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Oculus Rift S Review | 89 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£140
  • Weight: 590 g
  • Resolution: 1280x1440
  • Refresh rate: 80 Hz
  • Display type: LCD
  • Device type: PC VR

Oculus Rift S review. Compare 89 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among vr headsets and if it is worth buying.

5.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the VR headset's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best VR headsets on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

5.4

Technical Score

20.0%

?

User score

Good
5.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the VR headset's technical performance, covering eight key areas: display quality, tracking, comfort, controllers, connectivity, audio, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare VR headsets based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

58.0%

4.2

Display & Optics

22.0%

7.0

Tracking & Sensors

10.0%

8.5

Controls & Audio

4.0%

4.0

Hardware

3.0%

6.4

Connectivity

3.0%

6.2

Design & Power

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the VR headset.

When it matters: When you want to know how a VR headset performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    40.0%

    4.0

    Refresh rate

    35.0%

    10

    Touch controllers

    25.0%

    5.4

    Resolution

  • 4.4
    Movies

    Score components:

    40.0%

    5.4

    Resolution

    35.0%

    5.2

    Display type

    25.0%

    1.6

    Visible FoV (horizontal)

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £140

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Oculus Rift S is a PC-powered VR headset featuring a fast-switch LCD display with a total resolution of 2560 x 1440 (1280 x 1440 per eye) and an 80Hz refresh rate. It utilizes 'Insight' inside-out tracking via five built-in cameras, eliminating the need for external sensors, and includes integrated near-field speakers and ergonomic Touch controllers. While it offers a sharp image, comfortable halo headband design, and access to the extensive Oculus Library, its main drawbacks include the lack of a mechanical IPD adjustment, a lower refresh rate compared to the original Rift, and the requirement for a permanent wired connection to a compatible PC.

Technical Specifications of Oculus Rift S

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the VR headset's technical performance, covering eight key areas: display quality, tracking, comfort, controllers, connectivity, audio, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare VR headsets based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

58.0%

?

Display & Optics

22.0%

?

Tracking & Sensors

10.0%

?

Controls & Audio

4.0%

?

Hardware

3.0%

?

Connectivity

3.0%

?

Design & Power

5.4
Oculus Rift S has a technical score of 5.37 points, which is lower than 75.5% of VR headsets.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the VR headset.

When it matters: When you want to know how a VR headset performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the VR headset.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
1.0
Oculus Rift S has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 65.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the VR headset's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a VR headset with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

6.7
Oculus Rift S has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.7 points, which is higher than 42.9% of products in this category.
Resolution
What it is: The total number of pixels displayed on the screen, expressed as width x height, determining sharpness.
When it matters: When you want crisp text and sharp details in photos and videos.

Importance: HIGH

1280x1440
Oculus Rift S has a screen resolution of 1280x1440 which is lower than that of 74.4% of VR headsets and equal to that of 7.7% of VR headsets.
Screen size
What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
When it matters: When you want a larger image area that can feel more immersive in games, movies, and VR apps.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >4.41 inches

?
Refresh rate
What it is: The number of times per second the display updates the image, measured in Hertz (Hz); higher rates offer smoother motion.
When it matters: When you want scrolling to feel fluid and games to look smoother.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >102 Hz

80 Hz
Oculus Rift S supports a refresh rate of 80 Hz which is lower than in 79.5% of VR headsets.
Visible FoV (horizontal)
What it is: Measures the visible horizontal field of view of the image, expressed in degrees.
When it matters: When you want a wider left-to-right view for racing, shooters, and room-scale immersion.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >105.7 °

86 °
Oculus Rift S offers a horizontal FoV of 86 ° which is narrower than that of 94.7% of VR headsets.
Visible FoV (vertical)
What it is: Measures the visible vertical field of view of the image, expressed in degrees.
When it matters: When a taller visible image helps scenes feel less cropped above and below your view.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >97.5 °

85 °
Oculus Rift S offers a vertical FoV of 85 ° which is narrower than that of 94.4% of VR headsets.
Show more
Tracking type
What it is: Specifies the tracking method used for positional detection, such as inside-out or outside-in.
When it matters: When you want to know whether tracking depends on onboard cameras or external hardware.

