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{{Device Infobox | {{Device Infobox | ||
| | |name = Meta Quest 2 | ||
|VR/AR=[[Virtual Reality]] | |image = | ||
|Type=[[Head-mounted display]] | |VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]] | ||
|Subtype=[[ | |Type = [[Head-mounted display]] | ||
|Platform=[[ | |Subtype = [[Standalone VR]] | ||
|Developer=[[ | |Platform = [[Meta Quest Platform]] | ||
| | |Creator = [[Meta Platforms]] | ||
|Requires= | |Developer = [[Reality Labs]] | ||
|Predecessor=[[Oculus Quest]] | |Manufacturer = [[Meta Platforms]] | ||
|Successor=[[ | |Announcement Date = September 16, 2020 | ||
| | |Release Date = October 13, 2020 | ||
|GPU= | |Price = $299 (128GB), $399 (256GB) | ||
|HPU= | |Website = https://www.meta.com/quest/products/quest-2/ | ||
|Memory= | |Versions = 64GB (discontinued), 128GB, 256GB | ||
| | |Requires = Meta account (formerly Facebook account) | ||
|Display= | |Predecessor = [[Oculus Quest]] | ||
|Resolution= | |Successor = [[Meta Quest 3]], [[Meta Quest 3S]] | ||
|Pixel Density= | |Operating System = [[Meta Quest OS]] (Android-based) | ||
|Refresh Rate=72Hz, | |Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1]] | ||
|Persistence= | |CPU = Octa-core Kryo 585 (1× 2.84 GHz + 3× 2.42 GHz + 4× 1.8 GHz) | ||
|Field of View= | |GPU = Adreno 650 | ||
|Optics= | |HPU = | ||
|IPD | |Storage = 128GB or 256GB | ||
|Tracking= | |Memory = 6GB LPDDR4X | ||
|Rotational Tracking= | |SD Card Slot = No | ||
|Positional Tracking= | |Display = Single fast-switch LCD | ||
|Update Rate= | |Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe | ||
|Tracking Volume= | |Peak Brightness = ~100 nits (perceived) | ||
|Latency= | |Resolution = 1832 × 1920 per eye (3664 × 1920 combined) | ||
|Audio= | |Pixel Density = ~20 PPD | ||
| | |Refresh Rate = 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz (experimental) | ||
| | |Persistence = Low persistence | ||
| | |Field of View = ~89° horizontal | ||
| | |Horizontal FoV = ~89° | ||
|Weight=503g | |Vertical FoV = ~93° | ||
| | |Average Pixel Density = ~20 PPD | ||
| | |Peak Pixel Density = ~20 PPD | ||
| | |Foveated Rendering = Fixed foveated rendering | ||
| | |Optics = Single-element Fresnel lenses | ||
|Ocularity = Binocular | |||
|IPD Range = 58mm, 63mm, 68mm (3 fixed positions) | |||
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses spacer included) | |||
|Passthrough = Yes (grayscale, low resolution) | |||
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out | |||
|Tracking Frequency = 60Hz (cameras) | |||
|Base Stations = None required | |||
|Eye Tracking = No | |||
|Face Tracking = No | |||
|Hand Tracking = Yes | |||
|Body Tracking = No | |||
|Rotational Tracking = Yes | |||
|Positional Tracking = Yes | |||
|Update Rate = Up to 120Hz | |||
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale | |||
|Play Space = Roomscale | |||
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon | |||
|Audio = Integrated spatial audio speakers | |||
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphones) | |||
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes | |||
|Camera = 4× inside-out tracking cameras | |||
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 | |||
|Ports = USB-C, 3.5mm audio | |||
|Wired Video = Yes (Oculus Link via USB-C) | |||
|Wireless Video = Yes (Air Link) | |||
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | |||
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.0 | |||
|Power = Internal battery | |||
|Battery Capacity = 3640mAh (14.3Wh) | |||
|Battery Life = 2-3 hours | |||
|Charge Time = ~2.5 hours | |||
|Dimensions = 191.5mm × 102mm × 142.5mm | |||
|Weight = 503g | |||
|Material = Plastic | |||
|Headstrap = Soft fabric strap (Elite Strap optional) | |||
|Haptics = Controller haptics | |||
