Virtual reality is all the rage these days and for a good reason. For the past few decades, new and innovative inventions have been coming out that aim to bring humans closer to entertainment. The television brought entertainment into homes for the first time, and the smartphone made it portable and pocketable. In the last few years, TVs and smartphones have been getting bigger, brighter, and sharper to make them seem more real. But these devices will never be able to fake a real-life experience or capture the minds as virtual reality can.
VR is the latest in a long line of scientific phenomena that aim to please the human craving for true-to-life entertainment. It brings the displays closer to your eyes than ever before and makes everything look more realistic than ever before. But VR technology doesn’t come cheap, and you need to know how to spend your money well, yet most people don’t know much about virtual reality or how the technology works. To that end, this article talks about some of the best PC powered virtual reality headsets in the hope that you can make smarter buying choices after having read it.
| Name | memory | |
|---|---|---|
| Oculus Rift S | 8GB + RAM | Check Price |
| Oculus Quest | 64 OR 128 GB | Check Price |
| HTC Vive | 4GB or more | Check Price |
| Oculus Go Standalone | 32-64 GB | Check Price |
| HTC Vive Pro | 4GB or more | Check Price |
| Avegant Glyph AG101 | N/A | Check Price |
| Lenovo mirage Solo with Daydream | 4GB | Check Price |
Display quality:
For obvious reasons, display quality is a very important factor when it comes to deciding what virtual reality headset to buy. For the most part, display quality largely decides how much you are going to enjoy your VR headset because it is what you are looking at the entire time. For this reason, it is very important to choose a VR headset that fits the specifications you desire.
Price of Virtual Reality headset :
The amount of money that a customer would have to pay for a VR headset will have a large influence on how much the customer will enjoy the product and how harshly the product will be judged. If the price of the product is low, then customers will tend to be more lenient towards any potential shortcomings. However, a customer will be less forgiving of any malfunctions if they have paid a lot of money for it.
Comfort:
A virtual reality headset has to be used for hours while watching movies/ videos or playing video games. Hence it has to be comfortable. Nobody will be willing to wear a large and heavy VR headset that makes them nauseous or makes their neck hurt. VR headsets can also heat up due to the continued use or because of being used while charging, and this can be particularly uncomfortable. For these reasons, it is important for you to choose a virtual reality headset that fits your head perfectly and one that you’d be okay with wearing for hours.
Longevity:
Virtual reality headsets don’t come cheap, and act as major investments for most people who buy them. Not everyone can spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on fancy technology like VR year after year, and you would want your device to last a long time. That is why it is always best to choose a virtual reality device that has a track record of having a long life.
Virtual Reality Experience:
Lastly, it is important to remember to buy a VR device that focuses on every small detail to deliver the ultimate virtual reality experience. Examples of such details could be completely blocking out outside light and/ or perfect sound cancellation to prevent the real world from distracting you. Get these details right, and you can never go wrong with a VR headset.
1# Oculus Rift S –Best Virtual Headset
The Oculus Rift S is the flagship product offered by Oculus. It is the most advanced PC-powered virtual reality gaming headset that the company has to offer. It is available on the official website for $399.
Overview
This vR headset has lots of things going for itself, specs, and performance included. The display has been made better and sharper than the last version of the product, and it delivers images of much better quality. The Oculus Rift S VR headset also has insight tracking, along with a new and improved halo headband. This allows the user to user to turn their heads as fast as necessary, and even the quickest movements won’t displace the headset. The movements can also be converted into virtual reality no matter which way you’re facing, which rids of the trouble of having to look in a particular direction.
The Oculus Rift S does, however, face problems when it comes to sound quality, among other things. The speakers on this VR headset are subpar and fall short of the mark when it comes to bass, which I extremely important for most people.
- Buying a VR headset from Oculus allows you to access their exclusive VR gaming library
- The Oculus Rift S has innovative, new optics that deliver higher quality colors.
- The redesigned halo headband stays in place even with quick turns of the fit wheel.
- Oculus’ insight tracking translates your movements into VR (Virtual Reality) no matter which you’re facing.
- The two touch controllers can be used to translate hand gestures into VR (Virtual Reality)
- The IPD is nonadjustable, making it suitable for people with a certain head size/ shape only.
- The inbuilt speakers are flat and lack bass.
- The change in controller design has made the grip harder to adjust to.
- The screen is an LCD, which means that the blacks may be washed out and faded.
- The connection port used by the Oculus Rift S is not available in most laptops.
