When this site was created - in November 2016 - there were essentially two types of VR glasses: those that connect to a PC and those that a smartphone is inserted into. But time passes, and today, as of June 2018, this entire VR zoo has grown so much that it may not be clear to beginners what they really need. What can I talk about, I’m already starting to get confused about them)
This note, I hope, will help you understand a little about the variety of VR devices today and make the right choice. Brew tea or coffee - there is a lot of material here)
For a better understanding of further material, I recommend reading my article ““, in which I talk about the basic principles of operation of modern VR systems.
Updated November 2018: added information about , and .
Updated May 2019: added information about , and . Well, a little detail where I added something.
Updated September 2019: added information about .
Updated January 2020: I edited the material a little.
Classification of VR glasses and helmets (nice diagram)
At first I thought about making a table, but then I found a cool service for diagrams and mind maps, with which I made this beauty ( view from the center):
Which VR helmet to choose in 2020?
The picture is clickable, Here’s another one, it’s the most convenient place to watch it. By default, it is intercepted by the magnifying glass plugin, on a PC it can be opened via the right mouse button, on a phone – with a long tap on the link. The picture was updated in September 2019, but at the beginning of 2020 it is still relevant, if new models appear, I will add them here.
Virtual glasses for smartphone
Initially, this site was intended to talk only about them, I didn’t think that, but what happened, happened. And now I’m writing more about the Oculus Rift CV1 or rather, about the Oculus Rift S.
What's the point
It's just a plastic box with lenses and no electronics inside. Although, some models are equipped with headphones, buttons for changing the volume, pressing the screen, and so on. A smartphone is inserted there, special applications made on the basis are launched on it (if your phone supports them) - and you watch all sorts of 3D there. I’ll tell you in detail what you can do with these glasses. In short:
- play mobile games based on Carboard (and Daydream) (),
- watch 3D movies ().
- and even try... and so on.
I had a lot of these glasses, but I either gave them away or sold them all:
My VR zoo for a smartphone (and here they are not all)
The advantages of such glasses:
- relatively low price - you can buy from 500 rubles on Aliexpress;
- you don’t need a powerful computer to watch virtual reality;
- There are quite a lot of areas of application - that’s what I’m talking about;
- usually they have adjustment of the focal and interpupillary distance, which is important for people with visual impairments;
- You can really see 3D and get the wow effect “inexpensively”...
Disadvantages of such glasses:
- needed - with a gyroscope and preferably a Full HD screen;
- mobile content is quite poor and you are unlikely to find a cardboard game that will keep you engaged for a long time. Daydream seems to be better, but not every phone can handle it;
- jerky tracking, drifts and other problems associated with low-quality gyroscopes in phones;
- only - you can turn your head, but you cannot approach objects;
- hassle with setting up games on a PC;
- hassle with setting up controllers to simulate hands in VR;
- phone overheating;
- and in general - this is a phone: you received a call - VR is over)
In what case is it worth buying such glasses?
If you have a suitable phone and you haven’t seen “this VR” at all. Essentially, these VR glasses for smartphones are a demo version of the real thing. virtual reality. For little money you can buy a gadget that you either like or not. And, starting from what you see, move on.
Samsung Gear VR
It is not for nothing that it stands separately in the diagram.
- it only works with Samsung, and different Gear models require different phone models, be sure to check compatibility before purchasing;
- it has its own store and its own ecosystem of applications that are not compatible with Carboard;
- it has its own gyroscope and some kind of electronics. This is why the tracking and overall quality of VR on Gir is compared to “large PC VR headsets”;
- a controller goes to it, again - working only with it.
In general, as you understand, Gear VR is a thing in itself, but if you have a Samsung smartphone, it’s better to take a “weight”...
About DayDream
In fact, despite the fact that in my scheme I have a separate Bobo VR Z5, which comes with a joystick for Daydream, such a joystick can be purchased separately for any phone if it supports Daydream. And if it doesn’t support it, then you can try to reflash it.
It is important to understand that DayDream can be started in any glasses from the list - the main thing is that the phone supports it, and a controller is required.
However, as of mid-2019, many claim that Daydream is dead.
