Jump to content

Meta Quest 2: Difference between revisions

From VR & AR Wiki
← Older edit
VisualWikitext
Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
Tag: Reverted
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
 
(3 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Meta Quest 2
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]], [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[Standalone VR]]
|Platform = [[Meta Quest]], [[SteamVR]] (via Link/Air Link)
|Platform = [[Meta Quest Platform]]
|Developer = [[Meta Platforms]]
|Creator = [[Meta Platforms]]
|Developer = [[Reality Labs]]
|Manufacturer = [[Meta Platforms]]
|Manufacturer = [[Meta Platforms]]
|Announcement Date = September 16, 2020
|Announcement Date = September 16, 2020
|Release Date = October 13, 2020
|Release Date = October 13, 2020
|End of Production = 2024
|Price = $299 (128GB), $399 (256GB)
|Price = $299 USD (launch), $249.99 USD (2023)
|Website = https://www.meta.com/quest/products/quest-2/
|Website = https://www.meta.com/quest/products/quest-2/
|Versions = 64GB (discontinued), 128GB, 256GB
|Requires = Meta account (formerly Facebook account)
|Predecessor = [[Oculus Quest]]
|Predecessor = [[Oculus Quest]]
|Successor = [[Meta Quest 3]]
|Successor = [[Meta Quest 3]], [[Meta Quest 3S]]
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]
|Operating System = [[Meta Quest OS]] (Android-based)
|CPU = Octa-core Kryo 585 (1x 2.84 GHz + 3x 2.42 GHz + 4x 1.8 GHz)
|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
|GPU = Adreno 650
|Memory = 6 GB
|HPU =
|Storage = 128 GB, 256 GB
|Storage = 128GB or 256GB
|Memory = 6GB LPDDR4X
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Single fast-switch LCD
|Display = Single fast-switch LCD
|Resolution = 1832x1920 per eye (3664x1920 combined)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Refresh Rate = 60 Hz, 72 Hz, 90 Hz, 120 Hz (experimental)
|Peak Brightness = ~100 nits (perceived)
|Field of View = 97°
|Resolution = 1832 × 1920 per eye (3664 × 1920 combined)
|IPD Range = 58mm, 63mm, 68mm (3 presets)
|Pixel Density = ~20 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz (experimental)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|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 = Single-element Fresnel lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Fresnel lenses
|IPD Range = 58mm, 63mm, 68mm (3 fixed positions)
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 4 cameras)
|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
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Controllers = Oculus Touch (Gen 3)
|Body Tracking = No
|Audio = Integrated speakers, 3D spatial audio, 3.5mm jack
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 LE, USB-C
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Battery = ~2-3 hours
|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
|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 VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Meta Platforms]], announced on September 16, 2020 and released on October 13, 2020 at $299. The successor to the [[Oculus Quest]], the Quest 2 featured the Snapdragon XR2 processor (2x the power of Quest 1), higher resolution LCD display with 1832x1920 per eye (50% more pixels), reduced weight at 503g, and a groundbreaking $299 price point that made high-quality VR accessible to mainstream consumers. The Quest 2 became the best-selling VR headset of all time, selling over 20 million units and establishing Meta as the dominant force in consumer VR.
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 ==
== History and Development ==


Facebook unveiled the Oculus Quest 2 on September 16, 2020, positioning it as a more powerful and affordable successor to the original Quest. The headset launched on October 13, 2020 at just $299—$100 less than the original Quest's launch price despite significant hardware improvements. Following Facebook's rebranding to Meta in 2021, the headset was renamed Meta Quest 2 in 2022 as part of the company-wide phase-out of the Oculus brand.<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quest_2 |title=Quest 2 |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== 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.


The Quest 2 became the best-selling VR headset in history and was succeeded by the [[Meta Quest 3]] in October 2023.<ref name="uploadvr">{{cite web |url=https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-quest-2-specs/ |title=Oculus Quest 2 Specs: Nearly 2K Per Eye 90Hz LCD, XR2 Chip, 3-Step IPD |publisher=UploadVR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== 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)


== Design and Hardware ==
=== 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


=== Display ===
=== 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.


