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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image = [[file:oculus rift s111.png|350px]]
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC-Powered VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[Oculus Rift (Platform)]]
|Platform = [[Oculus Store]], [[SteamVR]]
|Creator =
|Developer = [[Oculus VR]], [[Lenovo]]
|Developer = [[Oculus VR]], [[Lenovo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Lenovo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Meta Platforms]]
|Announcement Date = March 20, 2019
|Announcement Date = March 20, 2019 (GDC)
|Release Date = May 21, 2019
|Release Date = May 21, 2019
|Price = $399
|End of Production = April 2021
|Website = https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/
|Price = $399 USD
|Versions =
|Website = https://www.meta.com/
|Requires = VR-Ready PC
|Predecessor = [[Oculus Rift CV1]]
|Predecessor = [[Oculus Rift CV1]]
|Successor = Rift line discontinued
|Successor = [[Meta Quest 2]] (standalone)
|Operating System = Windows 10
|Display = LCD (single panel)
|Chipset =
|Resolution = 1280×1440 per eye (2560×1440 combined)
|CPU =
|Refresh Rate = 80 Hz
|GPU =
|Field of View = 115° (horizontal ~88°)
|HPU =
|IPD Range = Software adjustment only
|Storage =
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Memory =
|Optics = Fresnel lenses
|SD Card Slot =
|Tracking = Inside-out 6DoF (Oculus Insight, 5 cameras)
|Display = Fast-switch LCD
|Eye Tracking = No
|Subpixel Layout =
|Hand Tracking = No
|Peak Brightness =
|Passthrough = Monochrome (Passthrough+)
|Resolution = 2560×1440 (1280×1440 per eye)
|Controllers = Oculus Touch (Gen 2)
|Refresh Rate = 80Hz
|Audio = Built-in headband speakers, 3.5mm jack
|Pixel Density =
|Connectivity = DisplayPort, USB 3.0
|Persistence =
|Weight = ~500g
|Precision =
|Field of View = 115°
|Horizontal FoV =
|Vertical FoV =
|Visible FoV =
|Rendered FoV =
|Binocular Overlap =
|Average Pixel Density =
|Peak Pixel Density =
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Next generation lenses (from Oculus Go)
|Ocularity =
|IPD Range = Fixed at 63.5mm (software adjustment only)
|Adjustable Diopter = No
|Passthrough = Passthrough+
|Tracking = [[Inside-out tracking]], (6DOF)
|Tracking Frequency =
|Base Stations = None (Inside-out tracking)
|Eye Tracking =  
|Face Tracking =
|Hand Tracking =  
|Body Tracking =  
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = [[Oculus Insight]]
|Update Rate =
|Tracking Volume =
|Play Space = [[Room‑scale]], 9ft x 9ft
|Latency =
|Audio = Integrated in strap
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 5 tracking cameras (2 front, 1 on each side, 1 on top)
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio jack
|Wired Video = DisplayPort 1.2
|Wireless Video =
|WiFi =
|Bluetooth =
|Power = USB powered
|Battery Capacity =
|Battery Life =
|Charge Time =
|Dimensions = 10.94 x 6.3 x 8.27 inches
|Weight = 500g
|Material =
|Headstrap = Halo design with integrated audio
|Haptics =
|Color = Black
|Color = Black
|Sensors = 5
|Input = [[Oculus Touch]]
|Compliance =
|Size = 10.94 x 6.3 x 8.27 inches
|Cable Length = 5 meters
}}
}}
The [[Oculus Rift S]] is a [[PC-powered]] [[VR headset]] developed by [[Oculus VR]] in partnership with [[Lenovo]]. Announced during GDC 2019 on March 20, 2019, and released on May 21, 2019, it served as the successor to the original [[Oculus Rift CV1]].<ref name="announce">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref> The Rift S featured several improvements over its predecessor, including a higher resolution display, improved lenses, and a new inside-out tracking system called [[Oculus Insight]] that eliminated the need for external sensors.<ref name="wiki_rift_s">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Rift_S</ref> The headset was discontinued in April 2021 in favor of the [[Meta Quest 2]].<ref name="discontinuation">https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/16/21422717/facebook-oculus-rift-s-discontinued-quest-2-vr-connect</ref>


