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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = HP Reverb G2
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[Windows Mixed Reality]], [[SteamVR]]
|Platform = [[Windows Mixed Reality]], [[SteamVR]]
|Developer = [[HP]], [[Valve]], [[Microsoft]]
|Creator = [[HP Inc.]]
|Manufacturer = [[HP]]
|Developer = [[HP Inc.]], [[Valve Corporation]], [[Microsoft]]
|Manufacturer = [[HP Inc.]]
|Announcement Date = May 28, 2020
|Release Date = November 2020
|Release Date = November 2020
|Price = $599 USD (launch) / ~$399 (current)
|Price = $599 (launch), ~$349-$399 (2024)
|Website = https://www.hp.com/us-en/vr/reverb-g2-vr-headset.html
|Website = https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/pdp/hp-reverb-g2-virtual-reality-headset
|Versions = HP Reverb G2, HP Reverb G2 V2 (revised controllers)
|Requires = Gaming PC with DisplayPort, Windows 10/11
|Predecessor = [[HP Reverb G1]]
|Predecessor = [[HP Reverb G1]]
|Display = LCD
|Successor =
|Resolution = 2160x2160 per eye
|Operating System = [[Windows Mixed Reality]]
|Total Pixels = 9.3 million
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|Field of View = 98°
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual LCD (mura-free)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 2160 × 2160 per eye (4320 × 2160 combined)
|Pixel Density = ~24 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 114°
|Horizontal FoV = ~114°
|Vertical FoV = ~90°
|Average Pixel Density = ~24 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = ~24 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Valve-designed lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 4 cameras)
|IPD Range = 60-68mm (mechanical adjustment)
|IPD = Mechanical adjustment
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Passthrough = No (cameras for tracking only)
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out
|Tracking Frequency = 60Hz (camera), 1000Hz (IMU)
|Base Stations = None required (WMR tracking)
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = Via third-party trackers
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = 90Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Valve-designed off-ear speakers
|Audio = Valve-designed off-ear speakers
|Controllers = 2x WMR controllers
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphone)
|Connectivity = DisplayPort + USB 3.0
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Weight = 1 lb (~500g)
|Camera = 4× tracking cameras (2 front, 2 side)
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = Via PC
|Power = USB-powered
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~230mm × 200mm × 130mm
|Weight = 498g (without cable)
|Material = Plastic, fabric
|Headstrap = Adjustable strap with velcro top
|Haptics = Controller haptics
|Color = Black/Gray
|Sensors = 4× inside-out tracking cameras, IMU, proximity sensor
|Input = HP Motion Controllers
|Compliance = FCC, CE
|Cable Length = 6 meters
}}
}}


The '''HP Reverb G2''' is a PC [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[HP]] in collaboration with [[Valve]] and [[Microsoft]], released in November 2020. The Reverb G2 features industry-leading 2160x2160 per eye resolution (9.3 million total pixels - 2.5x more than Oculus Rift S), Valve-designed lenses and off-ear spatial audio speakers, 98° field of view, and inside-out tracking requiring no external sensors. Compatible with both SteamVR and Windows Mixed Reality platforms, the Reverb G2 delivers exceptional visual clarity at an accessible price point, making it especially popular for simulation enthusiasts.
The '''HP Reverb G2''' is a [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[HP Inc.]] in collaboration with [[Valve Corporation]] and [[Microsoft]], announced on May 28, 2020, and released in November 2020 at a launch price of $599. The three-way partnership combined HP's manufacturing expertise, Valve's industry-leading audio and lens design from the Index, and Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality tracking platform. The result was a headset offering exceptional visual clarity with 2160 × 2160 resolution per eye—among the highest in its class—paired with Valve's acclaimed off-ear speaker design, at a price point significantly below the Valve Index. Though the headset received criticism for its Windows Mixed Reality tracking precision compared to SteamVR base stations, the Reverb G2's outstanding display quality made it particularly popular among flight and racing simulation enthusiasts, and it remains a compelling option in 2024 at reduced prices around $349-399.


