Augmented reality combines physical and virtual worlds. We utilize augmented reality technologies in our devices. Besides many AR tools Augmented Reality glasses are also there. AR Glasses have become one of the most crucial tools in the industry. There are so many AR glasses available in the market such as Microsoft HoloLens, Magic Leap, Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2, Oculus Quest 2, Epson Moverio BT-300 and many more. Our Glasses Comparison guide provides an in-depth analysis of the features, specs, and pros and cons of the leading AR glasses available today. so let’s dive in.
What is Augmented Reality Glass?
AR glasses are wearable digital glasses that allow people to see digital images, texts, videos or other information which are computer generated. AR glasses are different from each other in shape, size and design. But the common thing among them is the boost of reality with digital overlays.
What Do Augmented Reality Glasses Do?
Augmented reality glasses are the combination of sensors like cameras lidar. After analyzing the surroundings AR glasses identify what is happening and where it’s happening. Then make a virtual map by the help of artificial intelligence and machine learning of that environment. After wearing these smart glasses we can see the objects as if they are real.
AR Glasses Comparison Between Microsoft HoloLens and Magic Leap
When it comes to use from those you may be confused thinking which one is better. There are many AR glasses I’ve already mentioned above. But Microsoft Hololens and Magic Leap are considered the most popular glasses among them. So here I will show a comparison between Microsoft Hololens with Magic Leap and others also.
Processing
Microsoft HoloLens 2, and Magic Leap 2 differ from each other in processing power. In this case Magic Leap 2 is dominating. It can run many applications and programmes in comparison to the Microsoft HoloLens 2. As a reference Magic Leap 2 has a AMD Quad-core Zen2 x86 processor. This processor is only made for Magic Leap 2. It is more power efficient, and gives better performance.
On the other hand, Microsoft HoloLens 2 has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 850. And we know it doesn’t match the industry standard right now. It has become outdated.
Display
| Microsoft HoloLens | Magic Leap | |
| Resolution | Per eye 1440 x 936 | Per eye 1440 x 1760 |
| Optics | Waveguide | Waveguide |
| Rate of Refresh | 60 HZ | 120 HZ |
| View Field | 52 degree diagonal | 70 degree diagonal |
Magic Leap provides the best visual AR experiences. Because it has an AMD processor that activates computing and graphical processing. For its 120 Hz refresh rate we can experience the natural augmented reality feeling.
On the other hand, Microsoft HoloLens has a refresh rate of 60Hz. In the matter of resolution, the aspect ratio differs a lot from each other which is mentioned above. But it is about your preference in which resolution you’re comfortable with.
Tracking
Both Microsoft Hololens and Magic Leap have spatial mapping. To map around us Magic Leap 1 uses a series of colors. In comparison with Hololens Magic Leap 1 battles with black surface.
Microsoft Hololens 2 has the ability to save the spatial environment. This activates the multiple use features around various workspace. But Magic Leap doesn’t have this feature.
These both glasses have tracking and mapping features. These can be used inside. Alternatively, when you use it outside, the light confuses the tracking.
Microsoft 2 utilizes the hand tracking feature. Whereas Magic Leap 1 gets navigation through the controller. So we can state that Magic Leap one is user friendly and a better option for us. Microsoft Hololens 2 can be irritating for users because of its steep learning curve.
Design and Comfort
In case of weight Microsoft Hololens 2 is heavier than Magic Leap 2. Because Hololens 2 has all computing capabilities in the headset. This function makes it all standalone. For this reason Magic Leap is lighter and easier to wear for many hours.
Specifications:
Magic Leap 2
- Release date: 30 September 2022
- Display: Per eye 1440*936
- ROM: 256 GB
- RAM: 16 GB
- Processor: AMD Quad-core Zen2 x86
- Operating System: Android Open Source
- Camera: 8 MP
- Battery Life: 3 hrs of active use. Almost 7 hrs in sleep mode
Microsoft Hololens 2
- Release date: 17 November 2019
- Display: Per eye 1440*1760
- ROM: 64 GB
- RAM: 4 GB DRAM
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 850
- Operating System: Microsoft OS
- Camera: 12.6 MP
- Battery Life: 2-3 hrs of active use. Almost 2 weeks in sleep mode
Price
You can purchase Magic Leap 2 in three ways. They are: the base (€4.120), Developer Pro (€5.065), Enterprise (€ 4.780). According to commercial needs each version can be used in different fields. You can notice the pricing difference among the three ways. It means each category has its own features.It can be deployed more in numbers.
In the case of Microsoft Hololens, you can purchase it in 2 ways. One is the Hololens 2 base version (€3.588). Another one is for the industrial edition (€4.950). This can be used in R&D labs.
Setup
After initial spatial mapping of Microsoft Hololens, it will work efficiently and faster than Magic Leap. Whereas Magic Leap one needs closer exposure to identify the environment.
Microsoft Hololens 2 has cloud saving settings which is considered as a unique feature. For this feature many people can use it.
Pros
1. Microsoft Hololens 2 benefits the cloud mapping. And Magic Leap One is optimized in process and also powerful.
2. Microsoft Hololens 2 navigates with hand gestures. Magic Leap one has a controller. That allows 6 degrees freedom of AR.
3. Microsoft Hololens 2 has the support of Microsoft. The huge Microsoft Productivity platforms are supporting it in every aspect. Whereas, Magic Leap one has an ergonomic lightweight design which makes it an easy to use device.
4. Microsoft Hololens 2 has a huge view field and high resolutions. And Magic Leap 2 has a high refresh rate. And this functionality gives users a smooth experience.
Cons
Microsoft Hololens 2’s display is exposed to the lights. And it’s battery life is less like 2-3 hours.
Magic Leap one doesn’t have an expanded memory. And people who wear glasses face a problem when wearing them. Not compatible with them.
Other AR Glasses
Lenovo ThinkReality A3
Lenovo holds the position with its ThinkReality A3 headset. The hardware is not that heavier. So it is easily wearable. It has an 8 MP camera. Also its speakers are integrated. It has the feature of screen sharing. In comparison to Microsoft Hololens 2 the camera quality and display is not that rich of Lenovo ThinkReality A3.
Vuzix Blade Upgraded
This is considered as the best AR Glasses for remote access. It is really beneficial for the remote workers who want to reduce the distance from the office envirnoment. It has the display of per eye 480*853, 8 MP auto focus camera, built-in speakers, and Vuzix voice control. In comparison to Magic Leap 2 and Microsoft HoloLens its battery life is more.
Final Thoughts
Magic Leap One is the perfect example for the new users of AR. For location-based situations it is used. Its auto-fitting and controller features make it an easy to use device. As it has the highest refresh rate it can be utilized in training, conferences, and video games.
Alternatively, Microsoft Hololens 2 is used in enterprises. As it has a cloud saving function it can be used in various environments. It has a huge view field, clipping reduced ability and higher resolitions.
There are many AR Glasses at present in the market. It is tough to compare all of them. We need to choose the AR Glasses according to our requirements and budget.