Virtual reality (VR) is an exciting new technology that is bending the boundaries between reality and virtual reality. VR headsets are head-mounted gadgets that offer virtual reality as games, simulators, and trainers. These headsets display a stereoscopic head-mounted display and motion sensor to offer an exciting and competitive gaming experience. It’s also a vast sector of the gaming market, with many versions of headsets to choose from.
Are VR Headsets Worth It?
The VR headsets feature augmented reality that makes everything around you look real. Most VR headsets are AI-inspired and an exciting gadget for your kids. These headsets offer an immersive experience while playing games. So, yes VR headsets are worth the money. We have also created a detailed blog on the best gaming headsets that you can read if you love playing games.
What to Look for Before Buying a VR Headset?
1. Tethered or Wireless
A tethered VR headset connects to a powerful gaming computer with the help of a wire. It offers high-resolution graphics and immersive gameplay. A wired VR headset is also more expensive than its wireless counterparts. The wireless VR headset although affordable has lower performance. It is convenient and does not require the use of a computer or gaming console. This is self-contained and ready to use.
2. Resolution
Resolution is the number of pixels that the VR headset display and expresses as a count of pixel width X pixel height. The lesser resolution will result in less crisp images. If the contrast is low, the viewer will see pixelation or the screen door effect.
3. Field of View
Another important aspect of a VR headset's quality is its field of view (FOV). This parameter measures the extent of the observable environment. The more expansive the field of view, the more immersive the viewing experience will be.
4. Weight
VR headsets must be comfortable. Some headsets come heavy but are made lighter using padded foam and comfortable straps. There is an even distribution of weight across your head and nose bridge.
5. Battery Life
Battery life isn't an issue with wired VR headsets because they connect to your computer or a wall outlet. Wireless VR headsets can last about two and three hours per charge, depending on the usage.
6. PC Requirement
Be ready for buying a high-performance gaming computer if you go down the tethered VR headset route. A high-quality PC will bring the best out of these headsets.
7. Surround Sound
Most of the virtual reality headset models come with their own integrated audio system, with speakers positioned to cover your ears like headphones. You'll have to use your gaming headset with models that do not have their own integrated audio system.
Do all VR Headsets Need a Phone? Standalone VR vs PC VR
No, standalone VR headsets are all-in-one independent units that can function without a PC or phone. Certain PC VR headsets can function with both PCs and phones but not independently. PC VR Headsets require PC and specially equipped software to run them successfully.
A standalone VR comes with a headset, a powerful processor, built-in display, battery, viewfinders, and multi controllers for convenient navigation. It is relatively more popular than the PC ones as they don’t connect to any PC and features 6 degrees of freedom.
You can also read about mixed reality headsets. These headsets are futuristic gaming headsets. They are the next generation of virtual reality headsets.
How Does The VR Headset Work?
A concept known as six degrees of freedom, or 6DOF, is used for making head tracking work in VR headsets with sensors embedded in them. VR headsets are attempting to be as realistic as possible to fool our brains into believing they are in a virtual space and for that the lag and response rate must be flawless.
Most VR environments use binaural or even 3D audio to create a complete audio-visual landscape, which will heighten the sense of realism. The sound adjustment in the background is done using software based on position sensor feedback.
Is VR Bad for Your Eyes?
When people use virtual reality systems, they are tricking their brain into seeing things that aren't actually there. VR headsets remain close to the eyes, and may have an adverse effect on eye growth, leading to nearsightedness.
How Long Should You Stay in VR?
It is generally advisable to take a 30-minute break between wearing VR headsets. Prolonged use can make you feel dizzy and cause eye fatigue.
Best VR Headsets
7 OIVO Headset Compatible Nintendo Switch
This premium VR headset with a Nintendo Switch is a great product. This VR headset is of lightweight & comfortable material and features a convenient adjustable head strap. With an ergonomic design, responsive controls and a great display, this headset is a great product for beginners.
LONGLU VR Headset
LONGLU VR Headset is not only suitable for use at home, but also for travel. You can fully immerse yourself in virtual reality anytime with this headset. This headset is a nice gift for kids friends and family. It is made of skin-friendly, fashionable, and elegant white PU leather.
HTC Vive Pro Eye Virtual Reality Headset
HTC Vive Pro Eye Virtual Reality Headset offers consistent, accurate eye-movement tracking and analysis for creative and commercial purposes. You can uncover actionable insights about your user's experience in VR using heat mapping, gaze tracking, and other interactions.
Merge AR/VR Headset
The customer reviews of Merge AR/VR Headset claim that it's made out of comfortable and rugged foam. This headset fits any face, withstands everyday bumps and drops, and is easy to clean. This model is compatible with iOS and android smartphones. It comes in a nice moon-grey color and has a screen size of 6 inches.
BNEXT VR Headset
BNEXT VR Headset comes with a 4"-6.3” screen to bring you a totally immersive visual 360 experience. It is compatible with smartphones and other mobile phone devices. This VR headset also offers FD and OD adjustments to expand the viewing angle and perfectly match focal distance. It comes with a fully adjustable head strap, eyesight protection system, and a soft nose piece to reduce pressure.
Pansonite VR Headset
Pansonite VR Headset's reviews show that it offers strong quality and suitable design for wearing. It supports smartphones between 4~6 inches. It has soft and breathable leather padding that keeps you feeling good even after hours of watching. This headset offers you a great 3D experience.
The Bottom line
VR Headsets in the last recent years have taken the gaming industry by storm. Although we are seeing the start of a new technological era with these innovative gadgets, virtual reality still has to go a long way. If you are looking to buy VR headsets, we recommend you do some prior research as the numerous brands make it a challenge to find a suitable VR headset.
BestViewsReviews rates and recommends hundreds of best VR headsets and accessories and top-selling PC headsets based on their design, build quality, and comfort.