The Index controllers strap to your hand, so you can let go of the grip entirely without them falling to the ground. But most importantly, the Index is comfortable because of how it delivers audio.
The strap materials feel quality too-more like a padded extra-soft t-shirt than standard foam padding-never bothering me during extended play sessions. It's a bit heavier than the Rift S-enough that the weight is noticeable in a side-by-side comparison-but the shape of the head strap better distributes that weight around your head. Speaking of comfort, the Valve Index also feels great to wear. There's also a dial and slider for lens adjustment, helping you get the placement just right for maximum comfort and FOV. (For comparison the Rift S offers 1280x1440 resolution per eye at 80 Hz.) The 'screen-door' effect that plagued first-generation VR headsets is practically nonexistent. The Index display boasts a 1440x1600 per-eye resolution and refresh rate of 120 Hz, which together offer the best visual experience I've had in VR to date.
Let's start with what the Index does well. Tracking: SteamVR 2.0 sensors (compatible with SteamVR 1.0 base stations) Display refresh rate: 120 Hz (with experimental 144 Hz mode)Īudio: 37.5mm off-ear speakers, built-in microphone