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| {{Device Infobox | | {{Device Infobox |
| |image = [[File:Valve index21.jpeg|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 = [[SteamVR]] | | |Platform = [[PC]], [[SteamVR]] |
| |Creator = [[Valve]] | | |Creator = [[Valve]] |
| |Developer = [[Valve]] | | |Announced = April 30, 2019 |
| |Manufacturer = [[Valve]]
| | |Release = June 28, 2019 |
| |Announcement Date = April 30, 2019
| | |Price = $999 (Full Kit) / $499 (Headset only) |
| |Release Date = June 28, 2019 | |
| |Price = $999 (Full Kit), $749 (Headset + Controllers), $499 (Headset only), $279 (Controllers only), $149 (Base Station only) | |
| |Website = https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index | | |Website = https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index |
| |Versions = Valve Index (2019) | | |OS = Windows / Linux |
| |Requires = Windows 10, SteamOS, or Linux; NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 / AMD RX 480 or better
| | |CPU = Host PC dependent |
| |Predecessor = [[HTC Vive]]
| | |GPU = NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD RX 480+ (min) |
| |Successor =
| | |Storage = |
| |Operating System = [[Windows 10]], [[SteamOS]], [[Linux]]
| | |RAM = |
| |Chipset =
| | |Display = 2 x LCD (Full RGB) |
| |CPU = Dual Core with hyperthreading, or better | | |Resolution = 2880 x 1600 (1440 x 1600 per eye) |
| |GPU = NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970, AMD RX480, or better | | |Refresh = 80/90/120/144 Hz |
| |HPU =
| | |Brightness = |
| |Storage = | | |FOV = 108° H x 104° V |
| |Memory = 8 GB+ | | |PPD = |
| |SD Card Slot = No
| | |Lenses = Dual-element canted Fresnel |
| |Display = Dual 1440×1600 RGB LCD panels | | |IPD = 58-70mm (hardware adjustable) |
| |Subpixel Layout = Full RGB
| | |Eye Tracking = |
| |Peak Brightness =
| | |Hand Tracking = |
| |Resolution = 2880×1600 (combined) | | |Tracking = 6DoF (SteamVR Lighthouse 2.0) |
| |Refresh Rate = 80/90/120/144Hz | | |Spatial Mapping = |
| |Pixel Density = | | |Speakers = Off-ear BMR drivers |
| |Persistence = 0.330ms to 0.530ms (varies with refresh rate) | | |Microphone = Built-in |
| |Precision = | | |Audio Jack = Yes |
| |Field of View = ~130 degrees (diagonal) | | |Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0 |
| |Horizontal FoV = ~108 degrees
| | |Ports = DisplayPort, USB 3.0, 12V power |
| |Peak Pixel Density =
| | |Battery = |
| |Foveated Rendering = No
| | |Weight = |
| |Optics = Double element, canted Fresnel lens design
| | |Cable Length = 5m (with 1m breakaway) |
| |Ocularity =
| | |Materials = |
| |IPD Range = 58mm - 70mm (physical adjustment) | | |Colors = Black |
| |Adjustable Diopter = No | | |Sensors = SteamVR 2.0 sensors |
| |Passthrough = Stereo pass-through via front cameras | | |Input = Index Controllers (Knuckles) |
| |Tracking = [[SteamVR Tracking]], (Lighthouse 2.0) | |
| |Tracking Frequency = 100Hz laser sweep | |
| |Base Stations = Up to 4 supported
| |
| |Eye Tracking = No
| |
| |Face Tracking = No
| |
| |Hand Tracking = Via controllers (finger tracking)
| |
| |Body Tracking = No (compatible with third-party trackers) | |
| |Rotational Tracking = 6 DOF | |
| |Positional Tracking = 6 DOF
| |
| |Update Rate =
| |
| |Tracking Volume = Up to 10m × 10m with 4 base stations
| |
| |Play Space = Up to 10m × 10m
| |
| |Latency =
| |
| |Audio = Built-in: 37.5mm off-ear Balanced Mode Radiators (BMR)
| |
| |Microphone = Dual Microphone Array
| |
| |3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes | |
| |Camera = Stereo 960 × 960 pixel, global shutter, RGB (Bayer) | |
| |Connectivity = USB 3.0, DisplayPort 1.2
| |
