HTC Vive Cosmos Elite

Superior tracking to the standard Cosmos ; Fantastic design features ; Comfortable fit and a convenient flip-up visor

A bit expensive ; Lacks inside-out tracking in this Elite format ; Not all will want base station setup

If you've been putting off purchasing the Cosmos, the Elite version might sway you. It uses base stations for superior tracking in virtual reality - which is positive for functionality, but negative for setup reasons. Still, as VR headsets go, the...

High quality visuals, if not quite the best ; Tracking without Base units is convenient ; VivePort subscription good for VR newcomers

Position and hand tracking can lose itself ; Controllers not the most comfortable ; Limited upgrade potential right now

Modular VR is a neat idea, but if you don’t plan on upgrading, inconsistent tracking makes the Cosmos a merely decent headset

Excellent built-in speakers ; Comfortable visor ; Gorgeous display

Small sweet spot ; Not compatible with all Steam games ; Too expensive

At the beginning of this review, I expressed how difficult it had been to reach a decisive verdict on the HTC Vive Cosmos. It’s such an extraordinary blend of highs and lows that I’m not sure I can recommend it. Like the Rift S, it’s full of little...

High resolutions displays ; Accurate tracking ; Half-Life: Alyx and Viveport Infinity

Very Expensive ; First-gen controllers and base stations ; Lacking innovation

The HTC Vive Cosmos Elite improves accuracy at the cost of immediacy, but that price is a lot to ask for last-gen controllers and base stations.

Excellent tracking accuracy ; Compatible with SteamVR peripherals ; Faceplate is easy to install

Very expensive ; Back to the original Vive controllers ; Faceplate disables camera tracking

The Cosmos Elite with the External Tracking Faceplate gives you everything you need in a VR headset, but the price makes it a tough buy against the current competition.