You might have heard about VR headsets. You might even have wondered which is the best VR headset on the market. This is a complicated question. You can find different models at a surprising range of prices, from under $ to over $$$. What's the difference? Turns out -- a lot.
VR stands for Virtual Reality. A VR headset provides an immersive environment for playing games in 3D. On the cheaper end of the spectrum, the headset is a smartphone holder with special lenses that allow you to view content on your phone in 3D. The more expensive VR headsets come with different kinds of hardware and software that create a virtual environment within the set itself. They may have handheld controllers that allow you to interact with the virtual world created by the headset's software. They may also have high definition graphics and adjustable settings.
People refer to both of these products as "VR headsets," and each one fulfills a specific need. Which is the best VR headset for your money? That's going to depend on you.
What is a VR Headset?
A Virtual Reality headset is a head-mounted device that enables the wearer to immerse themselves in a computer-based virtual environment. The virtual environment may be a game, movie, music video, or other environment. There are basically two types of VR headsets: VR goggles, which pair with a smartphone, and VR headsets, which can pair with a PC or video game console -- or even run their own built-in virtual environment.
It's worth pointing out that high-end VR headsets may require you to subscribe to special services before you can fully enjoy their potential. These devices offer built-in apps and special sensors for extra immersion. VR Goggles provide basic features and do not include controllers or extra hardware.
How to Pick the Best VR Headset
Image via Pixabay
When picking the best VR headset, whether it be a standalone device or VR goggles, there are a number of factors to consider. These include comfort, cost, ease of use, image quality, and safety features.
How to Pick the Best VR Headset
When picking the best VR headset, whether it be a standalone device or VR goggles, there are a number of factors to consider. These include comfort, cost, ease of use, image quality, and safety features.
Overall comfort
Your headset should feature soft padding to prevent irritation. Also, lightweight headsets tend to be more comfortable, because they exert less pressure on your face.
Cost
There are basic VR headsets or goggles available at a price range of $15 to $250. On the other hand, high-end standalone Virtual Reality systems may cost as little as several hundred dollars, or as much as several thousand. Either way, you often get what you pay for. Consider which features are dealbreakers for you, and choose accordingly.
Image quality
The best VR headset, regardless of type, will strive for good image quality, whether through a built-in screen or via special lenses.
Ease of use
Of course, the best VR headset for you will be the one you find easiest and most intuitive to operate. Look for models that are easy to set up and have a simple interface, so you can stay in the game.
How We Reviewed
To find the best VR headset on the market in both categories, we relied primarily on consumer ratings. After all, the people who have purchased a product know best how well it holds up to scrutiny. But we also looked at how well each one fulfills our requirements for ease of use, compatibility with a variety of apps, image quality, and comfort.
Our 8 Best VR Headset Picks
1. HTC Vive with controllers
Image via Amazon
The HTC Vive is a VR headset with an integrated display, PC interfacing technology, and special controllers that enable you to move around and interact with the virtual world. Its two built-in screens have a resolution of 1080 x 1200 pixels. It also comes with two sensor cubes that let the system know your exact location. A chaperone function warns you when you get too close to the boundaries of the gaming area.
You can find the HTC Vive on Amazon, where it has a consumer rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars and a price range of $$ to $$$.
Pros
Cons
2. Oculus Rift
Image via Amazon
The Oculus Rift is another computer-based VR headset with integrated hardware. The Rift features two AMOLED screens for each eye. These screens give up to 1200 x 1080 pixels of resolution. The system comes with two touch controllers that allow you to interact with the virtual world easily. These controllers have twin IR sensors that track your movements while gaming. You can buy a third sensor separately if you wish to enjoy 360-degree immersion while gaming.
This VR headset also comes with a remote control that you can fasten to your arm and use to adjust volume and other system functions without taking time off. The system’s built-in headphones ensure that you get top quality audio. You can find the Rift on Amazon. It has a consumer rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars and will cost you between $$ and $$$.
Pros
Cons
3. PlayStation VR headset
Image via Amazon
Like the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift, the Playstation VR Headset offers integrated hardware and software. It is also very easy to use. All you have to do is plug it into your PlayStation 4 system (sold separately) and start enjoying the 3D gaming experience. It packs a 3D audio technology that allows you to pinpoint the exact source of sound whether below, above, or directly ahead of you.
This system utilizes a 5.7-inch OLED display that makes for seamless visuals at 1080p running up to 120 frames per second. It has DualShock 4 controllers and the PlayStation Move motion controller to ensure that your movements are captured in the virtual world with utmost accuracy. This system is on Amazon with a consumer rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars and a price range of $$ to $$.
Pros
Cons
4. OPTOSLON Virtual Reality headset/VR goggles
Image via Amazon
If you're looking for a gentle, inexpensive introduction to VR technology, these VR goggles, which pair with your smartphone, might be just the ticket. The OPTOSLON
VR headset is lightweight and features a breathable fabric padding for extra comfort.
This system offers a 360-degree panoramic view of music videos, games, and movies. Additionally, it offers adjustable pupil and object distance enabling so you to get an optimal view of images. This headset is compatible with smartphones with 4- to 6-inch displays. You can find it on Amazon with a consumer rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars and a price range of $ to $.
Pros
Cons
5. KAMLE Virtual Reality Headset/VR goggles
Image via Amazon
The KAMLE Virtual Reality Headset makes it possible for you to enjoy 2D, 3D, and 360-degree content with relative ease. All you have to do is connect it to a compatible smartphone and start enjoying your favorite games, music, and videos. It features quality leather and elastic sponge cushioning to ensure that your face doesn't experience any discomfort. Its adjustable head strap allows you to make adjustments depending on the size of your head.
This system comes with an easy-to-use remote controller that allows you to adjust settings quickly. The system also features Bluetooth capability for pairing with your device. It’s on Amazon with a consumer rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars and a price range of $ to $.
Pros
Cons
6. Google’s VR cardboard headset/VR goggles
Image via Amazon
If you're just getting your feet wet with VR, then Google’s Cardboard VR Goggles may be the best VR headset option for you. Its custom-designed, high-quality lenses provide seamless and immersive visuals when you are gaming, watching movies, or watching music videos. It has a partially laminated body to ensure that it remains in excellent condition regardless of the frequency of use.
What’s more, this system supports most Android and iOS devices with screens of between 4 to 6 inches. An interactive click button on the Cardboard allows you to easily control the system. You will have to download and install the Cardboard app to browse through games, videos, and other content. This set is available on Amazon, where it has a consumer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars and a price range of $ to $.
Pros
Cons
7. Pansonite VR headset/VR goggles with remote controller
Image via Amazon
The Pansonite VR headset features HD resin aspherical lenses to eliminate the vertigo that is common with many VR headsets. Soft and breathable leather padding enhance comfort even while you enjoy gaming for hours. This system features an adjustable pupil and focus distance setting that lets you enjoy Virtual Reality whether you are short-sighted or not.
The system’s adjustable T-shape strap allows you to loosen it just in case you feel too much pressure on your face or eyes. It's compatible with most Android smartphones with a screen size of 4.7 to 6 inches. Additionally, the system comes with a remote control that lets you change settings or make adjustments as you desire. It’s available on Amazon with a consumer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars and a price range of $ to $$.
Pros
Cons
