HP Reverb G2 (Late 2021) Improved Tracking and FOV Review

[@adamsundelin]

This is the perfect update. I have been trying to decide between the G2 and the reverb for a while now, the only thing holding me back from the G2 was the tracking, and the only thing stopping me from just buying the Index was the lower resolution, quality control issues, and the fact that its far less portable than an inside out tracked headset. Purchasing the new G2 ASAP. Thanks for the review, you are the first youtuber to post a review of the new version.

[@TheVirtualOz]

What?

[@PashaGamingYT]

@@TheVirtualOz They meant the Q2 and the G2 I believe

[@mrspaceman2764]

I love this headset. I have the 1st G2 version and haven't had any issues and because of my ipd being so close and glasses, closer doesn't really help. The last update for the tracking on G2 solved most the tracking out of view issue for me. And HP did send a new power and cable box that solved my USB C connectivity issues too.

[@troyb8579]

U use g2 with eye glasses? Works ok? Thx

[@mrspaceman2764]

@@troyb8579 Yeah, it's actually more comfortable than any headset I've used in this regard, except for the Index which has an adjustable face to screen distance knob so you don't get the fatigue on the bridge of your nose with the Index like you do with every other headset. Even so, the G2 is more comfortable since it's not this massive piece of plastic on your head. I like the Index a lot but it feels more like I'm putting my head into bucket while the G2 feels more like the Rift CV1 but with a better face cushion. It's way more comfortable than a Quest 2, even with the head strap. The G2 spreads the face connection out (much like the Index) so after a couple hours, your face doesn't feel like you got punched. I bought this thing thinking it would be a cheap alternative for my kids and friends but it's become my daily driver. It's so easy to setup, light and comfortable and that resolution is just unbeatable. Not trying to be a shill, it just amazes me that this thing isn't more popular. If VR on PC is what you're looking for, I can't recommend anything but the G2 and the G2/V2 is the same price and only better. Especially if you're looking at sim games. Long reply, I enjoy spreading the word :)

[@troyb8579]

@@mrspaceman2764 thanks! sounds great! the g2 will be my 1st VR headset .... found a version 1 G2 for 380$ its comin in the mail! cant wait

[@troyb8579]

@@mrspaceman2764 the new prototype VRs u can set ur percription eye # in the set itself! cool stuff

[@MCP2002]

@@mrspaceman2764 I actually returned my Reverb because of how uncomfortable it was with glasses (im assuming we have diff glass frame styles). I'm still using my Rift S as of now since I can't even tell I'm wearing glasses while wearing the HMD.

[@ShadowOfMachines]

I might get this one. I'm not touching the Facebook tangled Oculus and while it seems Valve is chugging along with their new headset I don't know what that will release. So for a first headset I think this one will work just fine.

[@That555Guy]

Just purchased the reverb g2 based of this video thanks

[@meliodascsjo_gaming2637]

Wow thank you for the review. I have been reading bad reviews about the tracking for the G2 but stumbled upon the Update article. The main issues should have been addressed, but could not find a review of the new version of the headset. I have the original htc vive with base stations and was thinking of upgrading. The G2 seemed like the perfect candidate but I was unsure, because bad tracking could really ruin the experience. I searched for ways to combine the tracking from the vive with the g2 headset, but was not fond of the idea of buying it for just the higher resolution and having to frankenstein it together with the controlls(i dont like the original vive controlls). But it seems that it got sortet out. So i think i just made a decision. So thank you again for sharing your experience.

[@wilismatrix9847]

I hesitated between HP R2 and Varjo Aero but I went for HP because of the reviews and its quality that it almost like the Varjo, So bought it this week and I gotta say it is very great Headset with a very sharp rendering and traking,, only the most sharp area is a little small but thats okay. Very nice product and worth its price

[@hazzy5714]

i dont know if you still use the headset but if the sharp area is tiny theres a chance youre not wearing the headset correctly, the back strap has to be lower than you think

[@jabsoon]

can you provide the product codes for each G2 versions? I would like to know which I'm buying. Thank you in advance.

[@sergeantxdan]

With it being 450 now it's tempting.