Where to find out more about VR glasses for smartphones
Oculus Rift CV1 + Tooch Bundle
The advantages of such helmets:
- minimum problems with setting up the helmet and launching games (although there are exceptions);
- excellent tracking quality, absence of drifts and other similar nonsense;
- full-fledged VR “with hands” - controllers work out of the box;
- the presence of positional tracking, that is - - in games you can bring your face closer to objects;
- at your disposal is content from Steam VR and the Oculus Store (although don’t forget about exclusives for each platform) - and these are games at times better than that what you will see on mobile phones;
- You can play in the dark!
Disadvantages of such helmets:
- “Horse Price Tag” - Oculus CV1 today starts from 400 bucks on Amazon (has already fallen in price to 350!), Vive is more expensive, Vive PRO is actually sold here for 80k ( in fact, there are no new CV1s on sale anymore, they were replaced by the Oculus Rift S, more about that);
- you will need a powerful PC to play VR games in good quality, or at least so that they do not slow down at all;
- installing cameras or base stations can also create difficulties;
- for full 360-degree tracking you may need additional camera(Oculus).
About Oculus Rift DK2
I talk about it in detail. Despite the fact that it still works and you can play it, I wouldn’t recommend taking it anymore. Because, it’s unknown when Oculus will give up on supporting it + tightening its hands there is also a hemorrhage, and additional expenses. Alternatively, if you have very little money, you can now find it on Avito for 5-10k, there’s no point in paying more.
About Oculus Rift S
This is a new model from Oculus, which is already available for pre-order in May 2019, for 400 bucks. Distribution will begin at the end of May. The main difference from the CV1 version is that they are no longer needed external cameras, all tracking of the position of the head and controllers occurs “from within” the helmet itself due to the cameras built into it, like the WMR helmets that I write about next. Only there are five cameras instead of WMR’s two.
The shape of the controllers has also changed (the touchpads have been turned inside out) and the screen resolution has been improved - now 2560x1440 RGB for both eyes (as in Oculus Go).
Oculus Rift S - new PC-VR helmet from Oculus
You can read more at, or look for Russian reviews, I think when you read this article, they are already online. Well unboxing.
About Valve Index
Valve Index - new VR helmet from Valve
Vive, you are simply Cosmos!
In addition, the helmet can be connected to the “basic tracking” of wireless stations, and in general, the developers are very focused on its “modularity”, they say, the front cover is removable, and the craftsmen will come up with a lot of things! But I seriously doubt this.
In what case is it worth taking these “classic” PC helmets?
If you want to play PC games normally, especially with controller hands and you have one on which all this will work. Well, you don’t mind the money, of course)
Where can I find out more about these things?
VR headsets for PC based on WMR (Windows Mixed Reality)
As for me, these are no longer “classic” PC helmets, and here’s why.
What's the point
Like the previous group of helmets, they will connect to a PC via HDMI and USB cable, but they have a fundamentally different way of tracking the position of the helmet and controllers in space. If Oculus and Vive have base stations or cameras - and helmets and controllers have infrared sensors to which they respond, then with WMR helmets everything is different.
On the front of the WMR helmet there are two wide angle cameras, which scan the space in front of them and, based on this data, track the movement of the helmet in space. Also, through these cameras, controllers on which glowing LEDs are located are also monitored. Reading cameras see in the normal range, not the IR range, and to track the movement of the controllers, sensors built into the controllers themselves are used.
Several major brands have released helmets based on this technology:
Herds of WMR helmets, for some reason they forgot Samsung...
Pros of WMR helmets:
- the price tag here is more humane than that of its older brothers; on Amazon you can buy younger models from $200;
- higher resolution screens versus Vive and Oculus (yes, I know from the Vive Pro and its price), namely 2880x1440 instead of 2100x1200 pixels;
- there is no need to install base stations or cameras outside - the cameras built into the helmet monitor everything themselves;
- in general, here you can play the same Steam VR and games from Oculus (ReVive);
- its own application environment (although I have not yet heard that there are any exclusives there, but we’ll see)…
- Thanks to the cameras, it will be possible to work in augmented reality (this is when the picture from the helmet is superimposed on the outside world), but I have not yet heard of cool applications that I could not live without).
