Wouldn’t it be incredible if you could dive straight into another world without even having to step out your front door? Well, with a virtual reality headset, you can do just that.
Virtual reality (VR) gaming systems put you straight into the heart of the action, with stunning graphics, precise tracking, and intense audio. Some headsets work via your VR compatible smartphone or are standalone, which means you don’t have to plug them into a PC or console, while others that do need to be connected offer superior ‘out of this world’ experiences.
A VR headset not only the future of gaming, but also a whole new way to experience everyday activities, like watching a movie or even having a work conference call.
Here we’ve rounded up some of the best VR headsets, including more affordable options as well as luxury devices.
Powered by cutting-edge technology, Playstation VR transports you from your home into more than 200 cutting-edge games and experiences. The Sony VR headset offers high visuals, 3D audio and intuitive controls, using either the Playstation Move or Dualshock 4 controller.
This Playstation VR Mega Pack comes the PlayStation VR headset, PlayStation Camera and five game download codes: VR Worlds, ASTRO Bot Rescue Mission, Skyrim VR, Everybody’s Golf, Resident Evil 7. Note that some of these games like Skyrim VR require the Playstation Move controllers. These are not included so you will have to be purchase them separately.
One Amazon shopper wrote in their review: ‘I was one of those people that thought VR was pointless and just a fad, but wow I was wrong.
‘I finally took the plunge on a PSVR and I’m so glad I picked one up as it’s amazing You really feel transported into the games especially Resident Evil, that game is just outright creepy in VR and the best horror experience I’ve ever had in a game. Seriously everyone should buy one of these if you own a PS4. Highly recommended.’
Perfect for people new to virtual reality, the BNext VR Headset allows you to play games and watch movies with a VR compatible smartphone, including iPhones and Android.
Its advanced gaming technology includes FD and OD adjustments (wide FOV) to expand the viewing angle and perfectly match focal distance and unilateral myopic alignment for reduced distortion.
The gaming headset comes with BNext’s free VR content list of VR games & VR experiences, and is compatible with Google Cardboard apps that don’t require a button, as well as many other VR apps and adventures that can be found on the application’s stores.
One Amazon shopper wrote: ‘This product met all criteria I had for a Mobile VR headset. I’ve never used VR before, so I thought the best option would be to try out Mobile VR before trying the more expensive models.
‘The build quality is high and the product feels very solid. This VR headset has adjustable lenses, so you can adapt it just the way you want it. The sliding system for the mobile holder is perfect for quickly inserting and removing your phone.
‘The volume is clear and understandable, it fits perfectly to everyone: child or adult. You can adjust the lens as per your face size. I wear glasses and can still view using glassing and fit the lens accordingly. I would recommend this unit to anyone who’s looking for some fun tech.’
The Oculus Quest VR Headset is an all-in-one virtual reality system that takes gaming to the next level. With no wires needed, you’re able to move freely whilst playing games. You can play standing or sitting in spaces big or small.
You also don’t need a PC. Simply install the Oculus mobile app onto your smartphone and you’re ready to discover an all-new gaming experience.
The headset’s sensors precisely track your movements and instantly translate them into VR. The Oculus Touch controllers become your hands in the VR world, which means you can see your every movement with great precision and accuracy.
One Argos customer wrote in their review: ‘I would give this six stars if I could. Entertainment value is an understatement. Ease of use for all people ages, and there is something to do for everyone. Plenty of quirky games.’
Another added: ‘The quest is the first VR device to make me actually believe VR has a future. Simple to setup, incredible tracking, great visuals. The wire free design makes you play this every day, because there is no hassle in jumping into a quick game. You will not be disappointed if you buy one.’
With its hi-res headset, 3D spatial audio, ultra-precise and real-life tracking, and chaperone tracking, the HTC VIVE Pro is a professional 3D gaming system like no other and arguably the best in the video game industry.
Using optimised ergonomics, the headset sits comfortably on your face and its updated chassis evenly distributes the weight of the device.
One customer left this five-star review: ‘Bought this as an upgrade from my original HTC Vive. This was the best upgrade path for me, as I wanted to keep using my Vive Wireless Adapter, and so didn’t want to go for a wired alternative. The controllers and base stations aren’t included in this package, so ideal for continuing to use your existing ones.
‘The higher resolution is very noticeable, being able to read text further away in games, and the comfort and balance of the headset are certainly improved, too. Little additions like the volume controls on the headphones are a welcome addition as well.’
If you’re looking for a smaller budget standalone VR headset that transports you into vivid and realistic virtual worlds without a gaming PC or console, the Oculus Go is a great choice. Plus, you’ll be spoilt for choice in terms of what to play, as the Oculus App store is packed with more than 1,000 games and experiences.
It features crystal clear lenses, built-in surround sound audio and a controller for a truly immersive VR gaming experience. The Oculus Go comes with 64 GB of storage space, which means you can save up to seven HD films, 20 games and 40 apps. The lightweight and compact headset is made from breathable fabrics for a more comfortable wear.
One shopper commented in their review: ‘As a first time user of VR I have been blown away by the experience which is so incredibly immersive. The Oculus Go, while not being as high spec as some of the other systems available, offers a great introduction for new users, and the cable free unit provides a flexibility and mobility that the others don’t.
‘The range of games, apps and experiences is huge and gets bigger by the day (literally) and I’m finding new things I didn’t know were out there. The great joy of the portability is in how you can show it off to friends and family.’
While the Oculus Rift S requires the use of a gaming PC, it certainly does not disappoint. It is equipped with next generation optics and the sharpest lenses for top quality VR and a smoother gameplay.
With improved design for longer wear, Oculus Insight tracking to translate your moving without external sensors, and updated Oculus Touch controllers for better interaction, you’ll be able to dive into the future of VR gaming after a simple set-up.
To showcase its stunning graphics and breathtaking gameplay, the Oculus Rift S does require substantial power from a PC, and it is recommended that your graphics card has at least 6GB of dedicated video memory, your CPU has at least 4 cores, and you’re running over 8gb of RAM.
One customer wrote in their review: ‘I had my doubts about VR but was persuaded by my son to purchase the Oculus Rift S and I am so glad I did. The system is fantastic, highly immersive and quality of the graphics is excellent.
‘I am running it on a Radeon 5700XT and have no issues with frame rates. The cord does not intrude on the game play and the entire family has been enjoying the experience.’
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