[@rookless4121]

It was $400 during cyber monday and the price changed daily. I'm still debating if now is the time.

[@steezy8988]

bro its €780 where i’m at 💀💀💀💀 i hate the netherlands

[@sergeantxdan]

@@steezy8988 it went back to normal price for like a day. Fs in the chat. 😞 sorry

[@timtoomuch]

So why can't they send out an update to the original g2 I don't get it if the cameras are still the same

[@andrewkossow45]

Does anyone know how to tell the difference between the original and refreshed version during purchase? Model number, spec number, a special note, etc?

[@cooper3820]

Thank you!

[@cisco150]

thanks for this

[@Mysticalp]

That tracking comparison is really helpful Does anyone have details for the tracking close to your face? I'm specifically thinking about blocking in boxing or pulling the bow string to your cheek in archery games

[@legendp2011]

I am worried that the hp reverb g2 v2 will not have enough room for glasses, but iit looks like it has the glasses spacer included?

[@codyeakin1187]

Are going to drop test

[@michaelbrearley8249]

Does anyone know if a 3060 ti will be enough to run iRacing, automobilista 2 with the g2?

[@ItzSmokeyB]

It can easily run those. Minimum for vr is 10606gb/580 8gb recommended is like 1660ti/5700xt and anything better is amazing

[@TheMikeYouSee]

Can I play my oculus library?

[@SymeonPhronema]

Dumb question here. Can the HP Reverb G2 V2 be used while sitting down? My Samsung Odyssey + works great while sitting. Any ideas?

[@Rawwr1ful]

Really stuck between this and the index, i only have a small play area so the inside out tracking (plus the 300 quid saving) is attractive to me. What would be the best choice for me?

[@coeb3183]

i'm in the same situation so good luck

[@Rawwr1ful]

@@coeb3183 thanks man! I eventually settled on getting the index, should have it in a few days :)

[@thatladliam580]

@@Rawwr1ful make sure not to sweat too much and if you do take it off for a minute because it can ruin the lenses

[@RavenVolkov]

I had the vive with base stations, and in a medium play area. using it's vive gen 1 base stations, I had some controller drifting issues with tracking based off of how much of my body (6'2 powerlifter, so decently beefy) was blocking the view of one or more base stations, but I think the gen 2 base stations that the index comes with may fix that. I am now in a space maybe half the size, and I am understanding that although I am in between the index and g2, with a small play area, and the extra struggle with base stations, and how the g2 has better tracking now, I am for sure going to go with g2.

[@jerrystash]

I'm planning on switching from a Quest 2 since my Quest 2 went from lasting 8hrs to 3hrs max through a link cable. The reverb g2 shouldn't do that power drain issue where it doesn't last as long since it is constantly have power right? and should last indefinitely?

[@adamsundelin]

Yes, the HP reverb has no internal battery so it must be connected to a PC. As long as the PC is powered the headset will be.

[@jerrystash]

@@adamsundelin Thanks that is nice. Does the new version of the reverb have capacitive touch controllers or have they not done that yet

[@Steam_VR]

@@jerrystash Unfortunately not :(

[@tac6044]

The G2 is a gigantic step forward from Quest 2 visually , comfort and audio. Worlds better, you will be happy.

[@shul5684]

Is this a FIRMWARE update?? OR is this another product. Just upgraded from rift s, and controllers are pretty bad in comparison as I have to keep the controllers in front of my body at all times to not loose track.

[@jeremydias4722]

how would i know if its the new version from an amazon listing?

[@GizmoSlipTech]

You would probably want to ask the seller.

[@jeremydias4722]

@@GizmoSlipTech seller ain't responding, it's been more than 2 weeks now but it's ok. I've got plenty of time to decide🙂

[@MaxRamos8]

@@jeremydias4722 it's safer to buy directly from HP as they only sell the new one, at least in the US.

[@jeremydias4722]

@@MaxRamos8 here in UAE, HP doesn't sell anything directly from Thier site. only through Amazon. Other spots are physical store fronts but they don't stock VR headsets besides Oculus quests

[@helloworld77771]

Any review of the G2 Improved version with Onward VR?