Importance: LOW

inside-out
360° head tracking
What it is: Shows whether the headset can track head movement across a full 360-degree space.
When it matters: When you turn around often in room-scale games and do not want tracking blind spots.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Oculus Rift S supports full 360° head tracking. 2% of VR headsets support this tracking mode.
N. of tracking sensors
What it is: Counts the integrated sensors used for positional or motion tracking.
When it matters: When you compare how much built-in hardware the headset uses for motion tracking.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >4.2

5
N. of cameras
What it is: Counts the built-in cameras used for tracking, passthrough, or environmental sensing.
When it matters: When passthrough quality, room mapping, and inside-out tracking matter to your setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >4.2

5
Oculus Rift S has 5 cameras which is more than in 75% of VR headsets and equal to that in 6.3% of VR headsets.
Tracking frequency
What it is: Indicates how often the tracking system updates position data, measured in hertz.
When it matters: When you want fast motion tracking to stay stable during quick head or hand movement.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >718 Hz

1,000 Hz
Oculus Rift S has a tracking frequency of 1000 Hz which is higher than that of 27.8% of VR headsets and equal to that of 66.7% of VR headsets.
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Operating system
What it is: The primary system software that manages the headset's hardware, apps, and core functions.
When it matters: When you have a preference for the user interface and app ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

Windows
OpenXR support
What it is: Indicates whether the headset supports the OpenXR standard for compatible VR software.
When it matters: When you want broader compatibility with VR apps across different software platforms.

Importance: LOW

yes
Oculus Rift S supports OpenXR. 37.8% of VR headsets support this cross-platform VR standard.
Wireless PC streaming
What it is: Shows whether the headset can receive PC VR content over a wireless connection.
When it matters: When you want PC VR without a cable running from the headset to your computer.

Importance: LOW

no
Oculus Rift S does not support wireless PC streaming. 36.7% of VR headsets support cable-free PC VR streaming.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: The ability of the headset to connect to a wireless network.
When it matters: When you want wireless downloads, streaming, updates, or online features without relying on a cable.

Importance: LOW

no
Oculus Rift S does not have Wi-Fi. 38.8% of VR headsets have Wi-Fi connectivity.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Version of Wi-Fi standard supported.
When it matters: When compatibility with your router and wireless setup affects download speeds, streaming quality, or latency.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Show more
Touch controllers
What it is: Shows whether dedicated motion controllers are included for hand-based input in VR.
When it matters: When your favorite games rely on precise hand input rather than hand tracking alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Oculus Rift S includes touch controllers. 28.6% of VR headsets come with dedicated hand controllers.
Game controller included
What it is: Indicates whether game controllers are included in the standard package.
When it matters: When you want a complete VR package and do not want to buy controllers separately.

Importance: LOW

yes
Oculus Rift S includes a game controller. 36.7% of VR headsets ship with controllers in the box.
Spatial audio
What it is: Supports immersive spatial audio playback.
When it matters: When movies, games, and VR experiences feel better with more immersive positional sound.

Importance: LOW

yes
Oculus Rift S supports spatial audio. 10.6% of VR headsets support spatial audio.
N. of speakers
What it is: Counts the built-in speakers used for audio playback.
When it matters: When you plan to use the headset without separate headphones or external speakers.

Importance: LOW

2
Oculus Rift S has 2 speakers which is more than in 39.1% of VR headsets and equal to that in 60.9% of VR headsets.
N. of microphones
What it is: The number of microphones built into the headset or its integrated hardware.
When it matters: When voice chat, voice commands, or in-headset recording quality matter to your setup.

Importance: LOW

1
Oculus Rift S includes 1 microphones, which is fewer than 58.1% of VR headsets and equal to 14% of VR headsets.
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Device type
What it is: Describes the overall headset class, such as standalone, PC VR, or mixed reality.
When it matters: When you choose between a standalone headset, a PC VR model, or mixed-reality use.

Importance: LOW

PC VR
Chipset
What it is: The central System-on-Chip (SoC) that houses the CPU, GPU, modem, and other core processing components.
When it matters: When you want to know the specific engine powering your device's speed and features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
CPU clock speed
What it is: Indicates the base operating frequency of the main processor, measured in gigahertz.
When it matters: When you compare standalone headset speed for games, menus, and mixed-reality apps.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >2.86 GHz

N/A
GPU model
What it is: The official model name of the graphics processor used in the tablet.
When it matters: When you compare graphics hardware for gaming, video editing, or benchmarks.

Importance: LOW

N/A
RAM capacity
What it is: States the installed RAM capacity used for system operation and multitasking.
When it matters: When you want smoother multitasking and better headroom for demanding VR apps.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >9.3 GB

N/A
Show more
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can store, usually measured in mAh.
When it matters: When you want longer untethered play time without recharging the headset too often.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >4980 mAh

N/A
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full charge.
When it matters: When charging speed, charging method, or battery upkeep convenience matters to your routine.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <2.3 hours

N/A
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the headset, affecting how heavy it feels during use.
When it matters: When you want a headset that feels lighter and more comfortable during longer VR sessions.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <484.2 g

590 g
Oculus Rift S weighs 590 g which is heavier than 53.3% of VR headsets and equal to the weight of 4.4% of VR headsets.
Headstrap type
What it is: Identifies the design of the headstrap used to secure the headset on the user's head.
When it matters: When comfort, balance, and pressure distribution matter during long VR sessions.

Importance: LOW

rigid halo
Oculus Rift S uses a rigid halo headstrap, which is more comfortable than the design on 44.9%.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the headset body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the headset feels over time.

