Everyone wants to escape the reality we live in once in a while. This is probably why augmented reality and virtual reality have become so popular over the past few years. Ever since the new technologies surfaced we’ve seen major tech companies constantly working on delivering the best devices that allow us to explore these realities. Unfortunately, when it comes to AR, things aren’t as impressive as in the case of VR. There are several smartphones that now have AR-related features, but there is no actual AR headset yet that works perfectly. With VR, things stand totally different. There are numerous VR headsets available right now, for every budget. Usually, the more affordable ones work with smartphones, while the higher-end ones also need a gaming console to work with. Below, you will find a list of the best VR headsets from both categories.
HTC Vive
At this point, the HTC Vive seems to be one of the best VR headsets available. This device belongs to the high-end category and it offers a truly amazing VR experience. The headset works with Valve’s Steam gaming ecosystem, not with smartphones. The HTC Vive managed to become one of the best VR headsets thanks to the great number of sensors that make accurate head-tracking possible, and its high refresh rate. HTC Vive users can play a great number of games and thanks to the new Tracker technology they can even bring everyday objects into VR. Probably one of the best features of the HTC Vive is that it works wirelessly. Also, in the future, it will get eye tracking, which will make the VR experience even more interesting.
Sony PlayStation VR
Sony’s PlayStation VR headset may not be perfect, but it is an amazing device. Just like the HTC Vive, it works with a gaming console, in this case, the PlayStation 4, and it offers one of the best VR experiences available at this moment. The PlayStation VR is, according to may, one of the best-looking VR headsets. Of course, its looks are not the only feature that makes it such a great gadget. It is more affordable than the HTC Vive or the Oculus Rift, yet, it ensures a similar experience. Also new titles constantly show up, so users won’t get bored playing the same games. The PlayStation VR headset may not be the best one on the market, but it is the most popular one, possibly thanks to its more affordable price tag.
Samsung Gear VR
The Samsung Gear VR is one of the most popular mobile VR headsets one can buy this year. Samsung’s VR headset doesn’t require a gaming console as it works with a smartphone. Of course, the VR experience is not as intense as it is in the case of the previously mentioned VR headsets, but it is quite close to it. As of this year, the headset also got a controller to go with, making the user experience a terrific one. Also, the quality of the experience depends on the smartphone it is used with. Naturally, the newer the handset, the best the visual experience gets. The latest Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8 Plus and the Galaxy Note 8 are the best smartphones one can use the Samsung Gear VR with. Of course, the Samsung Gear VR is a lot more affordable than any of the VR headsets that work with gaming consoles.
Google Cardboard VR Headset
Google’s cardboard headset is definitely not the most appealing device of its kind. Just as its name suggests, it is made from cardboard, making it look quite cheap. Thankfully, it is cheap. In fact, it is the most affordable VR headset one can purchase. Despite its incredibly low price, it still manages to offer a really nice VR experience. Of course, if you can afford a more expensive device, the investment might be worth it. Even so, the Google Cardboard VR Headset is a great gadget for first-time users or for educational purposes. It does the trick, and it will take you into another reality, that’s for sure. The Cardboard VR headset is compatible with the majority of smartphones, so basically it will work with whatever handset you normally use.
Buy Google Cardboard VR Headset on Amazon
Oculus Rift
Last but not least, we have to mention the Oculus Rift. After all, it is the first device of this kind to bring the wonders of VR headsets to our attention. In this case, users will need to connect the VR headset to a computer, not to a gaming console. The Oculus Rift will successfully track the user’s head movements and will provide great 3D imagery. Just like other VR headsets, the Oculus Rift now works with a controller too, taking things even further than before. The device is not as expensive as the HTC Vive, however, customers will need to pay more for it than for mobile VR headsets. Of course, the experience they will get is also more impressive. The headset is now available together with the Touch controller for $399.
Buy Oculus Rift with Touch controller on Amazon
These are some of the best and most popular VR headsets available this year. All of them are capable of ensuring a great VR experience for users, however, their price definitely influences the quality of the experience. There are lots of other VR headsets already on the market or still in work. They will most likely become even more popular over the next few years, and it’s also possible they will eventually get even more affordable. One thing is sure, either of them is worth every cent of its price.
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