== History and Development ==
== History and Development ==


HP announced the Reverb G2 in May 2020 as a collaboration between HP, Valve, and Microsoft. Valve contributed their industry-leading lens and speaker designs from the Valve Index, while Microsoft provided Windows Mixed Reality tracking technology. The headset launched in November 2020 at $599 and has since seen price reductions to around $399, making high-resolution PC VR more accessible.<ref name="hp">{{cite web |url=https://www.hp.com/us-en/vr/reverb-g2-vr-headset.html |title=HP Reverb G2 VR Headset |publisher=HP |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== HP Reverb G1 ===
HP entered the VR market with Windows Mixed Reality headsets, releasing the HP Reverb G1 in 2019 as a high-resolution business-focused headset. The G1 featured impressive 2160 × 2160 resolution per eye but was hampered by a narrow field of view, uncomfortable design, and the limitations of first-generation WMR tracking.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Three-Way Partnership ===
For the G2, HP sought partnerships with VR leaders:
* '''Valve''': Contributed lens design and audio system from the Index
* '''Microsoft''': Provided enhanced Windows Mixed Reality tracking platform
* '''HP''': Manufacturing, design, and business deployment


=== Display ===
This collaboration allowed HP to incorporate proven premium components without developing them internally.


High-resolution LCD panels:
=== Announcement and Launch ===
HP announced the Reverb G2 in May 2020:
* Emphasized resolution leadership at mid-range price
* Highlighted Valve lens and speaker integration
* Targeted both consumers and enterprise
* November 2020 shipping date


* '''2160x2160 per eye''' resolution
=== Revised Version (V2) ===
* '''2x 2.89" LCD panels'''
In 2021, HP released a revised model addressing early feedback:
* '''9.3 million total pixels'''
* Improved controller tracking reliability
* '''2.5x more pixels''' than Oculus Rift S
* Adjusted camera positions
* '''90 Hz refresh rate'''
* Updated firmware
* '''98° field of view'''
* Better compatibility
* Full RGB per pixel
* Excellent clarity


=== Lenses ===
== Display Technology ==


Valve-designed optics:
=== High-Resolution LCD Panels ===
The Reverb G2's standout feature is its display:
* '''Resolution''': 2160 × 2160 per eye
* '''Total Pixels''': 9.3 million (4320 × 2160)
* '''Panel Type''': Mura-free LCD
* '''Subpixel Layout''': Full RGB stripe


* '''Valve-designed lenses'''
=== Resolution Leadership ===
* Industry-leading clarity
At launch, the G2 offered:
* Wide sweet spot
* 2.5× more pixels than Oculus Rift S
* Reduced distortion
* Higher resolution than Valve Index
* Optimized for resolution
* Near-elimination of screen door effect
* Outstanding text clarity


=== Audio ===
=== Visual Quality ===
The combination of high resolution and quality panels delivers:
* Minimal visible pixel structure
* Sharp text at any distance
* Fine detail visibility
* Excellent for cockpit-based simulations


Premium spatial audio:
=== Refresh Rate ===
Single refresh rate option:
* 90Hz native refresh
* Smooth VR experience
* Lower than Index's 120-144Hz capability


* '''Valve-designed speakers'''
== Optical System ==
* '''Off-ear design''' (10mm from ear)
* '''Spatial audio'''
* No headphones required
* Comfortable extended wear
* Index-quality sound


=== Tracking ===
=== Valve-Designed Lenses ===
HP licensed Valve's lens technology:
* Premium optical quality
* Large sweet spot
* Reduced god rays compared to Fresnel alternatives
* Clear edge-to-edge viewing


Inside-out system:
=== Field of View ===
Generous viewing area:
* '''Stated FOV''': 114°
* Wider than original Reverb G1
* Approaches Index FOV for most users
* Excellent peripheral coverage


* '''6DoF tracking'''
=== IPD Adjustment ===
* '''4 tracking cameras'''
Mechanical adjustment mechanism:
* '''Inside-out tracking'''
* '''Range''': 60-68mm
* No external sensors required
* Physical lens movement
* Easy setup
* Slider beneath headset
* Room-scale support
* Narrower range than some competitors


=== IPD ===
== Audio System ==


* '''Mechanical IPD adjustment'''
=== Valve Off-Ear Speakers ===
* Physical slider
The same speaker design from Valve Index:
* Accommodates various eye distances
* '''Type''': Near-field speakers (off-ear)
* Precise alignment
* '''Quality''': BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) drivers
* '''Positioning''': Hover near ears without contact


=== Build ===
=== Audio Quality ===
Widely praised implementation:
* Excellent bass response
* Clear treble
* Wide soundstage
* 3D spatial audio support


Comfortable ergonomic design:
=== Comfort Benefits ===
Off-ear design provides:
* No ear pressure
* Environmental awareness
* Comfortable for extended sessions
* Natural sound reproduction


