Key differences of the RealWear Navigator 500 vs HMT-1

Key differences of the RealWear Navigator 500 vs HMT-1

Published: 08-12-2021
Updated: 15-03-2023

On December 8, 2021 RealWear announced its latest device: The RealWear Navigator 500. In terms of appearance, the device is very similar to the previous HMT-1, and there are also similarities in the technical specifications. So what are the main differences and advantages of the RealWear Navigator 500 vs HMT-1?

RealWear Navigator 500 comes with excellent camera 

The camera of the RealWear Navigator 500 has been significantly improved compared to the HMT-1. While the HMT-1 can shoot pictures with only 16 MP, the Navigator 500 can capture images at the highest quality with its 48 MP camera – equal to the resolution of professional cameras.

VR Expert Navigator 500 camera

The video recording resolution remains unchanged at 1080p, however, the frame rate increases from 30 to 60 frames per second in the new device. This means that smooth pictures can still be recorded even during faster movements of the user. 

Improved performance of RealWear Navigator 500 vs HMT-1

RealWear also improved the computing power in the Navigator 500. The processor was changed to the newer Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 and in addition, the RAM has been expanded from 3 to 4 GB. The increase in computing power enables the RealWear Navigator 500 to run even more demanding applications than the HMT-1.

The internal memory has also been doubled to 64 GB. This allows even more files and applications to be stored on the Navigator 500. In addition, the RealWear Navigator 500’s memory can be expanded with an SD card up to 512 GB. This was also possible with the HMT-1, but only up to a maximum of 256 GB.

VR Expert RealWear Navigator 500 side

RealWear Navigator 500 is perfect for long shifts

The RealWear Navigator 500 has been made a lot lighter. While the HMT-1 still weighs 380 grams, the latest device from RealWear is now just 272 grams. This means that it is always pleasant and even more comfortable to wear, even over longer work shifts.

In addition, the boom arm can be adjusted even better on the new device, so that the display can be positioned even better and more precisely for people with any head shape so that the display is always clearly visible.

VR Expert Navigator 500 Use

A comparison between the specifications of the Realwear Navigator 500 and the HMT-1:

Smart glassRealWear Navigator 500RealWear HMT-1
DisplayLCDLCD
Resolution854×480 pixels854×480 pixels
FOV20 degrees20 degrees
Camera48 MP, 1080p, 60fps video16 MP, 1080p, 30fps video
CPUQualcomm Snapdragon 662Qualcomm Snapdragon 626
Memory64 GB, 4 GB RAM32 GB, 3 GB RAM
Weight272 grams380 grams
Battery lifeUp to 8 hours5-6 hours