2# Oculus Quest –Best Price with Quality
The Oculus Quest is Oculus’ first-ever all-in-one virtual reality headset. It is a wireless VR headset and allows users to play almost anywhere as long as they have their Oculus Quest and its controllers on hand. This virtual reality headset comes at $399 for the 64 gigabytes version and $499 for the 128 gigabytes version.
Overview
The Oculus Quest VR headset is one of the best available on the market due to its unique features. Being a wireless virtual reality headset, it eliminates the hassle of worrying about where you go while wearing it. It also has a plastic design which makes it light; hence, it can be worn for long periods without much strain on the neck. Along with the usual benefits of buying a VR headset from Oculus, such as insight tracking to convert movements to virtual reality better and an exclusive collection of games.
The Oculus Quest has its faults though, even if there aren’t many. The battery life may present a problem for some people, as the Oculus Quest only lasts a little over two hours on battery. The only other significant drawback is that the price of the Oculus Quest rises due since users often have to buy games separately.
- It is a wireless headset, allowing you to move freely. Its plastic build makes it light
- It is adaptable to different environments and can be used anywhere.
- Insight tracking allows it to easily translate your movements into virtual reality, no matter where you’re facing.
- The inbuilt speakers allow it to be used without the need for separate headphones
- The Oculus Quest comes with tons of exclusive virtual reality games
- The graphics for the games are good but far behind the level of PC games.
- The Oculus Quest has a relatively short battery life, lasting two to two and a half hours.
- The strap can get itchy/ uncomfortable if worn for a long time.
- A small amount of outside light may creep in through the nosepiece, which can be annoying.
- Most of the games that Oculus offers need to be bought, and may be expensive.
3# HTC Vive –Great Quality
The HTC Vive VR System is the most affordable virtual reality system that HTC has to offer. It is available online on HTC Vive’s official website for $499. Even though the HTV Vive VR system is the cheapest virtual reality system on offer from the Vive collection, the specifications that it boasts are amazing.
Overview
The display on the HTC Vive offers 1080 x 1200 pixels per eye, has a refresh rate of 90 Hertz and offers a 110 degrees field of view. The VR headset has an integrated microphone and an eye relief feature which gives the user the option of adjusting the distance of the lens. The VR headset boasts amazing sensors as well, which make your virtual reality experience a lot better. These sensors include StreamVR Tracking, a G-Sensor, a gyroscope, and a proximity sensor. These specs are amazing considering the price that the HTC Vive original comes at.
On the flip side, this virtual reality headset has faced many problems with its longevity. Some devices started to malfunction after a few days, some after a few weeks and some after a couple of months. The malfunctions included a display and audio crashing at separately and even simultaneously. This, couples with HTC’s ridiculously slow and unreliable customer/ repair services, presents a very big problem. Apart from this, this VR headset only faces minor inconveniences like movement being restricted due to the cable or sweating due to the VR headset getting warmer.
- The HTC Vive is top of the line when it comes to VR headsets in its price range
- The updated display translates into amazing viewer quality.
- The eye relief feature makes the device extremely comfortable over long periods
- There are problems concerning its longevity as the VR headset may start malfunctioning after some time
- Customer support and repair facilities are unreliable and uncooperative.
- The VR headset is heavy and may get hot, causing you to sweat.
- The cable may ruin your virtual reality experience by restricting you.
4# Oculus Go Standalone –Affordable
The Oculus Go Standalone Virtual Reality Headset is Oculus’ budget offering for fans of virtual reality. Available for only $199 for the 32 GB version and $249 for the 64 GB version, it is the cheapest way for potential customers to enjoy the miracle that is virtual reality. These prices fall even lower if the Oculus Go Standalone Virtual Reality Headset is bought from Amazon instead of the official Oculus website.
Overview
The display is amazing, especially for the price. 3D content viewed on the Oculus Go Standalone VR Headset also looks spectacular. The procedure to set up the device is extremely, and it can be done without any major problems.
The Oculus Go Standalone Virtual Reality Headset does have its fair share of issues. For one, the battery often proves to be subpar and lasts anywhere between one and a half to two and a half hours. With most movies lasting for 2 hours or more, this isn’t even enough to watch a single movie. On top of that, Oculus advises users not to charge and use the Oculus Go Standalone VR Headset at the same time to prevent overheating.