== Design and Hardware ==
The '''Oculus Rift S''' is a [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] co-developed by [[Oculus VR]] and [[Lenovo]], released on May 21, 2019 at $399. It served as the successor to the [[Oculus Rift CV1]], introducing inside-out tracking via Oculus Insight (5 cameras) to eliminate external sensors, a new halo headband design for improved comfort, and a higher-resolution LCD display. The Rift S was announced at GDC 2019 alongside the [[Oculus Quest]] and was discontinued in April 2021 as Meta shifted focus to standalone VR.
=== Display and Optics ===
The Rift S featured a single fast-switch LCD panel with a resolution of 2560×1440 (1280×1440 per eye), an upgrade from the Rift CV1's dual OLED displays with 1080×1200 per eye resolution.<ref name="specs">https://vr-compare.com/headset/oculusrifts</ref> While the resolution was improved, the refresh rate was reduced from 90Hz on the original Rift to 80Hz on the Rift S. The field of view was approximately 115 degrees, a slight increase from the 110 degrees on the Rift CV1.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />


The Rift S utilized "next generation" lens technology that was first introduced in the [[Oculus Go]]. These improved lenses significantly reduced the "god rays" (lens flare artifacts) that were common in the original Rift.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />
== History and Development ==


Unlike the Rift CV1, the Rift S did not feature mechanical interpupillary distance (IPD) adjustment. Instead, it used a fixed lens spacing of approximately 63.5mm with software-based IPD adjustment.<ref name="ipd">https://www.roadtovr.com/oculus-rift-s-supported-ipd-range-fov-quest-go/</ref> This meant that users with IPD measurements significantly different from the average might experience some visual discomfort or reduced clarity.<ref name="ipd_palmer">https://www.roadtovr.com/palmer-luckey-oculus-founder-rift-s-optimal-70-population-ipd/</ref>
Oculus announced the Rift S at GDC 2019 on March 20, 2019, developed in collaboration with Lenovo's engineering team. The partnership leveraged Lenovo's expertise in PC VR headset design (from their Explorer WMR headset) while Oculus contributed their Insight tracking technology from the Quest development.<ref name="metablog">{{cite web |url=https://www.meta.com/blog/announcing-oculus-rift-s-our-new-pc-vr-headset-launching-spring-2019/ |title=Announcing Oculus Rift S, Our New PC VR Headset Launching Spring 2019 for $399 |publisher=Meta |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


=== Headstrap and Comfort ===
The Rift S was discontinued in April 2021 as the Quest 2 demonstrated that standalone VR with optional PC VR Link capability could serve both markets.<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Rift_S |title=Oculus Rift S |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
The Rift S featured a halo-style headband, co-designed with Lenovo, which differed significantly from the Rift CV1's strap system. According to Oculus, this new design provided better weight distribution, improved light blocking, and increased comfort during extended use.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" /> The headset included a knob at the rear of the band to adjust fit and a button underneath the right side that allowed users to adjust the distance between the headset and their face.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />


=== Audio ===
== Design and Hardware ==
Unlike the Rift CV1 which featured integrated headphones, the Rift S incorporated speakers into the headband, similar to the [[Oculus Go]] and [[Oculus Quest]]. This design allowed users to hear both VR audio and their surroundings simultaneously. For those preferring a more immersive audio experience, the headset included a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting external headphones.<ref name="audio">https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-rift-s-official/</ref>
 
=== Tracking System ===
One of the most significant changes in the Rift S was the adoption of the [[Oculus Insight]] inside-out tracking system, also used in the Oculus Quest. This system used five cameras built into the headset (two on the front, one on each side, and one on top) to track both the user's movements and the Oculus Touch controllers.<ref name="tracking">https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-insight-christmas-tree-patch/</ref>


The Insight tracking system eliminated the need for external sensors, simplifying the setup process and allowing for a more flexible play area. The Rift S included an additional fifth camera over the Quest's four-camera setup to improve compatibility with existing Oculus Rift software and provide a wider tracking range.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />
=== Display ===


