And other virtual reality helmets are already on the lips of many and the feeling of something fantastic and unprecedented is no longer there, because devices using virtual reality technology are being demonstrated by several manufacturers. Let's take a look at VR helmets main market players.
VR helmet Oculus Rift
Vive VR headset
The second VR helmet in our review was, which was announced by the duo of Valve and HTC. The price of the device is still unknown, but according to the gaming community, it will be at the level of the Oculus Rift. Let's look at the technical specifications and equipment of the Vive VR headset, is it really similar to the Oculus Rift?
Resolution of the virtual reality headset from Valve: 2160⨯1200 pixels, respectively, a similar image of 1080 by 1200 pixels for each eye. The refresh rate has also remained unchanged - 90 Hz with a diagonal viewing angle of 110°. The Vive has a similar set of more than 70 different sensors for spatial orientation. The complete tracker for accurately tracking the position of the user’s head is not just an IR camera, as is the case with the Oculus Rift, but is a pulsed laser system that is installed at two points in a room with an area of 4.5⨯4.5 m². The main similarity between the Vive and the Oculus Rift is the need to buy a powerful computer.
An important difference from other VR helmets is the presence of an integrated front camera in the Vive virtual reality headset, by activating which the user will be able to see the contours of the surrounding space through the virtual world of the game, somewhat similar to augmented reality. This function will allow you to communicate with people present in the room without removing the Vive VR headset from your head, but you will see them on a virtual screen. Plus, the option will protect you from surrounding objects in the room by displaying their three-dimensional contours on the virtual headset screen as you approach.
We expect the Vive VR helmet to go on sale in April 2016, almost a month after the start of Oculus Rift sales. Pre-orders will be available in February, but let's wait for the official price announcement for this VR headset.
Advantages:
- decent technical characteristics and equipment;
- integrated front camera;
- laser tracking system and VR controllers included;
- the ability to use your own headphones;
- compatible with .
Flaws:
- the need to purchase a powerful and expensive computer;
- spacious room for games;
- perhaps the highest price among the VR headsets reviewed.
Vive
VR helmet PlayStation VR
Playstation VR
Each of the three VR headsets has weaknesses and strengths, but the picture will be as follows: the community of potential owners of virtual reality headsets will be divided into two camps:
- – users of powerful PCs and willing to spend $1,500–2,000 on virtual reality from Oculus VR or HTC/Valve;
- – users of PS4 game consoles and with a modest budget who will make their choice towards Sony.
The most interesting struggle is ahead, because manufacturers will try to lure users with exclusive games. Sony and Oculus VR are already hard at work on VR projects in their own studios. We haven't heard anything about HTC or Valve yet.
The world of virtual reality opened its doors to players with the advent of powerful gaming systems and virtual ones that allow them to be completely immersed in the gameplay. The range has also expanded - there are both simple glasses for smartphones and top versions for the most powerful gaming systems on sale. They can also be successfully used for watching movies.
Conventionally, all glasses can be classified into 3 types:
- For smartphones. These are simple and unpretentious models, the initial segment of which is even created from cardboard.
- For PC. The most expensive segment for full use of all the capabilities of gaming computers.
- For consoles. Special glasses with optimized software and parameters for playing via television set-top boxes.
We have selected for you the TOP 15 best virtual reality glasses for smartphones, computers and tablets.
The best inexpensive virtual reality glasses (helmets) for smartphones
Let's start with something simple - models that play the role of a display. The image in them is divided into 2 separate pictures for each eye. Since the screen is in close proximity to the eyes, the entire image passes through the optical lens to improve picture clarity.
4 Ritmix RVR-002
Budget solution
Country: China
Average price: 510 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
If you don’t have money for cool glasses, then you can try to buy this model. The large weight is compensated by good assembly and the ability to adjust the interpupillary distance. There are inserts on the front that imitate leather; nothing presses or rubs.
Focus settings can be “touched” using the circular toggle switches on the top of the body. In the center there is a gear for adjusting the lenses themselves. To install the smartphone you will have to work hard, as you need to pull the latches and try not to break them.
