Jump to content

Lenovo Explorer: Difference between revisions

From VR & AR Wiki
← Older editNewer edit →
VisualWikitext
m Text replacement - "Discrete HMD" to "PC-Powered VR"
Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
Tag: Reverted
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image=[[File:Lenovoexplorer.jpg|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=[[Microsoft Windows Mixed Reality (Platform)]]
|Platform = [[Windows Mixed Reality]], [[SteamVR]]
|Developer= [[Lenovo]]
|Developer = [[Lenovo]]
|Operating System= [[Windows 10]]
|Manufacturer = [[Lenovo]]
|Requires= [[PC]]
|Release Date = 2017
|Display= Dual LCD display
|Price = $350 (headset) / $399 (with controllers)
|Resolution= 2880 x 1440 (1440 x 1440 per eye)
|Website = https://www.lenovo.com/
|Refresh Rate= 90Hz
|Display = LCD (dual)
|Field of View= 110 Degree
|Resolution = 1440x1440 per eye
|Optics= [[Fresnel lenses]]
|Combined Resolution = 2880x1440
|Tracking= 6DOF
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Rotational Tracking= [[Gyroscope]], [[Accelerometer]], [[Magnetometer]]
|Field of View = 110°
|Positional Tracking= Inside-out tracking
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Tracking Volume= 3.5m x 3.5m
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 2 cameras)
|Latency= Low
|Audio = 3.5mm jack
|Input= [[Keyboard/Mouse]],[[Xbox One GamePad]], [[Lenovo Explorer Motion Controller]]
|Connectivity = HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, Bluetooth 4.0
|Connectivity= HDMI, USB
|Weight = 380g (13.4 oz)
|Weight= 380 g
|Size= Width :
185.1 mm x 94.8 mm x 102.1 mm
|Cable Length= 4 m
|Release Date= October 2017
|Price= $399 with Motion Controller
|Website= https://www3.lenovo.com/gb/en/smart-devices/virtual-reality/lenovo-explorer/Lenovo-Explorer/p/G10NREAG0A2
}}
}}


In a bid to deliver immersive virtual reality experience without complicated setup, various vendors have been developing [[Windows Mixed Reality]] compliant headsets. Lenovo Explorer is one of the latest devices to join the fray after being revealed at IFA 2017. Developed by computing giant Lenovo, this virtual reality headset is released for purchase in October 2017 and is priced at $399 for a set of Lenovo explorer headset and a couple of motion controllers.
The '''Lenovo Explorer''' is a PC [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Lenovo]], released in 2017 at $350-$399. One of the first [[Windows Mixed Reality]] headsets, the Explorer features dual 1440x1440 LCD displays (higher resolution than Oculus Rift and HTC Vive), 110° field of view, 90 Hz refresh rate, inside-out 6DoF tracking requiring no external sensors, lightweight 380g design, and room-scale support up to 11.5 x 11.5 feet. An affordable entry point to PC VR with easy plug-and-play setup.


== The Lenovo Explorer Headset ==
== History and Development ==


Built with plastic material and spotting dark grey on black, the Lenovo Explorer only weight 380g making it comfortably light. The headset is worn against the forehead where a strap is fastened just above the top of the neck. At a glance, it bears similarity to [[Oculus Rift]] and [[HTC Vive]]. But what differentiates the Lenovo Explorer headset from its competitor is the ability to flip the visor up, giving the user instant access to the physical world. The headset requires only a USB3.0 and HDMI connection to the PC to function.
Lenovo launched the Explorer in 2017 as part of Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality initiative, alongside headsets from HP, Acer, Dell, and Samsung. The Explorer targeted mainstream consumers with competitive pricing and easy setup compared to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive which required external sensors. Full SteamVR compatibility expanded the content library beyond Microsoft's platform.<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-vr,5468.html |title=Lenovo Explorer Review |publisher=Tom's Hardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


The uniqueness of the Lenovo Explorer is the two front-facing camera built into the headset. This is vital in scanning and relaying the wearer’s location for Microsoft’s beaconless tracking technology similar to those used for [[Hololens]]. The headset’s visual came from a couple of 2.9 Inches display with a resolution of 1440 x1440. With a native refresh rate of 90Hz, the headset provides the user with a smooth immersive visual experience. The headset allows user 110 fields of view and is packed with various sensors.
== Design and Hardware ==


== The Lenovo Explorer Motion Controller ==
=== Display ===


There are various choices of navigation that works with the Lenovo Explorer. Users can use keyboard and mouse or an [[XBox gamepad]]. But for a total virtual reality experience, the Lenovo Explorer came with its own 6 DoF motion controller. Built with Microsoft’s Mixed Reality guideline, the motion controller features a direction pad, analog stick, Windows key, menu button, rear trigger and a bumper style button on the inside of each. The motion controller is powered by non-rechargeable AA batteries and connects to the PC via Bluetooth.
Higher resolution than competitors:


