Is Vive XR Elite 4k?

With the release of the Vive XR Elite, many gamers may be wondering if one of the most hotly anticipated steps forward in VR gaming will include 4k definition. Don’t worry though, we found all the answers.

The Vive XR Elite is HTC’s attempt to finally make VR gaming as easy as possible. They’ve drastically reduced the size; they’ve made it a standalone device to allow for more movement; they’ve even added a full IPD adjustment range from 54 to 73 mm allowing glasses users to adjust according to their needs. At this point it might be quicker to explain what they haven’t added as far as accommodating the player goes.

But with all these fancy selling points…does the Vive XE Elite have the basics? Does it have 4k? Let’s have a look at what we found.

Is Vive XR Elite 4k?

In short, sort of.

They’ve cheated a bit. The Vive XR Elite has 3840 x 1920 combined resolution. The keyword here is ‘combined’. Each individual eye actually has 1920 x 1920 pixels. Put together, this adds up to 3840 x 1920. That’s 240 pixels short of full 4k (3840 x 2160) vertically. This means that vertically, and for each eye individually, the Vive XR Elite is not 4k. However, the combined net effect of both eyes does produce 4k horizontal resolution.

You might be disappointed to hear that. Here’s why we’re not:

What are the Vive XR Elite specs?

In addition to the combined 4k resolution, the Vive XR Elite boasts up to 110 degrees field of view with a 90 Hz refresh rate, 4 tracking cameras, a depth sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope, a proximity sensor, and a 16 MP RGB camera. You can even interact with AR objects by enabling the ultra-vivid passthrough mode. Don’t forget that all of this comes in a lightweight, compact headset with detachable battery cradle for full portability.

As you can see, it’s not like HTC scrimped on the visuals for this one.

In fact, the greatest barrier we can see to user enjoyment with the Vive XR Elite is the same issue thats’s plagued VR since it’s inception: the price.

With such a focus on user experience and accessibility in this ultra pared down model, it would be easy to assume that this headset was designed to finally break through to the mass market. However, with each Vive XR Elite clocking in at just under £1, 300 that unfortunately doesn’t seem to be the case.

Our Advice

For now, all we can see is that if you can afford it, the Vive XR Elite is something really exciting to explore in the VR market and we look forward to seeing where HTC takes this.

If VR gaming is your jam, we’ve got you covered. Check out our guides for the best graphics cards for VR gaming, or our guide to the best PSVR 2 carry cases.

Alternatively, if VR is a bit out of your budget but you’re interested in exploring the sort of games available, check out our recommendations for PC and PlayStation compatible games similar to leading VR titles here: 20 games like Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series, 20 games like Carnival Games, and 20 games like Super Stardust Ultra VR.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vive XR Elite standalone?

Yes! The Vive XR Elite is a primarily standalone headset. Designed to feel like no more than a bulky set of sun glasses, the Vive XR Elite has wireless streaming to allow for full manoeuvrability.

What is the IPD range of Vive XR Elite?

The Vive XR Elite has an IPD range of 54-73mm and can even be adjusted for those with astigmatism. This remarkable IPD range allows users to use the sleek headset without glasses getting in the way.