3 Xiaomi Mi VR Play
Lightest helmet
Country: China
Average price: 1390 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Xiaomi once again relied on minimalism, releasing a simple and relatively cheap model. The weight is 250 grams and this is one of the best indicators among competitors. With additional functionality and adjustments, everything is scarce here. VR Glasses are designed to work with phones from 4.7 to 5.7 inches.
Among the features of the model, one can highlight the emphasis on fabric elements rather than plastic. There are no flimsy locks or latches here, but there is a high-quality zip-lock. There are cutouts on the front panel for adjusting the smartphone without removing the helmet from the head, onto which it is attached using a belt. To maintain optimal functionality, it is recommended to use the official Mi VR App.
2 HIPER VRX
Optimal characteristics
Country: China
Average price: 990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
One of the latest innovations in the field of virtual reality, this model uses a 33.5 mm lens with adjustable focal length. All elements are tightly fitted to each other, but nothing is loose, even moving elements. The position on the face is adjusted using a belt.
Among the advantages, we note the ability to connect a smartphone with any screen diagonal. There is also a headphone output with charging. With a complete set, you can immerse yourself in the gameplay, this is especially true in horror games. The optimization in terms of software is not bad; the glasses work with both the already familiar iOS/Android and Windows Phone. The disadvantages include unpleasant squeaks when setting up and half a kilogram of weight with a smartphone.
1 VR Box VR 2.0
Best price. Most popular model
Country: China
Average price: 769 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
It's not always advisable to spend a lot of money on entertainment, and when it comes to virtual reality glasses, VR Box VR 2.0 comes out ahead. The main material is matte plastic, but its rigidity is compensated by soft fabric. The face does not sweat or itch even during long gaming sessions. Before use, it must be fixed on the cradle and then placed in the slot.
We also note the remote control connected via Bluetooth, the successful connection of which shows a cursor on the screen. The adjustment straps are the main adjuster for head size, that is, the model is suitable for both adults and children. The only negative is rather weak optimization when working in operating systems.
The best virtual reality glasses (helmets) for smartphones: price - quality
In times of crisis, the issue of saving is acute, so in this part of the review we will talk about the best glasses for smartphones in terms of price and quality without unnecessary overpayment.
3 BOBOVR Z4
Minimum equipment, maximum immersion
Country: China
Average price: 1940 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
There are 2 versions of the device on the market – Standard and Mini. Their differences lie in the packaging, which is why the Mini version does not have headphones and comes in a simple cardboard box with a case and instructions for use. The tray opens by pressing the top button, and inside there is a 3.5 mm jack for connecting to the headphone port of the phone.
If desired, they can also be used with a PC; you just need to get an extension cord that will connect the computer and your glasses. There are slides inside for centering the phone. Headphones and cables are not detachable. The viewing angle is a fair 120 degrees. During a long session, the face may become foggy due to the leatherette.
2 Fibrum Pro
The lightest glasses
Country: China
Average price: 4990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
One of the lightest glasses on the market, weighing only 120 grams. On average, they outweigh competitors by more than 2 times. The viewing angles in virtual space are also good – 110 degrees, versus Samsung’s standard 100. We also like its compactness, because in terms of width it is 25% smaller than the same Gear VR.
Despite production in China, development was carried out by Russia. This provides a higher level of comfort, since the model was created for our market. At the same time, upon purchase, the buyer will receive a flimsy design, the latches are especially alarming. There are no ports for connecting peripherals.
1 Samsung Gear VR (SM-R323)
Best functionality. Touch control panel
A country: South Korea (produced in Vietnam)
Average price: 5990 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Samsung Gear VR is a standard of quality, although the price is steep by today's standards. However, it is difficult to find a more worthy model, since the glasses are packed with the most advanced technologies. You can control navigation via the built-in touchpad, and the phone itself can be used using the keys on the glasses. We are also pleased with the optimization for people with disabilities; for example, it is perfect for people with poor eyesight.
Adjusting the diopters in the form of manually adjusting the distance of the lenses has a beneficial effect on customizing the device for yourself. A USB port is needed to connect a charger for long-term use. The soft seal improves the comfort of use by reducing pressure on the head, and the soft fabric strap will fit the helmet perfectly on your head. A primitive ventilation system will additionally save you from fogging, but the benefit of the gadget is zero if you do not have Samsung S7/Edge7/Note 5+/S6/S6+/Edge6/6+ smartphones.