|Color = White (originally), Gray (later) | |||
|Sensors = 4× tracking cameras, proximity sensor, IMU | |||
|Input = Touch controllers, hand tracking, voice | |||
|Compliance = FCC, CE | |||
}} | }} | ||
The '''Meta Quest 2''' (originally '''Oculus Quest 2''') is a standalone [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Meta Platforms]] (formerly Facebook), announced at Facebook Connect on September 16, 2020, and released on October 13, 2020. Priced at $299 for the 128GB model, the Quest 2 became the best-selling VR headset of all time, fundamentally changing the VR market by offering capable standalone VR at a mainstream price point. The headset features a [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] processor, 1832 × 1920 resolution per eye (50% more pixels than Quest 1), and support for both standalone operation and PC VR via Oculus Link cable or wireless Air Link. The Quest 2's commercial success—with over 20 million units sold—established standalone VR as the dominant form factor and positioned Meta as the leading VR platform. The headset was discontinued in September 2024, replaced by the Quest 3S at the $299 entry price point. | |||
== | == History and Development == | ||
== | === Oculus Quest Origins === | ||
The original Oculus Quest, launched in May 2019, proved the viability of standalone 6DoF VR. Its success demonstrated strong consumer interest in VR without PC requirements, setting the stage for an improved successor. | |||
== | === Quest 2 Development === | ||
Facebook developed Quest 2 with clear objectives: | |||
* Significant performance improvement (Snapdragon 835 → XR2) | |||
* Higher display resolution | |||
* Lower manufacturing cost | |||
* Mass-market price point | |||
* Simplified supply chain (single LCD vs. dual OLED) | |||
== | === Rebranding to Meta === | ||
In October 2021, Facebook rebranded to Meta Platforms, and Oculus products became "Meta Quest": | |||
* Oculus Quest 2 → Meta Quest 2 | |||
* Reflected company's metaverse focus | |||
* Oculus brand phased out | |||
=== | === Facebook Account Requirement Controversy === | ||
At launch, Quest 2 required a Facebook account, sparking privacy concerns. In August 2022, Meta introduced Meta accounts, removing the Facebook requirement and addressing user concerns. | |||
== | === Commercial Success === | ||
== | Quest 2 achieved unprecedented VR sales: | ||
* Over 10 million units by 2021 | |||
* Over 20 million units lifetime | |||
* Dominant market share (~70%+ of standalone VR) | |||
* Best-selling VR headset ever | |||
== | === Discontinuation === | ||
At Meta Connect September 2024: | |||
* Quest 2 officially discontinued | |||
* Quest 3S introduced as $299 replacement | |||
* Quest 2 remained supported with updates | |||
== | == Design and Form Factor == | ||
== | === Simplified Design === | ||
Quest 2 prioritized accessibility: | |||
* Clean white aesthetic | |||
* Lightweight at 503g | |||
* Simpler strap (Elite Strap optional) | |||
* Compact form factor | |||
== | === Build Quality === | ||
Consumer-grade construction: | |||
* Plastic housing | |||
* Fabric strap | |||
* Functional durability | |||
* Cost-optimized materials | |||
== | === Color Options === | ||
* '''White''': Launch color | |||
* '''Gray''': Later addition for variety | |||
=== Head Strap === | |||
Basic included strap: | |||
* Soft fabric sides | |||
* Velcro adjustment | |||
* Adequate for casual use | |||
* Elite Strap accessory improves comfort | |||
[[Category: | == Display Technology == | ||
=== Fast-Switch LCD === | |||
Single LCD panel replaced dual OLEDs: | |||
* '''Resolution''': 1832 × 1920 per eye | |||
* '''Total''': ~3664 × 1920 | |||
* '''Type''': Fast-switching LCD | |||
* '''Subpixels''': RGB stripe (no PenTile) | |||
=== Resolution Improvement === | |||
50% more pixels than Quest 1: | |||
