Tired of the old school computer gaming? Looking for a new exciting way to play your favorite games? Or watch your favorite 3D movie? Where years ago, you could only see such a concept in fiction and movies, today Virtual Reality has become a reality. You can get up close and personal in observing sea creatures, visiting a far-off location, playing games etcetera. All of this and more is possible through VR headsets.
What are VR headsets?
You might be wondering what exactly is a Virtual Reality headset? Well, the VR headset is an apparatus worn on head and it covers your eyes for an awesome 3-Dimensional experience and provides the users to enjoy audio, video, and interaction in an environment. It generally consists of a high definition display screen (separate for each eye), speakers and head motion tracking sensors allowing playing games in virtual reality and simulating different scenarios.
VR headset enables a person to look around the artificial world, walk in it and even interact with the items present virtually. VR headsets are generally divided into Gaming VR headsets and Smartphone ones.
Last update on 2018-04-20 at 09:07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- CPU: Intel iCore-5 sixth generation or advanced/AMD Ryzen 5 or advanced
- GPU: Nvidia GeForce Six-GB GTX 1060 or advanced/ AMD Radeon 480- RX or advanced
- RAM: 8GB or higher
- Motherboard: Three or more USB 3.0 ports
- OS: Windows 7 64-bit SP1 or higher
#1 HTC VIVE Virtual Reality
The HTC VIVE has left the Oculus behind with its innovative technology. Trying out the VIVE was a truly exceptional experience as it allowed me to not only walk in the virtual world but to interact with it using my hands. Equipped with a 360-degree controller and headset tracking, it precisely maps your motion to offer you with a realistic experience. The main driving force behind the VIVE is the Valve’s Steam PC store where you can easily buy any VR games you desire. The contraption already comes with a few free games.
I found the gear to be extremely comfortable with the tether being a long 15 feet. The dual wireless wand controller, the headset, and the headphones make for the most convincing visual, audio and interactive environment. The controllers are incredible in terms of ergonomics. They allowed me to interact with the virtual environment using my hands. In one game, they became guns, in another a paint brush!
Perhaps, the most innovative feature of the headset is the room sensing technology. This is what made me want to get my hands on it. It allows you to walk around your room so it helps you move closer to objects for a more thorough inspection. However, you need a space of up to 15’ by 15’. With the Chaperone Technology, you do not need to be afraid of hitting the walls as it alerts you when you reach the boundaries of your virtual world.
With the HTC VIVE, you will truly be confused about what’s real and what’s not!
Pros
- You can move around the room easily or use it standing up or seated.
- It precisely tracks your movements allowing you to interact.
- The 15 feet cord allows you to move around comfortably.
- It notifies you when you get near the virtual boundary.
- The VIVE is equipped with the most ergonomic gear.
- You can download any games from Steam Valve.
- Comfortable to wear with glasses.
Cons
- Requires a high-end PC to run.
- Timely to setup.
- Complicated to use.
- Requires a lot of space.
Last update on 2018-04-20 at 09:07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#2 Oculus Rift + Touch Virtual Reality System
Oculus Rift VR System is unlike anything you have ever experienced before as can be predicted by its popularity and the huge fanbase. Its novel and original features are what renders this the one of the best virtual reality headset. Featured is a full-scale room experience that maps your motions within the room and allows you to use this headset while moving, sitting or standing. The blue grid lines map your play area and warn you when you get too close to the perimeter. However, the full-room scale is not actually ‘full’ as it does not cover the same area that the Vive can. I found the setup to be hard as it had a lot of wires and cables!
The headset of the unit comes with deep padding to allow for comfort and ease. The Oculus Rift allows users t wear glasses while playing. The Oculus Store highlights a huge range of action-packed, fun-filled games, which you can experience on Rift.
I found that the High definition AMOLED screens for each eye give a clear visual and brighter display. Perhaps, the most extraordinary part of the experience is the Touch Controllers. They are motion sensor devices equipped with a full gamepad allowing you to play VR games as well as non-VR ones. The most precise and negligible abeyance allow you to sense your presence in your virtual world.
Rift’s built-in spatial audio takes the mesmeric power of virtual reality to new depths. In my opinion, the general sound quality is impressive. Being noise-isolated, it not only leads to fewer distractions from the outer world but also allows enjoying an easy hearing of the VR content.
The Oculus Rift combined with the Oculus Touch lands you right in the middle of your favorite game allowing you to join in on the action-packed scenarios!
Pros
- The device gives access to some of the best VR games.
- It is equipped with an HD resolution screen for each eye.
- It features a light and robust hardware design.
- The device includes a low-latency head tracking system.
- The gear is extremely ergonomic.
- The touch controllers are compatible with VR as well as non-VR games.
- It includes noise cancellation as well.
Cons
- Requires large PC requirements.
- The tracking area is small.
- VR sickness an issue with some games.
- Hard to set up
- Takes a lot of space.
Last update on 2018-04-20 at 09:07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#3 Sony PlayStation VR
The Sony PlayStation is a future-esque device that helps you travel to worlds never seen before. Supported on the PlayStation platform, the Sony VR package includes a VR headset, stereo headphones, power cables and other processor units. I found the setup to be simpler and easier than the other headsets taking approximately 30 minutes to set up the whole system. This affordable solution does not require you to buy expensive graphics cards like their counterparts. Instead, it works perfectly fine with the Playstation’s built-in GPU. A certain drawback is that you need to buy two controllers as well as a single PS camera for it to operate fully. These do not come included in the package. The PlayStation uses the separate camera to map your motions on the controller to allow you to interact in real time with your environment.
