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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = HP Reverb G2
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
Line 5: Line 6:
|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
|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 = 2× 2.89" LCD
|Successor =
|Resolution = 2160×2160 per eye (4320×2160 combined)
|Operating System = [[Windows Mixed Reality]]
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|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°
|Field of View = 114°
|PPD = ~24 PPD
|Horizontal FoV = ~114°
|IPD Range = Mechanical adjustment
|Vertical FoV = ~90°
|Average Pixel Density = ~24 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = ~24 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Valve-designed lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Fresnel (Valve-designed)
|IPD Range = 60-68mm (mechanical adjustment)
|Tracking = Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras)
|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
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Controllers = Windows Mixed Reality controllers (6DoF)
|Body Tracking = Via third-party trackers
|Audio = Valve Index off-ear speakers
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Microphone = Dual
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Connectivity = DisplayPort, USB 3.0
|Update Rate = 90Hz
|Cable Length = 6m (19.69 ft)
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Weight = ~498g (without cable)
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Valve-designed off-ear speakers
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphone)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|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 VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed in collaboration between [[HP]], [[Valve]], and [[Microsoft]], released in November 2020. The headset features industry-leading resolution at 2160×2160 per eye with full RGB subpixel stripe displays, Valve-designed lenses and off-ear speakers, and 4-camera inside-out tracking. Compatible with both [[Windows Mixed Reality]] and [[SteamVR]], the Reverb G2 was designed to deliver the sharpest visuals available at its price point, effectively eliminating the screen door effect.
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 collaborative effort with Valve and Microsoft. Valve contributed the lens and audio design (mirroring the [[Valve Index]]), while Microsoft provided the Windows Mixed Reality platform. This was the first WMR headset to feature 4 cameras instead of 2, significantly improving controller tracking coverage.<ref name="uploadvr">{{cite web |url=https://www.uploadvr.com/new-hp-reverb-g2-specs/ |title=HP's Next-Gen Reverb G2 Specifications And Price Revealed |publisher=UploadVR |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.


The headset shipped in November 2020 at $599, positioned as a high-resolution option below the $999 [[Valve Index]] but above consumer headsets like the [[Oculus Rift S]].
=== 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


== Design and Hardware ==
This collaboration allowed HP to incorporate proven premium components without developing them internally.


=== Display ===
=== 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


The Reverb G2 features best-in-class resolution:
=== Revised Version (V2) ===
In 2021, HP released a revised model addressing early feedback:
* Improved controller tracking reliability
* Adjusted camera positions
* Updated firmware
* Better compatibility


* Dual 2.89-inch LCD panels
== Display Technology ==
* '''2160×2160 resolution per eye''' (4320×2160 combined)
* Full RGB subpixel stripe technology
* 90 Hz refresh rate
* 114° field of view
* ~24 pixels per degree
* Effectively eliminates screen door effect
* Superior text readability


=== 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 lens system:
=== 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


* Fresnel lenses designed by Valve
=== Visual Quality ===
* Same optical expertise as [[Valve Index]]
The combination of high resolution and quality panels delivers:
* Wide sweet spot
* Minimal visible pixel structure
* Reduced god rays compared to competitors
* Sharp text at any distance
* Fine detail visibility
* Excellent for cockpit-based simulations


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


Premium audio from Valve:
== Optical System ==


* '''Valve Index-style off-ear speakers'''
=== Valve-Designed Lenses ===
* 10mm offset from ears for comfort
HP licensed Valve's lens technology:
* No pressure on ears during extended sessions
* Premium optical quality
* Powerful spatial audio
* Large sweet spot
* No headphones required
* Reduced god rays compared to Fresnel alternatives
* Open-back design for ambient awareness
* Clear edge-to-edge viewing


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


First WMR headset with 4-camera tracking:
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Mechanical adjustment mechanism:
* '''Range''': 60-68mm
* Physical lens movement
* Slider beneath headset
* Narrower range than some competitors


* 4 cameras (2 front, 2 side-facing)
== Audio System ==
* 6 Degrees of Freedom
* Inside-out tracking—no base stations
* Improved arm tracking coverage vs 2-camera WMR
* Internal IMU sensors