[@eliasrodriguez6654]

how would you know the difference between the one with improvements or do i just get the improved one when i buy

[@Steam_VR]

If the face cover has a glass spacer, it is the V2

[@TotalNinjaLover]

I'm on the fence about getting this or the index. I'm Rift S owner atm but I'm so fed up with Oculus I'm jumping ship since they started making games exclusively for their new headsets and I just got a new PC that has windows 11 installed and I can't get most of my VR to work anymore. (Didn't know Rift S isn't updated for use on the new OS)

[@Unrruly]

I'm in the same situation atm. What did you end up getting if you already purchased?

[@vedrancolak3890]

So how do I know which one I'm buying if they both share the same name? I guess some G2 and G2v2 designation would be useful.

[@alexanderbayer8179]

To 100% be sure you get the new one, buy it from real stores not online shops, real stores or the HP online shop will definetly only have the v2

[@ItzSmokeyB]

For amazon look at the Q&A

[@chrisstaples182]

What is that on your wall that lights up?

[@Muehlema1]

Ist there any spare part number for ordering the new facial interface replacement for my G2 v1?

[@nomad_lyfe]

Do the software related improvements apply to the previous g2 model in some kind of update? regarding the tracking an such, you might have sold me on upgrading to the magnetic faceplate

[@Deathbatman]

haven't seen a new video on it but from what I hear the software related improvements improved the tracking on the hp reverb g2 v1

[@thegarch3293]

I have a quest 2 and wanted to upgrade for pcvr. I was at Dave and busters and saw they had a G2 with some game. I tried it on and the graphics and resolution were way worse than I ever see with the quest 2. I wonder why that is?? Maybe they set the resolution low for public use?

[@adamsundelin]

It could be a number of things. My guess is it's some lower spec version that HP sells in bulk to other entertainment companies.

[@GizmoSlipTech]

My guess is that the game was running on lower end settings/specs. On a side to side comparison, the HP Reverb G2 with a powerful PC will be able to do higher graphics both in terms of resolution, but also clarity. The Quest 2 when paired with a PC wirelessly can also do similar graphics, but at a lower resolution and with video compression artifacts, which can hinder a great experience depending on what VR environment you are in. But with either headset, PCVR graphics are miles above the graphics that can be achieved on standalone Quest 2 VR. Of course, there are still plenty of great VR experiences to be had with the lower graphics of the Quest 2.

[@thegarch3293]

@@GizmoSlipTech I play only pcvr with the quest 2. I just want a visual upgrade. I should probably upgrade my gpu first. I have a 2080 super so I don’t know if I can even push the g2 100%

[@_Mars]

@@thegarch3293 a 2080 super will push any modern vr hardware to 100%, anything more than that is just fluff

[@smugegeez1406]

@@thegarch3293 That's like bench pressing 10 pounds for a 2080 super, it's a monster gpu. Only thing you'll have issues with is getting 240hz at 4k gaming lol.

[@Humblesimon]

Great review, I'm considering upgrading to the Reverb from my CV1 (and going to a RTX 3080Ti from my current GTX1070 Aero). The Pimax is expensive but also not for private purchase in the Netherlands. I found a seller online but it is only for buisnesses. So, for now, I think the Reverb is the best option, the Quest 2 is limited in resolution but also I'm trying to move away from the Meta company that forces you to pay for hardware and additionally pay with information they can sell.... Oh, and one question, how much distance is the minimum distance? I have long eyelashes and with the CV1 I'm allready touching the lenses... Very annoying!

[@Keego0201]

I'm literally in this situation. I have a CV1 and a GTX 1070. The Reverb G2 is on my radar.

[@davido3403]

Will new gasket fit 2020 model?

[@sbbeowulf8296]

How long is the cable that it comes with?

[@chickenpasta7359]

You can find the HP Reverb G2 on sale from time to time directly from HP for $400. I wouldn't buy this at $600. With that said I got my headset for $150 used in mint condition. Couldn't be happier. Also they may have improved the cameras by adding slightly wider lenses

[@christianulmer1106]

You've helped my decision on buying my first headset! So... thank you! But is it worth it to buy Valve Index controllers + Basestations to help with the tracking, or is it good enough on it's own?

