Rift S launch is around the corner. Whether you’re a current Rift owner or diving into high-end PC VR for the first time, we wanted to share some tips to help make the most of your experience when Rift S arrives later this month.

Compatibility Check

Run the Compatibility Tool

We’ve updated the compatibility tool to reflect our latest recommendations for min and rec spec. You can easily download the tool to check out your PC. Rift S requires one DisplayPort or Mini DisplayPort, and one USB 3.0 port. Click here for more info.

Like the original Rift, Rift S requires Windows 10 (if you’re using Windows 10 N, be sure to install the Windows Media Pack and get the WMF drivers). In the market for a new machine? Check out the Oculus Ready Program for officially certified PCs and laptops.

Laptop Setup: Interface Requirements

If you’re planning to use a laptop with Rift S, make sure it’s equipped with a Mini DisplayPort. Rift S has a high display bandwidth requirement and needs to interface directly with the GPU on your PC. Most laptops that fall within min or rec spec have a mini DisplayPort connected to the discrete GPU.

However, some laptops only have an HDMI, Thunderbolt, or USB-C display output, and unfortunately may not support Rift S. Currently (May 2019), there are no HDMI to DisplayPort adapters that support the bandwidth throughput required for Rift S. Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops may not be configured to interface with the discrete in-spec GPU. Again, some laptops in this category can be used with a USB-C to DisplayPort adapter, but we can’t guarantee performance. If you’re looking for a new laptop, we strongly recommend picking an Oculus Ready Certified PC.

We also recommend keeping your laptop plugged into a power source while using Rift S to maintain optimal performance.

Choosing a Playspace

Before using Rift S, make sure you have enough space around you. Move anything away that you might bump into or trip over. Rift can be used in both stationary and room-scale modes. We recommend a play area of at least 3 feet x 3 feet, and 6.5 feet x 6.5 feet for room-scale. Rift S has a longer cable than original Rift (5m vs. 4m) so you’ll be able to take advantage of all that tracking space!

In addition to being aware of the physical boundaries of your playspace, it’s also important to make sure you use the headset indoors in a well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight (especially on the inside lenses).

Pro Tip: With no external sensors, Rift S has full room-scale tracking built right in. Try setting your forward-facing direction away from your PC so the cord stays behind you (h/t Ben Lang at Road to VR).

Your Oculus Library

If you’re an existing Rift owner, you can bring your Oculus Library right over to Rift S. From the Oculus desktop app, you’ll go through the setup process to add a new device. Simple as that.

That said, original Rift Touch controllers won’t work with Rift S. We’ve redesigned Touch to accommodate inside-out tracking, so make sure to use the controllers that come with your new headset.

The Rift Platform

We can’t wait for people to get hands-on with Rift S. We’ll continue adding new features and improvements with each month’s software releases. We look forward to your feedback and ideas for future updates—please submit them using Oculus Rift UserVoice channel!

We’ll see you in Rift.

— The Oculus Team