You can build an open-source eye-tracking system yourself, but the right project depends on what you want it to do. Pupil Core’s DIY route is for wearable gaze recording and analysis; EyeTrackVR adds eye tracking to a VR headset and sends data to applications. Neither is a plug-and-play kit: expect camera preparation, assembly, calibration, and careful attention to infrared safety. The available project documentation does not establish a current total build price or a comparable accuracy result.
Choose a build for the job you need done
| Project | Best suited to | What it involves | Key limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pupil Core DIY | Mobile, wearable gaze recording, analysis, and experimentation | A scene camera and one or more infrared eye cameras feed Pupil Capture, which detects pupils, maps gaze, records video and events, and can stream data in real time. | The DIY guide limits its use to noncommercial cases. The frame CAD is not open source, and the build calls for camera modification and SMD soldering. |
| EyeTrackVR | Adding eye tracking to a VR headset, including social VR use | The build uses cameras, ESP32 boards, printed parts, and IR LEDs. It sends real-time eye data using OSC/UDP. | Headset compatibility depends on camera mounting and project revision; the project describes itself as being in active development. |
These projects solve different problems, so there is no meaningful winner without a use case. Choose Pupil Core if you need a wearable system with a scene camera and recording-and-analysis software. Choose EyeTrackVR if your goal is headset-integrated eye data for VR applications. Neither project description establishes research-grade performance, and the available sources do not support a direct accuracy comparison.
What “open source” means for each build
Pupil Core
The Pupil software repository identifies its license as LGPL v3: Pupil Labs’ source repository. That does not mean every part of the DIY hardware is open. The DIY guide says the frame CAD is not open source, while camera mounts can be adapted and their CAD files are available for modification under the applicable license. The guide also limits the DIY kit’s use to noncommercial cases. Check the license attached to the particular software or hardware file you intend to use.
EyeTrackVR
EyeTrackVR lists a separate software license in its project repository. Do not assume that the project’s source-first approach means every hardware design has identical licensing terms; review the license for the specific code and files you plan to use.
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What building Pupil Core involves
Pupil Labs recommends this DIY route for individuals using it noncommercially who are comfortable with SMD soldering and hardware modification. Its DIY guide lists a soldering station, solder wick, flux, tweezers, a small Phillips screwdriver, and a prying tool. It also points to specific camera models and procedures, so do not assume an arbitrary webcam will work.
- Check the guide’s compatible parts and procedures. Review its bill of materials and specified camera models before buying parts.
- Modify the eye camera. The documented process includes removing or disabling selected components, soldering IR LEDs with the correct polarity, and removing the IR-blocking filter while protecting the lens element.
- Focus and mount the cameras. The guide calls for manual focus, mounting the cameras to the headset, and routing the cables.
- Connect the system. Route the camera connections and USB extensions as specified in the build guide, then configure and calibrate the software.
The printed headset is central to this build. The guide links a bill of materials and explains that camera mounts may be replaced or adapted; the frame CAD itself is not open source.
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- Exciting Play Features: This toy train set offers multiple fun play modes and gravity-defying actions, allowing the train to climb slopes, spin 360°, move sideways, and even run upside down. Equipped with soft lights and a USB rechargeable design, it delivers long-lasting playtime for extended fun. The set also includes a variety of traffic-themed accessories, so kids can start building and playing right out of the box
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What building EyeTrackVR involves
EyeTrackVR’s onboarding documentation lays out a build around cameras, ESP32 boards, printed parts, and IR LEDs. It directs builders to review the parts list, obtain or print the parts, prepare the cameras and boards, prepare the LEDs, and follow the full assembly guide. Real-time eye data is sent through OSC; the project repository also describes OSC and UDP use.
Plan for a headset-specific mounting solution. The project documentation says a camera mount may be available to print; if there is no suitable ready-made design for your headset, you may need to design one. Because the project is in active development, check its current documentation for the exact parts and setup rather than relying on instructions for an earlier revision.