Importance: LOW

plastic
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Oculus Rift S vs the average VR headset

  • Supports eye relief adjustment
    Oculus Rift S supports eye relief adjustment, the average VR headset does not. 25% of VR headsets support eye relief adjustment.
    What it is: Shows whether the distance between the eyes and lenses can be adjusted for comfort or glasses clearance.
    When it matters: When you wear glasses or need more space between your eyes and the lenses.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Oculus Rift S supports eye relief adjustment, the average VR headset does not. 25% of VR headsets support eye relief adjustment.
  • 3 more cameras
    Oculus Rift S has more cameras than the average VR headset (5 vs 2). The average VR headset has 2 cameras.
    What it is: Counts the built-in cameras used for tracking, passthrough, or environmental sensing.
    When it matters: When passthrough quality, room mapping, and inside-out tracking matter to your setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >4.2

    Oculus Rift S has more cameras than the average VR headset (5 vs 2). The average VR headset has 2 cameras.5 vs 2
  • Supports voice commands
    Oculus Rift S supports voice commands, the average VR headset does not. 42.6% of VR headsets include voice command functionality.
    What it is: The capability to control the headset using spoken commands through built-in voice features or assistants.
    When it matters: When you want hands-free control inside VR for navigation, commands, or accessibility.

    Importance: LOW

    Oculus Rift S supports voice commands, the average VR headset does not. 42.6% of VR headsets include voice command functionality.
  • Supports SteamVR
    Oculus Rift S supports SteamVR, the average VR headset does not. 50% of VR headsets support this PC VR ecosystem.
    What it is: Indicates whether the headset supports the SteamVR ecosystem for compatible PC VR content.
    When it matters: When you want confidence that the headset can access the SteamVR software ecosystem in normal supported use.

    Importance: LOW

    Oculus Rift S supports SteamVR, the average VR headset does not. 50% of VR headsets support this PC VR ecosystem.
  • 30 mm narrower
    Oculus Rift S is narrower than the average VR headset (160 mm vs 190 mm). The average VR headset has a width of 190 mm.
    What it is: The horizontal dimension of the device when held in portrait orientation.
    When it matters: When you care about how wide the headset feels on your face or how compact it is to store.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <178.5 mm

    Oculus Rift S is narrower than the average VR headset (160 mm vs 190 mm). The average VR headset has a width of 190 mm.160 mm vs 190 mm
  • Supports eye relief adjustment
    Oculus Rift S supports eye relief adjustment, the average VR headset does not. 25% of VR headsets support eye relief adjustment.
  • 3 more cameras
    Oculus Rift S has more cameras than the average VR headset (5 vs 2). The average VR headset has 2 cameras.
  • Supports SteamVR
    Oculus Rift S supports SteamVR, the average VR headset does not. 50% of VR headsets support this PC VR ecosystem.
  • Supports voice commands
    Oculus Rift S supports voice commands, the average VR headset does not. 42.6% of VR headsets include voice command functionality.
  • 30 mm narrower
    Oculus Rift S is narrower than the average VR headset (160 mm vs 190 mm). The average VR headset has a width of 190 mm.

Total
Display & Optics
Tracking & Sensors
Connectivity
Controls & Audio
Design & Power
  • No adjustable IPD
    Oculus Rift S does not support adjustable IPD, the average VR headset does. 64% of VR headsets offer adjustable lens spacing.
  • 14 ° narrower horizontal FoV
    Oculus Rift S has a lower horizontal visible FoV than the average VR headset (86 ° vs 100 °). The average VR headset offers a horizontal visible FoV of 100 °.
  • 10 ° narrower vertical FoV
    Oculus Rift S has a lower vertical visible FoV than the average VR headset (85 ° vs 95 °). The average VR headset offers a vertical visible FoV of 95 °.
  • 11.1% lower refresh rate
    Oculus Rift S has a lower refresh rate than the average VR headset (80 Hz vs 90 Hz). The average VR headset has a refresh rate of 90 Hz.
  • Lower screen resolution
    Oculus Rift S has a lower screen resolution than the average VR headset (1280x1440 vs 1440x1600). The average VR headset has a screen resolution of 1440x1600.
  • 5 mm smaller lens diameter
    Oculus Rift S has a lower lens diameter than the average VR headset (45 mm vs 50 mm). The average VR headset has a lens diameter of 50 mm.
  • 2.4% lower pixel density
    Oculus Rift S has a lower pixel density than the average VR headset (601 ppi vs 616 ppi). The average VR headset has a pixel density of 616 ppi.
  • 20 nits lower peak brightness
    Oculus Rift S has a lower peak brightness than the average VR headset (80 nits vs 100 nits). The average VR headset has a peak brightness of 100 nits.
  • Lacks USB Type-C
    Oculus Rift S lacks a USB Type-C port, the average VR headset includes one. 58% of VR headsets use USB-C ports.
  • Fewer microphones
    Oculus Rift S includes fewer microphones than the average VR headset (1 vs 2). The average VR headset includes 2 microphone/s.
  • 51.5 mm higher height
    Oculus Rift S is taller than the average VR headset (160 mm vs 108.5 mm). The average VR headset has a height of 108.5 mm.
  • 55 mm thicker
    Oculus Rift S is thicker than the average VR headset (160 mm vs 105 mm). The average VR headset has a thickness of 105 mm.
  • No adjustable IPD
    Oculus Rift S does not support adjustable IPD, the average VR headset does. 64% of VR headsets offer adjustable lens spacing.
    What it is: Shows whether the lens spacing can be adjusted to match the distance between the user's pupils.
    When it matters: When more than one person uses the headset and needs the lenses aligned comfortably.