| |Ports = USB-C (expansion/accessory port) | |
| |Wired Video = DisplayPort 1.2
| |
| |Wireless Video = No
| |
| |WiFi = No
| |
| |Bluetooth = No
| |
| |Power = 12V DC
| |
| |Battery Capacity = N/A (wired) | |
| |Battery Life = N/A (wired) | |
| |Charge Time = N/A (wired) | |
| |Dimensions =
| |
| |Weight = 809g (1.78 lbs)
| |
| |Material = | |
| |Headstrap = Adjustable rigid headstrap with rear adjustment dial
| |
| |Haptics = Via controllers
| |
| |Color = Black | |
| |Sensors = Accelerometer, Gyroscope | |
| |Input = Valve Index Controllers (included) | |
| |Compliance =
| |
| |Size =
| |
| |Cable Length = 5m (16.4 ft)
| |
| }} | | }} |
| The [[Valve Index]] is an [[HMD]] offered by [[Valve Corporation]], the company behind the popular gaming platform [[Steam]]. Released in 2019, the Index represents Valve's entry into the high-end virtual reality hardware market with their own branded headset, building upon their previous collaboration with HTC on the [[HTC Vive]]. The full kit comes with a headset, two controllers, and two base stations. The headset requires a connection to a PC, and features high-resolution displays, innovative off-ear audio solution, and a wide field of view. The controllers, originally known as "Knuckles" during development, enable individual finger tracking through capacitive sensors and force detection. The base stations utilize the [[Lighthouse]] tracking system, an enhancement to the system previously used by the [[HTC Vive]].<ref name="valve_website">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index</ref><ref name="verge_review">https://www.theverge.com/2019/6/28/19102584/valve-index-steamvr-headset-review-shipping-today</ref>
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| __TOC__
| | The '''Valve Index''' is a [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed and manufactured by [[Valve]]. Announced on April 30, 2019 and released on June 28, 2019, the Index is Valve's second-generation VR headset and their first fully in-house manufactured device. The headset features dual 1440 x 1600 LCD displays with refresh rates up to 144 Hz, a 130-degree field of view (20° more than HTC Vive), off-ear BMR audio drivers, and is designed for use with the innovative Index Controllers featuring 87 sensors for finger tracking.<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valve_Index|title=Valve Index|publisher=Wikipedia}}</ref> |
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| |
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| ==Overview== | | == History and Development == |
| The Valve Index is a high-end virtual reality system developed and manufactured entirely by [[Valve Corporation]]. It was designed with fidelity as a priority, focusing on delivering superior visual quality, comfort, and intuitive interaction. The system consists of three main components that can be purchased separately or as a complete kit: the headset, the controllers, and the base stations.<ref name="valve_website" />
| |
|
| |
|
| ===Key Features=== | | === Valve VR History === |
| * High-resolution dual 1440×1600 LCD displays with full RGB subpixel array
| | Valve previously partnered with HTC on the original Vive before developing their own hardware. |
| * Up to 144Hz refresh rate, providing smooth motion
| |
| * Wide ~130° field of view
| |
| * Physical IPD adjustment (58-70mm range)
| |
| * Innovative off-ear audio solution with BMR drivers
| |
| * Advanced controllers with finger tracking and pressure sensitivity
| |
| * Front expansion port ("Frunk") with USB 3.0 for modders and developers
| |
| * Stereo RGB cameras for computer vision and mixed reality applications
| |