The processor of the Oculus Go Standalone Virtual Reality Headset is also not the best on the market and difference in performance is noticeable. Also, the fact that this is a standalone VR headset means that it is not as powerful as a virtual reality headset that does work with a PC. This means that its technology, performance, and overall virtual reality experience is not as good as a PC powered virtual reality headset.
- It has a crystal clear screen and state-of-the-art 3D technology.
- Using this device, you can meet up with your friends in virtual reality.
- This PC powered virtual reality headset can be used without a PC or any other external devices.
- The device has access to hundreds of virtual reality applications from Oculus
- Setting up and using the device is extremely easy.
- The battery usually lasts around 2 hours, maybe a little more.
- The graphics and performance is not as good as a PC powered VR headset.
- The processor’s performance can be subpar in certain situations
5# HTC Vive Pro –Amazing VR Headset
The HTC Vive pro is HTC’s flagship product when it comes to virtual reality headsets. It is available in two different models; the HTC Vive Pro Starter Kit and the HTC Vive Pro Full Kit.
Overview
The HTC Vive Pro Starter Kit can be bought for $1,098 whereas the Full Kit can be bought for $1,399. There are a couple of major differences between the two, the first one being that the HTC Vive Pro Starter Kit comes with first-generation controllers and base stations whereas the Full Kit comes with second-generation controllers and base stations. The HTC Vive Pro Full Kit also features StreamVR Tracking 2.0, which is absent in the cheaper model. Lastly, the HTC Vive Pro Full Kit allows for a greater range of motion during use.
The virtual reality experience on both of these devices is astounding. They both offer 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye, along with all of the specs of the standard HTC Vive. Along with the adjustable lens for eye relief, they also have adjustable inter-pupillary distances, adjustable headphones, and adjustable head straps. These features combine to make the HTC Vive Pro the ultimate virtual reality experience.
The HTC Vive pro has its faults, though. A lot of people have had trouble with the VR headset’s StreamVR Tracking, which makes the virtual reality experience very hard to enjoy. The price tag could also prove to be a deal breaker for some, as not everyone can afford to spend more than $1000 on such a device.
- 360 degrees controller and headset tracking can sense your movements from floor to ceiling..
- Up to 10 games available for free during the free trial
- High impedance headphones driven by a powerful amplifier and integrated 3D spatial sound produce realistic sound.
- A virtual reality experience better than any other available on the market.
- The headset could prove to be a little heavy for some people
- The HDMI cable provided with the HTC Vive pro is unreliable and faulty.
- Setting the VR headset up is long and complicated.
- Some users may have trouble working the tracking software.
6# Avegant Glyph AG101 –Worth it
The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset is the flagship product from Avegant. It has an innovative new design and is shaped exactly like a headphone. All you have to do to access the virtual reality feature is to turn the headphone to cover your eyes with the eyepieces. It is also extremely cheap and can be bought online for a mere $140.
Overview
The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset is engineered with advanced retinal imaging technology that allows users to see good quality displays. It can also help both near-sighted and far-sighted users view the display easily, without glasses! The built-in HDMI feature allows the Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headsetto be connected to many different devices such as smart TVs, smartphones, video gaming consoles, etc.
The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset is also extremely lightweight, since it is not as bulky as most virtual reality headsets, and can be used for hours without discomfort. It also has great battery life, which can last up to 4 hours and can also be used while charging. This combination of features means that the Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset can be used for a long period without minor or major inconveniences.
The only major problems that the Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset faces are inconsistency and faulty VR headsets. Even though the technology itself does not have many downsides, users have reported glitches and inconsistencies in the hardware.
- These VR headsets come with advanced Retinal Imaging Technology.
- Built-in 720p HDMI display screen which can connect to a range of different devices.
- Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headsets are extremely light and comfortable to wear.
- Unlike other VR headsets, Avegant Glyph AG101 doesn’t need to be taken off when not in use.
- The battery lasts up to 4 hours, and the VR headset can be used while charging simultaneously.
- The eye adjustments need to be readjusted every time.
- The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset stopped working for some users after a few days’ usages.
- Users have complained about hearing a low, high-pitched noise in the background.
7# LENOVO Mirage Solo –too many great futures
LENOVO Mirage Solo Virtual Reality Headset is the premier virtual reality product on offer from LENOVO. It is intended to function as a standalone virtual reality headset, without the need to be powered by a PC or any other external device. It is also the world’s first standalone virtual reality device. It can be bought online from Amazon for prices starting at $340.