* '''~500g weight''' (1 lb without cable)
=== Alternative Audio ===
* Flexible headband material
3.5mm jack allows:
* Increased cushion size
* Personal headphone use
* '''6m headset cable'''
* Higher-end audio solutions
* Balanced weight distribution
* Privacy when needed
* Extended wear comfort


=== Controllers ===
== Tracking System ==


* '''2x Windows Mixed Reality controllers'''
=== Windows Mixed Reality Tracking ===
* Redesigned ergonomics
Four-camera inside-out tracking:
* Inside-out tracked
* '''Cameras''': 2 front-facing, 2 side-facing
* Standard VR controls
* '''Type''': Markerless inside-out
* '''Platform''': Windows Mixed Reality
* '''DOF''': 6 degrees of freedom
 
=== Tracking Improvements ===
Enhanced over previous WMR headsets:
* Better coverage with side cameras
* Improved controller recognition
* Larger tracking volume
* More reliable in varied conditions
 
=== Tracking Limitations ===
Compared to SteamVR base stations:
* Some controller latency
* Occasional jitter in extreme positions
* Less precision for competitive gaming
* Adequate for most applications
 
=== V2 Improvements ===
Revised version addresses:
* Camera positioning adjustments
* Improved firmware algorithms
* Better edge-of-view tracking
 
== Controllers ==
 
=== HP Motion Controllers ===
Included WMR controllers:
* 6DoF tracking via headset cameras
* Thumbstick and trackpad
* Standard buttons
* Haptic feedback
* Haptic feedback
* AA battery power
=== Controller Design ===
Similar to other WMR controllers:
* Ring above hand
* Comfortable grip
* Windows Mixed Reality button
* Menu and system buttons


=== Connectivity ===
=== Alternative Controllers ===
Community solutions exist for:
* Valve Index controllers (via third-party tools)
* SteamVR controller mixing
* Requires additional software setup


* '''DisplayPort 1.3+'''
== Physical Design ==
* '''USB 3.0'''
* '''DisplayPort to mini-DP adapter''' included
* Power adapter included
* 6m cable length


== Platform Compatibility ==
=== Build Quality ===
Solid construction:
* Plastic and fabric materials
* Professional appearance
* Durable for regular use


=== SteamVR ===
=== Head Strap ===
* Full SteamVR support
Adjustable strap system:
* Steam game library access
* Velcro top strap
* SteamVR Home compatible
* Rear adjustment dial
* Comfortable distribution
* Easy to don and doff


=== Windows Mixed Reality ===
=== Facial Interface ===
* WMR platform native
* Soft fabric-covered foam
* Microsoft ecosystem
* Replaceable gasket
* WMR game library
* Good light blocking
* Glasses compatibility


== Technical Specifications ==
=== Weight ===
Moderate weight:
* 498g (without cable)
* Well-balanced
* Lighter than Index
 
=== Cable ===
* 6-meter length
* DisplayPort 1.3 + USB 3.0
* Adequate for room-scale
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== PC Requirements ===
Moderate specifications needed:
* '''Minimum GPU''': NVIDIA GTX 1080 / AMD RX 5700
* '''Recommended''': RTX 2080 / RX 5700 XT for full resolution
* '''DisplayPort 1.3''': Required (HDMI not supported)
* '''USB 3.0''': For tracking data
* '''Windows 10/11''': Required for WMR
 
=== Software Platform ===
Dual-platform access:
* '''Windows Mixed Reality''': Native platform
* '''SteamVR''': Via WMR for SteamVR bridge
* Full Steam game library access
* OpenXR support
 
== Target Audience ==
 
=== Flight Simulation ===
Particularly popular for:
* Microsoft Flight Simulator
* DCS World
* X-Plane
* IL-2 Sturmovik
 
The high resolution excels for:
* Cockpit instrument reading
* Long-distance visibility
* Immersive scenery viewing
 
=== Racing Simulation ===
Also favored by:
* iRacing
* Assetto Corsa
* Project Cars
* Sim racing enthusiasts
 
=== General VR Gaming ===
Suitable for:
* Story-based VR games
* Exploration titles
* Less competitive multiplayer
 
=== Enterprise ===
Business applications:
* Training simulations
* Design visualization
* Virtual collaboration
 
== 2024 Value Proposition ==
 
=== Price Reduction ===
From $599 launch to $349-399 in 2024:
* Exceptional value for resolution
* Best clarity in sub-$400 category
* Strong for simulation focus
 
=== Current Relevance ===
Remains competitive due to:
* Unmatched resolution at price point
* Excellent audio quality
* Solid build quality
* Mature software support
 
