PlayStation VR2 vs. PlayStation VR1 – Was it worth the wait?

Video games are to be lived and felt as if you were the protagonist. Or, at least, that is how we like to see it, and for this reason, we are always looking for the accessories that help us achieve it the most. If you are also one of ours, we advise you to read this review carefully. In it, we are going to show you the differences between PlayStation VR2 and PlayStation VR1, the two virtual reality glasses for PlayStation with which we experience the game in our own flesh.

First of all, let us clarify that the first model is usually seen as PlayStation VR, without the number 1 in front, to differentiate it from VR2, which is the later model. As usual , the new model introduces some improvements, the most important being the haptic sensation that is generated and the resolution of the screen. To give you an idea, the PlayStation VR2 has sensors that emit vibrations at certain key moments in the game, as well as tracking sensors, which make the experience more immersive.

Now, this does not mean that absolutely everything improves; there is a hurdle regarding the VR1 related to compatibility. And, consequently, with the number of games in which both virtual reality glasses can be used. We already anticipate that, in this aspect, the clear winner is the original option. But, so that you can check it in detail, keep reading!

PlayStation VR2 vs PlayStation VR1 – Comparison Table

Check, in this comparative table, the most important differences between the two versions of PlayStation virtual reality glasses:

Same visual line with some changes

We start talking about the design, which is the first thing we see when we test a product. In general terms, it is clear that both glasses share the same corporate visual line of PlayStation, with the predominant white color, headband type and curved and dynamic shapes associated with video games themselves. However, there are some issues to highlight.

The PlayStation VR2 achieve something that, in our opinion, is very difficult: increase the resistance of the material by reducing the weight. In other words, they are lighter glasses but more resistant to knocks and falls, and this makes wearing them more comfortable, because we have less weight on our heads.

In addition, there is another fundamental change in terms of freedom of movement, and that is that the VR2 model has fewer cables than the original VR, which could be somewhat uncomfortable at certain times. And not only that, but the cable that in the VR was loose at the bottom, in the VR2 is attached to the headband itself, so we don’t have the feeling of having a cable on top constantly.

Resolution breakthrough

One of the aspects where PlayStation has evolved its virtual reality glasses is in screen resolution, which goes from 960 x 1080 pixels in each eye in VR to 2000 x 2040 pixels in VR2. This increase in resolution, which makes the VR2 reproduce in 4K, also means that only these glasses are compatible with HDR. That is, with high dynamic range colors that provide a more realistic sensation in the images.

Built-in cameras

We continue talking about another of the novelties between the PlayStation VR2 vs VR1, the layout and type of cameras. Actually, there is a change only for the fact of including cameras in the glasses themselves. The first glasses included a set of lights in the viewfinder so that an external camera would record the images. On the other hand, in the PlayStation VR2, we find four front cameras, which allows a greater field of vision and more dynamism in the game. In this regard, it should be noted that the field of vision opens from 100º in the VR to 110º in the VR2.

More evolved sensors

Now, we change the third and talk about the set of sensors that each pair of virtual reality glasses has. We have to say that the difference between the two models, in this sense, is abysmal, although we must be fair and say that 6 years have passed between the two, a time in which technology has advanced a lot.

The PlayStation VR2 has an intelligent eye tracking sensor, with which it generates more interactions with other players and more intensity in the experience. On the other hand, this sensor is the perfect complement to the improved 3D audio technology, but which translates into more realism. Likewise, the helmet emits a series of vibrations to simulate the movement of the head when it occurs in the game

Different glasses, different controls

Both the PlayStation VR and the VR2 are synchronized with controls with which we transfer our movements to the video game. PlayStation VRs have Move controllers, which charge via USB or mini-USB. This remote detects the movement of the arm well, but it does not have the same perfection and level of detail as the Sense controls, which are the ones that the VR2 have. Like the Move, they’re also wireless, but these only need a USB-C connection to recharge.

On the other hand , the Sense controls use motion and infrared sensors so that the camera system can correctly track all movements, more precisely. In addition, they have adaptive triggers that allow you to adjust the resistance, and they are more sensitive to touch than the Move controls. Perhaps too sensitive, in our opinion, although the perception of realism and the fluidity with which they show the movements is brutal.

Compatibility and games, the point to improve

So far, pretty much everything we’ve looked at has been improvements to VR vs. VR headsets, but that changes when it comes to compatibility with PlayStations. VR2 glasses are only compatible with PS5, while VR glasses can be used with both PS5 and PS4 and PS4 Pro. An adapter is needed, but they can be synchronized. And, beyond the versatility, this has another indirect consequence, and that is the number of compatible games. In the case of VR2, it is more than 30, but in VR, it is more than 600. So, it goes back on this aspect.

PlayStation VR2 vs PlayStation VR1: Are the new virtual reality glasses worth it?

Although we have had to wait six years for PlayStation to update its virtual reality glasses, it has been worth it. The VR2 incorporate a set of innovations and technologies that make the experience of living and feeling the video game almost as if you were inside it. From the incredible improvement in screen resolution, which makes images much sharper, to the renewed sensors and controls that help bring more fluidity to movements and more hyperrealism.

We especially like the change that PlayStation has given to the controls . The Sense are a much improved version of the Move, especially in the perception of movements, which in video games are usually fast. In addition, the complement of vibrations in the headband makes us experience situations with more empathy. What we don’t like so much is that the PlayStation VR2 is not backwards compatible; this means that VR model games cannot be used or played. This is the reason why there are 20 times more games available in VR than in VR2.

But, except for this exception, the rest of the features are clearly better on the PlayStation VR2. Of course, the price is practically double that of the VR. Therefore, think about how important it is for you to renew if you already have the VR glasses. If you are a big fan of video games, you might be interested, although VR is an accessory that also allows you to experience games intensely. On the other hand, if you do not have either of the two and want to opt for one, there is no color in the quality, sharpness and fluidity of the images between the PlayStation VR2 and the VR.