Overview
The LENOVO Mirage Solo Virtual Reality Headset removes the nuisance that is wired, increasing maneuverability many times over. It also does not need to rely on a PC to function, making the LENOVO Mirage Solo Virtual Reality Headset a completely independent virtual reality device. The LENOVO Mirage Solo functions at 6 degrees of freedom unlike most VR headsets, which function at 4 degrees of freedom.
This gives the LENOVO Mirage Solo a much more realistic feel. The LENOVO Mirage Solo has the new and improved Snapdragon chip and other up to date tech specifications, making it one of the smoothest working virtual reality headsets. The user interface and menu on the LENOVO Mirage Solo are also well thought out and easy to navigate through, making it a user-friendly device.
On the flip side, the LENOVO Mirage Solo has some glaring flaws. First of all, it doesn’t allow you to shoot upwards in a game while lying down, and this can prove to be a huge problem for people who like video games. It also doesn’t have built-in headphones. This might not be that big of a problem since external headphones can be used, but it still leaves the LENOVO Mirage Solo behind its competitors.
- LENOVO Mirage Solo Virtual Reality Headset removes the hassle of having to connect to a PC.
- It is designed to be adjustable, perfectly balanced, and breathable for maximum comfort
- Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 Mobile VR Platform, it provides unmatched high quality.
- Lenovo Mirage Solo gives you access to hundreds of experiences from Daydream VR.
- The battery life on this VR headset is very good.
- Not being able to connect to a PC means it isn’t as powerful as PC powered VR headsets.
- The headgear doesn’t allow you to lie down and shoot up at the ceiling in games.
- The LENOVO Mirage Solo Virtual Reality Headset doesn’t have a speaker.
Conclusion
This article has summed up everything there is to know about virtual reality headsets and technology in general. It has talked in detail about how the technology itself came to be and how to choose the virtual reality headsets that fulfill your specific requirements. It then went on to describe and analyze some of the best virtual reality headsets on offer from some of the biggest tech giants in the world. Now, this article will go one step further and make it even easier for you to choose the virtual reality headset that is best suited to you by choosing the best virtual reality headsets in carefully chosen categories. These categories are best overall, all-rounder, and most affordable.
Best Overall
This category is going to choose the virtual reality headset perfect for you if money is not an issue for you, and you can afford to part with large amounts of cash for these luxuries. This virtual reality headset is the HTC Vive Pro.
The HTC Vive pro is HTC’s flagship product when it comes to virtual reality headsets. It is available in two different models; the HTC Vive Pro Starter Kit and the HTC Vive Pro Full Kit. The HTC Vive Pro Starter Kit can be bought for $1,098 whereas the Full Kit can be bought for $1,399.
The virtual reality experience on both of these devices is astounding. They both offer 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye, along with all of the specs of the standard HTC Vive. Along with the adjustable lens for eye relief, they also have adjustable inter-pupillary distances, adjustable headphones, and adjustable head straps. These features combine to make the HTC Vive Pro the ultimate virtual reality experience.
If you can afford to buy either of these VR headsets, there’s no better place to spend your money.
All-Rounder
This category represents the VR headset that delivers the most bangs for its buck and would give you the greatest output for every dollar spent on it. The VR headset best suited for this title is the HTC Vive (Classic).
The HTC Vive VR System is the most affordable virtual reality system that HTC has to offer. It is available online on HTC Vive’s official website for $499. Even though the HTV Vive VR system is the cheapest virtual reality system on offer from the Vive collection, the specifications that it boasts are spectacular.
It is the best virtual reality headset for people starting with VR technology and is also the market’s best mid-range offering.
Most Affordable virtual reality headset
This category will give you the best cheap alternative to the expensive VR headsets. If you’re new to all of this and aren’t comfortable spending a lot of money, or if you’re just on a tight budget and can’t afford to spend too much money, this is the VR headset for you. And this category will be won by the Avegant Glyph AG101.
The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset is the flagship product from Avegant. It has an innovative new design and is shaped exactly like a headphone. It is also extremely cheap and can be bought online for a mere $140.
The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset is engineered with advanced retinal imaging technology that allows users to see good quality displays. The Avegant Glyph AG101 Virtual Reality Headset is extremely lightweight and can be used for hours without discomfort. It also has great battery life, which can last up to 4 hours and can also be used while charging.
The Avegant Glyph AG101 is the cheapest VR headset on the market, and even though it isn’t perfect, it will still provide you with a virtual reality experience that you’ll love.
Leave a comment Below