Perhaps the most mesmerizing feature is the 3D sound system whereby you can detect exactly which point the sound is coming from. The expansive OLED 1080p display runs up to 120fps to provide you with seamless visuals. You can play this standing up or while being seated. The headset, however, uses only one camera to map your motions. This tends to cause trouble when you move around too much or change your positions, as you might need to refocus and recalibrate the camera.
I found the overall look of the Playstation VR to be very sleek and modern. The design, however, does not compromise on the comfort and ergonomics. Unlike their bulky counterparts, the Sony is smaller and is extremely comfortable to wear. They sit comfortably on glasses as well.
Being an affordable yet fully functional solution, the PSVR is definitely worth the investment!
Pros
- The Sony VR can be used standing or sitting.
- It does not require an expensive VR compatible PC.
- The system is simple and easy to install.
- The full setup does not require a lot of space.
- 3D audio technology for a realistic experience.
- It is affordable.
- You can play VR games, non-VR games and even watch movies.
Cons
- Does not allow you to move around.
- Does not come with the camera or controllers.
- Needs to recalibrated if you move too much.
- Unsatisfactory graphics.
Last update on 2018-04-20 at 16:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#4 Google OEM Daydream View
The Google Daydream Views is one of the easiest and simplest VR technology out in the world. It very carefully avoids the most common pitfall of all VR headsets i.e. the cords, ports and the setup. The setup is a no-hassle one and does not require you to plug it into processors etcetera. This is because the VR headset is supported by an Android platform where you simply attach the smartphone at the front through NPC and simply play. However, the choice for the androids is limited only to the Pixel, Samsung Galaxy Note, Asus, ZTE and the MotoZ.
Also included in the package is a simple controller that lets you navigate through the virtual world or select options from menus. It might not be my preferred way for navigation, but at the price point, who can argue?
The Daydream is built for comfort as the headset is made from a soft cushiony fabric that sits comfortably on your face. The headset is extremely lightweight weighing 0.85 lbs with the phone. The graphics depend on the type of phone you are using. Some might have a better resolution than others. However, even when using a 1080p resolution phone, you can still notice the pixels, which tend to make it look cartoonish. Another flaw I found in the design is that it lets in excessive light from the sides. Thus, it might not make the whole experience too believable.
The main idea behind the Daydream was to construct a VR headset that does not make you sick. The graphics, low latency, and the smooth frame rate successfully eliminate any virtual sickness.
With its easy setup and more compatible phones coming out soon, the Daydream View is the absolute no-hassles headset!
Pros
- The Daydream View can work while standing, moving or sitting.
- It eliminates any virtual sickness.
- It is easy to setup and includes no ports or cables.
- The setup does not require any space.
- The headset is lightweight, comfortable and ergonomic.
- It is extremely affordable and portable as well.
Cons
- Certain flaws in design make it feel unreal.
- Only compatible with a few phones.
- Unsatisfactory Graphics.
- Needs to be recalibrated often.
- It includes no HD Stereophones or an Audio system.
Last update on 2018-04-20 at 16:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#5 Canbor VR Headset
The Canbor VR Headset is yet another smartphone based VR Headset for folks looking for a reliable yet affordable option. This device is compatible with all types of smartphones including iOS. The design of the headset is very sleek and modern; however, it does tend to weigh down when equipped with the smartphone. The best feature is the relatively easy setup and the extreme portability that comes with the device. Simply pop off the cover, set your device in, calibrate it and off you go into a new land of wonders! Further, there is no need to constrain yourself at one position! You can easily move around, sit or stand without needing any recalibration.
The cushion padding around the eyes was a huge plus point for me. Also included were vents in the headset that allowed sufficient airflow to ensure minimal perspiration and allow cooling of your device. The set is equipped with focal adjustments at the top to help you calibrate the lenses according to your preferences. You can easily adjust the pupil distance and focus distance. I found the headset to work perfectly fine with Youtube VR, 3D videos and Cardboard apps.
The device comes paired with a controller that allows you to navigate the virtual world and helps you choose from menus and options. However, the controller might not function properly with an iOS device.
Equipped with a stretchable HIFI Sound quality headphone, the Canbor ensures only the top quality audio and visual VR experience. The Canbor VR glasses use aspheric resin optical technology to reduce eye fatigue allowing you to watch your favorite movie without any eyestrain.
The Canbor VR Headset is one of the best virtual reality headsets for all smartphone users!
Pros
- The Canbor can be used in any position or while moving around.
- It costs less than other premium headsets.
- It is portable, lightweight and ergonomic.
- The setup takes no time or space.
- The headset causes no eye fatigue due to premium optical technology.
- The HIFI headphones ensure top quality sound for better VR experience.
- The headset is compatible with a number of devices.
Cons
- Low-resolution graphics.
- The controller does not work with iOS.
- Light tends to stream in distorting the illusion.
Last update on 2018-04-20 at 16:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
All in all, VR headsets are a surefire way to escape the boring reality and enter the world of amazing Virtual Reality. Although all of the above VR headsets were the best virtual reality headsets in the market, one of them stood out by head and shoulders! Yes, The HTC VIVE remains unchallenged due to its amazing full room experience. While it may be complicated to setup and while it may require you to clear out a lot of space, it is all worth it in the end. Equipped with a vast library of games and apps from the Steam Store, you will never want to get out from your favorite games!The post Best VR Headsets in April 2018 appeared first on Appuals.com.