    Importance: HIGH

    Oculus Rift S does not support adjustable IPD, the average VR headset does. 64% of VR headsets offer adjustable lens spacing.
  • 14 ° narrower horizontal FoV
    Oculus Rift S has a lower horizontal visible FoV than the average VR headset (86 ° vs 100 °). The average VR headset offers a horizontal visible FoV of 100 °.
    What it is: Measures the visible horizontal field of view of the image, expressed in degrees.
    When it matters: When you want a wider left-to-right view for racing, shooters, and room-scale immersion.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >105.7 °

    Oculus Rift S has a lower horizontal visible FoV than the average VR headset (86 ° vs 100 °). The average VR headset offers a horizontal visible FoV of 100 °.86 ° vs 100 °
  • 10 ° narrower vertical FoV
    Oculus Rift S has a lower vertical visible FoV than the average VR headset (85 ° vs 95 °). The average VR headset offers a vertical visible FoV of 95 °.
    What it is: Measures the visible vertical field of view of the image, expressed in degrees.
    When it matters: When a taller visible image helps scenes feel less cropped above and below your view.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >97.5 °

    Oculus Rift S has a lower vertical visible FoV than the average VR headset (85 ° vs 95 °). The average VR headset offers a vertical visible FoV of 95 °.85 ° vs 95 °
  • 11.1% lower refresh rate
    Oculus Rift S has a lower refresh rate than the average VR headset (80 Hz vs 90 Hz). The average VR headset has a refresh rate of 90 Hz.
    What it is: The number of times per second the display updates the image, measured in Hertz (Hz); higher rates offer smoother motion.
    When it matters: When you want scrolling to feel fluid and games to look smoother.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >102 Hz

    Oculus Rift S has a lower refresh rate than the average VR headset (80 Hz vs 90 Hz). The average VR headset has a refresh rate of 90 Hz.80 Hz vs 90 Hz
  • Lower screen resolution
    Oculus Rift S has a lower screen resolution than the average VR headset (1280x1440 vs 1440x1600). The average VR headset has a screen resolution of 1440x1600.
    What it is: The total number of pixels displayed on the screen, expressed as width x height, determining sharpness.
    When it matters: When you want crisp text and sharp details in photos and videos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Oculus Rift S has a lower screen resolution than the average VR headset (1280x1440 vs 1440x1600). The average VR headset has a screen resolution of 1440x1600.1280x1440 vs 1440x1600
  • 5 mm smaller lens diameter
    Oculus Rift S has a lower lens diameter than the average VR headset (45 mm vs 50 mm). The average VR headset has a lens diameter of 50 mm.
    What it is: States the diameter of the optical lenses, usually measured in millimeters.
    When it matters: When lens size affects the optical design and how the headset feels close to your face.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >44 mm

    Oculus Rift S has a lower lens diameter than the average VR headset (45 mm vs 50 mm). The average VR headset has a lens diameter of 50 mm.45 mm vs 50 mm
  • Lacks USB Type-C
    Oculus Rift S lacks a USB Type-C port, the average VR headset includes one. 58% of VR headsets use USB-C ports.
    What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
    When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

    Importance: LOW

    Oculus Rift S lacks a USB Type-C port, the average VR headset includes one. 58% of VR headsets use USB-C ports.
  • 20 nits lower peak brightness
    Oculus Rift S has a lower peak brightness than the average VR headset (80 nits vs 100 nits). The average VR headset has a peak brightness of 100 nits.
    What it is: The absolute maximum brightness a small portion of the screen can achieve briefly, usually when displaying HDR content.
    When it matters: When you watch HDR content and want highlights like explosions or sunlight to look realistic.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >129 nits

    Oculus Rift S has a lower peak brightness than the average VR headset (80 nits vs 100 nits). The average VR headset has a peak brightness of 100 nits.80 nits vs 100 nits
Total
Display & Optics
Connectivity
Controls & Audio
Design & Power

Graphic comparison of Oculus Rift S and

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Oculus Rift S?