The best virtual reality glasses (helmets) for PC
This group contains expensive and professional helmets. They have built-in displays, microphones and are well equipped. Connect to your PC via HDMI and allow you to look at games in a different way.
5 HTC Vive Pro 2.0
Helmet between generations
Country: China
Average price: 113,450 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
A new round of virtual reality technology is marked by the release of Vive Pro 2.0. In essence, this is a pumped-up version of the first iteration with significant improvements in three main areas. The improved display consists of 2 OLED panels with a total resolution of 2880x1600, which is 80% more than its predecessor. The developers have focused on maximum clarity, so you can easily see small text or distant objects.
An innovation was the introduction of 2 cameras mounted in the front of the body, which creates the impression of robot eyes. They are mainly needed to expand the capabilities of content developers, but can also be used by ordinary buyers. There are also 2 microphones here and both of them have a noise reduction function. Headphones are also included and optionally connect to the helmet. The issue price is about 113 thousand rubles, which justifies the new technologies, but sharply reduces the range of buyers and our rating.
4 Acer Mixed Reality Headset
Lightest helmet
Country: China
Average price: 28,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
Affordable virtual reality glasses for computer. The quality is inferior to flagships in terms of graphics. But they do not require high performance from the computer. The screens are not bad - 1440x1440 for each eye. And they update at a comfortable frequency of 90 Hz. Glasses cannot be called 100% “virtual-real”. They work using mixed reality technology - that is, they combine the world of the present and the world of the game. However, this does not negate their VR capabilities - all games developed for virtual reality will work as they should.
Advantages and disadvantages:
- Front cameras on glasses. Now the helmet itself tracks the user’s position and movements. There is no need to install additional sensors and controllers.
- Wide field of view 105 degrees. A fairly good option for games. The picture does not “smear” in the corners and creates a pleasant impression. But not ideal.
- Lightweight for a computer helmet. Weighs only 440 grams, which makes it almost invisible on the head. Convenient fastening allows you to properly distribute the weight, so playing with these glasses is quite comfortable.
- Among the shortcomings - not the best graphics despite seemingly good resolution and characteristics. It could have been better. But the glasses work even on average computers and laptops, which is a plus.
3 HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset
Pleasant level of comfort
Country: China
Average price: 28,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
A comfortable virtual reality helmet for those who like to immerse themselves in the game and forget about everything. The convenient shape increases the comfort of the game and the front part can be folded back at any time to take a break. The principle of creating mixed reality is formed using a total resolution of 2880x2880 and a viewing angle of 95 degrees. The refresh rate of 90 Hz makes the picture smooth without jerking.
The soft headband fits snugly around your head without squeezing it. Excess weight of the gadget does not cause fatigue. It also doesn’t require any settings; just connect the device to your PC and all the software will be installed automatically. The gamepad is not included, you will have to buy it separately.
2 HTC Vive
High tech
Country: China
Average price: 49990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Vive is a joint product between mobile device manufacturer HTC and gaming giant Valve. Such cooperation made it possible to create a technically advanced device on the VR technology market. In some cases, the technical capabilities of the Vive either match or surpass its main competitor Oculus Rift. But the price of this helmet is on average 20% higher than that of Oculus.
Features of the device and main differences from CV1:
- The frame refresh rate is the highest among helmets. If the Oculus display runs at 75 Hz, here it is 90 Hz. This is the main metric that plays a decisive role in the Vive's favor. The high frame rate allows you to use the helmet as a full-fledged gaming device. While Oculus uses a display with a medium flicker rate.
- The device tracks not only the movement of the user's head, but also his movement in space. Thanks to this, you can achieve complete immersion.
- HTC did not follow the Oculus trend and did not equip the glasses with built-in headphones. However, external headphones are included as standard.
- The gamepad is not supplied in the box with the device. For a branded Steam Gamepad you will have to pay an additional $50.
