Compare HTC Vive Cosmos Elite vs HTC Vive Pro 2
In this technical comparison between the HTC Vive Cosmos Elite and the HTC Vive Pro 2, we analyze the key features to help you choose.
The display is a highlight, featuring a resolution of 2880 × 1700 total (1440 × 1700 per eye) for the Vive Cosmos Elite versus 4896×2448 total (2448×2448 per eye) for the Vive Pro 2.
Choosing between these two VR Headsets models often comes down to your budget, with prices around $899 (Full Kit) / $549 (Headset Only) at launch and $799 (Headset only) / $1,399 (Full Kit at launch).
| Specifications |
HTC Vive Cosmos Elite |
HTC Vive Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Launch | ||
| Version | March 2020 | June 2021 |
| Display | ||
| Type | Dual 3.4" LCD Panels | Dual RGB Low Persistence LCD |
| Resolution | 2880 × 1700 total (1440 × 1700 per eye) | 4896×2448 total (2448×2448 per eye) |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 90Hz / 120Hz (Note: 90Hz max when using Wireless Adapter) |
| Field of view | 110° | Up to 120° (Horizontal) |
| Brightness | Standard LCD brightness | - |
| HDR | Not supported | Not supported |
| Optics | ||
| Lens type | Fresnel | Dual-element Fresnel Lenses (Bespoke design to reduce blur) |
| IPD adjustment | Hardware-adjustable dial (approx. 61mm - 73mm) | Hardware-adjustable dial (57mm – 70mm or 72mm depending on batch) |
| Eye relief | Not adjustable (fixed distance), but features a Flip-up Visor for quick reality checks. | Adjustable via a side button to accommodate glasses |
| Tracking & Input | ||
| Tracking type | SteamVR Tracking 1.0 / 2.0 (External Base Stations) | SteamVR Tracking 2.0 (Outside-in; requires Base Stations) |
| Controller tracking | Tracked by Base Stations (uses original Vive "Wand" controllers) | Compatible with Vive Wands (2018) and Valve Index Controllers |
| Hand tracking | Supported via the Vive Hand Tracking SDK | Supported via external Vive Hand Tracking SDK (uses built-in cameras) |
| Eye tracking | Not supported | Not supported (Available on the Vive Pro Eye model, not Pro 2) |
| Facial tracking | Compatible via the Vive Facial Tracker accessory | Supported via optional Vive Facial Tracker accessory |
| Performance | ||
| Processor / Chipset | None (PC-powered) | None (PC-powered) |
| RAM | PC Dependent (Minimum 4GB+ required) | Dependent on PC (Minimum 8GB recommended) |
| Storage | None | None (Stored on PC) |
| Mixed Reality Features | ||
| Passthrough | Dual cameras on the faceplate (Stereoscopic, used for Chaperone/Passthrough) | Dual VGA front-facing cameras (Stereoscopic, low resolution) |
| Depth sensing | No dedicated sensor | No dedicated depth sensor (Software-assisted via cameras) |
| Audio | ||
| Built-in audio | Integrated on-ear stereo headphones | Hi-Res Certified removable headphones (with integrated amplifier) |
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No (Uses USB-C for audio/headphones) |
| Mic | Integrated dual microphones | Dual integrated microphones |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired | Proprietary cable to Link Box (DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0) | Link Box 2.0 (DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, USB 3.0) |
| Wireless | Supported via optional Vive Wireless Adapter (Intel WiGig) | Supported via optional Vive Wireless Adapter |
| Bluetooth | Yes (for Base Station power management) | Yes (Used for Base Station management and peripheral communication) |
| PCVR support | Native (SteamVR / Viveport) | Native (SteamVR and Viveport) |
| Compatibility | ||
| Platforms | SteamVR, Viveport | SteamVR, Viveport |
| Supported OS | Windows 10, Windows 11 | Windows 10, Windows 11 |
| Comfort | ||
| Weight | ~645g | ~850g (Headset + Strap) |
| Strap type | Halo-style headband with rear adjustment dial | Rigid Halo-style with rear adjustment dial and top strap |
| Face interface | Replaceable foam cushion; unique flip-up visor design | Replaceable foam (PU leather or fabric options) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | No (Wired) | N/A (Wired); ~2.5 hours when using the Wireless Adapter kit |
| Charging method | N/A (Controllers charge via Micro-USB) | N/A (Wired); QC 3.0 Power Bank for Wireless Adapter |
| External battery support | Only when using the Wireless Adapter | Yes (For Wireless Adapter) |
| Misc | ||
| Inside the box | Cosmos Elite Headset (with External Tracking Faceplate), 2x Vive Base Stations 1.0, 2x Vive Controllers (1.0), Link Box, all necessary power/data cables | Headset, All-in-one cable, Link Box 2.0, DP 1.4 cable, USB 3.0 cable, power adapters (Full Kit adds 2x Base Stations 2.0 and 2x Vive Controllers) |
| Price | $899 (Full Kit) / $549 (Headset Only) at launch | $799 (Headset only) / $1,399 (Full Kit at launch) |
| Full Details | Vive Cosmos Elite - Full Specifications | Vive Pro 2 - Full Specifications |