* Sharper visuals | |||
* Reduced screen door effect | |||
* Better text readability | |||
* Improved overall clarity | |||
=== Refresh Rate Evolution === | |||
Software updates expanded refresh options: | |||
* '''Launch''': 72Hz | |||
* '''November 2020''': 90Hz enabled | |||
* '''April 2021''': 120Hz experimental mode | |||
* Full range: 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz | |||
=== LCD Trade-offs === | |||
Compared to OLED: | |||
* Worse black levels (gray instead of true black) | |||
* Good brightness uniformity | |||
* Faster pixel response | |||
* Lower manufacturing cost | |||
* RGB stripe improves perceived sharpness | |||
== Optical System == | |||
=== Fresnel Lenses === | |||
Single-element Fresnel design: | |||
* Cost-effective manufacturing | |||
* Adequate optical quality | |||
* Some god rays visible in high-contrast scenes | |||
* Good edge clarity | |||
=== IPD Adjustment === | |||
Three fixed positions: | |||
* Position 1: 58mm | |||
* Position 2: 63mm | |||
* Position 3: 68mm | |||
* Slider mechanism moves lenses | |||
* No software-only adjustment | |||
=== Field of View === | |||
* Horizontal: ~89° | |||
* Vertical: ~93° | |||
* Adequate for immersion | |||
* Slightly narrower than some competitors | |||
== Processing Power == | |||
=== Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 === | |||
Significant upgrade from Quest 1: | |||
* '''CPU''': Octa-core Kryo 585 | |||
* '''GPU''': Adreno 650 | |||
* '''AI Engine''': Fifth generation | |||
* '''Process''': 7nm | |||
=== Performance Improvement === | |||
2× CPU and 6× GPU improvement over Snapdragon 835: | |||
* Better graphics in standalone mode | |||
* More complex games possible | |||
* Improved hand tracking | |||
* Better multitasking | |||
=== Memory === | |||
* '''RAM''': 6GB LPDDR4X | |||
* '''Storage''': 128GB or 256GB options | |||
* Adequate for game library | |||
== Tracking System == | |||
=== Inside-Out Tracking === | |||
Four cameras provide positional tracking: | |||
* Wide-baseline stereo cameras | |||
* 6DoF head tracking | |||
* 6DoF controller tracking | |||
* Room-scale capable | |||
=== Guardian System === | |||
Safety boundary system: | |||
* Draw play space boundaries | |||
* Visual warnings when approaching | |||
* Passthrough when stepping outside | |||
* Roomscale and stationary modes | |||
=== Hand Tracking === | |||
Built-in hand recognition: | |||
* No controllers required for some experiences | |||
* Gesture-based interaction | |||
* Continuous software improvement | |||
* Expanded application support | |||
== Controllers == | |||
=== Touch Controllers === | |||
Revised from Quest 1 design: | |||
* '''Tracking''': 6DoF via headset cameras | |||
* '''Inputs''': Triggers, grips, thumbstick, buttons | |||
* '''Haptics''': Vibration feedback | |||
* '''Power''': Single AA battery each | |||
* '''Battery Life''': Many weeks | |||
=== Controller Improvements === | |||
Over Quest 1: | |||
* Better tracking ring design | |||
* Improved ergonomics | |||
* Same button layout | |||
* Reliable performance | |||
== Audio System == | |||
=== Integrated Speakers === | |||
Built-in spatial audio: | |||
* Positioned near ears | |||
* Open design | |||
* Adequate for most use | |||
* Spatial positioning support | |||
=== 3.5mm Jack === | |||
Standard audio out: | |||
* Private listening | |||
* Better quality headphones | |||
* Required for some use cases | |||
== PC VR Connectivity == | |||
=== Oculus Link === | |||
USB-C connection to PC: | |||
* Access full Rift library | |||
* SteamVR compatibility | |||
* Requires capable USB cable | |||
* 90Hz maximum in Link mode | |||
=== Air Link === | |||
Wireless PC VR (added 2021): | |||
* Wi-Fi 6 streaming | |||
* Low-latency gameplay | |||
* Freedom of movement | |||
* Requires strong router | |||
