When comparing Razer OSVR Hacker Dev Kit vs GameFace EP1, the Slant community recommends Razer OSVR Hacker Dev Kit for most people. In the question“What are the best VR headsets?” Razer OSVR Hacker Dev Kit is ranked 8th while GameFace EP1 is ranked 11th. The most important reason people chose Razer OSVR Hacker Dev Kit is:
The hardware is under an open license, so it's great for hardware hackers to make and share their improvements. The plastic part 3d models are open and can be printed on a 3d printer as well meaning users are free to customize the looks of the device as well. This also means any manufacturer is free to produce a device using the open hardware and software. Which can lead to more competition which can lead to lower price points.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Open hardware
The hardware is under an open license, so it's great for hardware hackers to make and share their improvements. The plastic part 3d models are open and can be printed on a 3d printer as well meaning users are free to customize the looks of the device as well.
This also means any manufacturer is free to produce a device using the open hardware and software. Which can lead to more competition which can lead to lower price points.
Pro Modular design
The HMD is designed to be upgradeable, meaning components can be switched out and upgraded as desired. Users can also upgrade between official versions.
Pro Pretty cheap
Its only $299 for the kit, which is nearly half the cost of the Oculus or Vive.
Pro Only requires a mid-spec PC
This makes it usable by a much bigger range of customers. Most gamers will already have a PC that can support this HMD. Specific minimum specs aren't listed.
Pro FPGA for hardware programming
A FPGA is included which allows hardware hackers to better integrate their modifications. FPGAs also make the HMD more flexible.
Pro Individual eye focusing
Users who have different focus points for each eye will rejoice! You can individually focus the left/right lenses to make sure you get the clearest image for yourself.
Pro Can be used cordless
The device has battery life of up to 7 hours of use cord free. This is great for those that do not wish to be tethered to any objects.
Pro Plenty of content streams
Content will be available from a wide range of providers, including: Android/Google Cardboard, Gameface, Steam VR, Lighthouse.
Cons
Con Headband not that comfortable
The device uses a tri-band design to attach to ones head. This can be uncomfortable due to how many straps there are and their placement. Other devices use a triangular design which is often considered more comfortable.
Con Low res screens
The included screens for the device are 960 x 1,080, which is less than full HD (1920x1080). Compared to other popular headsets this is low, which can lead to less crisp graphics (most other VR solutions use 1080p or 1440p).
Con Bulky
The EP1 is blocky and heavy at 445g, thanks to it's included Tegra X1 SoC and cooling solution.
Con May be noisy with moving parts
The device has a built in smartphone chip that will need cooling in order to run Android games natively. This fan will cause some noise as well as moving air (from the top of the unit), which all may be a bit distracting.