1 Oculus Rift CV1
Best price and optimization
Country: China
Average price: 36,990 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Oculus Rift was one of the first models to provide players with access to the world of virtual reality and maintains a brand of quality and optimization to this day. Weak sales, dictated by the high price tag, were increased due to a more loyal pricing policy, which made these glasses one of the most affordable for the buyer. Dual 1080 x 1200 screens with a 75Hz refresh rate provide the most performance and immersion for the price.
You shouldn’t ignore the equipment either. The kit includes a gaming joystick, and the helmet itself has built-in headphones. The manufacturer did not skimp on the screen with an OLED matrix. Additionally, you can purchase sensors and manipulators to create a game room and spatial orientation.
The best virtual reality glasses (helmets) for consoles
The fourth group is virtual reality glasses created specifically for consoles. They are slightly behind PCs and are tuned and optimized specifically to work with not very powerful hardware.
3 Royole Moon
Built-in memory
Country: China
Average price: 65,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The Royole company is asking incredible amounts of money for its glasses. The most interesting thing is that there is 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB of internal memory and its own screen from which you can record videos directly into memory. There is a wide range of interpupillary distance adjustment from 58 to 70 degrees.
With a relatively low refresh rate of 60 Hz, there is a fairly high resolution of 1920x1080 pixels for each eye. You can also connect a charger, fortunately there is a special connector for this. The model was created for consoles, but can be used for PCs and phones.
2 Sony PlayStation VR
The best glasses for PlayStation. Affordable price
Country: China
Average price: 18890 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
A unique product from Sony, created specifically for fans of the branded console. PS VR is accessible, comfortable and productive. Screen resolution of 960x1080 provides optimal graphics quality. A wide viewing angle (100 degrees) will allow you to immerse yourself in a new reality. The glasses can work with both the PS Move controller and a regular gamepad. Which one is more convenient?
Advantages and disadvantages:
- High-quality interaction with games. Since these glasses were created specifically for the PlayStation, the developers of virtual reality games took into account all the features of this console. There will be no problems identifying the player's actions.
- Excellent ergonomics - the glasses do not put pressure on the face and do not leave marks. The weight of the device is correctly distributed over the hoop that clasps the player’s head. You don't even have to take off your glasses. At the same time, no light gets inside the structure - soft blinders cover all the cracks.
- High frame refresh rate – 120 Hz. This minimizes the negative effects of virtual reality - motion sickness, rapid onset of fatigue and nausea. Of course, the effect is far from ideal, but you can play your favorite games for a long time.
- The disadvantage is that the graphics resolution is not the highest. When playing, sometimes there may be noticeable “soap” around the edges of the image.
1 Avegant Glyph
Breakthrough in technology. Universal option for any device
Country: USA
Average price: 35,100 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
AvegantGlyph is a real breakthrough in the field of virtual reality glasses. There is no longer a need for the body to fit tightly to the face. This model transmits the image directly to the user's retina and is ideal for playing on consoles. The model connects to smartphones running iOS/Android and Windows, making it a universal device. The viewing angle is modest and is only 45 degrees with a resolution of 1280x720 pixels. Initially modest characteristics are compensated by a high frame refresh rate of 120 Hz.
Advantages and disadvantages:
- Built-in diopter adjustment. It is possible to adjust the glasses to each user's vision. Range – from +1 to -7 diopters. As a last resort, ordinary glasses can be placed under the case, although this is not so convenient.
- Wireless game. The powerful battery guarantees more than 3 hours of operation in video mode. Virtual reality glasses do not limit the player's movement.
- The disadvantage is the method of attachment. The glasses weigh 420 grams and are mounted on the head, resting on the ears and nose. This may cause discomfort. Although over time the head gets used to it.
The most famous companies in the IT industry are trying to invest huge sums of money on the development and production of devices that are designed to immerse themselves in virtual reality. With the help of these devices, a strong feeling of being in a game or other graphically designed environment is created. This is achieved by visualizing the multimedia stream. A 3D image is obtained by individually feeding information to each eye. Next we present best virtual reality glasses– top 10 rating.
10. Reboto Virglass White Mirage
- Average price: RUB 7,667.
Reboto Virglass White Mirage opens the ranking of the best virtual reality glasses. The relatively inexpensive device displays good images on the screen of smartphones with a diagonal of 4.7 – 5″. Compatible with Android OS and iOS operating systems. The glasses come with a remote control that only works with the Android system. Made from quality materials. Total weight - 600 g.