=== Virtual Desktop === | |||
Third-party alternative: | |||
* Often preferred over Air Link | |||
* Additional features | |||
* Wireless SteamVR | |||
* Active development | |||
== Software Platform == | |||
=== Quest Store === | |||
Native application ecosystem: | |||
* Hundreds of VR games and apps | |||
* Curated quality standards | |||
* Regular sales and promotions | |||
* Social features | |||
=== App Lab === | |||
Experimental distribution: | |||
* Early access games | |||
* Indie developer platform | |||
* Side-loading alternative | |||
* Lower barrier to entry | |||
=== Social Features === | |||
Meta's social VR emphasis: | |||
* Horizon Worlds | |||
* Horizon Workrooms | |||
* Messenger integration | |||
* Multi-user experiences | |||
== Battery and Power == | |||
=== Internal Battery === | |||
* '''Capacity''': 3640mAh (14.3Wh) | |||
* '''Runtime''': 2-3 hours depending on use | |||
* '''Charging''': ~2.5 hours via USB-C | |||
=== Battery Accessories === | |||
Extended play options: | |||
* Elite Strap with Battery | |||
* Third-party battery packs | |||
* USB-C power banks | |||
== Accessories Ecosystem == | |||
=== Official Accessories === | |||
Meta offered various add-ons: | |||
* Elite Strap (improved comfort) | |||
* Elite Strap with Battery | |||
* Carrying Case | |||
* Fit Pack (facial interfaces) | |||
* Link Cable | |||
=== Third-Party Ecosystem === | |||
Extensive aftermarket: | |||
* Head straps | |||
* Facial interfaces | |||
* Prescription lens inserts | |||
* Controller grips | |||
* Charging docks | |||
== Impact on VR Market == | |||
=== Mass Market Achievement === | |||
Quest 2 democratized VR: | |||
* First truly mainstream VR headset | |||
* 20+ million units sold | |||
* Established $299 price point | |||
* Created viable VR gaming market | |||
=== Developer Ecosystem === | |||
Strong software support: | |||
* Hundreds of quality titles | |||
* Profitable developer platform | |||
* Continued investment | |||
* Cross-platform releases | |||
=== Competition Response === | |||
Influenced entire industry: | |||
* PICO 4 direct competitor | |||
* Apple Vision Pro high-end contrast | |||
* Standalone format dominance | |||
== Technical Specifications Summary == | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
|- | |||
! Specification !! Details | |||
|- | |||
| Display || Fast-switch LCD, 1832 × 1920 per eye | |||
|- | |||
| Total Resolution || ~3664 × 1920 | |||
|- | |||
| Refresh Rate || 72/80/90/120Hz | |||
|- | |||
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 | |||
|- | |||
| Memory || 6GB LPDDR4X | |||
|- | |||
| Storage || 128GB / 256GB | |||
|- | |||
| FOV || ~89° horizontal | |||
|- | |||
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out | |||
|- | |||
| Hand Tracking || Yes | |||
|- | |||
| PC VR || Link (USB) + Air Link (wireless) | |||
|- | |||
| Battery || 2-3 hours | |||
|- | |||
| Weight || 503g | |||
|- | |||
| Price || $299 / $399 (launch) | |||
|} | |||
== See Also == | |||
* [[Meta Platforms]] | |||
* [[Oculus Quest]] | |||
* [[Meta Quest 3]] | |||
* [[Meta Quest 3S]] | |||
* [[Standalone VR]] | |||
* [[Snapdragon XR2]] | |||
== References == | |||
{{Reflist}} | |||
[[Category:Devices]] | |||
[[Category:VR Headsets]] | |||
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]] | |||
[[Category:Standalone VR]] | |||
[[Category:Meta]] | |||
[[Category:Oculus]] | |||
[[Category:2020s VR]] | |||
Latest revision as of 03:09, 8 January 2026
| Meta Quest 2 | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Virtual Reality |
| Type | Head-mounted display |
| Subtype | Standalone VR |
| Platform | Meta Quest Platform |
| Creator | Meta Platforms |
| Developer | Reality Labs |
| Manufacturer | Meta Platforms |
| Announcement Date | September 16, 2020 |
| Release Date | October 13, 2020 |
| Price | $299 (128GB), $399 (256GB) |