  • Easy setup due to inside-out tracking (no external sensors required)
  • Significant reduction in screen-door effect compared to previous models
  • Comfortable halo-style headband with better weight distribution
  • Sharper visual clarity and improved resolution over the original Rift CV1
  • Large 'sweet spot' in the lenses, making it easier to maintain focus
  • Access to a vast and high-quality library of Oculus-exclusive games

What customers dislike about Oculus Rift S?

  • Underwhelming built-in audio that lacks bass and depth
  • Lack of mechanical Interpupillary Distance (IPD) adjustment (software-only)
  • Lower refresh rate (80Hz) compared to the original Rift (90Hz)
  • Cable-tethered design can be cumbersome and restrictive during movement
  • Mixed reports on build quality, with some users finding the plastic feels cheap
  • Occasional software bugs and connection issues (USB/DisplayPort detection)
  • Microphone quality is frequently cited as poor or prone to static

Expert reviews

P
pcworld.com
30/04/2019
Oculus Rift S review: The second generation of PC-based virtual reality

The PCWorld review characterizes the Oculus Rift S as a practical, approachable, and highly competent "stopgap" device rather than a true generational leap, focusing on convenience over raw power. Pros include the hassle-free "Insight" inside-out tracking, a comfortable "halo" headband design, and improved visual clarity via a 1280x1440 per-eye resolution. YouTube · Conversely, the...Read more

P
pcmag.com
30/04/2019
Oculus Rift S Review - PCMag

The PCMag review highlights the Oculus Rift S as an accessible, PC-tethered VR headset featuring the Insight inside-out tracking system, which eliminates external sensors and boasts a sharp 1,280-by-1,440 per-eye resolution. Key advantages include improved optics with reduced screen-door effect, comfortable ergonomics, and superior tracking, alongside a 5-camera, 6DOF system that...Read more

U
uploadvr.com
30/04/2019
Rift S Hardware Review: A Simplified PC VR Headset

The Oculus Rift S streamlines PC VR by introducing an "Insight" inside-out tracking system featuring five built-in cameras, which entirely eliminates the need for external wall-mounted sensors and extra USB cords. Major pros highlighted in the review include a remarkably fast, convenient out-of-the-box setup process, full cross-compatibility with the extensive Oculus PC content...Read more

P
pocket-lint.com
11/04/2019
Oculus Rift S review: The next step in VR

Review Overview The Oculus Rift S replaces the original Oculus Rift as an updated flagship virtual reality headset, offering a more user-friendly, comfortable, and accessible system at an affordable price. Developed in collaboration with Lenovo, it features a "Halo" headstrap design with a rear tightening wheel that improves ergonomics and successfully blocks out external light. The...Read more

R
roadtovr.com
21/05/2019
Oculus Rift S Review – A Good Choice for VR Newcomers, a Difficult Choice for VR Vets

Oculus Rift S Review Summary The Oculus Rift S serves as a convenient, room-scale "remaster" of the original Rift, introducing five-camera inside-out tracking that completely eliminates the need for external sensors. It upgrades the visual clarity by switching to a single LCD display with a 1,280 × 1,440 resolution, which significantly reduces the screen door effect and nearly...Read more

P
provideocoalition.com
29/07/2019
Review: Oculus Rift S, the most accessible PC VR headset for all

The ProVideoCoalition review identifies the Oculus Rift S as an accessible, affordable entry point for PC VR, highlighting its "Insight" inside-out tracking and comfortable, Lenovo-designed halo head strap as key pros. Visual performance is enhanced by a higher resolution LCD display that significantly reduces the screen-door effect compared to the original, accompanied by improved...Read more

T
techgearlab.com
12/09/2019
Oculus Rift S Review | Tested & Rated - TechGearLab

The Oculus Rift S is a top-tier tethered VR headset that offers an immersive virtual reality experience with excellent value. It delivers highly detailed, sharp visuals using a resolution of 1280 x 1440 pixels per eye, making text exceptionally easy to read. Thanks to its inside-out tracking system powered by five integrated cameras, it completely eliminates the need for cumbersome...Read more

W
wareable.com
15/01/2020
Oculus Rift S review: Small improvements make all the difference

The Wareable review describes the Oculus Rift S as a solid, user-friendly upgrade featuring five-camera inside-out tracking that removes the need for external base stations. Key improvements include improved comfort via a Halo band design and sharper visuals, boasting a 1280 x 1440 resolution per eye. Wareable Conversely, the headset features a lower 80Hz refresh rate compared to...Read more

W
wired.com
18/03/2020
Oculus Rift S Review: High-End VR That's Within Reach

The Wired review awards the Oculus Rift S an 8/10 rating, celebrating it as a mature, console-priced milestone ($399) that finally delivers on the long-term promises of PC-based virtual reality. A standout feature is its immense ease of setup and portability, driven by built-in inside-out tracking cameras. This design completely eliminates the hassle of mounting external lighthouse...Read more