Cons of WMR helmets:
- You can’t play in the dark and in generally poor lighting - after all, no one can see the camera!
- controllers can fly away, disappearing from the camera's visibility range. Although, many write that due to internal gyroscopes this is not so scary in fact, but nevertheless... you need to be prepared for such troubles;
- The very shape of the controllers raises questions for me, especially after the oculus touches)
- You will probably have to recalibrate if something has changed in your room, for example, furniture has been rearranged, because cameras work based on what they see around...
- glitches, bugs and all this when launching games from Steam and not only - after all, the WMR platform is very young, and it will still be brought to mind. And not all developers will immediately adapt upcoming games for it;
- they don't have built-in headphones - except for Odysseus.
About Samsung Odyssey
Among all WMR helmets, it stands apart, and costs more - from 500 bucks at the office. website, although while I’m writing this note, at a discount it costs 399...
Its key differences:
- the highest screen resolution among WMR - dual Amoled screen with a resolution of 1440×1600 for each eye (2880* 1600 );
- presence of headphones;
- the shape of the controllers is different from other WMRs (and not everyone likes it);
In general, just like with Gear VR, Samsung has distinguished itself again)
About Samsung Odyssey+
Information from October 2018. Samsung is releasing an improved model of its helmet. The resolution remains the same, but some kind of new technology to reduce the visibility of the pixel grid + the design has been slightly changed and the weight of the helmet has been reduced. Apparently, something like what was done in the Oculus Rift CV1. For now you can only buy it in the USA, but they sell the regular Odyssey for 350 bucks.
About HP Reverb
HP Reverb - the highest resolution VR headset
Chinese copies of Oculus and Vive for PC
What's the point
These helmets also connect to a PC via cable, and even have some software that makes the computer recognize your Chinese helmet as an Oculus Rift. That is, you can generally play oculus games and Steam VR, but if everything was so simple, no one would buy expensive originals.
Of the models known to me, this is Deepon E2 (is now almost never found in nature) ,Deepon E3 and of course Pimax 4K(). There are other, more exotic models that can be found on Ali, Herbest and other Internet spaces... key feature here is just software that replaces your helmet with its “big brother” and gives you the opportunity to play PC games.
Pimax 4K virtual reality headset
The advantages of such helmets:
- they usually cost less than their analogues, the same Pimax 4K cost me 17k;
- own software written by the Chinese will allow you to play many PC games;
- higher picture resolution (Pimax 4K).
Disadvantages of such helmets:
- assembly and a high percentage of defects;
- the same software may well turn out to be buggy and it is not a fact that all games will work perfectly;
- as a rule, there is no “positioning”, that is, only three degrees of freedom - if you do not buy the same Nolas or Hydras;
- lack of controllers “out of the box”;
- ghosting, drifts and other childhood diseases of Chinese VR helmets.
About Pimax 8K
In it, the Chinese promise a viewing angle of 200 degrees + a grid at the Pimax 4K level, as well as proprietary controllers with tracking of each finger. But test deliveries were promised back in February 2018, but it’s already June and only now the first ten pieces have been sent out to testers.
They'll release us - we'll see.
UPD: they finally gave birth to something and already in October 2018 they began sending out (finally!) helmets to backers from Kickstarter, and also opened pre-orders on their website. But, even according to the reviews of those who have seen the helmet, not everything is clear yet. In fact, there are no two hundred FOVs there, at best - 150, but even this everyone is delighted with. The price for this is the same grid at the 4k level, distortion on the sides and extreme requirements for the PC. Read more in the topic on 4pda.
Vive Focus
When I wrote the post, I completely forgot about it. And not by chance. It is close to the Mirage Solo, it also has cameras for spatial positioning and seems to promise six degrees of freedom. But, while it is sold only in China for 4299 yuan, for ours it is something like 40k at the time of writing. This is even cooler than the version from Lenova. And it’s not very clear yet with the software whether there will be anything other than Chinese store... although VivePort seems to be declared.
Oculus Quest - the storm of standalone VR headsets
And it came out; pre-orders opened on April 30, 2019.
At the end of September 2019, Oculus announced a stream from a PC via cable for Quest - Oculus Link, and hand tracking in 2020. You can read more in my .