[@GizmoSlipTech]

If you are after fine control in FPS games like Onward, then maybe worth the external tracking. I'd say try the headset out yourself on the Reverb G2 and decide from there if you'd find the improvement worth it.

[@Vixyzsisgoated]

@@GizmoSlipTech is the tracking quality on the reverb g2 comparable to a oculus rift s? im hoping to upgrade to the g2

[@JudgeSim2]

how could the 8k pimax be the best HMD? even a 3090 struggles running the reverb g2 at 4k in some games

[@GizmoSlipTech]

It’s got incredible FOV + detail + excellent speakers + index controller support. Yes, some games are a struggle to run at maximum details and resolution, while some games you can actually max out in the headset. But the sense of immersion you get from the headset is fantastic. I’ve got probably 400+ hours in the 8KX now.

[@covertpuppytwo3857]

I own the Pimax 5K+, the Pimax 8K and the HP G2. The HP G2 is my daily HMD. The Pimax is just too much work and not as comfortable... I was able to receive Index controllers because of Pimax and I use them with my HP G2. Yes, I wish the G2 had the FOV of the Pimax but the G2 is best of class every where else.

[@phatcockbrand6160]

@@covertpuppytwo3857 how do you set up index controllers with G2? Is there something u can link for a step by step

[@BecomeAPrime]

Microsoft Store has this for $450 atm… is it the refreshed version?

[@GizmoSlipTech]

It probably is, but I'm not sure. Maybe check their return policy before buying just in case.

[@cieuxlux9617]

@@GizmoSlipTech I just ordered through Walmart's website, sold by the actual MS Store. Won't be here for a few days, but I'll let you guys know if it's the updated version when it arrives.

[@kosletten7683]

Just received mine from Microsoft on Dec. 21,2021, it is the new refreshed version.

[@cieuxlux9617]

@@kosletten7683 Just got mine too - ordered from Walmart, shipped from Microsoft. Was the newest version. Tracking is great thus far.

[@haiwensu2896]

how do you tell if I bought a new version or the old?

[@zemi2750]

1N0T5AA#ABB is the old version, tho HP seems to have butchered the assembly including old version with the new cable and vice versa... it's a coin toss. For exmpl: I got the new version 1G5U1AA#ABA, but came with the old cable and the new face gasked and that was directly from HP. If you get the old cable and the new unit just chat with HP support, they send you one free.

[@Stu81]

I'm thinking of getting the G2 but pair it with the index controllers, or are the G2 controllers just as good?

[@helloguy8934]

They are definitely not just as good. They don't have capacitive sensors.

[@knowledgeis5855]

G2 controllers are a joke. Substandard even compared with Oculus Rift CV1. Cheaper feel, sometimes dir stick gets stuck, no capacitive touch. I just cannot wait for a good replacement to be released. G2 is great for driving sims with the resolution but that's about it.

[@helloguy8934]

@@knowledgeis5855 Man but the resolution is worth

[@JohnJones-yk5qk]

Hi and what about the FOV , is it noticeable better

[@GizmoSlipTech]

The FOV with the reduced spacer is definitely an improvement, though you can do that same improvement on the original Reverb as well.

[@dankwedd_yt8197]

Is the new version have tracking that is as good as the quest 2. (I know you already said that) if anyone has both headsets I want to know if one is better then the other or if it is just the same experience in terms of tracking quality

[@omarangulo19]

If you would’ve watched the video you would have heard him say it’s on par.

[@dankwedd_yt8197]

@@omarangulo19 I did I’m just saying I wanted to double check in case I do buy the headset.

[@helloguy8934]

@@dankwedd_yt8197 A different reviewer said its a bit worse. Motion range wise

[@ItzSmokeyB]

IME it is a small bit better

[@musclemaker452]

Hey, what is better MSI GP66 Leopard 11UH (11800h+3080) or GE76 Raider 11UG (11800h+3070) ?

[@dankwedd_yt8197]

The msi go66 leopard is better due to it having a better gpu and having the same processor as the second option. A 3080 is better then a 3070

[@sebastianmizzon1462]

Is this VR Headset standalone?