C
creativebloq.com
01/04/2020
Oculus Rift S review

The Oculus Rift S functions as a tethered VR headset that requires just a single USB port and one DisplayPort to connect to a PC. It implements an updated "Insight" tracking system utilising five built-in cameras—two on the front, one on each side, and one facing upward—which completely removes the need for external room sensors. The design features an adjustable,...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
11/04/2019
Oculus Rift S Review - Trusted Reviews

Trusted Reviews identifies the Oculus Rift S as an accessible, PC-powered VR headset featuring a comfortable Lenovo-inspired halo strap and "Oculus Insight" inside-out tracking, which eliminates the need for external sensors. The device offers a visual upgrade with a 2560 x 1440 LCD screen that minimizes the screen-door effect. However, the review notes compromises, including a...Read more

T
techadvisor.com
15/08/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

The Oculus Rift S delivers a significantly upgraded virtual experience by replacing its predecessor's frustrating external sensor setup with an integrated "inside-out" tracking system driven by five built-in cameras. It features an improved 2560 x 1440 fast-switch LCD display that drastically reduces the pixelated "Screen Door Effect" (SDE), making virtual text much sharper and...Read more

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mrtv.co
13/04/2020
Oculus Rift S Review - MRTV - Mixed Reality TV

In his April 2020 review for ⁠Mixed Reality TV (MRTV), Sebastian Ang strongly recommends the Oculus Rift S as an excellent, all-inclusive entry point for PC VR gaming under $500. The review highlights several major pros, including its outstanding value for money, exceptional wearing comfort, and highly responsive, great controllers. Ang praises the device's flawless inside-out...Read more

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techradar.com
11/03/2021
Oculus Rift S review - TechRadar

Oculus Rift S Review Summary The Oculus Rift S serves as an approachable, PC-based virtual reality entry point that prioritises accessibility over groundbreaking generation-leaps. Its standout enhancement is the built-in "Insight" tracking system, which uses five outward-facing cameras to eliminate the need for cumbersome external tracking stations and simplifies room-scale setup...Read more

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pcgamer.com
30/04/2019
Oculus Rift S review - PC Gamer

The Oculus Rift S is a mid-range, PC-powered virtual reality headset that replaces the original Oculus Rift by offering an easier setup and upgraded visual experience. Its biggest advantage is the new inside-out tracking system, which uses five built-in cameras to track movements without requiring any annoying external room sensors or extra wires. Users will also benefit from a...Read more

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engadget.com
04/05/2019
Oculus Rift S review: Just another tethered VR headset

The Engadget review evaluates the Oculus Rift S as a functional but unrefined stop-gap solution rather than a true next-generation sequel to the original Rift. Priced at $399, the device moves away from external tracking hardware by introducing an Insight tracking system with five built-in sensors, eliminating the hassle of tabletop sensors and dramatically reducing cable clutter...Read more

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tomshardware.com
30/06/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: First-Gen VR Gets a Reboot

The Oculus Rift S ($399) is a PC-powered VR headset manufactured in partnership with Lenovo, featuring a design licensed from Sony's PlayStation VR. Key upgrades include an improved 5-meter DisplayPort tether cable and an LCD display with an RGB sub-pixel array. This screen increases the total resolution to 2560 x 1440, successfully reducing the screen-door effect. Furthermore, it...Read more

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vrone.co.uk
07/05/2020
Oculus Rift S review | One of the best VR headsets

The VROne Oculus Rift S review highlights the tethered PC VR headset as an exceptional device that delivers uncompressed, high-fidelity gaming experiences directly from a user's computer. The reviewer, Pedro, highlights multiple pros, including its very comfortable "Halo" type head-strap design, an easy adjustment system, and physical lens tuning options for both IPD and the Z-axis....Read more

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computerbase.de
22/05/2019
Oculus Rift S Review - ComputerBase

The Oculus Rift S is a major step forward for mainstream PC-VR headsets, standing out for its incredibly easy setup and improved visual quality. By switching to an inside-out tracking system called Oculus Insight, the headset uses five built-in cameras to map the room. This completely removes the need for annoying external sensors and messy USB cables. Users can jump into virtual...Read more

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galaxus.de
12/06/2019
Oculus Quest vs. Rift S: Always a compromise, yet a clear winner emerges

The Galaxus review highlights that the Oculus Rift S offers superior comfort via a halo-style strap, better weight distribution, and a good nose seal, yet suffers from a restrictive, hazardous tethering cable. Conversely, the Oculus Quest is noted for being front-heavy, but it wins on convenience with an easy, simple three-Velcro-fastener design. Galaxus.de The reviewer crowns the...Read more

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computerbase.de
22/05/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: Image Quality and Performance Requirements

The Oculus Rift S delivers a noticeably sharper visual experience than its predecessor, driven by its 1,280 × 1,440 per-eye LCD panels and improved lenses that significantly reduce distracting "God Rays" and chromatic aberrations. Text legibility is drastically improved, making reading in virtual environments much easier. A major highlight is the convenient 3D Passthrough feature,...Read more

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heise.de
09/12/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: A Successful VR Upgrade

The TechStage review on Heise Bestenlisten evaluates the Oculus Rift S as a highly successful, evolutionary model update for PC-powered virtual reality. The reviewer notes that while it is not a radical reimagining of VR, it effectively addresses previous pain points—most notably through its hassle-free inside-out tracking system. By utilizing built-in cameras instead of external...Read more

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mixed.de
19/04/2020
Oculus Rift S Review: The Ultimate Value Champion?