| * Compatible with [[SteamVR]] 2.0 and 1.0 base stations<ref name="valve_website" /><ref name="wikipedia">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valve_Index</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| ==Release and Pricing== | | === April 2019 Announcement === |
| The [[Valve Index]] was officially announced on April 30, 2019, and began shipping on June 28, 2019. The system's launch came shortly after the releases of the [[Oculus Quest]] and [[Oculus Rift S]].<ref name="verge_pricing">https://www.theverge.com/2019/4/30/18524167/valve-index-vr-headset-price-pre-order-date</ref>
| | Full specifications revealed on April 30, 2019, with pre-orders opening immediately. |
|
| |
|
| The Index was positioned as a premium VR solution, with pricing options as follows:
| | === June 2019 Release === |
| {| class="wikitable"
| | The Valve Index shipped on June 28, 2019. |
| |+ Valve Index Pricing (USD)
| |
| |-
| |
| ! Package !! Price
| |
| |-
| |
| | Complete Kit (Headset, Controllers, Base Stations) || $999
| |
| |-
| |
| | Headset + Controllers || $749
| |
| |-
| |
| | Headset Only || $499
| |
| |-
| |
| | Controllers Only (Pair) || $279
| |
| |-
| |
| | Base Station (Each) || $149
| |
| |}
| |
|
| |
|
| The [[Valve Index]] is available for purchase through [[Steam]] and can be shipped to the United States, Canada, and countries within the European Union.<ref name="steam_support">https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/339C-BC5C-3D89-53D9</ref>
| | == Design and Hardware == |
|
| |
|
| In 2020, with the announcement and subsequent release of [[Half-Life: Alyx]], Valve's flagship VR game, demand for the Index surged dramatically. The game was included free with all Index hardware purchases. By January 2020, the Index was sold out in all 31 available countries except Japan.<ref name="wikipedia" />
| | === Display System === |
| | * '''Resolution:''' 1440 x 1600 per eye (2880 x 1600 total) |
| | * '''Display Type:''' LCD with full RGB per pixel |
| | * '''Persistence:''' Low persistence global backlight (0.330 ms at 144 Hz) |
|
| |
|
| ==Hardware== | | === Refresh Rate Options === |
| | * 80 Hz |
| | * 90 Hz (backward compatible) |
| | * 120 Hz |
| | * 144 Hz (experimental) |
|
| |
|
| ===Headset===
| | Higher refresh rates improve realism and reduce motion sickness. |
| The Valve Index headset features dual 1440×1600 LCD displays, providing a combined resolution of 2880×1600 pixels. Unlike many other VR headsets that use OLED displays, the Index utilizes LCD panels with a full RGB subpixel array, which reduces the "screen door effect" commonly seen in VR. The displays support variable refresh rates of 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz, and an experimental 144Hz mode, with extremely low persistence (0.330ms at 144Hz) to reduce motion blur.<ref name="wikipedia" />
| |
|
| |
|
| The headset's optics consist of a custom double-element design with canted (angled) Fresnel lenses. This configuration maximizes the field of view while maintaining edge-to-edge clarity. The Index offers approximately 108° horizontal field of view, which is wider than most competing headsets.<ref name="wikipedia" /><ref name="valve_headset">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index/headset</ref>
| | === Field of View === |
| | * '''Horizontal:''' 108 degrees |
| | * '''Vertical:''' 104 degrees |
| | * 20° wider than HTC Vive for typical users |
|
| |
|
| For user comfort, the Index includes a physical interpupillary distance (IPD) adjustment mechanism with a range of 58-70mm, accommodating a wide variety of users. The adjustment is performed via a slider located beneath the displays.