9. Baofeng Mojing Generation 5
- Average price: 6,900 rub.
Baofeng Mojing Generation 5 are good virtual reality glasses from a well-known Chinese manufacturer, which also broadcast images to the screen of smartphones with a diagonal of 5-5.7 inches. The fifth generation reality headset uses micro-USB to connect to Android OS. During operation, additional features are available, such as adjusting the interpupillary distance and adjusting the focus. The improved version adds the ability to track fingers. The device can be used to watch movies or play games. Weight 275 g including head mount.
8. Samsung Gear VR (SM-R322)
- Average price: 6,990 rub.
The top ten best virtual reality glasses include the Samsung Gear VR. The device is suitable for phones with a screen diagonal of 5.1 – 5.7″. The main body material is white plastic, and the front part is made of matte black. The front part of the glasses is covered with a plug on which the smartphone is attached. It has two functions: display and computing device. Samsung Gear VR (SM-R322) requires a Galaxy smartphone to operate. The fastening mechanism in this device is very reliable. If installed correctly, the smartphone will not fall out, even if the cover is not fixed. Buttons and keys for adjusting and setting options, including the touchpad, are located on the body of the device. The 96° viewing angle allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of the virtual world. Casual games and 360-degree, panoramic videos are available.
7. LG 360 VR
- Average price: RUB 8,089.
LG 360 VR is the best VR glasses from the famous manufacturer in the world of digital technology, LG. They have small dimensions and a weight of 134 g. Despite the rigid mountings, you can work with the device for quite a long time. The pads for fixing the structure on the nose are very conveniently located and easy to adjust. To interact with virtual reality, you need to connect a smartphone and headphones to the glasses. The company's engineers have developed two special 1.88-inch IPS LCD displays for each eye, with a resolution of 960x720 pixels for the LG 360 VR. This makes it possible to obtain the clearest image possible.
6. Carl Zeiss VR ONE Plus
- Average price: 8,900 rub.
Carl Zeiss VR ONE Plus is an excellent VR headset from the German manufacturer. It is an improved version of Carl Zeiss VR ONE. When developing the new device, all the shortcomings of the previous model were taken into account and improved. The main advantage of Carl Zeiss VR ONE Plus is considered to be high-quality interaction with any smartphones with a display diagonal size from 4.7 to 5.5 inches. The design is equipped with removable straps. The DJI Inspire 1's fusion feature makes it possible to view images directly from the drone's camera.
5. Deepoon E2
- Average price: 22,900 rub.
In the middle of the list of the top 10 best virtual reality glasses are the multifunctional Deepoon E2 with its own software applications, although all available programs run almost flawlessly on this device. The build quality of the Deepoon E2 glasses is excellent, the design is well designed. It is possible to adjust the visibility range; it is made suitable for people with impaired vision. Built-in gyroscopic and gravimetric sensors track head movement. Deepoon E2 delivers performance that delivers the best gaming and video quality. Thanks to good resolution and a refresh rate of 75 hertz, consumers note the absence of headaches and eye fatigue.
4. Sony PlayStation VR
- Average price: RUB 33,990.
Sony PlayStation VR is one of the new virtual reality systems, equipped with a special OLED screen with a super smooth 120 Hz image transmission mode and a 360° range, as well as excellent 3D sound quality. PS VR connects to PlayStation 4 and provides a fully immersive experience in games like RIGS Mechanized Combat League and even VR Worlds. The device is lightweight and convenient. You can broadcast the image to the TV screen, which allows others to appreciate what is happening in the game.
3. Oculus Rift CV1
- Average price: 50,400 rub.
Oculus Rift CV1 opens the top three best virtual reality glasses. The model is one of the most popular devices of this type in the world. The device includes two OLED displays with a total resolution of 2160x1200 pixels. The helmet connects to a computer and is compatible with the Windows operating system. There are no visual delays or video gaps. Inside the Oculus Rift CV1 there is a magnetometer, gyroscope and accelerometer. Add-ons significantly improve the quality of games. Improved visibility makes it easy to navigate. Tracking the player’s movements in space with special LED dots increases the dynamics of the game map. These dots serve as decoration for the device and give it a truly fantastic look. The design of the virtual helmet allows you to attach it to your head as accurately as possible. Long-term use of the Oculus Rift CV1 due to its light weight does not cause tension or headaches.
