
VR is the next step in gaming and 360⁰ degree video, immersing the player / viewer in a world that can be as complex and fantastical as any other gaming or movie experience that the developers can come up with. Another great thing about the technology is that it can be compatible with your existing devices, whether that be a PC, Console or Smartphone – there is no real need for additional hardware to enjoy this next step in the evolution of entertainment.
That said, there are some prohibitively expensive VR headsets on the market, but do you really have to sell the family car in order to enjoy everything that virtual reality has to offer? In addition to hiring VR headsets there are affordable options out there, as you are about to discover with our wallet friendly VR headset roundup.
Sony PlayStation VR
The PS VR headset is obviously only compatible with PS4 and above but we won’t hold that against them. The high-tech systems in play here tracks your movement so that it can keep tabs on your position and it is also capable of determining whether you are sat down or stood up, which opens up new possibilities for game developers. Superb sound and graphical capabilities allow for a fully immersive experience.
In the box you will find the VR headset, naturally, as well as an HDMI cable, Stereo earbuds, a processor unit, USB cable, connection adapter, power cord and AC adapter… That’s a lot of kit for one headset, but the end result is worth it.
Samsung GearVR
The GearVR headset is very affordable, and several online retailers undercut the RRP by a very generous margin. Something that makes the Samsung GearVR headset even more attractive is that fact that it is compatible with your existing smartphone (within reason, obviously, let’s not get too carried away), which means no complicated wires to trip over and no need to hog the console / TV when the big game is on.
Dual lenses provide high-resolution displays, one for each eye, and the visuals on offer really are amazing.
Google Daydream
Similar in use and functionality as the Samsung VR, the Google Daydream VR headset allows access to the wide range of Google and Android technology with many apps and gaming experiences already available. The technology is first class, even more so than Samsung’s offering, and it shows. The unit itself is light, soft to the touch and comfortable to wear.
The only drawback to the headset is that it currently only works with Daydream ready devices, such as Pixel and Pixel XL which can be restrictive. That being said, if you already own a Daydream ready smartphone, or you are planning an upgrade, then this headset should be on your wishlist.
Sulon Q
The Sulon Q provides competition for existing headset technologies, which can only be a good thing as it pushes the tech forward and encourages innovation. The Sulon Q itself makes use of tether free technology and so does not need complex systems in order to operate. Its built-in processing capabilities provide users with console quality gaming, videos and other VR experiences without having to attach it to any other devices – not even a smartphone!
Noise cancelling speakers bring superb, 3D audio to the applications being used – not only that, there is also an included microphone for voice comms. The Sulon Q is probably the most highly anticipated headset, even more so than Microsoft’s Hololens. Units are expected to be a little more costly than other headsets here, but they are also expected to be worth the investment!
Oculus Rift
The Oculus Rift remains one of the most popular VR headsets, mostly because it was also among the first to be available commercially. As with the PlayStation VR, the Oculus Rift is able to detect whether or not you are sat or standing and can adjust the visuals accordingly.
Built in headphones provide great quality auditory feedback, but should you wish to use your own then the ones provided can be removed easily enough. This is small touch but a very welcome one nonetheless. A provided remote control is wireless, allowing total freedom of movement.
As technology advances and more VR headsets appear on the market to take advantage of emerging technologies and advancements, price points for even midrange headsets are expected to fall. Smartphones could be prohibitively expensive, until Android turned up and turned the industry on its head.
While such a massive shift probably won’t happen with VR, prices can still be expected to fall further due to increased competition and demand.
The future is certainly looking very bright for VR, and the entertainment industry.