The Oculus Rift S marks a shift from Facebook’s previous high-end hardware towards an affordable, user-friendly PC VR headset developed in partnership with Lenovo. Its standout feature is the "Oculus Insight" inside-out tracking system, which relies on five built-in cameras to eliminate the need for cumbersome external base stations, cutting setup time down to under ten minutes....Read more

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digitec.ch
13/06/2019
Oculus Quest vs. Rift S: Always a Compromise, Yet There Is a Clear Winner", "Oculus Quest vs. Rift S: A Compromise Either Way, But One Comes Out on To...

The Digitec review declares the Oculus Quest the winner over the Rift S, highlighting its standalone, wireless freedom and superior high-contrast OLED display with a physical IPD slider as major pros. However, the Quest's 571g, front-heavy design makes it less comfortable for long sessions, and it struggles with light leakage around the nose. Conversely, the Rift S offers superior...Read more

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fr.ign.com
22/05/2019
Oculus Rift S: a small step for technology, a giant leap for the public

The Oculus Rift S is a consumer-focused virtual reality headset praised for making VR accessible and highly ergonomic, earning an Excellent 9/16 rating from IGN France. The reviewer notes that while it is not a massive technological leap forward, it provides smart corrections and adjustments over its predecessor. A key benefit is its accessibility; it runs smoothly on average...Read more

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robots-et-compagnie.com
12/02/2020
Full Review of the Oculus Rift S Headset

The Oculus Rift S is a highly immersive virtual reality headset designed for PC gaming. It stands out for its amazing image quality, featuring twin OLED screens that deliver a sharp, realistic picture and greatly reduce the annoying "screen door" grid effect. Setting up the device is very simple because it uses built-in sensors to track your movements. When you move your head, the...Read more

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stylistme.com
21/03/2026
Oculus Rift S review and price: a mainstream virtual reality headset

The Oculus Rift S is a dedicated PCVR headset launched in 2019 that offers a streamlined, comfortable, and external-sensor-free experience for consumer virtual reality. It features a compact design with five built-in cameras utilizing "inside-out" tracking, completely eliminating the need for external base stations. Equipped with a 2560 x 1440 pixel LCD display (1280 x 1440 per eye)...Read more

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rts.ch
24/05/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: The Beautiful Upgrade - Bottom Line

The review from Play RTS frames the Oculus Rift S as a significant, high-quality update and a compelling gateway into virtual reality. On the positive side (pros), the headset delivers a clear step up in visual quality compared to its predecessor, alongside a highly attractive, lowered price tag that makes PC-powered VR more accessible. The system also simplifies the user experience...Read more

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racingfr.net
29/06/2019
COM - [VR Headset] : Oculus Rift S Review(s) YouTube

The RacingFR forum review of the Oculus Rift S, tested with rFactor 2 on a GTX 1080, highlights superior visual clarity, an increased sweet spot, and the elimination of the screen door effect compared to the Rift CV1. The inside-out tracking is deemed sufficient for sim racing, while the 80Hz refresh rate proves adequate and less demanding on hardware. Conversely, the review notes...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
21/05/2019
Oculus Rift S VR Headset Review: No revolution, but more convenience

The Oculus Rift S is an incremental upgrade over the original Rift, shifting from a dual OLED panel to a single fast-switch LCD screen that boosts resolution to 2560x1440 (1280x1440 per eye). While this panel swap greatly reduces the "screen door effect" and lens flaring, it causes a slight drop in the refresh rate from 90Hz to 80Hz and compromises the deep black levels typical of...Read more

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realovirtual.com
17/05/2019
Oculus Rift S: REVIEW - Real or Virtual

Overview and Pros The Oculus Rift S review highlights Facebook's collaboration with Lenovo to design a PC VR headset focused on expanding and democratising computer-based virtual reality. A standout strength is the massive jump in overall image sharpness, text clarity, and colour vibrancy when upgrading from the original Oculus Rift, driven by a new single 2560 x 1440 LCD panel and...Read more

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simracer.es
20/05/2020
Oculus Rift S Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The Oculus Rift S is evaluated as a solid, practical mid-generation update for simRacers rather than a massive generational leap, effectively solving the biggest visual flaws of the original Rift CV1. The reviewer notes that despite a slight decrease in the refresh rate to 80 Hz, the experience feels just as smooth thanks to excellent low-persistence technology. Visually, the Rift S...Read more

