Correcting HP Reverb G2 Lens Alignment When Using External Display

Understanding the problem
When you use an external display with the HP Reverb G2, you may notice that the image appears slightly distorted or that the two lenses no longer align perfectly. This can make the experience uncomfortable and reduce immersion. The cause is usually a small shift in the optical axis of one or both lenses relative to the headset’s tracking sensors or the external monitor’s pixel layout. Because the Reverb G2 relies on precise lens positioning for correct eye‑level focus, even a minor mis‑alignment can be noticeable.

Symptoms to look for
- One eye shows a blurred or double‑image while the other is clear.
- The virtual world feels skewed or stretched horizontally or vertically.
- The world seems to shift when you move your head, rather than staying centered.
- You feel a subtle nausea or discomfort that is absent when using the built‑in display.

These signs indicate that the lenses have moved slightly relative to the optical path or the external display’s pixel grid. The following guide explains how to correct this alignment without damaging your headset.

Why it happens with external displays
The Reverb G2’s built‑in screen is tightly integrated with the optical system. When you switch to an external monitor, the headset’s internal geometry is no longer constrained by the internal display. The headset’s lenses sit in a slightly different position relative to the new display, causing the optical axis to shift. Additionally, external displays can introduce latency or color balance differences that make the alignment appear off, even if the physical lens position is correct. By adjusting the lens‑to‑display distance and the internal optical tilt, you can bring the system back to its original alignment.

Preparation before you start

1. Power down everything – turn off the headset, the PC, and the external monitor.
2. Check the cable – make sure you are using the recommended DisplayPort or HDMI cable that supports 4 K at 90 Hz.
3. Clear the headset – remove any attachments or covers that may interfere with the optics.
4. Secure the headset – place the Reverb G2 on a stable surface so you can keep the lenses still while you work.
5. Have a clean cloth – you’ll need a microfiber cloth to wipe the lens surfaces.
6. Read the manual – refer to the official HP Reverb G2 service guide for any model‑specific instructions.

Now you’re ready to start the adjustment process.

Step‑by‑Step adjustment procedure

1. Re‑align the lenses to the headset body

The Reverb G2 has a small, adjustable lens clip that can be rotated to fine‑tune the tilt.

• Locate the two small screws on the sides of the headset that hold the lenses.
• Using a Phillips head screwdriver, turn each screw slowly while observing the lenses.
• The goal is to keep the lenses parallel to the headset’s housing. A slight inward or outward tilt can be corrected here.
• Once the lenses are aligned, tighten the screws gently so the clip stays in place but does not press too hard on the optics.

2. Adjust the lens‑to‑display distance

The optical system is designed for a specific focal distance. The external monitor introduces a new distance.

• Place a ruler or a small measuring tape between the rear of the headset’s lenses and the screen of the external display.
• The recommended distance is usually around 5.6 cm (2.2 in). If your headset sits farther away, it will look stretched; if it’s closer, it will look squashed.
• If the distance differs, adjust the headset’s mounting bracket on the external monitor. Many monitors have a small adjustment screw or a flexible arm that lets you move the display slightly closer or farther.
• Once you achieve the target distance, lock the monitor in place.

3. Calibrate the display resolution

The external monitor may run at a different resolution than the headset’s native 2160 × 2160 per eye.

• Open your PC’s display settings and set the external monitor to 2160 × 2160 at 90 Hz if possible.
• If the monitor cannot support that resolution, use the highest possible that maintains 90 Hz.
• Some users report that a 1920 × 1080 display can work if the headset’s software is set to “external display mode” and the resolution is scaled appropriately.

4. Fine‑tune the optical distortion settings

The Reverb G2 software includes distortion correction curves that compensate for lens imperfections.

• Open the Windows Mixed Reality portal.
• Navigate to the headset settings and find the “Lens Distortion” section.
• Choose the “Custom” option and adjust the distortion sliders until the image appears centered and undistorted.
• These sliders should be used sparingly; a small tweak often resolves most mis‑alignments.

5. Test the alignment in a calibration app

HP provides a free calibration tool called “Headset Alignment”.

• Launch the tool and follow the on‑screen prompts.
• The program will present a series of images that you need to align by moving the headset.
• If you can line up the images with minimal head movement, the lenses are properly aligned.

6. Lock the headset in place

After you’re satisfied with the alignment, secure the headset.

• If your headset has a Velcro strap or adjustable headband, tighten it so the lenses stay fixed in the new position.
• If you used a monitor bracket, ensure that it is fully tightened and the headset remains stable.

Post‑adjustment calibration

Even after physical adjustments, you may need to recalibrate the software to match the new optical setup.

• Open the Windows Mixed Reality portal again.
• Select “Device” → “Recalibrate”.
• Follow the steps to adjust the tracking sensors and eye‑tracking calibration.
• After the process completes, test the headset in a VR game or experience to verify that the image feels natural.

Common troubleshooting tips

• If the image is still slightly off – double‑check the distance measurement. Even a 0.5 cm error can cause noticeable distortion.
• If you see ghosting or double images – the lenses might be dirty. Clean them with a microfiber cloth and a small amount of lens cleaner.
• If the headset vibrates or feels loose – make sure all screws and mounting brackets are tight.
• If the external monitor shows a different aspect ratio – some monitors may display letterboxing. Use the “stretch to fit” option in Windows display settings if necessary, but be aware this can alter the perceived distortion.

Safety note
Never force the lenses or any part of the headset. The optics are fragile, and excessive force can damage the lenses permanently. If you are unsure about any step, consult a professional or contact HP support.

Why this method works
The Reverb G2’s optical design uses a fixed focal length that is calibrated to the internal display. When you replace that display, the entire optical system experiences a shift in the relative position of the lenses and the screen. By adjusting the lens tilt, the distance to the external display, and the software distortion curves, you essentially recreate the original optical path in the new configuration. The result is a clean, centered image that matches the headset’s native performance.

Conclusion

Correcting lens alignment when using an external display with the HP Reverb G2 may seem daunting, but it is a straightforward process if you follow the steps carefully. By preparing properly, adjusting the physical positioning, calibrating the software, and testing the outcome, you can restore the headset’s performance to its original state. The process also gives you deeper insight into how VR optics work, which can be valuable for future upgrades or troubleshooting.

After you complete the adjustment, the Reverb G2 will once again provide a crisp, immersive experience—whether you’re gaming, training, or exploring virtual worlds—without the discomfort that a mis‑aligned lens can cause.