[@ItzSmokeyB]

No

[@migueldias1919]

Hi , a friend told me that even the half resolution need a good pc to be runned , i have a gtx 1060 3gb , i5 8400 and 16gb ram. Do you think even at half resolution im going to have fps problems? I really want a vr if you think i cant run this can you recomend me other one? Thanks and stay safe.

[@ItzSmokeyB]

1060 6gb is minimum for vr i would say 1060 3gb could maybe run on lowest settings but i would for sure upgrade to like 1660ti 2070 5700xt or better

[@joeruder]

I cannot imagine loving a headset that requires a cable management system. The wireless capabilities of the Q2 with virtual desktop have just blown me away. The visuals are really good when driven with a top end system (I am using a i9/RTX3080ti) and wireless freedom means I can use it in multiple rooms in my home depending on what I am doing. I am very excited for the next gen of things like the G2 and Index (an Quest 3 for that matter) to see what is next. Hopefully wireless all!

[@ItzSmokeyB]

Im sorry high end? RTX? 1080ti? Thats more mid end now a days and thats a gtx gpu

[@joeruder]

@@ItzSmokeyB -- LOL -- Sorry, I missed a 3 and hit a 1. I have a Aurora R13 with a RTX 3080 Ti which has impressed me quite a bit. thanks for catching it.

[@edwardenigma1929]

Bought one, returned 2 days later. Sweet spot the size of a half dollar, vibration on controllers is loud and feels cheap not good at all. Bit of pressure point on my temple's not to bad but Rift S much more comfort. The cable is thick and very grippy so will pull on you. When you first start up a lot of ghosting effects until it heats up, and screen door until it warms up. 10 mins or so then gone. If you want to surf the web you can not scroll with the controllers. You will have to use a mouse as well. Wanna type in search bar, your gonna need to lift up headset and use physical keyboard. Tried playing Pavlov you can not use 2 hands on weapons. Right hand will grip but left hand does not grip the weapon. So I'm guessing custom mapping is needed. Have heard this is the case on many other games. Cant hit anything with only 1 hand on a machinegun. God rays are very noticeable on the G2 V2, my Rift S never really noticed them. I purchased on sale for 499 but still not worth that. maybe $350. In games the sweet spot is not as bad, you really don't see it much but, on anything else you can only read 2 words and then left and right of those 2 words are blurry and the next ones very blurry. I wanted to love this but I'm going back to Rift S. Controllers hit when reloading weapons. I really believe the Rift S or Quest 2 are much better at software, easy of use, you can just play and even the screens have much bigger sweet spot. I think if you are sim racing its a great choice the sweet spot not as bad. Sim flying your gonna have to turn your head a lot to see the gauges clearly. I'd wait. The only thing it has going for it is sound and the very small sweet spot. Just my experience. Imma keep my rift s until something better comes along.

[@theonlymtm3331]

im close to being an adult. and I think I found the first thing im gonna buy with my adult money

[@dand3012]

this will NOT hook up with most pc's or laptops check first! also needs a high end graphics card to run at higher resolution.

[@teavo3808]

The Body VR looks downright horrifying

[@CreeperLink777]

I bought it just to receive the old version... what a disappointment

[@fkfakemusic3172]

dang, did u buy straight from HP?

[@exhaustor5983]

Sadly this review is only for people from US. If you live anywhere else you cant get this v2 version. So HPs marketing is working perfectly. They still sell shitty product everywhere but get good reviews from US tubers. If they sell v2 in EU I would buy it. But I am not gonna pay 600 to 700 eur for inferior product.

[@popp1caso]

Bruh that sucks. I'm pretty sure I have the 1st version.. that's dirty...

[@duckyroot]

the g2 costs $849.00 for some reason

[@ShahzadAli-hk1ns]

thanks for the video, however your video is very stuttery - like 12fps. This is quite nauseating, especially for game footage, especially VR game footage. Please consider 60fps camera/capture - thank you :)

[@GizmoSlipTech]

I did capture it at 60 fps, but Davinci resolve project timeline was glitched to 24 fps.

[@davidfaustino4476]

Just got this for $449. Another $450 on Valve index controllers and base stations puts me at $900 for basically a Valve Index with a better headset :)