| Website | https://www.meta.com/quest/products/quest-2/ |
| Versions | 64GB (discontinued), 128GB, 256GB |
| Requires | Meta account (formerly Facebook account) |
| Predecessor | Oculus Quest |
| Successor | Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest 3S |
| System | |
| Operating System | Meta Quest OS (Android-based) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 |
| CPU | Octa-core Kryo 585 (1× 2.84 GHz + 3× 2.42 GHz + 4× 1.8 GHz) |
| GPU | Adreno 650 |
| Storage | |
| Storage | 128GB or 256GB |
| Memory | 6GB LPDDR4X |
| SD Card Slot | No |
| Display | |
| Display | Single fast-switch LCD |
| Subpixel Layout | RGB stripe |
| Peak Brightness | ~100 nits (perceived) |
| Resolution | 1832 × 1920 per eye (3664 × 1920 combined) |
| Pixel Density | ~20 PPD |
| Refresh Rate | 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz (experimental) |
| Persistence | Low persistence |
| Image | |
| Field of View | ~89° horizontal |
| Horizontal FoV | ~89° |
| Vertical FoV | ~93° |
| Average Pixel Density | ~20 PPD |
| Peak Pixel Density | ~20 PPD |
| Foveated Rendering | Fixed foveated rendering |
| Optics | |
| Optics | Single-element Fresnel lenses |
| Ocularity | Binocular |
| IPD Range | 58mm, 63mm, 68mm (3 fixed positions) |
| Adjustable Diopter | No (glasses spacer included) |
| Passthrough | Yes (grayscale, low resolution) |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | 6DoF inside-out |
| Tracking Frequency | 60Hz (cameras) |
| Base Stations | None required |
| Eye Tracking | No |
| Face Tracking | No |
| Hand Tracking | Yes |
| Body Tracking | No |
| Rotational Tracking | Yes |
| Positional Tracking | Yes |
| Update Rate | Up to 120Hz |
| Tracking Volume | Room-scale |
| Play Space | Roomscale |
| Latency | <20ms motion-to-photon |
| Audio | |
| Audio | Integrated spatial audio speakers |
| Microphone | Yes (dual microphones) |
| 3.5mm Audio Jack | Yes |
| Camera | 4× inside-out tracking cameras |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Ports | USB-C, 3.5mm audio |
| Wired Video | Yes (Oculus Link via USB-C) |
| Wireless Video | Yes (Air Link) |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Power | Internal battery |
| Battery Capacity | 3640mAh (14.3Wh) |
| Battery Life | 2-3 hours |
| Charge Time | ~2.5 hours |
| Device | |
| Dimensions | 191.5mm × 102mm × 142.5mm |
| Weight | 503g |
| Material | Plastic |
| Headstrap | Soft fabric strap (Elite Strap optional) |
| Haptics | Controller haptics |
| Color | White (originally), Gray (later) |
| Sensors | 4× tracking cameras, proximity sensor, IMU |
| Input | Touch controllers, hand tracking, voice |
| Compliance | FCC, CE |
Property "Operating System" (as page type) with input value "Meta Quest OS]] (Android-based)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. 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 Meta Quest 2 (originally Oculus Quest 2) is a standalone virtual reality head-mounted display developed by Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), announced at Facebook Connect on September 16, 2020, and released on October 13, 2020. Priced at $299 for the 128GB model, the Quest 2 became the best-selling VR headset of all time, fundamentally changing the VR market by offering capable standalone VR at a mainstream price point. The headset features a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor, 1832 × 1920 resolution per eye (50% more pixels than Quest 1), and support for both standalone operation and PC VR via Oculus Link cable or wireless Air Link. The Quest 2's commercial success—with over 20 million units sold—established standalone VR as the dominant form factor and positioned Meta as the leading VR platform. The headset was discontinued in September 2024, replaced by the Quest 3S at the $299 entry price point.