=== Controllers ===
Upgraded display over CV1:
The Rift S used the second generation [[Oculus Touch]] controllers, the same as those used with the Oculus Quest. These controllers featured a redesigned tracking ring positioned on top (rather than underneath as in the first generation) to facilitate tracking by the headset's cameras.<ref name="touch">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Touch</ref> Each controller included an analog stick, buttons, and triggers for intuitive interaction in VR environments.<ref name="touch" />


== Passthrough+ ==
* Single fast-switch LCD panel (vs dual OLED on CV1)
The Rift S introduced [[Passthrough+]], an enhanced version of the standard passthrough feature found in other VR headsets. Passthrough+ used the headset's front-facing cameras to show the user's surroundings in monochromatic (black and white) view, allowing users to see their environment without removing the headset.<ref name="passthrough">https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-rift-s-official/</ref>
* 1280×1440 resolution per eye
* 2560×1440 combined resolution (improved from 2160×1200)
* 80 Hz refresh rate (reduced from CV1's 90 Hz)
* 115° field of view (slightly wider than CV1's 110°)
* Fresnel optics


Passthrough+ utilized [[Asynchronous SpaceWarp]] (ASW) technology to create a comfortable stereo-correct view with minimal depth disparity and performance impact. It was automatically activated when users stepped outside their designated [[Guardian]] boundaries or could be manually enabled through the Oculus interface.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />
=== Tracking ===


== Software ==
'''Oculus Insight''' inside-out tracking system:
The Rift S was compatible with all software developed for the original Rift, including games, experiences, and applications available on the Oculus Store. Additionally, the Rift S supported third-party VR content through platforms like [[SteamVR]].<ref name="software">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>


=== Oculus Home and Dash ===
* 5 cameras built into headset
Like its predecessor, the Rift S utilized the [[Oculus Home]] environment as a central hub for accessing content and socializing with friends. The [[Dash]] interface allowed users to access their PC desktop and applications while in VR.<ref name="dash">https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/features/</ref>
* 2 front-facing cameras
* 2 side-facing cameras
* 1 top-facing camera
* '''No external sensors required'''
* Computer vision algorithms for real-time tracking
* Tracks both headset and Touch controllers


=== Cross-Buy Support ===
=== Controllers ===
The Oculus Store offered cross-buy support between the Rift S and Oculus Quest for compatible titles, allowing users who owned both headsets to purchase a game once and play it on either platform.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />


== PC Requirements ==
Second-generation Oculus Touch:


=== Recommended Specifications ===
* Same controllers as Oculus Quest
{| class="wikitable"
* Tracking ring on top (visible to headset cameras)
|+ Recommended PC Specifications<ref name="specs_pc">https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/</ref>
* Ergonomic design
! Component !! Specification
* Per controller: thumbstick, 2 buttons, 2 triggers, system menu
|-
* Excellent grip sensing
| Graphics Card || NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD Radeon RX 480 or greater
|-
| Alternative Graphics Card || NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 290 or greater
|-
| CPU || Intel i5-4590 / AMD Ryzen 5 1500X or greater
|-
| Memory || 8GB+ RAM
|-
| Video Output || DisplayPort 1.2 / Mini DisplayPort (with adapter included in box)
|-
| USB Ports || 1x USB 3.0 port
|-
| Operating System || Windows 10
|}


Compared to the original Rift, the Rift S maintained similar PC requirements despite the higher resolution display. This was achieved through the use of similar default render resolution and a slightly lower refresh rate (80Hz vs. 90Hz).<ref name="render_res">https://venturebeat.com/games/oculus-rift-s-has-a-well-hidden-resolution-setting/</ref>
=== Comfort (Lenovo Design) ===


== Setup Process ==
Lenovo co-designed for improved ergonomics:
Setting up the Rift S was simplified compared to the original Rift due to the inside-out tracking system:


# Download the Oculus software from the official website
* New '''halo headband design'''
# Connect the Rift S headset to your PC using the provided DisplayPort and USB 3.0 cables
* Better weight distribution
# Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup and define your play area
* Improved light blocking
# Browse the Oculus library for games and experiences<ref name="setup">https://www.oculus.com/setup/#rift-s-setup</ref>
* Single-cable system (clutter-free)
* ~500g weight