2. HTC Vive
- Average price: 68,990 rub.
HTC Vive is one of the best VR glasses on the market. Manufacturers provide the device with a large range of components. These are controllers, a connector, so-called “base stations”, headphones and other smaller parts. All of them are designed to increase the realism of various kinds of sensations. The controllers create the effect of feeling a weapon in your hands, this is especially evident with a small pistol - you can imagine yourself as an elite fighter and shoot with two pistols at the same time. But another interesting property of controllers is the creation of a certain vibration, for example, when pulling a bow string. With the help of small vibration motors this can even be felt physically. Infrared rays from the “base stations” help determine the location of the controllers in space.
1. Sony HMZ-T3W
- Average price: RUB 109,995.
Sony HMZ-T3W - the best virtual reality glasses. The weight of the head unit is 320 g. Using the buttons on the head unit, you can configure the functions of the virtual helmet. The sound in this system is transmitted using the latest Virtual Phones technology, which provides good stereo sound. Contrasting OLED screens create a bright, realistic world or gaming universe, immersion into which can delight the most demanding viewer or gamer. The display settings are optimal for games and videos. Several picture modes differ in brightness and sharpness of contours. Improved lenses. The developers paid special attention to the gaming capabilities of the device. The image can be adjusted in four preset modes. Sony HMZ-T3W is the most advanced and best-featured VR headset that can provide amazing travel experiences or the real-life experience of a modern shooter.
Appeared back in the nineties in the United States of America. A lot of time has passed since then, and progress has come a long way. Now virtual reality has reached a high level and is at the very beginning of its development path. Therefore, every day new ones appear that amaze buyers with their capabilities.
Each manufacturer tries to make their device unique. Therefore, helmets have certain differences and their own set of functions. But first things first. First you need to understand what VR glasses are.
Virtual reality glasses are a device that can immerse the user in the world of virtual reality. This technology creates a visual and sound effect of presence in a certain space. Externally, VR devices are a structure that is placed on the head and securely fastened. Each device must have video displays and an acoustic headset.
In simple words, a virtual reality helmet is a modern, high-tech gadget that can transport the user into the world of virtual reality and give a lot of new emotions.
Many people are interested in the question. The operating principle of any VR device is the same. The helmet is placed on the head and secured with special straps. In this case, the glasses should fit tightly to the face so that extraneous factors do not distract the user’s attention. Photos, videos or games are displayed on the built-in screen, and the image is divided into two parts to create the effect of three-dimensional space. In modern models, the display resolution is quite high, so the picture is as realistic as possible.
In addition to a high-quality display, virtual reality glasses are equipped with an audio headset with a 3D effect. This allows you to completely escape from the real world and immerse yourself in a fantastic environment. Thus, a virtual reality helmet deceives a person’s hearing and vision, completely isolating him from the real environment.
Thanks to numerous sensors, viewing in virtual space occurs thanks to habitual head movements. You can examine your surroundings in great detail and look into any corner of the virtual world.
Depending on the specific helmet model, it is connected to a personal computer or game console. VR itself is quite simple and does not cause any difficulties. But it is worth remembering that for correct operation, in most cases a powerful computer is required. The requirements for the video card are especially high.
To achieve the best effect, the helmets provide some settings. For example, you can adjust the distance to the eyes, sound volume and other parameters. Some models are even equipped with special technology that allows people with vision from minus five to plus five to use virtual reality glasses without any discomfort.
The virtual reality helmet consists of the following main parts:
Depending on the company and model of the device, this list may be expanded.
What are virtual reality helmets for?
Of course, the bulk of buyers of such devices are young people who want to play virtual games. Glasses can take the player right into the center of events and allow them to experience the full range of sensations from the developing plot.
At the moment, a huge number of video games have been developed for virtual reality helmets. Every day developers delight gamers with new products. Moreover, many previously popular games are beginning to be adapted for use with a virtual reality helmet. Among the games there are calm ones, with a measured plot, and active ones with constant jumping and shooting. Based on the above, we can safely say that every buyer will find entertainment to their liking.