In what cases do you need such a stand-alone helmet?
It will be useful to you if you travel a lot and plan to take the helmet with you - in comparison with the Chinese All-In-Ones, everything here is of higher quality + a wireless controller. It’s also convenient to watch movies even at home, lying in bed, for example, without disturbing anyone, especially since you don’t need a PC or a phone, compared to the same Pimax 4K, which has a clearer picture, but also requires a computer.
It is also ideal for viewing panoramic photos and videos and simple mobile games released for these platforms. Games from a PC, even if you manage to stream here, still one hand and lack of positioning will not allow you to fully immerse yourself in the world of VR. Unless some simulators with a gamepad.
PlayStation VR
This helmet stands apart in the diagram for a reason, because it only works with the PlayStation 4. It has its own ecosystem of applications and exclusives, not available to ordinary mortals, and the good old “movies” are used as controllers:
PS VR Kit
However, if you have a fourth Sonya, it is likely that it will be the ideal choice for you.
Yes, I know that somehow people connect it to a PC via Trinus VR, but as for me, this is still a rake, like fencing positional tracking from tennis balls and PS cameras, in general, we’ll leave this moment to enthusiasts...
The topic of this helmet is on w3bsit3-dns.com, you can ask all questions about it there.
To sum it up
As you can see, there are no bad or good VR headsets, it all depends on your needs. I hope this review will help you choose the right path in further exploration of the world of virtual reality.
@pavel419 was with you, see you again)
Welcome to my blog page. If you came here, it means you have questions about the choice VR points. And yes, indeed, sometimes it can be very difficult to choose such glasses for yourself. That's why you are here and I want to help you with the right choice.
Thanks to this article, each of you will choose for yourself the best option that you can afford. There is a huge selection of them on the market, so, without further ado, I will tell you about all the features of virtual reality glasses.
What is virtual reality?
Before we decide on the choice of glasses, it is worth understanding the concept of virtual reality. This concept was named from the English Virtual Reality.
This is a technology that allows you to completely immerse yourself in an artificially created virtual world. You can react to everything that happens with hearing, sight and touch.
These glasses have become very popular because they allow you to completely immerse yourself in another world and temporarily escape from real problems. A good dev ice is able to make you react to everything that happens in it. You will be able to get more emotions from the game with such a helmet than without it.
How VR works
This gadget is presented in the form of a helmet made of a plastic case and fixed straps. It must be put on your head and connected to your smartphone, computer or console. The case contains special lenses and a display, which is divided into 2 parts.
work scheme
There are also devices with 2 displays that show the same image. Thus, this will allow you to obtain a three-dimensional image due to the fact that each eye sees the full picture of what is happening.
When you put the helmet on your head, the gyroscope immediately starts working. This is a device that reads all head movements. Also for this purpose, glasses are equipped with special sensors. The helmet itself is usually connected to a computer via USB or HDMI.
What devices do not need to be taken?
This review is aimed at helping you avoid such devices that cannot even immerse you in virtual reality and are just toys and imitation!
How do you like glasses that are not suitable for watching movies or playing games? You can pay up to $1,000 for an uncomfortable helmet with an ugly design and HD resolution. At the same time, they do not even allow you to go virtual, but only offer a huge personal display. Even now you may be offered to buy glasses like this: great option For vr. Therefore, pass by those devices that are considered a “personal cinema.”
You shouldn’t fall for the Chinese representatives who come with a stand for smartphones. Such glasses cost from $5, but you will have to have very powerful phone on Android based. In addition, they are uncomfortable and the quality leaves much to be desired.
Varieties
Virtual reality glasses can be purchased for various gadgets. It could be:
- Smartphone.
- Personal computer.
- Game console/game console.
Such a device can also be qualified by price category. This is perhaps the easiest way to select glasses. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on such a gadget, then look for cheaper options, but you need to pay a lot for complete immersion in virtual reality.
The operating principle of cheap glasses is simple. They are made of cardboard or other cheap material (which can also be harmful to your health) that you can connect your phone to. It will serve as a display.
Mid-price gadgets are also intended only for smartphones. They differ only in higher quality assembly and stylish design.