=== Controllers ===
=== 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


Redesigned Windows Mixed Reality controllers:
=== Audio Quality ===
Widely praised implementation:
* Excellent bass response
* Clear treble
* Wide soundstage
* 3D spatial audio support


* 6DoF tracking
=== Comfort Benefits ===
* Bluetooth connection to headset
Off-ear design provides:
* Smaller, more ergonomic design than previous WMR controllers
* No ear pressure
* Backwards compatible with other WMR headsets
* Environmental awareness
* Sold separately for older WMR headset upgrades
* Comfortable for extended sessions
* Natural sound reproduction


=== Build and Comfort ===
=== Alternative Audio ===
3.5mm jack allows:
* Personal headphone use
* Higher-end audio solutions
* Privacy when needed


* ~498g weight (without cable)
== Tracking System ==
* Mechanical IPD adjustment
* Replaceable magnetic fabric face cushions
* Velcro adjustment system
* 6m (19.69 ft) cable—thinner and lighter than predecessor
* Single cable design (DisplayPort + USB 3.0 combined)


== Compatibility ==
=== 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


=== Platforms ===
=== Tracking Improvements ===
Enhanced over previous WMR headsets:
* Better coverage with side cameras
* Improved controller recognition
* Larger tracking volume
* More reliable in varied conditions


* '''Windows Mixed Reality:''' Native support
=== Tracking Limitations ===
* '''SteamVR:''' Full compatibility
Compared to SteamVR base stations:
* Developed with Microsoft and Valve collaboration
* Some controller latency
* Occasional jitter in extreme positions
* Less precision for competitive gaming
* Adequate for most applications


=== System Requirements ===
=== V2 Improvements ===
Revised version addresses:
* Camera positioning adjustments
* Improved firmware algorithms
* Better edge-of-view tracking


* '''GPU (Consumer):''' NVIDIA GTX 1080 or AMD RX 5700
== Controllers ==
* '''GPU (Professional):''' NVIDIA Quadro P5200 or AMD Radeon Pro WX 8200
* '''CPU:''' Intel Core i5/i7, Xeon E3-1240 v5, or AMD Ryzen 5 equivalent
* '''OS:''' Windows 10 May 2019 Update or later
* '''Ports:''' DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0


== Specifications ==
=== 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 ==
 
{| 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 124: Line 372:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2160×2160 per eye (4320×2160 combined)
| Display || Dual LCD, 2160 × 2160 per eye
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| Total Resolution || 4320 × 2160 (9.3 million pixels)
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz
|-
|-
| Field of View || 114°
| Field of View || 114°
|-
|-
| Tracking || Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras)
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out (WMR)
|-
|-
| Audio || Valve off-ear speakers
| Audio || Valve-designed off-ear speakers
|-
|-
| Cable || 6m DisplayPort + USB 3.0
| IPD || 60-68mm (mechanical)
|-
|-
| Weight || ~498g
| Weight || 498g
|-
|-
| Price || $599 USD
| Connection || DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0
|-
| Price || ~$349-399 (2024)
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* Industry-leading resolution (2160×2160 per eye)
* Screen door effect virtually eliminated
* Excellent clarity for text and simulations
* Valve-designed lenses and audio
* Comfortable off-ear speakers
* 4-camera tracking improvement over 2-camera WMR
* $599 price point below Valve Index
* Full SteamVR and WMR compatibility
* Thinner, lighter cable
* Good value for resolution
'''Criticism:'''
* WMR controller tracking still limited compared to Lighthouse
* 90 Hz only (Index offers 144 Hz)
* Some tracking dead zones for controllers
* LCD displays (not OLED—less contrast)
* Cable tethered (no wireless option)
* Fresnel lens god rays in dark scenes<ref name="gamingnexus">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamingnexus.com/Article/7490/HP-Reverb-G2 |title=HP Reverb G2 Review |publisher=Gaming Nexus |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
<ref name="techradar">{{cite web |url=https://www.techradar.com/reviews/hp-reverb-g2 |title=HP Reverb G2 review |publisher=TechRadar |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[HP Reverb G1]]
* [[HP Inc.]]
* [[Windows Mixed Reality]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[Meta Quest 2]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Samsung Odyssey+]]
* [[Flight Simulation]]
* [[Windows Mixed Reality]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Windows Mixed Reality]]
[[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

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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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