== Input Devices ==
=== IPD Adjustment ===
The primary input devices for the Rift S were the second-generation [[Oculus Touch]] controllers. These ergonomic controllers translated hand and finger movements into VR and provided haptic feedback for a more immersive experience.<ref name="input">https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/features/</ref>


Each Touch controller required one AA battery and featured:
* No physical IPD adjustment mechanism
* An analog thumbstick
* Software-only IPD setting
* Two face buttons
* May cause discomfort for users outside typical range
* A trigger button
* A grip button
* A system button
* Capacitive sensors for finger presence detection<ref name="touch" />


== Accessories ==
=== Audio ===
 
=== Prescription Lenses ===
Users with vision correction needs could purchase prescription lens inserts for the Rift S. VirtuClear® Lens Inserts were available through Frames Direct and featured 1.60 Hi Index Essilor lenses with anti-reflective coating. The prescription range supported was SPH: 0 to -8.0 | CYL: 0 to -2.0.<ref name="prescription">https://www.framesdirect.com/virtuclear-lens-inserts-for-oculus-rift-s.html</ref>
 
=== Third-Party Accessories ===
Various third-party accessories were available for the Rift S, including:
* Replacement face covers and padding
* Cable management solutions
* Display port extension cables
* Protective covers and travel cases
* Alternative audio solutions
 
== Development ==
The Rift S was co-developed by [[Oculus VR]] and [[Lenovo]]. The partnership with Lenovo incorporated their experience in VR/AR hardware design and feedback from the Lenovo Legion gaming community.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />


Developers could create content for the Rift S using the [[Oculus SDK]], which provided tools and resources for VR development. The SDK integrated with popular game engines like [[Unity]], [[Unreal Engine]], and [[CryEngine]].<ref name="dev">https://developer.oculus.com/documentation/native/pc/dg-input-touch-overview/?locale=en_US</ref>
Different approach than CV1:


== History ==
* Built-in speakers in headband
* '''June 2015:''' Palmer Luckey, co-founder of Oculus VR, revealed that Oculus was working on a successor to the original Rift.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />
* Hear VR audio and surroundings simultaneously
* '''October 2018:''' Brendan Iribe, co-founder and former CEO of Oculus VR, left the company reportedly due to the cancellation of a "Rift 2" project and differences in vision for the future of Oculus.<ref name="iribe">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Rift_S</ref>
* 3.5mm audio jack for headphones
* '''March 20, 2019:''' The Oculus Rift S was officially announced at GDC 2019.<ref name="announce" />
* Not as immersive as CV1's integrated headphones
* '''May 21, 2019:''' The Rift S was released to the public at a price of $399.<ref name="release">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>
* '''April 2021:''' Production of the Rift S was discontinued.<ref name="discontinuation" />
* '''June 2021:''' The Rift S section was removed from the Oculus website, and the headset was no longer being sold.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />


== Reception ==
=== Passthrough+ ===
The Rift S received mixed reviews from critics and users. While the headset was praised for its improved resolution, simplified setup process, and comfortable halo strap design, it was also criticized for certain design choices that some considered downgrades from the original Rift.


=== Positive Reception ===
Room-awareness feature:
* The Oculus Insight tracking system was well-received for its accuracy and ease of setup, eliminating the need for external sensors.<ref name="reception1">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>
* The higher resolution display provided improved visual clarity and reduced the "screen door effect" compared to the original Rift.<ref name="reception2">https://www.kitguru.net/tech-news/featured-tech-news/matthew-wilson/oculus-rift-s-specifications-and-differences-compared-to-cv1/</ref>
* The halo strap design was comfortable for many users, particularly during extended VR sessions.<ref name="reception3">https://www.scan.co.uk/products/oculus-rift-s-virtual-reality-headset-and-touch-controllers-for-mind-blowing-pc-vr-gaming</ref>
* Passthrough+ was praised as a useful safety feature and convenience for briefly interacting with the real world.<ref name="passthrough" />


