Summary
- COMPARISON OF WINDOWS MIXED REALITY HELMETS
- HP Reverb, Leader of the Second Generation
- Acer ConceptD EYE: Acer switches to 4K
- ASUS HC102, freshness and lightness
- Acer Mixed Reality HMD AH101, the most accurate Windows Mixed Reality headset
- Dell Visor, the most beautiful Windows Mixed Reality headset
- HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset, the strongest Windows Mixed Reality headset
- Lenovo Explorer, the best ventilated Windows Mixed Reality headset
- Samsung Odyssey, the high-end Windows Mixed Reality headset
- WINDOWS MIXED REALITY HELMETS GUIDE
Since October 2017, the first virtual reality headsets are compatible with Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality platform. They were released along with the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. To help you choose the headset that suits your needs, find out what the strengths of each of these devices are.
On October 3, 2017, Microsoft held a conference dedicated to the launch of its Windows Mixed Reality platform. Headsets compatible with this platform were marketed from October 17, 2017. Most of these headsets are based on the reference design provided by Microsoft, and therefore have the same technical characteristics. In this context, one may wonder what differentiates these different devices. Asus, HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo… discover the strengths of each Windows Mixed Reality headset.
COMPARISON OF WINDOWS MIXED REALITY HELMETS
HP Reverb, Leader of the Second Generation
Announced in March 2019, the HP Reverb is Hewlett Packard's second Windows Mixed Reality headset. Its main strength is its impressive definition of 2160 × 2160 by eye for a total exceeding 4K. As a reminder, the first HP headset was satisfied with a definition of 1440 × 1440 per eye.
This new device therefore offers a definition doubled compared to the first, and even outperforms the HTC Vive Pro and Samsung Odyssey. In addition, its LCD screen uses the entire band of RGB sub-pixels and the grid effect will therefore be greatly reduced compared to OLED screens of equal definition.
The other major strength will be comfort, with a very different design from the first model and closer to that of the Oculus Rift. We find in particular a very similar headband, and an integrated audio headset. For the rest, we will find the same inside-out tracking system, as well as compatibility with Windows Mixed Reality and Steam VR.
Primarily aimed at businesses, the HP Reverb will be available at end of April 2019 from $ 600. This is the first second-generation Windows Mixed Reality headset, but other manufacturers should quickly update themselves.
Acer ConceptD EYE: Acer switches to 4K
Like HP, Acer offers a second Windows Mixed Reality virtual reality headset with 4K definition. It is moreover probable that the two 2160 × 2160 definition LCD screens are the same as those of the Reverb.
There is also an integrated audio headset, and the possibility of detaching the lenses and screen from the helmet to clean it. A system for adjusting the gap between the pupils is also proposed. The inside-out tracking system is the same as on the previous model.
Le price and release date of the Acer ConceptD OJO have not yet been released. However, we can expect this device to launch by the end of 2019.
ASUS HC102, freshness and lightness
With the polygonal design of its visor, the Asus WMR headset stands out in a positive aesthetic way. However, the real highlight of this HC102 headset are the materials it is made from. First of all, unlike other manufacturers, Asus has chosen to integrate into its headset a single 3K 2880 × 1440 screen rather than two 1440 × 1440 screens. This makes the device significantly lighter than its rivals and than all VR headsets available today. This feature should make the experience more comfortable.
In addition, the inside of the HC2012 headband is covered with antibacterial surface Quick-drying, preventing the helmet from being covered with a disgusting wetness after a few hours of intense use. In addition, these materials should be cool to the touch, which will reduce the risk of sweating with use. The Asus HC102 headset will be marketed for $ 449 at the end of 2017.
Screen: LCD
Cable : 4 meters
FOV : 105 °
Resolution: 2880 x 1440
Sortie: Spring 2018
Price: From 449 €
Acer Mixed Reality HMD AH101, the most accurate Windows Mixed Reality headset
This helmet is largely made of shiny plastic, and conforms to the shape of the skull through an expandable Halo-shaped headband.
