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Apple’s mixed reality headset has turned the realm of virtual reality on its head, but when it comes to the Apple Vision Pro vs the Varjo XR-4, how does the ‘spatial computer’ stack up against an industry-leading device? Both headsets aim to seamlessly blend natural sight with mixed reality, and in this article, we’re exploring if the Finnish startup Varjo has managed to give the Apple Vision Pro some worthy competition. As cutting-edge devices that are redefining VR, we’ll delve into the distinct features and capabilities of each headset, exploring how they compare to evaluate if you should go Vision Pro or go Varjo.
Apple Vision Pro vs Varjo XR-4 specs
| Specification | Apple Vision Pro | Varjo XR-4 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Resolution | 23 million pixels, Micro-OLED | Dual mini-LED displays, 3840 x 3744 |
| Field of View | Approx 100 degrees | 120° x 105° |
| Passthrough Cameras | Stereoscopic 3D main camera system, 6.5 stereo megapixels | Dual 20-megapixel, 33 PPD |
| Tracking | High-Precision Tracking, LiDAR Scanner, Four IMUs | 300 KPIX LiDAR, 200 Hz eye tracking |
| Special Features | Iris-based biometric authentication, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking | Aspheric clarity, 200 nits brightness |
| Processor | M2 chip, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory | Requires external PC |
| Storage Capacity | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Dependent on the connected PC |
| Connectivity and Wireless | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3 | Connectivity and Wireless |
| Operating System | Vision OS | on headset – Varjo Base, on computer – Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11 |
| Interpupillary Distance (IPD) | 51–75 mm | Automatic adjustment |
| Device Weight | 600-650 g | 665 g (headset) + 356 g (headband) |
| Price | 256 GB From $3,499, 512GB From $3,699, 1TB From $3,899 | Starting at $3,990 |
Apple Vision Pro vs Varjo XR-4 – the ultimate MR showdown
Let’s now explore the Apple Vision Pro and Varjo XR-4 one after the other across various aspects.
Apple Vision Pro: Versatile and user-friendly
The Apple Vision Pro is designed to cater to a broad audience, striking a balance between both consumer entertainment and professional needs. Its standalone nature and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem make it a versatile choice for a range of applications, and usable for both work and play.
Technical specifications
The Apple Vision Pro features a high-resolution display with more pixels than a 4K TV for each eye, powered by the impressive M1 and R2 chipset combination. With a field of view of approximately 100 degrees, Apple’s commitment to delivering exceptional visual quality is evident; however, you can also easily switch from mixed to full virtual reality experiences, living in as much of a real or fantasy world as you wish.
Ecosystem and compatibility
The Apple Vision Pro seamlessly integrates with Apple’s ecosystem, offering a user-friendly experience. With its compatibility with various Apple services and products, users can expect a seamless transition from their existing Apple devices to the Vision Pro. For example, looking at your Macbook gives you the option to bring up your laptop interface right into your Vision Pro.
Varjo XR-4: The professional’s choice
On the other hand, the Varjo XR-4 is tailored for professionals in industries such as automotive design, medical training, and high-end product visualization. Its technical specifications and features make it an exceptional choice for specialized applications, looking beyond what the Vision Pro can do to the next step that VR will play in various practical industries.
Technical specifications
The Varjo XR-4 series boasts a display resolution of 3840 x 3744, offering unparalleled visual clarity. With a field of view of 120°x105°, users can immerse themselves in a wide range of virtual environments and simulations. The headset is equipped with 20 MP passthrough cameras and advanced tracking capabilities, including 300 KPIX LiDAR and SteamVR tracking. In fact, Varjo claims that the multifocal passthrough camera makes mixed reality feel like actual reality. Additionally, it features gaze-driven autofocus and noise-cancelling microphones for enhanced user experience.
Powered by Nvidia GPUs and is integrated with Nvidia Omniverse, which brings photorealistic scenes to life with ray tracing, and due to being PC tethered, the Varjo headset also supports popular 3D engines such as Unreal Engine and Unity, making it an unparalleled PCVR device.
Ecosystem and compatibility
Being a PCVR device, the Varjo XR-4 requires a tethered connection to powerful computing resources. This makes it ideal for professional applications where high-fidelity rendering is essential. The headset seamlessly integrates with existing VR ecosystems, providing a reliable and immersive experience for users. Moreover, with controllers co-developed by Razer, the Varjo headset delivers the tactile experience you won’t get with the Vision Pro whether you like it or not.
Apple Vision Pro vs Varjo XR-4 price
In terms of pricing, the Apple Vision Pro headset is priced starting at $3,499 for the 256GB model, positioning it in the premium segment. This pricing strikes a balance between cost and market accessibility, making the Vision Pro an attractive option for users seeking a high-quality mixed reality experience.
On the other hand, the Varjo XR-4 has a starting price of $3990. While it may not be the most affordable option, its exceptional performance and precision make it a worthy investment for professionals in various fields.
Is the Apple Vision Pro better than the Varjo XR-4?
In conclusion, the choice between the Varjo XR-4 and Apple Vision Pro depends heavily on the intended use case. The Varjo XR-4 excels in specialized professional applications, offering high precision and technical capabilities to industries that can benefit from the use of VR. On the other hand, the Apple Vision Pro is mainly a media consumption device and a mobile home theater replacement that promises versatility and user-friendliness, with seamless integration into Apple’s ecosystem.
Both devices are poised to play pivotal roles in shaping the future of immersive technology, whether in professional, educational, or entertainment domains. As you explore the world of MR, carefully consider your requirements and preferences to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
