VR video formats: VR180, VR360, SBS and mono
A VR video has two separate settings: its projection, which determines the shape of the image around you, and its stereo layout, which determines how the left and right eyes receive images. Choose both to match the file. Resolution alone does not identify either setting.
Choose the projection
| Format | What it means | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Flat | A normal video displayed on a virtual screen. | Use this for ordinary video without a spherical projection. |
| VR180 | A video covering the hemisphere in front of the camera. | Look around the front half of the scene; it is not a complete 360-degree recording. |
| VR360 | A video covering the full environment around the camera. | Use the projection specified for that recording. A flat or VR180 setting can distort it. |
Choose the stereo layout
Mono uses one image for both eyes. Side by side (SBS) puts the eye images beside each other. Over under stacks one eye image above the other. An SBS video can be flat stereoscopic video or projected VR: the stereo layout and projection still need to be chosen separately.
Some players distinguish full-width and half-width SBS. These settings control the image proportions after the eye images are split. Match the file's documented layout; do not choose a format solely because the filename says 4K or 8K.
Fix a stretched or doubled picture
- If two pictures appear beside each other, check whether an SBS file is being shown as mono.
- If the image looks very wide, narrow or curved, check the projection and the full/half stereo layout separately.
- If depth feels reversed or uncomfortable, pause playback and check the eye order. Change it only if the file's eye order requires it.
- Save a per-file override once the image matches the recording. A library-wide default may not fit the next file.
Resolution and smooth playback
4K and 8K describe image resolution, not the viewing angle, stereo layout or a guarantee of smooth playback. Codec, bitrate, frame rate, storage speed and device decoding support also matter. If playback stutters, compare a lower-bitrate version or a known-good local file before changing the projection.
Available player options can differ by installed version and device. Use the apps page for current access and download instructions, and the Quest troubleshooting guide for a step-by-step playback check.