the battery life. From HTC’s corner, the Vive XR Elite has up to 15 hours of chargeable battery over the PSVR2’s up to 5 hours.

PSVR2 Vs Vive XR Elite: Controllers

The best part about Vive XR Elite is its controllers, which are identical to the Vive Focus 3. These controllers are easy to use and have many motion and control features. Moreover, users of Vive Focus 3 will not have to spend a lot of time understanding the whole structure of Vive XR Elite before using it.

On the other hand, the controllers of PSVR2 are Bluetooth compatible, whereas the headset pairs with a USB Type-C cable with PS5. These controllers have comprehensive motion controls and adaptive triggers for a more realistic gaming experience.

Both controllers are suitable according to an individual’s preference in this category.

PSVR2 Vs Vive XR Elite: Passthrough

Passthrough is a feature inside the VR headset where you can see your surrounding natural environment in the middle of your VR session. HTC’s Vive XR Elite outsmarts Sony’s PSVR2 by providing a passthrough with vibrant colors. Contrarily, you can only see black and white with PSVR2’s passthrough. 

Another related feature is eye tracking, where the PSVR2 leads the race. With the PSVR2’s eye tracking, you will experience “foveated rendering” that renders the images directly looked at in the VR environment. The advanced rendering is another reason to try PSVR2.

PSVR2 Vs Vive XR Elite: Price

Since the HTC’s Vive XR Elite has yet to launch, you will not get an actual price yet. However, the experts and gamers are speculating its price to be around $1,000 to $1,099. Admittedly, this is an expensive VR console. However, if it has better features and versatility, then this price is justifiable.

On the other hand, the PSVR2 has a single constraint: its compatibility with PS5 only. Since it directly connects with PS5 and shares its storage and RAM, you must have a PS5 to enjoy PSVR2. If you don’t have a PS5, it’s an extra $500.

If you have the PS5, you will pay $549.99 for PSVR2 and compatible games. 

Conclusion

PSVR2 and Vive XR Elite are both excellent VR consoles. However, Sony focuses on next-generation VR games, and apparently, HTC has multiple focuses with the launching of Vive XR Elite. Since Vive XR Elite has yet to come, so we can hope for a better-competing end product.

However, the final say is with the users and their preferences.

Kevin is the Editor of PC Guide. He has a broad interest and enthusiasm for consumer electronics, PCs and all things consumer tech - and more than 15 years experience in tech journalism.