HTC has announced the Vive Pro 2, a virtual reality headset with a 5K display and 120Hz refresh rate.The second-generation VR headset, which follows the 2018 Vive Pro, features a 120-degree viewing angle (up from 110 degrees on the processor) and the same 120-degree viewing angle usually access to Display Stream Compression (DSC) technology found in high-end monitors, it aims to increase the visual fidelity of the VR experience. However, this comes at a high price.

It is definitely a VR headset for enthusiasts, as the headset alone starts at $749, with a $1,399 price tag when the Vive Pro 2 launches on June 4.

But underneath the headset's familiar design are some powerful upgrades, notably a higher resolution of 2048 x 2448 per eye and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Then there is the dual stacked lens design and the aforementioned DSC technology. All of these help to reduce the "screen door effect" (the appearance of a mesh-like appearance on the screen due to visible gaps between pixels when the eyes are very close to the display).

Some may scoff at the price, especially given the existence of more affordable headsets like the Oculus Quest 2, which can be purchased starting at $299. That said, not many offer what the Vive Pro 2 offers. The only other 5K VR headsets are the Pimax Vision 5K and 8K models, both of which are currently more expensive than the HTC Vive Pro 2.

How the HTC Vive Pro 2 will stand out in a crowded VR market remains to be seen. Right now, the Oculus Quest 2 continues to be at the center of the VR conversation. Not only is its price point affordable, but it can be connected to a PC for more hardcore applications. In addition, Oculus' Air Link feature removes dangling wires, making games with a lot of movement much easier.

While the HTC Vive Pro 2 looks impressive on paper, the 120-degree viewing angle is measured diagonally and is not as wide as HTC suggests. Furthermore, HTC has opted for an LCD display instead of OLED, which some feel is a downgrade.

Finally, the controller has not been updated at all for 2021, so the $1,400 full kit includes the original Vive wand; for HTC to stand out and earn a spot on our Best VR Headsets list, these upgrades will need to prove that they are worth the high asking price.