Compare HTC Vive Cosmos vs HTC Vive Pro 2
In this technical comparison between the HTC Vive Cosmos 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 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 $699 (at launch) and $799 (Headset only) / $1,399 (Full Kit at launch).
| Specifications |
HTC Vive Cosmos |
HTC Vive Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Launch | ||
| Release Version | October 2019 | June 2021 |
| Display | ||
| Sensor Technology | Dual 3.4" LCD Panels | Dual RGB Low Persistence LCD |
| Image 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 | - |
| HDR | Not supported | Not supported |
| Optics | ||
| Lens type | Fresnel | Dual-element Fresnel Lenses (Bespoke design to reduce blur) |
| IPD adjustment | Hardware-adjustable dial (61mm – 73mm) | Hardware-adjustable dial (57mm – 70mm or 72mm depending on batch) |
| Eye relief | Not adjustable (distance from eyes is fixed), but features a Flip-up Visor | Adjustable via a side button to accommodate glasses |
| Tracking & Input | ||
| Tracking type | VIVE Insight (6DOF Inside-out tracking) | SteamVR Tracking 2.0 (Outside-in; requires Base Stations) |
| Controller tracking | 6 On-board cameras (no base stations needed) | Compatible with Vive Wands (2018) and Valve Index Controllers |
| Hand tracking | Supported via 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 VIVE Facial Tracker (requires a different faceplate/setup) | 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 | Stereoscopic RGB passthrough via front cameras | Dual VGA front-facing cameras (Stereoscopic, low resolution) |
| Depth sensing | Software-based (using camera parallax) | No dedicated depth sensor (Software-assisted via cameras) |
| Audio | ||
| Built-in audio | Integrated on-ear stereo headphones (removable) | 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 | USB-C 3.0, DisplayPort 1.2 (via Converter/Link Box) | 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 controller pairing and firmware) | 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 | ~665g | ~850g (Headset + Strap) |
| Strap type | Halo-style headband with rear tension dial | Rigid Halo-style with rear adjustment dial and top strap |
| Face interface | Breathable cloth/foam; Flip-up design allows the visor to tilt up 100° | Replaceable foam (PU leather or fabric options) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A | N/A (Wired); ~2.5 hours when using the Wireless Adapter kit |
| Charging method | N/A (Controllers use 2x AA batteries each) | N/A (Wired); QC 3.0 Power Bank for Wireless Adapter |
| External battery support | Only required for the Wireless Adapter kit | Yes (For 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. | 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 | $699 (at launch) | $799 (Headset only) / $1,399 (Full Kit at launch) |
| Full Details | Vive Cosmos - Full Specifications | Vive Pro 2 - Full Specifications |