The design of the Acer headset is pleasing, and the experience offered will be technically similar to that delivered by other WMR headsets. On the other hand, the lack of fleece may pose some problems in terms of comfort in the long term ... the Windows Mixed Reality headset from Acer has been available since October 2017.
Screen: LCD
Cable : 4 meters
FOV : 105 °
Resolution: 2880 x 1440
Sortie: 17th October
Price: From 449 €
Dell Visor, the most beautiful Windows Mixed Reality headset
Bright and pristine white, the Dell Visor is certainly the most beautiful Windows Mixed Reality headset. In addition, the front and back of its Halo-shaped headband is covered with anti-sweat fleece, which guarantees better hygiene in case of intense and prolonged use. This fleece does not absorb sweat, which makes it very easy to clean after use. Ideal for evenings with friends.
The Dell Visor also incorporates a system for manage the cable which connects it to the computer. Pushing the button forward keeps the cable facing you, while pushing the back button keeps it behind. An ingenious way to avoid tangling during use. The Dell Visor will be available at the end of the year for $ 349.
Screen: LCD
Cable : 4 meters
FOV : 105 °
Resolution: 2880 x 1440
Sortie: 17th October
Price: From 510 €
HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset, the strongest Windows Mixed Reality headset
The headset from HP has the same spec sheet as other Windows Mixed Reality headsets, but is distinguished by a price of only 399 euros. Its main strength is therefore a much more attractive price than its competitors.
The headband of the HP headset is covered with anti-sweat fleece, and the matte-colored plastic that protects it gives it a feeling of solidity. Likewise, the fleece around the eyes is very comfortable. In addition, note that the HDMI cable can be detached which facilitates storage. In short, this helmet which is at the same time simple, robust and of quality.
Another advantage of this device is its jack plug. All WMR headsets have a 3,5mm jack plug for connecting headphones or earphones, but the HP headset jack is directly integrated into the headset body, which makes it more convenient to use. The HP Windows Mixed Reality headset will go on sale at the end of the year for $ 329.
Screen: LCD
Cable : 4 meters
FOV : 105 °
Resolution: 2880 x 1440
Sortie: 2017
Price: From 399 €
Lenovo Explorer, the best ventilated Windows Mixed Reality headset
It's hard to find the real highlight of Lenovo's WMR headset. The device has the same technical data sheet as its competitors, its headband is padded, and its design is reminiscent of other products from the Chinese manufacturer. The Lenovo Explorer is comfortable, but nothing really distinguishes it at first glance.
However, inside, Lenovo has integrated more fans to allow the air to circulate better during use, which avoids the risk of fogging on the screen or of feeling hot in case of prolonged use. This is an asset to be highlighted. The Lenovo Explorer will soon be available for $ 349.
Screen: LCD
Cable : 4 meters
FOV : 105 °
Resolution: 2880 x 1440
Sortie: 17th October
Price: From € 449
Samsung Odyssey, the high-end Windows Mixed Reality headset
If there is one Windows Mixed Reality headset that we will remember for its high-end side, it is the Samsung Odyssey. A characteristic well reflected by its price: 499 dollars, or the most expensive of the range. It is also not directly available in France, but only through resellers.
Compared to products of its kind, its cost may seem excessive, but several peculiarities of this device must be taken into account. First of all, it is the only WMR helmet to have a AMOLED display and a definition of 2800 × 1600 pixels. It also offers a 110 ° vision, but above all a integrated audio system. Already rare in the virtual reality headset market in general, this is a very significant point. Finally, this is a PC headset, compatible with the Steam VR game catalog, inside-out tracking and motion detection controllers from Microsoft
Screen: AMOLED
FOV : 110 °
Resolution: 2800 × 1600
Price: 499 $ (500 euros in France via a reseller)
Date de sortie: November 6 2017
WINDOWS MIXED REALITY HELMETS GUIDE
Now you know the main strengths of each Windows Mixed Reality headset. Of course, it will be appropriate it's up to everyone to choose the device they need according to their priorities. However, given the many similarities between the different products, it is likely that the choice is mainly geared towards the preferred brand of each. However, there are many things to consider before selecting the right WMR headset for you. For this, we have prepared a comprehensive buying guide with all the necessary information.