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Set up the software and calibration deliberately
For Pupil Core, Pupil Capture reads the world-camera and eye-camera streams, detects pupils, maps gaze, and records video and events. Its software documentation describes two pupil-detection approaches: 2D image-based detection and 3D eye-model detection. It also explains camera-intrinsics calibration.
- Start with a comfortable, stable headset fit and a clear camera view of the eye.
- Adjust camera focus and aim so the pupil can be tracked robustly.
- Follow the software’s calibration guidance; detection and calibration depend on the actual camera and fit.
These steps are not a guarantee of a particular accuracy level. The project materials explain system operation and calibration, but the sources available here do not establish a present-day head-to-head accuracy figure for Pupil Core and EyeTrackVR.
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Treat infrared safety as a build requirement
Infrared emitters are not interchangeable parts to experiment with casually. EyeTrackVR’s DIY LED safety guidance says: “Never bypass safety features or swap out IR components.” Use the project’s recommended LEDs, wiring diagrams, and firmware settings; avoid focused emitters, and stop using the setup if you notice warmth or discomfort. Follow the current instructions for the exact project revision and build.
The EyeTrackVR documentation and repository give inconsistent numerical output instructions, so neither figure should be treated here as a settled engineering safety limit. Do not infer a safe operating threshold from this article; use the project’s current guidance and its cited safety references for your specific configuration.
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- Exciting Play Features: This toy train set offers multiple fun play modes and gravity-defying actions, allowing the train to climb slopes, spin 360°, move sideways, and even run upside down. Equipped with soft lights and a USB rechargeable design, it delivers long-lasting playtime for extended fun. The set also includes a variety of traffic-themed accessories, so kids can start building and playing right out of the box
- Premium Materials & Portable Storage: This train track toy is made of durable plastic with smooth, rounded edges to help prevent scratches. The modular 3D train track components connect securely and stay firmly in place during play. Assembly and disassembly are easy with a simple twist, making it convenient for children to use. This 3D STEM electric train set is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play, with a compact design that doesn’t take up much space. Children can enjoy hours of creative building and imaginative play
- Modular Building for Endless Fun: This train building toy features a modular design with large-block-compatible pieces, including tracks, bridges, and stations. Kids can freely combine the components to create different layouts, helping develop spatial imagination, creativity, and hands-on skills
- STEM Creative Cube Track Toys: Designed with STEM learning concepts, this flexible electric train track set nurtures kids' curiosity, creativity, and sense of exploration. Building track layouts helps develop spatial thinking and problem-solving skills. It supports both guided assembly and free creative building
Plan parts and effort without assuming a fixed price
The project documentation does not establish a current all-in cost or component availability, so a reliable total cannot be given. Parts depend on the selected route, compatible camera and headset, and whether you already have tools or access to 3D printing. Treat any parts search as conditional on the project’s current compatibility notes.
- For Pupil Core: check the guide for the compatible webcam and project-compatible IR components; account for soldering tools, camera modification, USB extensions, mounting, and cable routing.
- For EyeTrackVR: check the current parts list for the specified cameras, ESP32 boards, headset-compatible printed mounts, and exact IR components.
There is no single standardized “DIY eye tracking webcam kit” established by these sources. Verify the current project revision and part compatibility before ordering, and do not substitute arbitrary IR emitters.
How to decide
- Pick Pupil Core for mobile gaze recording and analysis, if the noncommercial DIY terms fit your use and you are prepared to modify a camera and solder small components.
- Pick EyeTrackVR for VR-headset integration, if you can support a compatible camera mount and are willing to follow revision-dependent assembly and safety instructions.
- Before committing, check your intended use, hardware-file licenses, camera or headset compatibility, calibration needs, and the current project safety instructions.
A 2014 paper describes Pupil as an open-source platform for pervasive eye tracking and mobile gaze-based interaction, useful context for the system’s design: Kassner et al., 2014. It is not a current market survey or a basis for claiming present-day performance against EyeTrackVR.
Quick Recap
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