HTC has announced the Vive Pro 2, a new virtual reality headset that offers a 5K-resolution display with a 120-degree viewing angle and a maximum refresh rate of 120 Hz. It is not a standalone device like the Oculus Quest 2, but is designed from the start to connect to a PC; driving a 4896 x 2448 screen also requires a powerful PC, especially if you are aiming for smooth, high refresh rates.

The high resolution screen means that there is almost no screen door effect, which is helped by the fact that the new displays use proper RGB sub-pixels. The double-lens design, with two lenses stacked on top of each eye, is behind the viewing angle upgrade and also helps to ensure that there is no blurring toward the edges.

HTC worked with Nvidia and AMD to optimize Display Stream Compression, which is apparently a first for a VR headset, to maintain image quality while providing backward compatibility with DisplayPort 1.2.

HTC does not want to lose its existing loyal PC user base and is eager to offer an upgrade path for head-mounted displays (HMDs) to users who already have a base station and controller, and plans to save a considerable amount of money in the process He points out that the company will be offering a head-mounted display (HMD) as an upgrade path for users who already have a base station and controller, saving a considerable amount of money in the process.

Now, a moment for a deep breath: HTC is running a pre-order campaign for a headset-only version for $749 (£659, A$1,229). If you want the full starter pack, which includes the headset, second-generation base station, and Vive controller, the price is $1,399 (£1,299, A$2,199).

That's a lot of money by any measure. Especially in a world where our pick for the best VR headset, the Oculus Quest 2, costs $299 (£299, A$479). This is a different kind of headset, but its success is not one that can be easily ignored. Nor, to be honest, is its ease of use. Let's see if high-end PC tethered VR can keep up the fight.

The Vive Pro 2 will go up against the Valve Index at this price, which is another big undertaking; the Index is the definition of high-end VR today.

The headset-only version of the HTC Vive Pro 2 is available for pre-order today, and the full package will be available June 4.