The range of uses for a VR headset does not end with games. Considering how VR glasses work, it is not difficult to guess that they can be used to watch video films. You can view both standard 3D films and special films designed for such devices. When watching such films, you can feel the setting of each scene and consider the developing events from all sides.
Basically, all virtual reality glasses were created for entertainment purposes, but in the future it is quite possible to use them in the following areas:
Medicine - remote operations and telediagnosis. Virtual reality has already been used to treat mental illnesses such as claustrophobia, fear of heights, etc.
— Education - any student will be more willing to absorb information in class if he is offered to visually visit historical monuments or be virtually transported to the capitals of different countries of the world.
Military affairs - control of unmanned drones and other equipment;
Design - this can include everything from designing the interior of premises to modeling various situations and conditions to help law enforcement agencies or researchers.
In the field of design and architecture, virtual reality technology is already actively used. Using it, you can design and inspect a construction project or develop a residential design. This direction is gaining momentum and is in demand.
Given such a wide range of applications, it is difficult to unambiguously answer the question of what VR glasses are. But one thing is for sure. A virtual reality helmet is a very multi-directional device, with the help of which a person can not only play games, but also perform more serious and important tasks.
Given the potential and speed at which virtual reality is developing, we can hope that new opportunities will soon open up that will be available to everyone.
Copied from the website website Subscribe to our TelegramVR (virtual reality) devices have been introduced into the lives of gamers and ordinary users quite recently; many have not yet had time to try this new technology due to the high cost of the equipment. The main part of the entire system is a virtual reality helmet. You can find many variants of this product in the market with different prices.
What is a virtual reality helmet for a computer?
This device is an intermediate link between a person and a non-existent world into which the user can be transported. A PC helmet mainly affects vision and hearing, immersing a person in a certain atmosphere. To do this, use headphones that fit tightly to the head and protect the user as much as possible from external noise. To interact with vision, there are two screens inside the helmet (like lenses in binoculars), which “collect” the whole picture. The device receives a video signal from the computer.
It is necessary to distinguish a VR helmet for PC from video glasses and augmented reality glasses. The latter have little relation to the real virtual environment. The way they work is that you see the world around you through the lenses, and a computer image is drawn on top of the glasses based on real objects. There was a rumored product called Google Glasses, which was recalled at the last minute before being sold due to complaints of headaches when using them.
Video glasses can be called the “little brother” of helmets. They also use a stereoscopic effect and a 3D image. As a rule, the desired result is achieved by dividing the image from the display using a system of diopters and lenses. The device is designed for watching movies and attraction videos, but the glasses do not provide complete immersion in virtual reality.
Universal VR helmet for PC
This is one of the device options that is designed not only for watching videos, but also for use in games. Few of the world's manufacturers would develop models exclusively for one direction, so most modern models of PC helmets are universal, for example:
- OSVR;
- AntVR Kit;
- HTC Vive;
- Samsung Gear.
Separately, it should be said about Oculus Rift, because the developers called its functionality useful not only for gamers and movie buffs, but also for the field of education and the military. The creators are trying to implement the most universal version of a VR device that could be used for any purpose. This is one of the reasons why this product received the most powerful PR campaign due to which it is on everyone's lips.
Gaming helmet
This category includes devices that are designed to interact with set-top boxes and computers. The most popular helmet for games is Sony Morpheus, it can only be connected to the PS4 console (PlayStation 4). The main difference between a universal and a gaming helmet is the level of detail and response speed, which affects the comfort with which the user will play. For example, the gaming category of helmets must have an ideal interaction speed, which is not required when watching movies.
How does a virtual reality headset work?
The main task of a virtual reality helmet for PC is to create a feeling of the user’s presence inside the game. To transmit the image, two OLED displays are used, which are located a few centimeters from the human eyes. An image with a small offset is transmitted through a cord from a computer or set-top box to the screens. Image-bending lenses are installed in front of the displays, combining the image and creating a three-dimensional effect.