History and Development
Oculus Quest Origins
The original Oculus Quest, launched in May 2019, proved the viability of standalone 6DoF VR. Its success demonstrated strong consumer interest in VR without PC requirements, setting the stage for an improved successor.
Quest 2 Development
Facebook developed Quest 2 with clear objectives:
- Significant performance improvement (Snapdragon 835 → XR2)
- Higher display resolution
- Lower manufacturing cost
- Mass-market price point
- Simplified supply chain (single LCD vs. dual OLED)
Rebranding to Meta
In October 2021, Facebook rebranded to Meta Platforms, and Oculus products became "Meta Quest":
- Oculus Quest 2 → Meta Quest 2
- Reflected company's metaverse focus
- Oculus brand phased out
Facebook Account Requirement Controversy
At launch, Quest 2 required a Facebook account, sparking privacy concerns. In August 2022, Meta introduced Meta accounts, removing the Facebook requirement and addressing user concerns.
Commercial Success
Quest 2 achieved unprecedented VR sales:
- Over 10 million units by 2021
- Over 20 million units lifetime
- Dominant market share (~70%+ of standalone VR)
- Best-selling VR headset ever
Discontinuation
At Meta Connect September 2024:
- Quest 2 officially discontinued
- Quest 3S introduced as $299 replacement
- Quest 2 remained supported with updates
Design and Form Factor
Simplified Design
Quest 2 prioritized accessibility:
- Clean white aesthetic
- Lightweight at 503g
- Simpler strap (Elite Strap optional)
- Compact form factor
Build Quality
Consumer-grade construction:
- Plastic housing
- Fabric strap
- Functional durability
- Cost-optimized materials
Color Options
- White: Launch color
- Gray: Later addition for variety
Head Strap
Basic included strap:
- Soft fabric sides
- Velcro adjustment
- Adequate for casual use
- Elite Strap accessory improves comfort
Display Technology
Fast-Switch LCD
Single LCD panel replaced dual OLEDs:
- Resolution: 1832 × 1920 per eye
- Total: ~3664 × 1920
- Type: Fast-switching LCD
- Subpixels: RGB stripe (no PenTile)
Resolution Improvement
50% more pixels than Quest 1:
- Sharper visuals
- Reduced screen door effect
- Better text readability
- Improved overall clarity
Refresh Rate Evolution
Software updates expanded refresh options:
- Launch: 72Hz
- November 2020: 90Hz enabled
- April 2021: 120Hz experimental mode
- Full range: 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz
LCD Trade-offs
Compared to OLED:
- Worse black levels (gray instead of true black)
- Good brightness uniformity
- Faster pixel response
- Lower manufacturing cost
- RGB stripe improves perceived sharpness
Optical System
Fresnel Lenses
Single-element Fresnel design:
- Cost-effective manufacturing
- Adequate optical quality
- Some god rays visible in high-contrast scenes
- Good edge clarity
IPD Adjustment
Three fixed positions:
- Position 1: 58mm
- Position 2: 63mm
- Position 3: 68mm
- Slider mechanism moves lenses
- No software-only adjustment
Field of View
- Horizontal: ~89°
- Vertical: ~93°
- Adequate for immersion
- Slightly narrower than some competitors
Processing Power
Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1
Significant upgrade from Quest 1:
- CPU: Octa-core Kryo 585
- GPU: Adreno 650
- AI Engine: Fifth generation
- Process: 7nm
Performance Improvement
2× CPU and 6× GPU improvement over Snapdragon 835:
- Better graphics in standalone mode
- More complex games possible
- Improved hand tracking
- Better multitasking
Memory
- RAM: 6GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB options
- Adequate for game library
Tracking System
