Virtual reality (VR) has come a long way in recent years, and two of the most notable headsets that helped shape the current generation are the Oculus Quest and the Oculus Rift S. Developed by Oculus, a branch of Meta (formerly Facebook), these two headsets cater to different audiences and use cases. If you’re in the market for a VR headset and are trying to choose between these two, this article breaks down the differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision.
TLDR: Oculus Quest vs. Rift S
The Oculus Quest is a versatile standalone VR headset, ideal for wireless freedom and portability. The Rift S requires a PC but delivers more consistent graphical performance. If you value untethered gameplay, go with the Quest. If you’re already invested in high-end PC hardware and want better visuals, the Rift S may be the better choice—though it’s worth noting that both are now discontinued in favor of newer models.
A Quick Look at Both Headsets
Before diving into the details, it’s valuable to understand what sets the Quest and Rift S apart at a glance:
- Oculus Quest: A standalone VR headset that does not require a computer or external sensors. Offers wireless freedom but with some compromises in performance.
- Oculus Rift S: A PC-tethered VR headset that requires a capable computer. Offers more detailed graphics and smoother frame rates but lacks the mobility of the Quest.
Design and Comfort
Both headsets share some design philosophies, but they differ in execution.
Oculus Quest: The Quest was designed to be a standalone device, which means it houses all the necessary components—processors, sensors, battery—within the headset itself. This makes it heavier, particularly at the front. It uses a soft fabric material, which gives it a premium feel, but some users may find the default strap to be less comfortable during long sessions.
Oculus Rift S: The Rift S uses a more balanced “halo” head strap developed in partnership with Lenovo. It’s generally considered more comfortable for extended play, due to its better weight distribution. Since it’s powered externally by a PC, the headset is lighter than the Quest.
Winner: Rift S, for its better ergonomics and lighter weight.
Display and Visual Quality
When it comes to visual fidelity, both headsets perform well, though there are distinct differences.
- Oculus Quest: Uses OLED panels with a resolution of 1440 x 1600 per eye. It provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it ideal for cinematic experiences like VR storytelling or interactive art.
- Oculus Rift S: Uses an LCD panel with a slightly higher combined resolution of 1280 x 1440 per eye. Although colors are not as vibrant as the Quest’s OLED, it delivers improved clarity, reduced screen-door effect, and better consistency across various uses like gaming or simulator experiences.
Winner: Tie, depending on whether you value color vibrance (Quest) or image clarity (Rift S).
Tracking and Controllers
Both headsets use Oculus Insight, an inside-out tracking system that eliminates the need for external sensors.
Oculus Quest: Offers full six-degrees-of-freedom tracking through front-facing cameras. The tracking is surprisingly accurate for a standalone device. The Quest also uses the same controllers as the Rift S—ergonomic, lightweight, and responsive Oculus Touch controllers.
Oculus Rift S: Employs the same tracking system and controller setup as the Quest. However, being tethered to a PC, its performance can be slightly more responsive in demanding games.
Winner: Tie, since both headsets provide nearly identical tracking and controller experiences.
Performance and Hardware Requirements
This is where one headset starts to really stand apart from the other.
Oculus Quest: Runs on a built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 mobile processor. While impressive for a mobile chip, it cannot match the power of a modern gaming PC. Therefore, games on the Quest are often downscaled in terms of graphics and performance. However, the headset does offer Oculus Link, which allows users to connect the Quest to a PC to access Rift-level content.
Oculus Rift S: Fully leverages the power of your PC GPU, delivering a higher frame rate and graphical fidelity in many VR titles. There’s no built-in processor, so you’re fully dependent on your system specs—requiring a mid to high-end PC to function optimally.
Winner: Rift S, for better raw performance—if you have the right PC.
Portability and Setup
If you’re planning to take your VR headset on the go or use it in different rooms frequently, portability matters.
Oculus Quest: This is where the Quest truly shines. With no wires or external components, it can be used nearly anywhere. Initial setup is quick and requires only the mobile app and some floor space.
Oculus Rift S: Requires being tethered to a PC and also needs USB and DisplayPort connections. While setup isn’t overly complicated, it’s not as seamless or portable as the Quest.
Winner: Quest, for its wireless, standalone design.
Software and Game Library
Both the Quest and Rift S benefit from the expansive Oculus ecosystem. However, there are some nuances:
- Oculus Link: Allows Quest owners to access the full Rift library when connected to a PC, essentially making the Quest a 2-in-1 device.
- Rift S: Has direct access to high-end PC VR content right out of the box but cannot operate independently like the Quest.
Winner: Quest, due to its hybrid nature and broader flexibility in accessing games.
Longevity and Future Support
Since both headsets have officially been discontinued by Meta in favor of newer models like the Quest 2 and Quest Pro, future support is important to consider.
Oculus Quest: Still receives firmware updates, and the library continues to grow with backward compatibility for many titles. Because of its popularity and versatility, the Quest community remains active.
Oculus Rift S: Has been phased out more quickly as Meta has shifted focus to standalone VR. Fewer updates and a decreasing user base make it a less future-proof investment.
Winner: Quest, for ongoing firmware support and prospects of longer relevance.
Price and Value
While both products have been discontinued, they are available refurbished or secondhand. Pricing will vary, but here are general guidelines:
- Oculus Quest (original): Often found in the $150–$250 range for a 64GB or 128GB model.
- Oculus Rift S: Typically available for around $150–$200, depending on condition and demand.
Given that the Quest can double as both a standalone and PC VR headset, it offers better value for those looking to get the most flexibility.
Winner: Quest, based on functionality per dollar.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choosing between the Oculus Quest and the Rift S depends heavily on your priorities:
- Choose the Oculus Quest if you want wireless VR, greater portability, and the option to connect to a PC when needed.
- Choose the Oculus Rift S if you already have a powerful gaming PC and want higher-quality graphics and a more comfortable fit for longer sessions.
That said, given the Quest’s flexibility and ongoing software support, it edges out the Rift S in the long run, especially for newer VR users or those who don’t want to be tied to a desk.
Overall Winner: Oculus Quest
