Verdict
The versatility of the HTC Vive Focus Vision allows them to develop content for gaming and professional apps as well, since it attempts to create a middle ground for standalone and PCVR headsets. However, it suffers from structural issues and while they wanted to create a hybrid headset, the results do not meet the expectations. The headset hybrid is just too heavy making it hard to warrant the price that they are selling it for.
Pros
Connection to PCVR using display Port is made simple
5K resolution shrinks pixel distortion
Guided Control on easy to clean materials
Cons
Cost is quite high for the given performance metrics
Takes time to adjust and get comfortable while using
The use of Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 is a bit dated
Quick Overview
Meta Quest 3 might have an edge over the Vive Focus Headset due to the headset being only suitable for professional use and containing PCVR attachment and usage. The Wish Focus 3 would not be suitable as the difference in price and low powered modular capability headset. Janbfactor dropped a note that 999$ for it and mentioning the headless exclusivity is unnecessary.
First Look and Comfort
Benefits
Longer play time without worrying about charging due to removable batteries
Better adjustable grips and straps support reducing stress on head wearing the unit
Shared use friendly PU Leather Padding that is easy to manage
Drawbacks
When compared the Vive Focus Vision weighs a lot more at 785g making it harder to carry than the already mentioned Meta Quest 3.
Padded cushioning ought to be placed behind the seat as lack of it would cause discomfort after a brief span. Peripheral distortion and extra bulk would be caused by the usage of Fresnel lenses.
Performance
In terms of Aces in PCVR:
The cost of low data rates is highly alleviated by the addition of DisplayPort support. Using the DisplayPort increases the overall quality of visuals.
During PC VR the 5K visuals make the pictures shadowy and unusually sharp.
Standalone Weaknesses:
Powered by the immature Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 chipset, Standalone apps have limited use compared to newer models and struggle to adjust settings automatically.
Standalone apps are inefficient in using the high pygmalion displays.
Extras:
The settings are designed in a manner that suits eye tracking. Merged reality works well but is nothing to be amazed by.
Software and Library
PCVR Compatibility:
The Vive, Steam VR co relation is one of the most convenient tools as it gives many experiences during a session.
Standalone Library:
It is not as broad as Meta’s Horizon OS and thus is lacking in many aspects. Comparing to the meta ecosystem, Vive Focus Vision has less exclusive content that is engaging.
Is the purchase of this headset justifiable
You appreciate hybrid elegance and the usage of a PC and on the go with ease.
When the headset is used professionally or shared among a larger pool of users.
Avoid it if:
You are solely interested in purchasing a self contained stand alone headset.
For stand alone headsets a thought out ecosystem needs to be created centered around the Meta quest 3.
You are not willing to spend money on Wired Streaming Kit. To achieve the optimal PCVR experience, it is absolutely crucial.
Ultimate Evaluation of the Product
Architecture: 3/5
Efficiency: 3/5
Application: 3/5
Worth: 3/5
Summary:
Multitasking is a requirement of the Vive Focus Vision, hence, the headset does not perform well in any one aspect of its design.
Experiment Framing
Our hands-on experience with the Vive Focus Vision lasted for approximately two weeks, during this time we used the device for various stand alone apps as well as PCVR and consistently put it through tests in comparison to Meta Quest 3, during pc virtualization we tested the device on a gaming PC that had an Nvidia RTX 4060 Ti 16GB.