High-resolution fast-switch LCD:
=== 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


* Single fast-switch LCD panel (split for both eyes)
=== Color Options ===
* '''1832x1920 resolution per eye'''
* '''White''': Launch color
* 3664x1920 combined resolution
* '''Gray''': Later addition for variety
* '''50% more pixels than Quest 1'''
* Full RGB subpixels (vs PenTile OLED on Quest 1)
* Minimal screen door effect
* 60 Hz, 72 Hz, 90 Hz refresh rates
* '''120 Hz''' (experimental, added March 2021)


=== Optics ===
=== Head Strap ===
Basic included strap:
* Soft fabric sides
* Velcro adjustment
* Adequate for casual use
* Elite Strap accessory improves comfort


* Fresnel lenses
== Display Technology ==
* '''3 IPD presets:''' 58mm, 63mm, 68mm
* Manual lens adjustment
* Large sweet spot


=== Processing ===
=== 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)


Snapdragon XR2 platform:
=== Resolution Improvement ===
50% more pixels than Quest 1:
* Sharper visuals
* Reduced screen door effect
* Better text readability
* Improved overall clarity


* '''[[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]'''
=== Refresh Rate Evolution ===
* Derived from Snapdragon 865
Software updates expanded refresh options:
* Octa-core Kryo 585 CPU
* '''Launch''': 72Hz
* Adreno 650 GPU
* '''November 2020''': 90Hz enabled
* '''2x processing power vs Quest 1'''
* '''April 2021''': 120Hz experimental mode
* '''6 GB RAM''' (vs 4 GB on Quest 1)
* Full range: 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz
* 128 GB or 256 GB storage
* Android 10 based


=== Tracking ===
=== 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


Inside-out tracking:
== Optical System ==


* '''4 cameras''' for 6DoF tracking
=== Fresnel Lenses ===
* '''6 Degrees of Freedom''' (6DoF)
Single-element Fresnel design:
* No external sensors required
* Cost-effective manufacturing
* Room-scale Guardian system
* Adequate optical quality
* Improved tracking algorithms
* Some god rays visible in high-contrast scenes
* Good edge clarity


=== Hand Tracking ===
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Three fixed positions:
* Position 1: 58mm
* Position 2: 63mm
* Position 3: 68mm
* Slider mechanism moves lenses
* No software-only adjustment


* Built-in hand tracking
=== Field of View ===
* Controller-free interaction
* Horizontal: ~89°
* Gesture recognition
* Vertical: ~93°
* Improved over Quest 1
* Adequate for immersion
* Slightly narrower than some competitors


=== Build and Comfort ===
== Processing Power ==


Lighter redesigned form factor:
=== Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 ===
Significant upgrade from Quest 1:
* '''CPU''': Octa-core Kryo 585
* '''GPU''': Adreno 650
* '''AI Engine''': Fifth generation
* '''Process''': 7nm


* '''503g weight''' (vs 571g Quest 1)
=== Performance Improvement ===
* White color scheme
2× CPU and 6× GPU improvement over Snapdragon 835:
* Soft fabric head strap (included)
* Better graphics in standalone mode
* Elite Strap accessory available
* More complex games possible
* Adjustable fit
* Improved hand tracking
* Improved facial interface
* Better multitasking


=== Audio ===
=== Memory ===
* '''RAM''': 6GB LPDDR4X
* '''Storage''': 128GB or 256GB options
* Adequate for game library


* Integrated positional speakers
== Tracking System ==
* 3D spatial audio
* Near-ear design (not over-ear)
* 3.5mm headphone jack
* Microphone array


=== Battery ===
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
Four cameras provide positional tracking:
* Wide-baseline stereo cameras
* 6DoF head tracking
* 6DoF controller tracking
* Room-scale capable


* Built-in rechargeable battery
=== Guardian System ===
* '''2-3 hours''' usage time
Safety boundary system:
* USB-C charging
* Draw play space boundaries
* Elite Battery Strap accessory available
* 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 ==
== Controllers ==


