The new virtual reality glasses from Sony are already on the market. After many months of waiting, this new technology really takes shape to enter the universe of virtual reality. If yesterday we wondered how it stood up to comparison with Facebook’s Meta Quest 2, now it is the turn of the PS VR1, i.e. the previous model.
As one can imagine, there is, of course, a change from the previous version to the current one. To say otherwise would be absurd, especially when practically seven years have passed between the launch of the first glasses and these that we now have. However, the question is not so much whether there is change, but rather how big the change is.
To start with, nothing better than an image from The Bit Analyst, a famous account in charge of analyzing software and hardware. On the left, PS VR2; on the right, PS VR1. The screenshot speaks for itself:
One of the biggest changes that PS VR2 undergoes is to dispense with an infinite number of cables to play. Before, we needed many elements to be able to play virtual reality; now, instead, we only need one that goes from the helmet to the console. That’s it.
While ideally it would have been wireless like the former Oculus Quest 2, there is no doubt that the ease of use of the PS VR2 is much greater than the PS VR1. And this is appreciated when using a virtual reality glasses.
And the specifications, of course
In addition to this, the biggest change is, of course, in the specifications. The resolution we had in VR1 was 960 x 1080 per eye (1920 x 1080), while in VR2 the jump is incredible up to 2000 x 2040. The detail that this resolution is per eye is very important, as it speaks well of the evolution that players will undergo when enjoying virtual reality with this new hardware. In addition, with 4K HDR images and up to 120 frames per second; in general terms, up to 4 times more resolution than the original.
In addition, the field of view of the VR1 is 100 degrees, while the VR2 goes up to 110 degrees. However, the refresh rate remains unchanged in both, i.e., between 90 and 120 hz.
These are specifications in more global terms, but then there are those additions that give a plus. For example, the eye tracking allows for better emotional response in-game, something that is complemented by the 3D audio of the Tempest 3D AudioTech technology. These are two improvements that may seem trivial, but they complement everything you have with the glasses.
This is also well represented by the haptic functions. The helmet, for example, has intelligent vibration for head movement just when you need it. In turn, the VR2 Sense controllers have haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, tactile sensing and more for greater immersion while playing. In addition, the design of the helmet is more elegant and, above all, comfortable, since the important thing is not to suffer fatigue with the glasses on.
Despite this leap in all areas, there are two negative aspects worth highlighting. The first has to do with the price: VR1 came out at a price of 400 euros, while VR2 is going up to 600. And the second has to do with the games, as the VR2s are not compatible with any VR1 titles. This is a very negative move for all previous owners.
There is no doubt that there is a leap between the previous virtual reality goggles and the current ones. Another aspect is whether you are willing to shell out this money.