=== Considerations ===
Against newer alternatives:
* WMR tracking less precise than Quest/Index
* No standalone capability
* Aging platform support
* 90Hz maximum refresh
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! HP Reverb G2 !! Valve Index !! Meta Quest 2
|-
| Resolution (per eye) || 2160 × 2160 || 1440 × 1600 || 1832 × 1920
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz || 80-144Hz || 72-120Hz
|-
| Tracking || WMR (inside-out) || SteamVR (outside-in) || Inside-out
|-
| Audio || Valve off-ear || Valve off-ear || Integrated
|-
| Price (2024) || ~$350 || $999 || Discontinued
|-
| Standalone || No || No || Yes
|}
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 130: Line 372:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 2160x2160 per eye LCD
| Display || Dual LCD, 2160 × 2160 per eye
|-
|-
| Total Pixels || 9.3 million
| Total Resolution || 4320 × 2160 (9.3 million pixels)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz
|-
|-
| FOV || 98°
| Field of View || 114°
|-
|-
| Tracking || 6DoF (4 cameras, inside-out)
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out (WMR)
|-
|-
| Audio || Valve off-ear speakers
| Audio || Valve-designed off-ear speakers
|-
|-
| IPD || Mechanical adjustment
| IPD || 60-68mm (mechanical)
|-
|-
| Connection || DisplayPort + USB 3.0
| Weight || 498g
|-
|-
| Weight || ~500g
| Connection || DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0
|-
|-
| Price || $599 (launch) / ~$399
| Price || ~$349-399 (2024)
|}
|}
== Included Accessories ==
* 6m headset cable
* 2x motion controllers
* DisplayPort to mini-DP adapter
* Power adapter
* Setup guide
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 2160x2160 per eye highest in class
* 9.3M pixels exceptional clarity
* Valve lenses industry-leading
* Valve audio outstanding
* Off-ear speakers comfortable
* $399-599 competitive price
* No external sensors simple setup
* SteamVR + WMR compatibility
* Great for simulation
* Mechanical IPD precise
'''Criticism:'''
* 98° FOV narrower than Index
* WMR controller tracking limited
* 90Hz vs 120Hz competitors
* Controller tracking zone smaller
* PC tethered only
* USB/DP requirements strict
* WMR software quirks
* No native wireless<ref name="techadvisor">{{cite web |url=https://www.techadvisor.com/article/722403/hp-reverb-g2-review.html |title=HP Reverb G2 Review |publisher=Tech Advisor |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[HP Inc.]]
* [[Windows Mixed Reality]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[Meta Quest 2]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Pimax 5K Super]]
* [[Flight Simulation]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Windows Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:HP]]
[[Category:HP]]
[[Category:2020 in technology]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:07, 8 January 2026

HP Reverb G2
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR
Platform Windows Mixed Reality, SteamVR
Creator HP Inc.
Developer HP Inc., Valve Corporation, Microsoft
Manufacturer HP Inc.
Announcement Date May 28, 2020
Release Date November 2020
Price $599 (launch), ~$349-$399 (2024)
Website https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/pdp/hp-reverb-g2-virtual-reality-headset
Versions HP Reverb G2, HP Reverb G2 V2 (revised controllers)
Requires Gaming PC with DisplayPort, Windows 10/11
Predecessor HP Reverb G1
System
Operating System Windows Mixed Reality
Chipset N/A (tethered PCVR)
CPU N/A (PC-powered)
GPU N/A (PC-powered)
Storage
Storage N/A
Memory N/A
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Dual LCD (mura-free)
Subpixel Layout RGB stripe
Peak Brightness Not specified
Resolution 2160 × 2160 per eye (4320 × 2160 combined)
Pixel Density ~24 PPD
Refresh Rate 90Hz
Persistence Low persistence
Image
Field of View 114°
Horizontal FoV ~114°
Vertical FoV ~90°
Average Pixel Density ~24 PPD
Peak Pixel Density ~24 PPD
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics Valve-designed lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 60-68mm (mechanical adjustment)
Adjustable Diopter No (glasses compatible)
Passthrough No (cameras for tracking only)
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF inside-out
Tracking Frequency 60Hz (camera), 1000Hz (IMU)
Base Stations None required (WMR tracking)
Eye Tracking No
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Body Tracking Via third-party trackers
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate 90Hz
Tracking Volume Room-scale
Play Space Roomscale
Latency <20ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio Valve-designed off-ear speakers
Microphone Yes (dual microphone)
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes
Camera 4× tracking cameras (2 front, 2 side)
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0
Ports DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth Via PC
Power USB-powered
Battery Capacity N/A
Battery Life N/A (tethered)
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions ~230mm × 200mm × 130mm
Weight 498g (without cable)
Material Plastic, fabric
Headstrap Adjustable strap with velcro top
Haptics Controller haptics
Color Black/Gray
Sensors 4× inside-out tracking cameras, IMU, proximity sensor
Input HP Motion Controllers
Compliance FCC, CE
Cable Length 6 meters

