Acer Windows Mixed Reality headset compared to Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and PSVR by VR expert (video)

Windows Mixed Reality promises to be one of the cheapest PC-based VR platforms available, not only because the headsets are only expected to cost around $300, but also because users will in many cases be able to use their existing PCs instead of super-powerful VR rigs.

At this stage however it is difficult to know if you are getting value for money, or whether spending a bit more will deliver a dramatically better product.

Sean Ong is one of the few people who have access to a Windows Mixed Reality headset, having an Acer device, and has posted a video where VR Expert Nima Zeighami reviewed the device and compares the experience it delivers to devices currently in the market, including the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and PS VR headsets.

On the plus side the headset was very light and comfortable, the screens sharp and higher resolution than other more expensive devices, and delivered impressive performance from older generation PC hardware.

On the negative side, the headset was a bit loose and shook when you moved your head vigorously, making it less suitable for active gaming. There was also a screen door effect present, and tracking broke when very close to a surface.

Nima concluded that the headset would be amazing for sit down and office use/ development, but in its present form would probably not replace an Oculus Rift or HTC Vive for gaming.

See the video below:

Developers can now pre-order Developer Edition Mixed Reality headsets from HP and Acer from the Microsoft Store in USA and Canada.

The HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset Developer Edition is priced at $329 USD and has the following specs:

• Two high-resolution liquid crystal displays at 1440 x 1440
• Front hinged display
• 95 degrees horizontal field of view
• Display refresh rate up to 90 Hz (native)
• Built-in audio out and microphone support through 3.5mm jack
• Single cable with HDMI 2.0 (display) and USB 3.0 (data) for connectivity
• Inside-out tracking
• 4.0m/0.6m removable cable
• Double-padded headband and easy adjustment knob for all day comfort

The headset can be found in the Microsoft Store here (USA / Canada).

The somewhat less pretty Acer Mixed Reality headset costs $299 and has the following specs:

• Two high-resolution liquid crystal displays at 1440 x 1440
• Front hinged display
• 95 degree horizontal field of view
• Display refresh rate up to 90 Hz (native)
• Built-in audio out and microphone support through 3.5mm jack
• Single cable with HDMI 2.0 (display) and USB 3.0 (data) for connectivity
• Inside-out tracking
• 4.0 meter cable

It appears to be lighter, have but less padding and be less adjustable.

The headset can be found in the Microsoft Store here (USA / Canada).

Both headsets, which ship in August 2017,  feature inside-out tracking so you don’t need to set up external cameras or IR emitters to have an immersive experience as you move with six degrees of freedom (6DoF) in mixed reality.

Developers can visit the Windows Dev Center to view documentation, download tools and join the community of Windows Mixed Reality developers.