* '''1440x1440 per eye''' resolution
* '''2880x1440 combined'''
* '''Dual 2.89-inch LCD''' panels
* '''90 Hz refresh rate'''
* '''110° field of view'''
* Higher than Rift/Vive (1080x1200)
* Reduced screen-door effect
* Good text readability


== Apps For The Lenovo Explorer ==
=== Tracking ===


While the Lenovo Explorer doesn’t require any special software to work, it does require the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. WIth the Explorer headset, you’ll be able to access the Windows Mixed Reality home. This is where users get access to system information and launch apps, except it’s in a virtual environment.
Simple inside-out system:


Besides applications like Words and Skype for Windows Mixed Reality, the first batch of games built for the platform has hit the Store. Titles like Arizona Sunshine, Halo Recruit, and Superhot VR are some of the top VR games made available for the platform. There are also free apps like Littlstar and Silver.TV available for download.
* '''6DoF tracking'''
* '''Inside-out tracking'''
* '''2 front-facing cameras'''
* '''No external sensors'''
* Quick setup
* Plug and play
 
=== Room Scale ===
 
* Up to '''11.5 x 11.5 feet''' (3.5m x 3.5m)
* No external sensors needed
* Boundary system
* Standing and seated support
 
=== Controllers ===
 
WMR motion controllers:
 
* '''6DoF tracking'''
* '''Bluetooth 4.0''' connected
* Automatically tracked by headset
* Lightweight design
* Thumbstick and touchpad
* Trigger and grip buttons
 
=== Build ===
 
Lightweight design:
 
* '''380g weight''' (13.4 oz)
* Iron Gray color
* Comfortable for extended use
* Flip-up visor design
 
=== Cable ===
 
* '''Built-in 13.1' Y-cable'''
* '''USB 3.0''' connector
* '''HDMI 2.0''' connector
* Single cable management
 
=== Audio ===
 
* '''3.5mm headphone jack'''
* External headphones required
* No integrated speakers
 
=== Connectivity ===
 
* '''HDMI 2.0'''
* '''USB 3.0'''
* '''Bluetooth 4.0'''
 
== PC Requirements ==
 
=== Minimum ===
* '''CPU''': Intel Core i5 / AMD equivalent
* '''GPU''': NVIDIA GTX 960 / AMD RX 460
* '''RAM''': 8 GB
* '''OS''': Windows 10 Fall Creators Update


== Technical Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications ==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
| Display||  
! Specification !! Details
1440 x 1440 per eye LCD
|-
 
| Display || 1440x1440 LCD x2
|-
|-
| Refresh rate || 90Hz
| Combined || 2880x1440
|-
|-
| Field of view || 110 degrees
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
 
|-
|-
| Optics|| Fresnel lens
| FOV || 110°
 
|-
|-
| Sensor|| 6DoF motion tracking
| Tracking || Inside-out (2 cameras)
Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and proximity sensor.
 
Inside-out sensor (B+W VGA x2)
|-
|-
| Connectivity|| USB 3.0, HDMI
| Room Scale || 11.5 x 11.5 ft
|-
|-
| Audio|| 3.5mm headset jack
| Weight || 380g
 
|-
|-
| Cable length || 4m
| Interface || HDMI 2.0 + USB 3.0
|-
|-
| Weight|| 380g
| Price || $350-$399
|}
|}


== Developer ==
== Reception ==
Game and app developers who are keen on leveraging Microsoft Mixed Reality platform can find more resources at Windows Dev Center


https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/mixed-reality
'''Praise:'''
* $350-$399 affordable entry
* 1440x1440 higher than Rift/Vive
* Easy plug-and-play setup
* No external sensors needed
* 380g lightweight
* SteamVR compatible
* Room-scale without sensors
* 110° FOV standard
* Good beginner headset
* Quick installation


== History ==
'''Criticism:'''
* Sept, 2017 - Revealed IFA 2017
* LCD vs OLED contrast/blacks
* Oct,2017 - Lenovo Explorer Released
* 2-camera tracking limited
* Controller tracking blind spots
* No integrated audio
* WMR controller design
* Front-only tracking volume
* 90Hz only
* Platform fragmentation
* Limited exclusive content<ref name="pcgamer">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/lenovo-explorer-mixed-reality-headset-review/ |title=Lenovo Explorer Review |publisher=PC Gamer |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
* [[HP Reverb]]
* [[Samsung Odyssey+]]
* [[Dell Visor]]
* [[Acer Windows Mixed Reality]]


== References ==
== References ==
* http://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer
{{reflist}}
* https://www.theverge.com/2017/8/31/16219544/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-vr-headset
 