Property "Latency" (as page type) with input value "" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


The HP Reverb G2 is a PC VR head-mounted display developed by HP Inc. in collaboration with Valve Corporation and Microsoft, announced on May 28, 2020, and released in November 2020 at a launch price of $599. The three-way partnership combined HP's manufacturing expertise, Valve's industry-leading audio and lens design from the Index, and Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality tracking platform. The result was a headset offering exceptional visual clarity with 2160 × 2160 resolution per eye—among the highest in its class—paired with Valve's acclaimed off-ear speaker design, at a price point significantly below the Valve Index. Though the headset received criticism for its Windows Mixed Reality tracking precision compared to SteamVR base stations, the Reverb G2's outstanding display quality made it particularly popular among flight and racing simulation enthusiasts, and it remains a compelling option in 2024 at reduced prices around $349-399.

History and Development

HP Reverb G1

HP entered the VR market with Windows Mixed Reality headsets, releasing the HP Reverb G1 in 2019 as a high-resolution business-focused headset. The G1 featured impressive 2160 × 2160 resolution per eye but was hampered by a narrow field of view, uncomfortable design, and the limitations of first-generation WMR tracking.

Three-Way Partnership

For the G2, HP sought partnerships with VR leaders:

  • Valve: Contributed lens design and audio system from the Index
  • Microsoft: Provided enhanced Windows Mixed Reality tracking platform
  • HP: Manufacturing, design, and business deployment

This collaboration allowed HP to incorporate proven premium components without developing them internally.

Announcement and Launch

HP announced the Reverb G2 in May 2020:

  • Emphasized resolution leadership at mid-range price
  • Highlighted Valve lens and speaker integration
  • Targeted both consumers and enterprise
  • November 2020 shipping date

Revised Version (V2)

In 2021, HP released a revised model addressing early feedback:

  • Improved controller tracking reliability
  • Adjusted camera positions
  • Updated firmware
  • Better compatibility

Display Technology

High-Resolution LCD Panels

The Reverb G2's standout feature is its display:

  • Resolution: 2160 × 2160 per eye
  • Total Pixels: 9.3 million (4320 × 2160)
  • Panel Type: Mura-free LCD
  • Subpixel Layout: Full RGB stripe

Resolution Leadership

At launch, the G2 offered:

  • 2.5× more pixels than Oculus Rift S
  • Higher resolution than Valve Index
  • Near-elimination of screen door effect
  • Outstanding text clarity

Visual Quality

The combination of high resolution and quality panels delivers:

  • Minimal visible pixel structure
  • Sharp text at any distance
  • Fine detail visibility
  • Excellent for cockpit-based simulations

Refresh Rate

Single refresh rate option:

  • 90Hz native refresh
  • Smooth VR experience
  • Lower than Index's 120-144Hz capability

Optical System

Valve-Designed Lenses

HP licensed Valve's lens technology:

  • Premium optical quality
  • Large sweet spot
  • Reduced god rays compared to Fresnel alternatives
  • Clear edge-to-edge viewing

Field of View

Generous viewing area:

  • Stated FOV: 114°
  • Wider than original Reverb G1
  • Approaches Index FOV for most users
  • Excellent peripheral coverage

IPD Adjustment

Mechanical adjustment mechanism:

  • Range: 60-68mm
  • Physical lens movement
  • Slider beneath headset
  • Narrower range than some competitors

Audio System

Valve Off-Ear Speakers

The same speaker design from Valve Index:

  • Type: Near-field speakers (off-ear)
  • Quality: BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) drivers
  • Positioning: Hover near ears without contact

Audio Quality

Widely praised implementation:

  • Excellent bass response
  • Clear treble
  • Wide soundstage
  • 3D spatial audio support

Comfort Benefits

Off-ear design provides:

  • No ear pressure
  • Environmental awareness
  • Comfortable for extended sessions
  • Natural sound reproduction

Alternative Audio

3.5mm jack allows:

  • Personal headphone use
  • Higher-end audio solutions
  • Privacy when needed

Tracking System

Windows Mixed Reality Tracking

Four-camera inside-out tracking:

  • Cameras: 2 front-facing, 2 side-facing
  • Type: Markerless inside-out
  • Platform: Windows Mixed Reality
  • DOF: 6 degrees of freedom

Tracking Improvements

Enhanced over previous WMR headsets:

  • Better coverage with side cameras
  • Improved controller recognition
  • Larger tracking volume
  • More reliable in varied conditions

Tracking Limitations

Compared to SteamVR base stations:

  • Some controller latency
  • Occasional jitter in extreme positions
  • Less precision for competitive gaming
  • Adequate for most applications

V2 Improvements

Revised version addresses:

  • Camera positioning adjustments
  • Improved firmware algorithms
  • Better edge-of-view tracking

Controllers

HP Motion Controllers

Included WMR controllers:

  • 6DoF tracking via headset cameras
  • Thumbstick and trackpad
  • Standard buttons
  • Haptic feedback
  • AA battery power

Controller Design

Similar to other WMR controllers:

  • Ring above hand
  • Comfortable grip
  • Windows Mixed Reality button
  • Menu and system buttons

Alternative Controllers

Community solutions exist for:

  • Valve Index controllers (via third-party tools)
  • SteamVR controller mixing
  • Requires additional software setup

Physical Design

Build Quality

Solid construction:

  • Plastic and fabric materials
  • Professional appearance
  • Durable for regular use

Head Strap

Adjustable strap system:

  • Velcro top strap
  • Rear adjustment dial
  • Comfortable distribution
  • Easy to don and doff

Facial Interface

  • Soft fabric-covered foam
  • Replaceable gasket
  • Good light blocking
  • Glasses compatibility

Weight

Moderate weight:

  • 498g (without cable)
  • Well-balanced
  • Lighter than Index

Cable

  • 6-meter length
  • DisplayPort 1.3 + USB 3.0
  • Adequate for room-scale

Connectivity

PC Requirements

Moderate specifications needed:

  • Minimum GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1080 / AMD RX 5700
  • Recommended: RTX 2080 / RX 5700 XT for full resolution
  • DisplayPort 1.3: Required (HDMI not supported)
  • USB 3.0: For tracking data
  • Windows 10/11: Required for WMR

Software Platform

Dual-platform access:

  • Windows Mixed Reality: Native platform
  • SteamVR: Via WMR for SteamVR bridge
  • Full Steam game library access
  • OpenXR support

Target Audience

Flight Simulation

Particularly popular for:

  • Microsoft Flight Simulator
  • DCS World
  • X-Plane
  • IL-2 Sturmovik

The high resolution excels for:

  • Cockpit instrument reading
  • Long-distance visibility
  • Immersive scenery viewing

Racing Simulation

Also favored by:

  • iRacing
  • Assetto Corsa
  • Project Cars
  • Sim racing enthusiasts

General VR Gaming

Suitable for:

  • Story-based VR games
  • Exploration titles
  • Less competitive multiplayer

Enterprise

Business applications:

  • Training simulations
  • Design visualization
  • Virtual collaboration

2024 Value Proposition

Price Reduction

From $599 launch to $349-399 in 2024:

  • Exceptional value for resolution
  • Best clarity in sub-$400 category
  • Strong for simulation focus

Current Relevance

Remains competitive due to:

  • Unmatched resolution at price point
  • Excellent audio quality
  • Solid build quality
  • Mature software support

Considerations

Against newer alternatives:

  • WMR tracking less precise than Quest/Index
  • No standalone capability
  • Aging platform support
  • 90Hz maximum refresh

Comparison with Competitors

Feature HP Reverb G2 Valve Index Meta Quest 2
Resolution (per eye) 2160 × 2160 1440 × 1600 1832 × 1920
Refresh Rate 90Hz 80-144Hz 72-120Hz
Tracking WMR (inside-out) SteamVR (outside-in) Inside-out
Audio Valve off-ear Valve off-ear Integrated
Price (2024) ~$350 $999 Discontinued
Standalone No No Yes

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Dual LCD, 2160 × 2160 per eye
Total Resolution 4320 × 2160 (9.3 million pixels)
Refresh Rate 90Hz
Field of View 114°
Tracking 6DoF inside-out (WMR)
Audio Valve-designed off-ear speakers
IPD 60-68mm (mechanical)
Weight 498g
Connection DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0
Price ~$349-399 (2024)

See Also

References

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