=== Oculus Touch (Gen 3) ===
=== 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 ==


Redesigned Touch controllers:
=== Integrated Speakers ===
Built-in spatial audio:
* Positioned near ears
* Open design
* Adequate for most use
* Spatial positioning support


* Tracking ring (improved)
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
* Analog sticks
Standard audio out:
* Triggers and grips
* Private listening
* Face buttons (A/B, X/Y)
* Better quality headphones
* Capacitive touch sensors
* Required for some use cases
* Haptic feedback
* Single AA battery each
* Improved ergonomics


== PC VR Capability ==
== PC VR Connectivity ==


=== Oculus Link ===
=== Oculus Link ===
* USB-C wired connection
USB-C connection to PC:
* Access PC VR games
* Access full Rift library
* SteamVR compatible
* SteamVR compatibility
* Rift S quality experience
* Requires capable USB cable
* 90Hz maximum in Link mode


=== Air Link ===
=== Air Link ===
* Wireless PC VR streaming
Wireless PC VR (added 2021):
* Wi-Fi 6 recommended
* Wi-Fi 6 streaming
* Low latency
* Low-latency gameplay
* No cable required
* 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


== Technical Specifications ==
=== 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"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 157: Line 380:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || Fast-switch LCD
| Display || Fast-switch LCD, 1832 × 1920 per eye
|-
|-
| Resolution || 1832x1920 per eye
| Total Resolution || ~3664 × 1920
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 60-120 Hz
| Refresh Rate || 72/80/90/120Hz
|-
|-
| Field of View || 97°
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2
| Memory || 6GB LPDDR4X
|-
|-
| RAM || 6 GB
| Storage || 128GB / 256GB
|-
|-
| Storage || 128 GB / 256 GB
| FOV || ~89° horizontal
|-
|-
| Tracking || 6DoF (4 cameras)
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out
|-
|-
| Weight || 503g
| Hand Tracking || Yes
|-
| PC VR || Link (USB) + Air Link (wireless)
|-
|-
| Battery || 2-3 hours
| Battery || 2-3 hours
|-
|-
| Price || $249-$299
| Weight || 503g
|-
| Price || $299 / $399 (launch)
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* $299 price point revolutionary
* Snapdragon XR2 doubles performance
* 50% more pixels than Quest 1
* Minimal screen door effect
* Lighter than Quest 1
* No PC required (standalone)
* PC VR via Link/Air Link
* Large game library
* Hand tracking included
* Best value in VR
* Best-selling VR headset ever
'''Criticism:'''
* LCD instead of OLED (worse blacks)
* 3 IPD presets (not continuous)
* Included head strap basic
* Required Facebook/Meta account
* God rays from Fresnel lenses
* Battery life limited
* Elite Strap quality issues<ref name="vrdb">{{cite web |url=https://vrdb.app/device/oculus-quest-2 |title=Oculus Quest 2 - Specs, Features, and Games |publisher=VRDB |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
<ref name="qualcomm">{{cite web |url=https://www.qualcomm.com/xr-vr-ar/device-finder/meta-quest-2 |title=Meta Quest 2 |publisher=Qualcomm |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
== Legacy ==
The Meta Quest 2 is the best-selling VR headset of all time with over 20 million units sold. It established:
* Sub-$300 as viable VR price point
* Standalone VR as the dominant form factor
* Meta as the leader in consumer VR
* Air Link as standard wireless PCVR feature
* VR as mainstream consumer technology


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Meta Platforms]]
* [[Oculus Quest]]
* [[Oculus Quest]]
* [[Meta Quest 3]]
* [[Meta Quest 3]]
* [[Meta Quest 3S]]
* [[Meta Quest 3S]]
* [[Meta Quest Pro]]
* [[Standalone VR]]
* [[Snapdragon XR2]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Standalone VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Meta Platforms]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:2020 in technology]]
[[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)

See Also

References

Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/index.php?title=Meta_Quest_2&oldid=37417"