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xataka.com
16/04/2019
Oculus Rift S: First impressions alongside the Oculus Quest - Xataka

The review explores Facebook's 2019 dual-strategy for virtual reality, evaluating the PC-dependent Oculus Rift S and the completely standalone Oculus Quest. The Oculus Rift S excels in graphical fidelity and performance, offering high realism in demanding titles like Asgard's Wrath. Its design improvements include a lower overall weight and a highly comfortable rear adjustment wheel...Read more

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it.ign.com
21/05/2019
Oculus Rift S – The Review - IGN Italy

summary of the Oculus Rift S review: The Oculus Rift S is a tethered virtual reality headset priced at €449 that functions as a direct evolution of the original Oculus Rift, requiring a moderately powerful PC (minimum GTX 1060) to run. Its most notable upgrade is the introduction of an "insight tracking" system using five integrated cameras. This completely eliminates the need for...Read more

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everyeye.it
23/05/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: A Small, Great Step for Virtual Reality

The Oculus Rift S is an upgraded PC-powered virtual reality headset designed to make VR highly accessible to a mainstream audience without imposing a steep price tag or complex hardware configurations. Developed in collaboration with Lenovo, the headset retails at 449 euros and completely eliminates the need for external tracking sensors. Instead, it utilizes an "inside-out"...Read more

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hwupgrade.it
24/06/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: PC Desktop Graphics in VR

The Oculus Rift S represents a major step forward for virtual reality by using "inside-out" tracking technology derived from Microsoft HoloLens, which eliminates the need for external infrared base stations and makes setup incredibly easy. Its single fast-switch LCD screen offers a higher resolution of 1280x1440 pixels per eye compared to the original Rift, significantly reducing...Read more

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smartworld.it
02/07/2019
Oculus Rift S Review: The Benchmark for PC Virtual Reality

The Oculus Rift S is a PC-powered virtual reality headset that acts as an evolution of the original Rift, improving optical quality while dropping external tracking sensors in favour of the built-in five-camera Oculus Insight system. Developed in collaboration with Lenovo, it features a comfortable, well-balanced "halo band" design similar to the PlayStation VR, weighing...Read more

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multiplayer.it
23/07/2019
Oculus Rift S Review - Multiplayer.it

The Multiplayer.it review characterises the Oculus Rift S as a highly accessible and practical evolution in virtual reality rather than a revolutionary technical leap. Released at a competitive price of 449 Euro, it positions itself as an optimal entry point for newcomers or those seeking a balanced, user-friendly PC VR experience without breaking the bank. The review praises its...Read more

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vr-italia.org
23/07/2019
Oculus Rift S - review and video review of the new PC headset

The Oculus Rift S review by VR Italia highlights the device as a practical, optimization-focused upgrade over its predecessor (the CV1) rather than a massive hardware leap. The pros center heavily on its redesigned architecture, featuring a single LCD panel (2560 x 1440) that delivers vastly improved text readability, sharper details, and reduced motion sickness. It eliminates...Read more

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tomshw.it
19/05/2019
Oculus Rift S Review - Tom's Hardware

The Oculus Rift S is a PC-tethered VR headset developed in cooperation with Lenovo, offering a significant design and ergonomic overhaul compared to the original Rift. Its standout features include a vastly improved "halo" headband design that balances weight on the forehead and back of the head, allowing for enhanced comfort, better facial ventilation, and seamless use with...Read more

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global.techradar.com
01/08/2022
Oculus Rift S Review - TechRadar

The Oculus Rift S is a PC-tethered virtual reality headset released in 2019 for around €450, designed as a more accessible alternative to high-end devices like the Valve Index. It connects via a 5-meter USB 3.0 and DisplayPort cable and features a rigid, halo-style plastic headband for comfort, similar to the PlayStation VR, and updated Touch controllers with a top-positioned...Read more

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nl.ign.com
13/04/2019
Oculus Rift S and Oculus Quest forge a new path for VR

The review details the launch of the Oculus Rift S and Oculus Quest, highlighting their shift away from media consumption to a dedicated, game-first approach. Both headsets streamline user accessibility by integrating built-in cameras to achieve inside-out tracking, completely eliminating the need for tedious external room sensors. While the Rift S operates as a PC-tethered upgrade...Read more

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id.nl
17/04/2019
Oculus Quest and Rift S: VR Finally for the Masses?

The ID.nl hands-on review highlights the Oculus Quest as a standalone, wireless, game-changing VR headset featuring a 1440 x 1600 per-eye display, though it is limited by a lower 72 Hz refresh rate, graphical compromises, and heavy front-end weight. In contrast, the tethered Oculus Rift S offers improved visual clarity with a comfortable, Lenovo-designed halo strap and simplified...Read more

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