HTC VIVE vs Google Cardboard

When you compare the Google Cardboard to the HTC VIVE you can see which VR Headset is better. Let's take a look of the comparison, and see which model of VR Headset out ontop.

What VR Headset is better?

When it comes to virtual reality headsets, the Google Cardboard and HTC Vive offer two distinct experiences. The Google Cardboard is a low-cost smartphone-based headset, while the HTC VIVE is a higher-end PC VR option. Both have their advantages and drawbacks when considering what you’re looking for in your experience.

The Google Cardboard offers a simple setup that requires only a compatible phone and the headset itself to work; no additional external devices are required. It also has an 80 degree field of view, allowing for more immersion than some other budget options on the market. However, its resolution of 1440 x 1280 px can be limiting compared to some alternatives available, as well as its 60 Hz refresh rate which can cause some motion blur if there is movement in the scene or if you move around quickly. Additionally, this device supports Android and iOS operating systems only, so those who use other systems will not be able to benefit from it.

On the other hand, HTC VIVE offers users more powerful hardware specifications such as room scale capabilities with 360 tracking support and 1080 × 1200 px resolution paired with a higher refresh rate of 90 Hz. It requires at least an Intel I5-4590 CPU or AMD FX 8350 along with Nvidia GeForce™ GTX 1060/AMD Radeon™ RX 480 graphics card in order to run properly; meaning that users must invest more time into setting up their PC to get ready before they start using the headset itself.

For me personally I found myself preferring HTC VIVE over Google Cardboard due to its improved specs; especially since most of my gaming needs are already centered around PC hardware - making it easier for me transition from regular gaming into VR gaming without much effort required from my end. That being said both headsets still offer great experiences depending on what kind of user you are: those looking for something cheap but reliable should go for Google Cardboard; while those who demand extra power should opt for HTC VIVE instead!

Specs comparison between the two VR Headsets

Google CardboardHTC VIVE
Overview
BrandGoogleHTC
Model NameCardboardVIVE
Release Date20142016
Country of OriginUnited StatesTaiwan
CategorySmartphone VRPC VR
Battery Life2.5 h
Display
Field of View80°110°
Resolution1440 x 1280 px1080 × 1200 px (per eye)
Refresh Rate60 Hz90 Hz
Display TypeDepends on the smartphoneOLED
Minimum Requirements
Min. CPU RequiredIntel I5-4590 or AMD FX 8350
Min. Graphics RequiredNvidia GeForce™ GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon™ RX 480
Min. RAM Required4 GB
Operating SystemsAndroid,iOSMicrosoft Windows
Sizing
Weight96 g470 g
Dimensions90 × 55 × 150 mm199 × 122 × 122 mm
Features
Room Scale?YES
360 Tracking?YESYES
Positional Tracking?NoYES
Front Camera?NoYES
Eye Tracking?No
Usable with Glasses?YESYES
Cooling SystemNoNo
Built in Headphones?NoNo
Built in Microphone?NoYES
Flip Visor?NoYES
Voice Command?NoYES
IPD Adjustment?YESYES
Lens to Eye Adjustment?NoYES
USB?NoYES
MicroUSB?NoNo
Display Port?NoYES
Mini Display Port?NoNo
HDMI?NoYES
MicroSD?NoYES
Bluetooth?NoYES
Wifi?NoYES

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