Compare HTC Vive Cosmos vs HTC Vive Focus 3
In this technical comparison between the HTC Vive Cosmos and the HTC Vive Focus 3, 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 2448 × 2448 per eye (5K total resolution) for the Vive Focus 3.
Choosing between these two VR Headsets models often comes down to your budget, with prices around $699 (at launch) and Originally $1,300; currently retails for ~$999 USD.
| Specifications |
HTC Vive Cosmos |
HTC Vive Focus 3 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Launch | ||
| Release Version | October 2019 | June 2021 |
| Display | ||
| Sensor Technology | Dual 3.4" LCD Panels | Dual 2.88-inch LCD Panels |
| Image Resolution | 2880× 1700 total (1440× 1700 per eye) | 2448 × 2448 per eye (5K total resolution) |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 90Hz |
| Field of view | 110° | Up to 120° (Horizontal) |
| Brightness | Standard LCD | High-luminance LCD with active cooling to prevent dimming |
| HDR | Not supported | No |
| Optics | ||
| Lens type | Fresnel | Bespoke Dual-element Fresnel Lenses |
| IPD adjustment | Hardware-adjustable dial (61mm – 73mm) | Manual dial (57mm - 72mm) |
| Eye relief | Not adjustable (distance from eyes is fixed), but features a Flip-up Visor | 150mm wide interface |
| Tracking & Input | ||
| Tracking type | VIVE Insight (6DOF Inside-out tracking) | 6-DOF Inside-out via 4 wide-angle tracking cameras |
| Controller tracking | 6 On-board cameras (no base stations needed) | 6-DOF VIVE Focus 3 Controllers (Rechargeable via USB-C) |
| Hand tracking | Supported via VIVE Hand Tracking SDK | Yes (26-point skeletal tracking) |
| Eye tracking | Not supported | Optional (via add-on accessory) |
| Facial tracking | Compatible via VIVE Facial Tracker (requires a different faceplate/setup) | Optional (via add-on accessory) |
| Performance | ||
| Processor / Chipset | None (PC-powered) | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 (Active-cooled with copper heat pipes) |
| RAM | PC Dependent (Minimum 4GB+ required) | 8GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | None | 128GB |
| Mixed Reality Features | ||
| Passthrough | Stereoscopic RGB passthrough via front cameras | Mono Grayscale (Black and White) |
| Depth sensing | Software-based (using camera parallax) | No |
| Audio | ||
| Built-in audio | Integrated on-ear stereo headphones (removable) | Open-back dual-driver speakers |
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes (Hi-Res certified) |
| Mic | Integrated dual microphones | Dual microphones with echo cancellation |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired | USB-C 3.0, DisplayPort 1.2 (via Converter/Link Box) | 2x USB-C 3.2 Gen-1 ports (one for peripherals, one for charging/data) |
| Wireless | Supported via optional Vive Wireless Adapter (Intel WiGig) | Wi-Fi 6 / Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | Yes (for controller pairing and firmware) | Bluetooth 5.2 + BLE |
| PCVR support | Native (SteamVR / Viveport) | Yes (via VIVE Business Streaming over Wi-Fi 6E or USB-C cable) |
| Compatibility | ||
| Platforms | SteamVR, Viveport | VIVE Business Store, SteamVR (via PC), VIVE Sync |
| Supported OS | Windows 10, Windows 11 | VIVE OS (Android-based) |
| Comfort | ||
| Weight | ~665g | 785g (Total with battery); near 50-50 balance front-to-back |
| Strap type | Halo-style headband with rear tension dial | Rigid strap with rear-mounted battery and adjustment dial |
| Face interface | Breathable cloth/foam; Flip-up design allows the visor to tilt up 100° | Magnetic PU leather cushions (Moisture-resistant and easy to wipe) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A | Approx. 2 hours |
| Charging method | N/A (Controllers use 2x AA batteries each) | USB-C |
| External battery support | Only required for the Wireless Adapter kit | Hot-swappable |
| 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. | Focus 3 Headset, 2x Controllers, Battery Pack, 30W AC Adapter, Charging Splitter Cable, Cleaning Cloth |
| Price | $699 (at launch) | Originally $1,300; currently retails for ~$999 USD |
| Full Details | Vive Cosmos - Full Specifications | Vive Focus 3 - Full Specifications |