| | === Optics === |
| | * '''Lens Type:''' Dual-element canted Fresnel |
| | * '''IPD:''' 58-70mm hardware adjustable |
|
| |
|
| The headset's facial interface features premium antimicrobial microfiber cushioning attached via magnets for easy replacement. Valve has published specifications for the face gasket, enabling third-party manufacturers to develop aftermarket solutions.<ref name="valve_headset" />
| | == Index Controllers == |
|
| |
|
| One of the Index's standout features is its audio solution. The headset includes "off-ear" speakers that don't touch the user's ears, using 37.5mm Balanced Mode Radiator (BMR) drivers. This design provides a more natural audio experience while keeping ears cool during extended play sessions. The headset also includes a 3.5mm audio jack for users who prefer their own audio solution, as well as a dual microphone array for voice communication.<ref name="valve_headset" />
| | === Knuckles Controllers === |
| | Formerly known as "Knuckles Controllers": |
| | * '''Sensors:''' 87 per controller |
| | * '''Tracking:''' Hand position, finger position, motion, pressure |
| | * '''Grip:''' Strap design allows releasing hand |
|
| |
|
| The front of the headset houses dual RGB cameras (960×960 pixels each) with global shutter sensors. These cameras enable developers to create computer vision applications and provide users with a high-quality stereo pass-through view of their surroundings.<ref name="valve_headset" />
| | === Controls === |
| | * Thumbstick |
| | * Touchpad |
| | * 2 face buttons |
| | * Menu button |
| | * Trigger |
|
| |
|
| For tinkerers and developers, the Index includes a front compartment dubbed the "Frunk," which houses a USB 3.0 Type-A port specifically designed for experimental attachments and modifications.<ref name="valve_headset" />
| | === Compatibility === |
| | Backward compatible with HTC Vive and Vive Pro controllers. |
|
| |
|
| ===Controllers=== | | == Tracking == |
| The [[Valve Index Controllers]], previously known during development as "Knuckles," represent a significant advancement in VR input devices. Unlike traditional VR controllers that must be gripped continuously, the Index Controllers are secured to the user's hands with adjustable straps, allowing users to completely release their grip without dropping the controllers.<ref name="valve_controllers">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index/controllers</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| Each controller features 87 sensors that work together to track hand position, finger position, motion, and pressure. These sensors enable individual finger tracking, allowing for natural gestures and interactions in VR. The controllers continuously recalibrate to adapt to different hand sizes and changing skin capacitance.<ref name="valve_controllers" />
| | === SteamVR Lighthouse 2.0 === |
| | * External base station tracking |
| | * Sub-millimeter accuracy |
| | * Large play space support |
|
| |
|
| The Index Controllers include a variety of traditional input methods:
| | === Compatibility === |
| * Analog thumbstick
| | Works with both SteamVR 1.0 and 2.0 base stations. |
| * Trackpad with force sensor
| |
| * Two face buttons (A/B)
| |
| * System button
| |
| * Trigger with force sensor
| |
| * Grip force sensor
| |
| * Finger tracking sensors<ref name="valve_controllers" />
| |
|
| |
|
| The controllers are powered by internal rechargeable batteries with a usage time of approximately 7 hours, and can be charged via USB-C connectors. They feature capacitive grip and button sensors, enabling the system to detect which fingers are touching the controller and which are raised, providing a more intuitive way to interact with virtual objects.<ref name="valve_controllers" />
| | == Audio == |
|
| |
|
| A 2018 tech demo titled "Moondust" was released to showcase the capabilities of an early version of the Knuckles controllers, demonstrating the precise finger tracking and pressure sensitivity.<ref name="wikipedia" />
| | === Off-Ear Speakers === |
| | * '''Type:''' Balanced Mode Radiator (BMR) drivers |
| | * '''Design:''' Ultra near-field, extra-aural |
| | * '''Quality:''' Accurate, low-frequency sounds |
| | * '''Position:''' Does not touch ears |
|
| |
|
| {| class="wikitable"
| | === Microphone === |
| |+ Valve Index Controllers Specifications
| | Built-in microphone for voice communication. |
| |-
| |
| ! Feature !! Specification
| |
| |-
| |
| | Input Methods || Thumbstick, Trackpad, A/B Buttons, System Button, Trigger, Grip
| |
| |-
| |
| | Sensors || 87 sensors per controller for position, motion, and pressure
| |
| |-
| |
| | Tracking || 6 DOF via Lighthouse system
| |
| |-
| |
| | Battery || 7+ hours per charge (rechargeable)
| |
| |-
| |
| | Charging || USB-C
| |
| |-
| |
| | Haptics || HD haptics
| |
| |-
| |
| | Strap || Adjustable at three points, antimicrobial fabric
| |
| |-
| |