The body of the PC helmet has built-in sensors (accelerometer, magnetometer, gyroscope) that track turns, head movement in space and immediately shift the image in the lenses. A tracker with infrared LEDs is installed separately in the room; it should be located opposite the person, recording his position in space. This is important in games where the user has the ability to move in space. For control, special or universal joysticks are used.
How to choose a virtual helmet for PC
If you decide to buy a virtual reality headset for PC in an online store, you should carefully consider the moment of choice. The purchase cannot be called inexpensive; these technologies have just entered the market and their prices remain consistently high. Until recently, PC helmets could only be ordered from America, but this year they hit the shelves in the CIS countries. What you should pay attention to when choosing a product from the catalog:
- Sound quality. A VR headset puts an emphasis on visuals, but when delivering terrible 2D audio that is no different from regular speakers, the virtual reality experience will be severely spoiled. The Avegant Glyph models, which many publications call a “personal home theater,” are considered the best in this regard. This device initially combines headphones and a helmet into one single device. The Sony Morpheus gadget also provides good simulation of different sound sources. The developers claim that their headphones can recognize up to 60 sound points.
- Viewing angle, picture quality. The higher this indicator, the more comfortable the picture will be in a virtual reality environment. Many manufacturers claim that their devices will have a viewing angle of 100 degrees, but during tests values of 90 degrees were noted. The quality of the picture is affected by the resolution of the screens. For example, 1080p from Ocuclus Rift will clearly outperform the AntVR Kit model, which has 720p quality.
- Motion sensors, weight. A very important indicator for gamers; without them, the device simply will not be able to track the movement of the player’s head or movement in space. There are devices on the market that do not have an accelerometer and a gyroscope. Virtual reality will not adapt to your movements and there will be no sense of presence within the environment. The weight of the product matters, because sitting for a long time with 1-2 kg on your head will be difficult even for a trained athlete. Such constant impact on the cervical spine can have a negative impact on human health.
Price for virtual reality helmet for PC
The first thing that interests everyone who is interested in VR technologies is how much does a virtual reality helmet cost? Much depends on the manufacturer’s brand, the technologies the model uses, and the functionality of the device. If desired, a person can create his own virtual reality glasses using a smartphone with a diagonal of 4 to 6 inches instead of a computer. If you want to play comfortably on your computer, then pay attention to the following flagships in this industry:
This option has a very powerful advertising campaign; developers have been working with prototypes of the device for several years, which indicates the production of content for the gadget (there will be something to play). It is currently compatible with popular shooters: DOOM, Team Fortress 2 and several other games. The price of a virtual reality helmet is 39,000 rubles. Technical characteristics of this device:
- resolution – 960x1080;
- viewing angle – 110 degrees;
- refresh rate – 75 Hz;
- response – 2-3 seconds;
- weight – 440 g.
This gadget is designed to work with PS4; the console and its gamepads are used to control and transmit images. The first game that announced support for this helmet was the space flight simulator EVE: Valkyrie. The system has excellent headphones that perceive up to 60 sound sources. The price of the virtual reality helmet has not yet been announced by the manufacturer. The device has the following characteristics:
- resolution – 1920x1080;
- screen size – 5.7 inches;
- viewing angle – 100 degrees;
- screen refresh rate – pseudo 120 Hz (60 Hz + reprojection system).
This is a product from a Chinese manufacturer who promised that it would be the Oculus Rift killer. The parameters of the device are really in no way inferior to this popular virtual reality helmet. However, the first tests of the device showed that what is written on the box is very different from what is obtained in the end. The price of a virtual reality helmet is 17,500 rubles, which greatly pleased many people who were planning to buy a device for themselves. The manufacturer declares the following parameters:
- resolution – 1920x1080;
- weight – 380 g;
- viewing angle – 100 degrees.
Another product with a powerful advertising campaign. The main feature of this option is the screen refresh rate of 90 frames per second. The helmet is distributed immediately with controllers; the manufacturer indicates that it can be used not only for games, but also with content from partners: Google, HBO, Lionsgate. Very high accuracy of head tracking, which is guaranteed by a high-quality accelerometer, gyroscope and laser sensor. You can buy a helmet for 52,000 rubles. Main characteristics:
- screen refresh rate – 90 frames per second;
- resolution – 1200x1080;
- viewing angle – 110 degrees.
