When comparing Razer OSVR Hacker Dev Kit vs StarVR, the Slant community recommends StarVR for most people. In the question“What are the best VR headsets?” StarVR is ranked 7th while Razer OSVR Hacker Dev Kit is ranked 8th. The most important reason people chose StarVR is:
With a 210 degree vertical field of view along with a 180 degree vertical view the device can mimic 75% of a normal human's field of view, which is more than any other device claims so far (nearly double that of other high end VR sets). This really helps the wearer feel like they are actually in the virtual world.
Specs
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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 Extremely immersive displays
With a 210 degree vertical field of view along with a 180 degree vertical view the device can mimic 75% of a normal human's field of view, which is more than any other device claims so far (nearly double that of other high end VR sets). This really helps the wearer feel like they are actually in the virtual world.
Pro Crisp details
While most VR headsets use 1080p or 1440p resolution, the StarVR uses 2560x1440p per eye (total resolution of 5120x1440 or roughly 5K). This will ensure text is crisp, and shapes don't have jagged edges - helping to immerse users even more into the virtual world.
Pro Eye tracking
Not only allows Eye tracking, the so-called "foveated rendering", but it enables software developers to implement features that include the users gaze. (More realistic avatars, Gaze aiming). In this headset it also is used to automatically set the IDP.
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 Lots of nausea
There is still time for StarVR to fix this, however currently nausea is a problem which sets in early, and the effects can last for an hour afterwards.
Con May be meant more for commercial use
The manufacturer (Acer) has stated that these device will be seen in commercial settings such as CR theme parks, so they may be priced out of the casual consumers price range.