Full Body Tracking in VR: Vive Ultimate Trackers

Jul 17, 2024

Full Body Tracking in VR

Immersion in VR

  • Increases immersion exponentially
  • Allows for full-body movement and tracking
  • Various uses:
    • Gaming (e.g., kicking, dancing)
    • VTubing
    • Pseudo VR treadmill

Vive Ultimate Trackers

High Fidelity Body Tracking

  • Previously limited to specific headsets (e.g., Index, Vive)
  • Complex external setups for Quest
  • Lighthouse and Vive 3.0 trackers were best options
  • Slime trackers had issues (desync frequently)

Sponsorship Disclosure

  • Sponsored by HTC
  • Review intended to provide detailed information
  • Focus on build quality and usability

Build Quality

  • Solid and well-made
  • Heavier than 3.0 trackers (94g vs. 75g)
  • More components including two cameras
  • Self-tracking (no need for lighthouses)
  • Clip-on design with straps (preferred design)
  • USBC and power button at the top
  • Battery life: 7 hours (same as 3.0 trackers)
  • USBC dongle for connectivity
    • Can connect up to 5 trackers per dongle (compared to 1 per dongle for 3.0 trackers)

Setup and Tracking

  • Can be used in standalone VR (Vive XR Elite) or with PC
  • Not compatible with Quest standalone

Standalone VR (Vive XR Elite)

  • Easy setup process by scanning room
  • Works in different environments
  • Better tracking indoors with good lighting

PC VR

  • Not a direct upgrade to 3.0 trackers; an alternative
  • Slightly annoying initial setup (room scan required)
  • Need to opt into PC VR Beta
  • Calibration process involves figure-eight motion
  • Works with various VR setups (Quest 2, Quest 3, SteamVR)

Comparison with 3.0 Trackers

  • Similar tracking fidelity in most scenarios
  • 3.0 trackers slightly better for complex movements (e.g., jumping, breakdancing)
  • Ultimate trackers are cheaper overall ($650 vs. $1,100 for 3.0 setup)
  • Both trackers can be used together

Final Thoughts

  • Worth the money for Quest users without lighthouses
  • Similar fidelity to 3.0 trackers at a lower cost
  • Not necessary for users with existing 3.0 setups and lighthouses (e.g., Index, Big Screen Beyond)
  • Recommended for casual full-body tracking (e.g., VRChat, Dance Dash)

Conclusion

  • Recommended for new users or those without existing lighthouse setups
  • Existing 3.0 users may not see significant benefits
  • Alternative to gyroscope-based methods like Slime VR