Microsoft HoloLens vs Magic Leap One
Mixed reality (MR) technology has been advancing rapidly in recent years. Today, we have different MR headsets on the market with various features and functionalities. In this post, we'll compare two of the most popular MR headsets, Microsoft HoloLens and Magic Leap One.
Design and comfort
Microsoft HoloLens is bigger and bulkier than Magic Leap One, but it's also more comfortable to wear for extended periods. The HoloLens has a cushioned headband and adjustable straps that make it easy to fit to your head.
Magic Leap One is lighter and has a more compact design. It's also more stylish than HoloLens and doesn't make you look like an extra in a sci-fi movie. Its headset has a flexible band that conforms to the shape of your head.
Display and field of view
Microsoft HoloLens has a 2K resolution for each eye, ensuring high-quality visuals. However, its field of view is limited to 35 degrees, which is quite narrow. This restricted field of view can make it difficult to use some applications.
Magic Leap One has a 1080p resolution for each eye and a much wider field of view of 50 degrees. This wider field of view makes it easier to see the virtual objects even as you move your head around.
Performance and battery life
Microsoft HoloLens has a more powerful processor than Magic Leap One. It's equipped with an Intel Atom x5 processor and 2GB of RAM. This configuration enables it to run complex applications and games smoothly.
Magic Leap One, on the other hand, has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor and 3GB of RAM. While it's not as powerful as HoloLens, it still performs well for most tasks. However, its battery life is somewhat weaker than HoloLens, lasting around three hours on a single charge.
Price
Microsoft HoloLens is more expensive than Magic Leap One, with a price tag of around $3500. Magic Leap One, on the other hand, is more affordable, with a price of around $2300.
Verdict
Both Microsoft HoloLens and Magic Leap One have their strengths and weaknesses. HoloLens provides better performance, higher resolution, and better app support but has a narrower field of view and is more expensive. Magic Leap One, on the other hand, is more affordable, has a wider field of view, and is more comfortable to wear for extended periods, but its resolution and battery life are weaker.
In the end, the choice between the two depends on your budget, intended usage, and personal preferences.
References
- Microsoft HoloLens. (2022). Microsoft. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/hololens
- Magic Leap One. (2022). Magic Leap. https://www.magicleap.com/oneyearlater