| | Weight || Approximately 198g per controller
| |
| |}
| |
|
| |
|
| ===Base Stations=== | | == Connectivity == |
| The [[Valve Index]] utilizes Valve's [[Lighthouse]] 2.0 tracking system, which provides high-precision, sub-millimeter position tracking. The system uses external base stations that emit invisible infrared laser patterns to track the headset and controllers.<ref name="valve_basestations">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index/base-stations</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| The Lighthouse 2.0 base stations improve upon the previous generation with:
| | === Cable === |
| * Wider 150° field of view | | * '''Length:''' 5 meters with 1m breakaway trident connector |
| * Improved range
| |
| * Support for up to four base stations in a single setup (vs. two in the original system)
| |
| * Simplified design (single rotor vs. dual rotor in 1.0)
| |
| * No sync cable requirement between base stations<ref name="valve_basestations" /><ref name="lighthouse_article">https://mixed-news.com/en/valves-lighthouse-tracking-system-how-it-started-where-its-going/</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| Each base station sweeps infrared laser beams across the play area 100 times per second, which are detected by photosensors on the headset and controllers. This allows the system to precisely track the position and orientation of all devices in 3D space.<ref name="valve_basestations" />
| | === Requirements === |
| | * USB 3.0 |
| | * DisplayPort 1.2 |
| | * 12V power outlet |
|
| |
|
| The tracking system can support a play area of up to 10m × 10m (approximately 33ft × 33ft) when using four base stations. For optimal tracking performance, base stations should be mounted above head height and positioned to maximize visibility of the tracked devices.<ref name="steam_community">https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2985037346</ref>
| | == Pricing == |
|
| |
|
| Valve Index Base Stations are compatible with other SteamVR 2.0 tracking devices, including the [[HTC Vive Pro]]. Additionally, the Index headset and controllers are backward compatible with the original Lighthouse 1.0 base stations used by the original [[HTC Vive]].<ref name="valve_basestations" />
| | * '''Full Kit:''' $999 (headset + controllers + 2 base stations) |
| | * '''Headset Only:''' $499 |
| | * '''Controllers Only:''' $279 |
| | * '''Base Stations:''' $149 each |
|
| |
|
| ==System Requirements== | | == Specifications == |
| To use the Valve Index, a PC meeting the following minimum specifications is required:
| |
|
| |
|
| {| class="wikitable" | | {| class="wikitable" |
| |+ Valve Index System Requirements
| |
| |- | | |- |
| ! Component !! Minimum !! Recommended | | ! Specification !! Details |
| | |- |
| | | Display || 2 x LCD (1440 x 1600/eye) |
| | |- |
| | | Total Resolution || 2880 x 1600 |
| | |- |
| | | Refresh Rate || 80/90/120/144 Hz |
| | |- |
| | | Field of View || 108° H x 104° V |
| | |- |
| | | Lenses || Dual-element canted Fresnel |
| |- | | |- |
| | Operating System || Windows 10, SteamOS, Linux || Windows 10, SteamOS, Linux | | | IPD || 58-70mm adjustable |
| |- | | |- |
| | Processor || Dual Core with Hyperthreading || Quad Core+ | | | Audio || Off-ear BMR drivers |
| |- | | |- |
| | Memory || 8 GB RAM || 8 GB+ RAM | | | Tracking || SteamVR Lighthouse 2.0 |
| |- | | |- |
| | Graphics || NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 / AMD RX 480 || NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 or better | | | Controllers || Index Controllers (87 sensors) |
| |- | | |- |
| | Ports || DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0 || DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0 | | | Cable || 5m + 1m breakaway |
| |- | | |- |
| | Additional || Additional USB port required for camera passthrough || - | | | Price || $999 (Full Kit) |
| |} | | |} |
|
| |
|
| To achieve the maximum 10m × 10m play space, four base stations are required. Users can also use the base stations that come with the [[HTC Vive]] instead of purchasing additional [[Valve Index]] base stations, although this would limit the play space to the capabilities of the Lighthouse 1.0 system.<ref name="vive_website">https://www.vive.com/us/support/vive-pro/category_howto/tips-for-setting-up-the-base-stations.html</ref>
| | == See Also == |
| | | * [[Valve]] |
| ==Setup== | | * [[SteamVR]] |
| Unlike [[standalone HMD|standalone HMDs]] like the [[Oculus Quest]], the [[Valve Index]] requires proper setup of base stations to track the user's movements. The setup process involves:
| | * [[HTC Vive]] |
| | | * [[HTC Vive Pro 2]] |
| 1. Mounting the base stations in opposite corners of the play area, ideally above head height (at least 2m/6.5ft).
| | * [[PC VR]] |
| 2. Adjusting the base stations to point toward the center of the play area.
| |
| 3. Connecting the headset to the PC via DisplayPort and USB.