Inside-Out Tracking
Four cameras provide positional tracking:
- Wide-baseline stereo cameras
- 6DoF head tracking
- 6DoF controller tracking
- Room-scale capable
Guardian System
Safety boundary system:
- Draw play space boundaries
- Visual warnings when approaching
- Passthrough when stepping outside
- Roomscale and stationary modes
Hand Tracking
Built-in hand recognition:
- No controllers required for some experiences
- Gesture-based interaction
- Continuous software improvement
- Expanded application support
Controllers
Touch Controllers
Revised from Quest 1 design:
- Tracking: 6DoF via headset cameras
- Inputs: Triggers, grips, thumbstick, buttons
- Haptics: Vibration feedback
- Power: Single AA battery each
- Battery Life: Many weeks
Controller Improvements
Over Quest 1:
- Better tracking ring design
- Improved ergonomics
- Same button layout
- Reliable performance
Audio System
Integrated Speakers
Built-in spatial audio:
- Positioned near ears
- Open design
- Adequate for most use
- Spatial positioning support
3.5mm Jack
Standard audio out:
- Private listening
- Better quality headphones
- Required for some use cases
PC VR Connectivity
Oculus Link
USB-C connection to PC:
- Access full Rift library
- SteamVR compatibility
- Requires capable USB cable
- 90Hz maximum in Link mode
Air Link
Wireless PC VR (added 2021):
- Wi-Fi 6 streaming
- Low-latency gameplay
- Freedom of movement
- Requires strong router
Virtual Desktop
Third-party alternative:
- Often preferred over Air Link
- Additional features
- Wireless SteamVR
- Active development
Software Platform
Quest Store
Native application ecosystem:
- Hundreds of VR games and apps
- Curated quality standards
- Regular sales and promotions
- Social features
App Lab
Experimental distribution:
- Early access games
- Indie developer platform
- Side-loading alternative
- Lower barrier to entry
Social Features
Meta's social VR emphasis:
- Horizon Worlds
- Horizon Workrooms
- Messenger integration
- Multi-user experiences
Battery and Power
Internal Battery
- Capacity: 3640mAh (14.3Wh)
- Runtime: 2-3 hours depending on use
- Charging: ~2.5 hours via USB-C
Battery Accessories
Extended play options:
- Elite Strap with Battery
- Third-party battery packs
- USB-C power banks
Accessories Ecosystem
Official Accessories
Meta offered various add-ons:
- Elite Strap (improved comfort)
- Elite Strap with Battery
- Carrying Case
- Fit Pack (facial interfaces)
- Link Cable
Third-Party Ecosystem
Extensive aftermarket:
- Head straps
- Facial interfaces
- Prescription lens inserts
- Controller grips
- Charging docks
Impact on VR Market
Mass Market Achievement
Quest 2 democratized VR:
- First truly mainstream VR headset
- 20+ million units sold
- Established $299 price point
- Created viable VR gaming market
Developer Ecosystem
Strong software support:
- Hundreds of quality titles
- Profitable developer platform
- Continued investment
- Cross-platform releases
Competition Response
Influenced entire industry:
- PICO 4 direct competitor
- Apple Vision Pro high-end contrast
- Standalone format dominance
Technical Specifications Summary
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | Fast-switch LCD, 1832 × 1920 per eye |
| Total Resolution | ~3664 × 1920 |
| Refresh Rate | 72/80/90/120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 |
| Memory | 6GB LPDDR4X |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB |
| FOV | ~89° horizontal |
| Tracking | 6DoF inside-out |
| Hand Tracking | Yes |
| PC VR | Link (USB) + Air Link (wireless) |
| Battery | 2-3 hours |
| Weight | 503g |
| Price | $299 / $399 (launch) |