=== Criticisms ===
* Monochrome passthrough view
* The lack of hardware IPD adjustment was a significant issue for users with IPD measurements outside the average range.<ref name="ipd_palmer" />
* See real world without removing headset
* The switch from OLED to LCD displays resulted in less vibrant colors and weaker black levels.<ref name="reception2" />
* Minimal depth disparity
* The reduction in refresh rate from 90Hz to 80Hz was noticeable to some users and potentially contributed to motion sickness for sensitive individuals.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />
* Low performance impact
* The built-in audio solution was considered inferior to the integrated headphones of the original Rift.<ref name="reception1" />
* Uses ASW technology


Overall, the Rift S was viewed as an incremental upgrade rather than a revolutionary advancement in PC VR technology.<ref name="wiki_rift_s" />
== System Requirements ==


== Legacy ==
* '''GPU:''' NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 480 or higher
The Rift S represented the final iteration in the PC-tethered Oculus Rift line. Following its discontinuation in 2021, Facebook (now Meta) shifted its focus to standalone VR headsets with the [[Meta Quest]] line, which can optionally connect to PCs via [[Oculus Link]] to play PC VR content.<ref name="discontinuation" />
* '''CPU:''' Intel i5-4590 / AMD Ryzen 5 1500X or higher
* '''RAM:''' 8 GB
* '''Ports:''' DisplayPort, USB 3.0
* '''OS:''' Windows 10


Many of the technologies pioneered or improved in the Rift S, such as the Oculus Insight tracking system and the improved lens design, have continued to influence subsequent VR headsets from Meta and other manufacturers.
== Comparison with Rift CV1 ==


== Technical Specifications ==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Oculus Rift S Technical Specifications
! Feature !! Specification
|-
| Display || Single fast-switch LCD
|-
| Resolution || 2560×1440 (1280×1440 per eye)
|-
| Refresh Rate || 80Hz
|-
| Field of View || Approximately 115°
|-
| Tracking || 6 degrees of freedom (6DOF)
|-
| Tracking System || Oculus Insight (inside-out)
|-
| Cameras || 5 (2 front, 1 on each side, 1 on top)
|-
| Controllers || Oculus Touch (second generation)
|-
|-
| Audio || Integrated spatial audio in headband, 3.5mm audio jack
! Feature !! Rift CV1 !! Rift S
|-
|-
| Microphone || Integrated
| Resolution || 1080×1200/eye || '''1280×1440/eye'''
|-
|-
| Connectivity || DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0
| Display || Dual OLED || LCD
|-
|-
| Cable Length || 5 meters
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz || 80 Hz
|-
|-
| Weight || Approximately 500g
| Tracking || External sensors || '''Inside-out (5 cameras)'''
|-
|-
| Dimensions || 10.94 x 6.3 x 8.27 inches
| IPD Adjustment || Physical || Software only
|-
|-
| IPD Adjustment || Software only (fixed physical IPD of 63.5mm)
| Audio || Integrated headphones || Headband speakers
|-
|-
| Recommended Play Space || Up to 9ft x 9ft
| Price || $399 || $399
|}
|}


== Images ==
== Reception ==
<gallery mode="packed">
 
File:oculus rift s111.png
'''Praise:'''
File:oculus rift s118.jpg
* Inside-out tracking eliminates external sensors
File:oculus rift s117.jpg
* Simple setup and clutter-free experience
File:oculus rift s116.jpg
* Resolution improvement over CV1
File:oculus rift s115.jpg
* Comfortable halo headband design
File:oculus rift s114.jpg
* $399 price maintained
File:oculus rift s113.jpg
* Same excellent Touch controllers
File:oculus rift s112.jpg
* Passthrough+ feature useful
File:oculus rift s6.png
* Better tracking coverage than WMR 2-camera systems
File:oculus rift s5.png
* Good clarity and reduced screen door effect
File:oculus rift s4.png
 
File:oculus rift s3.png
'''Criticism:'''
File:oculus rift s2.png
* 80 Hz refresh rate (down from CV1's 90 Hz)
</gallery>
* LCD display (not OLED—worse blacks)
* No physical IPD adjustment
* Headband speakers less immersive than CV1 headphones
* Short product lifespan (discontinued 2021)
* Requires gaming PC
* Some tracking dead zones for controllers<ref name="roadtovr">{{cite web |url=https://www.roadtovr.com/oculus-rift-s-specs-release-date-announcement-gdc-2019/ |title=Oculus Rift S Revealed with Inside-out Tracking, Resolution Bump, & New Ergonomics |publisher=Road to VR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
 