| |
| 4. Running the SteamVR setup process to define the play area boundaries.
| |
| 5. Pairing and calibrating the controllers.<ref name="steam_community" />
| |
| | |
| For optimal tracking performance, the base stations should be positioned to maximize visibility of the headset and controllers during use. Reflective surfaces in the play area may interfere with tracking and should be covered if possible.<ref name="vive_website" />
| |
| | |
| ==Input Devices==
| |
| The primary input devices for the [[Valve Index]] are the Index Controllers, which come with the full kit. These controllers feature individual finger tracking, pressure sensitivity, and traditional inputs like joysticks, buttons, and triggers.
| |
| | |
| The Index is also compatible with the controllers from the [[HTC Vive]] and [[HTC Vive Pro]], providing flexibility for users upgrading from these systems or those who prefer the traditional controller design for certain applications.<ref name="wikipedia" />
| |
| | |
| For more specialized input, the Index is compatible with a variety of third-party [[SteamVR]] tracking devices, including:
| |
| * Vive Trackers for full-body tracking
| |
| * Third-party driving and flight simulator controls
| |
| * Specialized controller accessories<ref name="valve_website" />
| |
| | |
| ==Accessories==
| |
| The [[Valve Index]] supports various accessories to enhance the VR experience:
| |
| | |
| * Replacement Face Gaskets - Valve sells replacement facial interfaces with cushions in 2-packs ($39.99).
| |
| * VR Covers - Third-party facial interface covers and replacements for improved comfort and hygiene.
| |
| * Prescription Lens Adapters - For users who wear glasses.
| |
| * Cable Management Solutions - Overhead pulley systems to manage the headset's cable.
| |
| * Controller Grips - Additional grips and protective covers for the controllers.
| |
| * Frunk Accessories - USB devices that connect to the front expansion port.
| |
| * Storage Cases - Travel and storage cases for the complete system.<ref name="tomshardware">https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/valve-index-vr-headset-controllers,6205.html</ref>
| |
| | |
| ==Software==
| |
| The [[Valve Index]] operates using [[SteamVR]], Valve's virtual reality platform. Users can purchase games and applications through the [[Steam]] store, which offers a vast library of VR content.
| |
| | |
| The Index is also compatible with content from [[Viveport]], HTC's VR content platform, providing additional options for applications and games.<ref name="valve_website" />
| |
| | |
| Valve's [[Half-Life: Alyx]] was developed specifically with the Index in mind and is included free with the purchase of Index hardware. This critically acclaimed game showcases the capabilities of the Index controllers, with fine-grained interactions made possible by the finger tracking technology.<ref name="wikipedia" />
| |
| | |
| ==Developer Support==
| |
| Developers interested in creating content for the [[Valve Index]] can access resources through the [https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Main_Page Valve Developer Community]. Valve provides documentation and examples for utilizing the unique features of the Index, including:
| |
| | |
| * SteamVR Input System for controller integration | |
| * Finger tracking implementation guidelines
| |
| * High refresh rate optimization techniques
| |
| * Audio design considerations for the off-ear speakers
| |
| | |
| A dedicated Input Binding UI within SteamVR allows users to customize controller mappings for games and applications that don't natively support the Index Controllers.<ref name="valve_website" />
| |
| | |
| ==Performance and Reviews==
| |
| The [[Valve Index]] has been widely praised for its high-quality displays, comfortable design, and innovative controllers. Critics have noted several standout features:
| |
| | |
| * The high refresh rate (especially at 120Hz and 144Hz) provides exceptionally smooth motion.
| |
| * The wider field of view offers a more immersive experience than most competing headsets.
| |
| * The off-ear speakers provide excellent audio quality while maintaining awareness of the surroundings.
| |
| * The finger tracking controllers enable more natural interactions in supported applications.<ref name="verge_review" />
| |
| | |
| Some reviewers have pointed out limitations:
| |
| * The high price makes it less accessible than more mainstream options.
| |
| * The wired connection limits mobility compared to standalone headsets.
| |
| * The external base stations require more setup than inside-out tracking solutions.