* http://www.techradar.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer
[[Category:Devices]]
* https://www.engadget.com/2017/08/31/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-headset/
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
* https://www.slashgear.com/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-headset-hands-on-31497061/
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
* https://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/lenovo-explorer/
[[Category:PC VR]]
* https://www.windowscentral.com/lenovo-explorer-review
[[Category:Windows Mixed Reality]]
* https://www.windowscentral.com/first-batch-windows-mixed-reality-apps-and-games-hits-store
[[Category:Lenovo]]
[[Category:2017 in technology]]

Revision as of 17:18, 7 January 2026

Lenovo Explorer
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-Mounted Display
Subtype PC VR
Platform Windows Mixed Reality, SteamVR
Developer Lenovo
Manufacturer Lenovo
Release Date 2017
Price $350 (headset) / $399 (with controllers)
Website https://www.lenovo.com/
System
Storage
Display
Display LCD (dual)
Resolution 1440x1440 per eye
Refresh Rate 90 Hz
Image
Field of View 110°
Optics
Ocularity Binocular
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF (inside-out, 2 cameras)
Audio
Audio 3.5mm jack
Connectivity
Connectivity HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, Bluetooth 4.0
Device
Weight 380g (13.4 oz)


The Lenovo Explorer is a PC virtual reality head-mounted display developed by Lenovo, released in 2017 at $350-$399. One of the first Windows Mixed Reality headsets, the Explorer features dual 1440x1440 LCD displays (higher resolution than Oculus Rift and HTC Vive), 110° field of view, 90 Hz refresh rate, inside-out 6DoF tracking requiring no external sensors, lightweight 380g design, and room-scale support up to 11.5 x 11.5 feet. An affordable entry point to PC VR with easy plug-and-play setup.

History and Development

Lenovo launched the Explorer in 2017 as part of Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality initiative, alongside headsets from HP, Acer, Dell, and Samsung. The Explorer targeted mainstream consumers with competitive pricing and easy setup compared to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive which required external sensors. Full SteamVR compatibility expanded the content library beyond Microsoft's platform.[1]

Design and Hardware

Display

Higher resolution than competitors:

  • 1440x1440 per eye resolution
  • 2880x1440 combined
  • Dual 2.89-inch LCD panels
  • 90 Hz refresh rate
  • 110° field of view
  • Higher than Rift/Vive (1080x1200)
  • Reduced screen-door effect
  • Good text readability

Tracking

Simple inside-out system:

  • 6DoF tracking
  • Inside-out tracking
  • 2 front-facing cameras
  • No external sensors
  • Quick setup
  • Plug and play

Room Scale

  • Up to 11.5 x 11.5 feet (3.5m x 3.5m)
  • No external sensors needed
  • Boundary system
  • Standing and seated support

Controllers

WMR motion controllers:

  • 6DoF tracking
  • Bluetooth 4.0 connected
  • Automatically tracked by headset
  • Lightweight design
  • Thumbstick and touchpad
  • Trigger and grip buttons

Build

Lightweight design:

  • 380g weight (13.4 oz)
  • Iron Gray color
  • Comfortable for extended use
  • Flip-up visor design

Cable

  • Built-in 13.1' Y-cable
  • USB 3.0 connector
  • HDMI 2.0 connector
  • Single cable management

Audio

  • 3.5mm headphone jack
  • External headphones required
  • No integrated speakers

Connectivity

  • HDMI 2.0
  • USB 3.0
  • Bluetooth 4.0

PC Requirements

Minimum

  • CPU: Intel Core i5 / AMD equivalent
  • GPU: NVIDIA GTX 960 / AMD RX 460
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • OS: Windows 10 Fall Creators Update

Technical Specifications

Specification Details
Display 1440x1440 LCD x2
Combined 2880x1440
Refresh Rate 90 Hz
FOV 110°
Tracking Inside-out (2 cameras)
Room Scale 11.5 x 11.5 ft
Weight 380g
Interface HDMI 2.0 + USB 3.0
Price $350-$399

Reception

Praise:

  • $350-$399 affordable entry
  • 1440x1440 higher than Rift/Vive
  • Easy plug-and-play setup
  • No external sensors needed
  • 380g lightweight
  • SteamVR compatible
  • Room-scale without sensors
  • 110° FOV standard
  • Good beginner headset
  • Quick installation

Criticism:

  • LCD vs OLED contrast/blacks
  • 2-camera tracking limited
  • Controller tracking blind spots
  • No integrated audio
  • WMR controller design
  • Front-only tracking volume
  • 90Hz only
  • Platform fragmentation
  • Limited exclusive content[2]

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Lenovo Explorer Review". Tom's Hardware. https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/lenovo-explorer-windows-mixed-reality-vr,5468.html.
  2. ↑ "Lenovo Explorer Review". PC Gamer. https://www.pcgamer.com/lenovo-explorer-mixed-reality-headset-review/.
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/index.php?title=Lenovo_Explorer&oldid=37122"