Compare HTC Vive Cosmos vs HTC Vive Cosmos Elite
In this technical comparison between the HTC Vive Cosmos and the HTC Vive Cosmos Elite, 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 versus 2880 × 1700 total (1440 × 1700 per eye) for the Vive Cosmos Elite.
Choosing between these two VR Headsets models often comes down to your budget, with prices around $699 (at launch) and $899 (Full Kit) / $549 (Headset Only) at launch.
| Specifications |
HTC Vive Cosmos |
HTC Vive Cosmos Elite |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Launch | ||
| Version | October 2019 | March 2020 |
| Display | ||
| Type | Dual 3.4" LCD Panels | Dual 3.4" LCD Panels |
| Resolution | 2880× 1700 total (1440× 1700 per eye) | 2880 × 1700 total (1440 × 1700 per eye) |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 90Hz |
| Field of view | 110° | 110° |
| Brightness | Standard LCD | Standard LCD brightness |
| HDR | Not supported | Not supported |
| Optics | ||
| Lens type | Fresnel | Fresnel |
| IPD adjustment | Hardware-adjustable dial (61mm – 73mm) | Hardware-adjustable dial (approx. 61mm - 73mm) |
| Eye relief | Not adjustable (distance from eyes is fixed), but features a Flip-up Visor | Not adjustable (fixed distance), but features a Flip-up Visor for quick reality checks. |
| Tracking & Input | ||
| Tracking type | VIVE Insight (6DOF Inside-out tracking) | SteamVR Tracking 1.0 / 2.0 (External Base Stations) |
| Controller tracking | 6 On-board cameras (no base stations needed) | Tracked by Base Stations (uses original Vive "Wand" controllers) |
| Hand tracking | Supported via VIVE Hand Tracking SDK | Supported via the Vive Hand Tracking SDK |
| Eye tracking | Not supported | Not supported |
| Facial tracking | Compatible via VIVE Facial Tracker (requires a different faceplate/setup) | Compatible via the Vive Facial Tracker accessory |
| Performance | ||
| Processor / Chipset | None (PC-powered) | None (PC-powered) |
| RAM | PC Dependent (Minimum 4GB+ required) | PC Dependent (Minimum 4GB+ required) |
| Storage | None | None |
| Mixed Reality Features | ||
| Passthrough | Stereoscopic RGB passthrough via front cameras | Dual cameras on the faceplate (Stereoscopic, used for Chaperone/Passthrough) |
| Depth sensing | Software-based (using camera parallax) | No dedicated sensor |
| Audio | ||
| Built-in audio | Integrated on-ear stereo headphones (removable) | Integrated on-ear stereo headphones |
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Mic | Integrated dual microphones | Integrated dual microphones |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired | USB-C 3.0, DisplayPort 1.2 (via Converter/Link Box) | Proprietary cable to Link Box (DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0) |
| Wireless | Supported via optional Vive Wireless Adapter (Intel WiGig) | Supported via optional Vive Wireless Adapter (Intel WiGig) |
| Bluetooth | Yes (for controller pairing and firmware) | Yes (for Base Station power management) |
| PCVR support | Native (SteamVR / Viveport) | Native (SteamVR / Viveport) |
| Compatibility | ||
| Platforms | SteamVR, Viveport | SteamVR, Viveport |
| Supported OS | Windows 10, Windows 11 | Windows 10, Windows 11 |
| Comfort | ||
| Weight | ~665g | ~645g |
| Strap type | Halo-style headband with rear tension dial | Halo-style headband with rear adjustment dial |
| Face interface | Breathable cloth/foam; Flip-up design allows the visor to tilt up 100° | Replaceable foam cushion; unique flip-up visor design |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A | No (Wired) |
| Charging method | N/A (Controllers use 2x AA batteries each) | N/A (Controllers charge via Micro-USB) |
| External battery support | Only required for the Wireless Adapter kit | Only when using the Wireless Adapter |
| Misc | ||
| Inside the box | Cosmos Headset, 2x Cosmos Controllers, Link Box (with power adapter), DP 1.2 cable, USB 3.0 cable, 4x AA batteries. | 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 |
| Price | $699 (at launch) | $899 (Full Kit) / $549 (Headset Only) at launch |
| Full Details | Vive Cosmos - Full Specifications | Vive Cosmos Elite - Full Specifications |