<ref name="trustedreviews">{{cite web |url=https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/oculus-rift-s |title=Oculus Rift S Review |publisher=Trusted Reviews |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
* [[Oculus Rift CV1]]
* [[Oculus Quest]]
* [[Meta Quest 2]]
* [[HP Reverb G2]]
* [[Valve Index]]


== References ==
== References ==
<references>
{{reflist}}
<ref name="announce">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>
<ref name="wiki_rift_s">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Rift_S</ref>
<ref name="discontinuation">https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/16/21422717/facebook-oculus-rift-s-discontinued-quest-2-vr-connect</ref>
<ref name="specs">https://vr-compare.com/headset/oculusrifts</ref>
<ref name="ipd">https://www.roadtovr.com/oculus-rift-s-supported-ipd-range-fov-quest-go/</ref>
<ref name="ipd_palmer">https://www.roadtovr.com/palmer-luckey-oculus-founder-rift-s-optimal-70-population-ipd/</ref>
<ref name="audio">https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-rift-s-official/</ref>
<ref name="tracking">https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-insight-christmas-tree-patch/</ref>
<ref name="touch">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Touch</ref>
<ref name="passthrough">https://www.uploadvr.com/oculus-rift-s-official/</ref>
<ref name="software">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>
<ref name="dash">https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/features/</ref>
<ref name="specs_pc">https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/</ref>
<ref name="render_res">https://venturebeat.com/games/oculus-rift-s-has-a-well-hidden-resolution-setting/</ref>
<ref name="setup">https://www.oculus.com/setup/#rift-s-setup</ref>
<ref name="input">https://www.oculus.com/rift-s/features/</ref>
<ref name="prescription">https://www.framesdirect.com/virtuclear-lens-inserts-for-oculus-rift-s.html</ref>
<ref name="dev">https://developer.oculus.com/documentation/native/pc/dg-input-touch-overview/?locale=en_US</ref>
<ref name="iribe">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Rift_S</ref>
<ref name="release">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>
<ref name="reception1">https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273152/oculus-rift-s-vr-headset-announced-pricing-release-date-features-gdc-2019</ref>
<ref name="reception2">https://www.kitguru.net/tech-news/featured-tech-news/matthew-wilson/oculus-rift-s-specifications-and-differences-compared-to-cv1/</ref>
<ref name="reception3">https://www.scan.co.uk/products/oculus-rift-s-virtual-reality-headset-and-touch-controllers-for-mind-blowing-pc-vr-gaming</ref>
</references>


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Oculus VR]]
[[Category:Meta Platforms]]
[[Category:2019 in technology]]
[[Category:Discontinued VR Headsets]]

Revision as of 15:16, 7 January 2026

Oculus Rift S
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR
Platform Oculus Store, SteamVR
Developer Oculus VR, Lenovo
Manufacturer Meta Platforms
Announcement Date March 20, 2019 (GDC)
Release Date May 21, 2019
Price $399 USD
Website https://www.meta.com/
Predecessor Oculus Rift CV1
Successor Meta Quest 2 (standalone)
System
Storage
Display
Display LCD (single panel)
Resolution 1280×1440 per eye (2560×1440 combined)
Refresh Rate 80 Hz
Image
Field of View 115° (horizontal ~88°)
Optics
Optics Fresnel lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range Software adjustment only
Passthrough Monochrome (Passthrough+)
Tracking
Tracking Inside-out 6DoF (Oculus Insight, 5 cameras)
Eye Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Audio
Audio Built-in headband speakers, 3.5mm jack
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort, USB 3.0
Device
Weight ~500g
Color Black

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The Oculus Rift S is a PC VR head-mounted display co-developed by Oculus VR and Lenovo, released on May 21, 2019 at $399. It served as the successor to the Oculus Rift CV1, introducing inside-out tracking via Oculus Insight (5 cameras) to eliminate external sensors, a new halo headband design for improved comfort, and a higher-resolution LCD display. The Rift S was announced at GDC 2019 alongside the Oculus Quest and was discontinued in April 2021 as Meta shifted focus to standalone VR.