The most expensive glasses are only for PC or consoles. They have powerful features and prices can reach $1000.
Pros and cons
Now it’s worth talking about the positive and negative aspects of each type of glasses. Before choosing glasses, you should decide what device you are buying them for.
Let's divide the points into 2 camps: for smartphones, for PCs and consoles.
Let's start with the positive qualities of our mobile friends:
- Phones are portable, so you don't need constant access to a PC or set-top box.
- No powerful computer required.
- You can run games from your PC if you connect your smartphone to it via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi.
The only downsides will be the poorly developed field of games with virtual reality support and rapid battery consumption.
The advantages of glasses for PCs and consoles are the many games with excellent graphics designed specifically for virtual reality. The disadvantages are that the VR Box is only used on a short distance from the device, the price of glasses and the presence of a powerful computer.
TOP 5 brands according to customer reviews
1. Oculus Rift.
This helmet has its own store of exclusive games, it has few wires, it has a convenient design and the same controllers.
2. HTC VIVE
These are some of the best glasses that exist today. This is the result of the collaboration of two large companies HTC and Valve. This device has a high-quality display, precise positioning and convenient controllers.
3. PlayStation VR
This company can be considered in the category " the best company manufacturer of virtual reality glasses,” as evidenced by this device.
4. Pimax 4K
The Pimax company has developed the first glasses that support 4K resolution, but you will have to purchase special controllers for them.
5. Samsung Gear VR
This device has been designed specifically for Samsung phones together with Oculus.
Samsung Gear VR
In conclusion, I would like to advise you not to be fooled by beautiful reviews on the Internet and always think for yourself.
I, in turn, have provided you with a general description of virtual reality glasses. I identified all the main advantages and disadvantages, and also came up with my top list of the best helmets. Yes, some of them are not suitable for every segment of the population, but so far such technologies are just developing and very rapidly.
So don’t worry if you can’t afford such a toy now, because in the near future everyone will be able to buy virtual reality glasses.
Choosing the best virtual reality glasses is difficult, because the variety of models makes your eyes wide open. Often, buyers are lost because not every one of them is knowledgeable enough about this topic. The article will tell you how to choose a VR helmet and not make a mistake in the purchase, and will also introduce you to the rating of the best virtual reality glasses of 2018 in the budget class and luxury collection.
3 Best Inexpensive VR Glasses
To get acquainted with the virtual world, you don’t need to choose expensive glasses. Models that are affordable and of excellent quality have been developed. Each of them is characterized by a number of advantages.
The functionality of the glasses is narrowed. The cost ranges from 1-1.3 thousand rubles. At the same time, the quality of immersion is not inferior to expensive gadgets. Below is an overview of the best budget virtual reality glasses at an affordable price.
VR BOX VR 2.0
In the budget class of VR glasses, the leading position is occupied by the Chinese model VR BOX VR 2.0. It will replace branded samples both in functionality and design. The base of the case is high-quality matte plastic. For greater comfort, the helmet is equipped with a soft fabric frame.
The design includes a special cradle. Before traveling to virtual reality, attach your smartphone to it - it is used as a display. A mobile phone fits inside the helmet thanks to a slot.
The only disadvantage of the device is poor optimization with devices based on . In some cases, users express dissatisfaction.
Description:
- Easy control using the remote control - connection is via Bluetooth module
- Reliable fastening on the head with soft straps - the peculiarity lies in the size adjustment (the helmet is available for use by adults and children from 3 years old)
- Presentable appearance– similarities are visible with the branded road HTC model Vive
HIPER VRS
In the mid-price category, the model is considered the best example of the new generation of VR technology. The build quality is amazing. The design is thought out from start to finish. The helmet is equipped with movable parts that fit tightly together when put on. This indicates complete light-tightness, which enhances the immersive virtual reality experience.