| |
| * The full resolution and refresh rate capabilities demand a powerful PC.<ref name="tomshardware" />
| |
| | |
| Despite these limitations, the Index is generally considered one of the premium VR experiences available for PC users, particularly for those who prioritize visual fidelity and tracking precision.<ref name="verge_review" />
| |
| | |
| ==Images==
| |
| | |
| ==Future Developments==
| |
| In February 2021, Valve registered patents for a new VR headset, indicating ongoing development in the VR hardware space. These patents described various improvements over the current [[Valve Index]] design, suggesting that Valve continues to invest in VR technology advancement.<ref name="wikipedia" />
| |
| | |
| ==History==
| |
| * February 2017: First prototypes of "Knuckles" controllers demonstrated.
| |
| * June 2018: "Moondust" tech demo released to showcase controller capabilities.
| |
| * March 2019: Images and preliminary information leaked via Valve's website.
| |
| * April 30, 2019: [[Valve Index]] officially unveiled with full specifications.
| |
| * May 1, 2019: Pre-orders opened for the Index.
| |
| * June 28, 2019: First shipments began to customers.
| |
| * November 2019: [[Half-Life: Alyx]] announced, included free with Index hardware.
| |
| * March 2020: [[Half-Life: Alyx]] released, driving increased demand for the Index.
| |
| * January 2020: Index sold out in most regions due to high demand.
| |
| * February 2021: Valve files patents for new VR headset design.<ref name="wikipedia" /><ref name="inverse">https://www.inverse.com/article/54708-valve-index-vr-headset-release-date-price-specs-steam</ref>
| |
| | |
| ==Images==
| |
| <gallery mode="packed">
| |
| File:valve index27.jpeg
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| File:valve index25.jpeg
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| File:valve index24.jpeg
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| File:valve index23.jpeg
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| File:valve index22.jpeg
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| File:valve index21.jpeg
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| File:valve index19.jpg
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| File:valve index18.jpg
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| File:valve index17.jpg
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| File:valve index16.jpg
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| File:valve index15.jpg
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| File:valve index14.jpg
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| File:valve index13.jpg
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| File:valve index12.jpg
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| File:valve index11.jpg
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| File:valve index5.png
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| File:valve index4.png
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| File:valve index3.png
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| File:valve index2.png
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| File:valve index1.png
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| File:valve index28.jpg
| |
| </gallery>
| |
|
| |
|
| ==References== | | == References == |
| <references>
| | {{Reflist}} |
| <ref name="valve_website">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index</ref>
| |
| <ref name="valve_headset">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index/headset</ref>
| |
| <ref name="valve_controllers">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index/controllers</ref>
| |
| <ref name="valve_basestations">https://www.valvesoftware.com/en/index/base-stations</ref>
| |
| <ref name="verge_review">https://www.theverge.com/2019/6/28/19102584/valve-index-steamvr-headset-review-shipping-today</ref>
| |
| <ref name="verge_pricing">https://www.theverge.com/2019/4/30/18524167/valve-index-vr-headset-price-pre-order-date</ref>
| |
| <ref name="tomshardware">https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/valve-index-vr-headset-controllers,6205.html</ref>
| |
| <ref name="wikipedia">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valve_Index</ref>
| |
| <ref name="steam_support">https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/339C-BC5C-3D89-53D9</ref>
| |
| <ref name="vive_website">https://www.vive.com/us/support/vive-pro/category_howto/tips-for-setting-up-the-base-stations.html</ref>
| |
| <ref name="steam_community">https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2985037346</ref>
| |
| <ref name="lighthouse_article">https://mixed-news.com/en/valves-lighthouse-tracking-system-how-it-started-where-its-going/</ref>
| |
| <ref name="inverse">https://www.inverse.com/article/54708-valve-index-vr-headset-release-date-price-specs-steam</ref>
| |
| </references>
| |
|
| |
|
| [[Category:Devices]] | | [[Category:Devices]] |
| [[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]] | | [[Category:VR Headsets]] |
| [[Category:High-End VR]] | | [[Category:Head-mounted displays]] |
| [[Category:PC VR]] | | [[Category:PC VR]] |
| [[Category:SteamVR Compatible]] | | [[Category:SteamVR]] |
| | [[Category:Valve]] |
| | [[Category:2010s VR]] |