History and Development

Oculus announced the Rift S at GDC 2019 on March 20, 2019, developed in collaboration with Lenovo's engineering team. The partnership leveraged Lenovo's expertise in PC VR headset design (from their Explorer WMR headset) while Oculus contributed their Insight tracking technology from the Quest development.[1]

The Rift S was discontinued in April 2021 as the Quest 2 demonstrated that standalone VR with optional PC VR Link capability could serve both markets.[2]

Design and Hardware

Display

Upgraded display over CV1:

  • Single fast-switch LCD panel (vs dual OLED on CV1)
  • 1280×1440 resolution per eye
  • 2560×1440 combined resolution (improved from 2160×1200)
  • 80 Hz refresh rate (reduced from CV1's 90 Hz)
  • 115° field of view (slightly wider than CV1's 110°)
  • Fresnel optics

Tracking

Oculus Insight inside-out tracking system:

  • 5 cameras built into headset
  • 2 front-facing cameras
  • 2 side-facing cameras
  • 1 top-facing camera
  • No external sensors required
  • Computer vision algorithms for real-time tracking
  • Tracks both headset and Touch controllers

Controllers

Second-generation Oculus Touch:

  • Same controllers as Oculus Quest
  • Tracking ring on top (visible to headset cameras)
  • Ergonomic design
  • Per controller: thumbstick, 2 buttons, 2 triggers, system menu
  • Excellent grip sensing

Comfort (Lenovo Design)

Lenovo co-designed for improved ergonomics:

  • New halo headband design
  • Better weight distribution
  • Improved light blocking
  • Single-cable system (clutter-free)
  • ~500g weight

IPD Adjustment

  • No physical IPD adjustment mechanism
  • Software-only IPD setting
  • May cause discomfort for users outside typical range

Audio

Different approach than CV1:

  • Built-in speakers in headband
  • Hear VR audio and surroundings simultaneously
  • 3.5mm audio jack for headphones
  • Not as immersive as CV1's integrated headphones

Passthrough+

Room-awareness feature:

  • Monochrome passthrough view
  • See real world without removing headset
  • Minimal depth disparity
  • Low performance impact
  • Uses ASW technology

System Requirements

  • GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 480 or higher
  • CPU: Intel i5-4590 / AMD Ryzen 5 1500X or higher
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Ports: DisplayPort, USB 3.0
  • OS: Windows 10

Comparison with Rift CV1

Feature Rift CV1 Rift S
Resolution 1080×1200/eye 1280×1440/eye
Display Dual OLED LCD
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 80 Hz
Tracking External sensors Inside-out (5 cameras)
IPD Adjustment Physical Software only
Audio Integrated headphones Headband speakers
Price $399 $399

Reception

Praise:

  • Inside-out tracking eliminates external sensors
  • Simple setup and clutter-free experience
  • Resolution improvement over CV1
  • Comfortable halo headband design
  • $399 price maintained
  • Same excellent Touch controllers
  • Passthrough+ feature useful
  • Better tracking coverage than WMR 2-camera systems
  • Good clarity and reduced screen door effect

Criticism:

  • 80 Hz refresh rate (down from CV1's 90 Hz)
  • LCD display (not OLED—worse blacks)
  • No physical IPD adjustment
  • Headband speakers less immersive than CV1 headphones
  • Short product lifespan (discontinued 2021)
  • Requires gaming PC
  • Some tracking dead zones for controllers[3]

[4]

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Announcing Oculus Rift S, Our New PC VR Headset Launching Spring 2019 for $399". Meta. https://www.meta.com/blog/announcing-oculus-rift-s-our-new-pc-vr-headset-launching-spring-2019/.
  2. ↑ "Oculus Rift S". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oculus_Rift_S.
  3. ↑ "Oculus Rift S Revealed with Inside-out Tracking, Resolution Bump, & New Ergonomics". Road to VR. https://www.roadtovr.com/oculus-rift-s-specs-release-date-announcement-gdc-2019/.
  4. ↑ "Oculus Rift S Review". Trusted Reviews. https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/oculus-rift-s.
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