- Diopters - adjustable using manual settings lenses
- Seal – prevents body pressure on the skin
- Ventilation – eliminates lens fogging
- 1. VR Box VR 2.0
- 2.BOBOVR Z4
- 3. Xiaomi Mi VR Play
- 4. Fibrum Pro
- 5. Samsung Gear VR (SM-R325)
- 6. Carl Zeiss VR One
- 7. Homido VR
- 8. Oculus Rift
- 9. Sony Playstation VR
- 10. HTC Vive
Many of us, in our early childhood, dreamed of a device that, when worn, would allow us to be transported to a magical world and feel like a great hero, saving an entire kingdom and winning the hand and heart of a beautiful princess. Years of development of such devices under the auspices of huge companies gave very mediocre results, it began to seem that this dream was no longer destined to come true, but in the last few years the VR technology industry has flourished and going in search of adventure has become possible right now! We will tell you which assistant is best to choose for this in our rating today and discuss the best virtual reality glasses on at the moment.
VR Box VR 2.0
Price: 500 rubles 
There is no typo here, virtual reality glasses can actually be purchased for only 500 rubles. And far from being useless, with their help you can really feel the virtual world. A decent viewing angle of 100 degrees will help with this, as will fine-tuning the focus and adjusting the interpupillary distance. To work with them, a smart phone from 4.5 inches is suitable, but remember that the image will directly depend on the quality of its display - mobile phones with a resolution below Full HD only cause frustration. With applications for these glasses, everything is not very rosy yet, but such a cheap device may well win a wide audience and then we will see a completely different picture.
BOBOVR Z4
Price: 1500 rubles 
Despite the low price, these virtual reality glasses look very impressive. The characteristics at first glance are also in perfect order– 120 degrees of viewing angle, a wide range of available smartphone diagonals – from 4.7 to 6.2 inches, there is interpupillary distance adjustment, which is rare in cheap devices. But in reality, all these advantages come up against the obvious ceiling of poor performance quality - the device is extremely inconvenient and constantly falls off, breaking it during active play is a piece of cake. It may be okay without fish, but it’s not a fact that the positive emotions from the games will prevail over the discomfort of using an inconvenient device.
Xiaomi Mi VR Play
Price: 1225 rubles 
Inexpensive device from Chinese brand, which is suitable for smartphones running Android and iOS. The available screen diagonal is from 4.7 to 5.7 inches, which is quite funny considering the fact that a good half mobile phones from Xiaomi have a larger screen. The device does not have an attractive design or increased convenience, but wearing it does not hurt your back - it is quite possible to play for an hour or two. There are not enough games yet, but work on them is actively underway. It will do just fine as a first gadget of this kind. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhpgKsP2f3U
Fibrum Pro
Price: 3990 rubles 
And in Russia they know how to do this! Another mobile VR glasses designed for smartphone screens from four to six inches. Unlike very cheap devices, Fibrum Pro is made of high-quality and reliable materials, and the software component supports all platforms - Android, iOS and Windows Phone. The device is quite lightweight, which means your back and neck will not get too tired and sore. There are some drawbacks - plastic still emits a fairly persistent and not the most pleasant odor, but over time it dissipates. The lenses do not adjust and the eyes get tired quite quickly. Constantly appearing new content will not let you get bored and throw your gadget into the far corner. For your first acquaintance with virtual reality, Fibrum Pro is perfect.
Samsung Gear VR (SM-R325)
Price: 6600 rubles 
This is already a serious device, far from being built on the knee. The device carefully monitors the position of the user’s head, which is fundamentally different from the work of the built-in accelerometer in cheap models, which means that the games available here are more interesting. The glasses are very comfortable and do not fall off during the game thanks to the available strap locks - now you don’t have to worry that an unexpected careless movement will damage the gadget. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIPmFm1CkYU Excellent ergonomics make operating the device easy and comfortable, and the manufacturer’s active work on content allows us to have no doubt about the long future of this line of glasses.
Carl Zeiss VR One
Price: 4890 rubles 
This model has very strict restrictions on the permissible screen diagonal of a mobile device - from 4.7 to 5.2 inches. The stylish design immediately catches your eye - white plastic and black inserts, and a translucent shield is installed on the front. To prevent the plastic from pressing on the face, foam rubber seals are used. The device does not have control buttons, which makes the process of installing a smartphone quick and easy. But this also becomes an obstacle to comfortable management of some applications.
Homido VR
Price: 3800 rubles 
These glasses were produced specifically for the Homido smartphone, but are also compatible with the more common technology in our latitudes from Apple, Samsung, LG, Asus, Sony, Huawei and other brands. If your mobile device has an accelerometer and a gyroscope, and the screen diagonal is from 4.2 to 6 inches, then it will almost certainly be able to work with this representative of our top VR glasses. French engineers did their best and in terms of customization this device has practically no equal. It is worth noting a fairly solid viewing angle - 105 degrees, but the image is also influenced by the smartphone, and therefore it is advisable to use a mobile phone with good viewing angles and resolution starting from Full HD.
Oculus Rift
Price: 33,990 rubles 
Let's move on to the best VR glasses, which do not require a smartphone to use; they are used for a PC. We connect this device to our computer, and the image is displayed on the built-in OLED screens with a resolution of 1080x1200 pixels, in addition to which the device is also equipped with an infrared sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope and other goodies. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY0hCEuJBVs The 3.5-inch screen diagonal may seem quite small, but it is quite enough to cover the entire field of view of the player; viewing angles of 110 degrees will help with this. In the manufacturer's catalog you will find several dozen applications that will not let you stop buying them, especially since their price is quite affordable - about 20 dollars. The light weight and mass of features make these glasses one of the most comfortable on the market, and therefore if you suddenly decide to pamper your child with such a gift, you don’t have to worry about his health.
Sony Playstation VR
Price: 19,000 rubles 
It would be strange if the long-term trendsetter in the field of gaming entertainment remained aloof from the growing trend. With these glasses you can play not only alone, but also with friends; for this you will need to connect the devices to the TV. But not only can you play them, watching movies on a giant virtual screen leaves an indelible impression. Thanks to support for 3D sound, the sound quality is also excellent. The design and ergonomics look, perhaps, better than those of direct competitors, but the rather modest catalog of games today is disappointing. The price is not small, but this is Sony after all - were you really expecting something else?
HTC Vive
Price: 39,600 rubles 
Perhaps the most powerful such device at the beginning of 2019. A viewing angle of 110 degrees allows you to experience an incredible level of immersion in virtual reality - without the walls of the helmet in front of your eyes. The resolution is 2160x1200 pixels and the refresh rate is 90 Hz, which is also the highest among the best VR glasses. The device sits incredibly comfortably on your head; adjust the size using the straps in a couple of minutes and you’re off to battle! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2s4tFaM_erI Complete freedom of movement and movement around the room and top tracking of hand and head movements allow you to forget about dull turns in place in cheaper copies. You'll have to tinker with setting up the gadget, but it's worth it. The price, of course, is steep, and therefore such a device is mainly used by developers of applications for VR, but if you have the opportunity to purchase an HTC Vive, then you won’t have to regret this step.
Recently, VR glasses have become more and more popular, and therefore the number of offers on the market is growing. Finding differences in models of the same price category is quite difficult, and choosing the best virtual reality helmet on your own becomes almost impossible.. Happy shopping!
Users who encounter such gadgets for the first time usually ask a lot of questions. Will the picture be good? Why is the price difference between some models so big? Which helmet is the best? These questions cannot be answered unambiguously; each user must choose a gadget according to the required characteristics and budget. However, we will try to highlight best models with better build quality, videos, accessories and so on.
Price is the most important criterion for most users, so we have divided virtual reality glasses into 3 groups (cheap, medium and expensive). We hope you have already decided on your budget and chosen the required price segment; let's take a closer look at each model.
Budget models
Budget devices are usually made of plastic or cardboard. These are small boxes into which you can insert a smartphone (after installing a special application) and start watching videos, games, movies, and the like. This is an excellent option for your first acquaintance with virtual reality devices, and then you can move on to more expensive and functional models, which we will consider a little later.
1. Google Cardboard 2.0
The cheapest and at the same time simplest devices are cardboard boxes with plastic lenses. You can plug in your Android smartphone (does not work with older smartphones that don't run the Cardboard app) and watch 360-degree videos, play games, and walk the streets of StreetView.
For many, such cardboard boxes cause bewilderment, since such a design does not inspire confidence in the user. However, Google Inc. proved that the virtual world with such glasses becomes much more interesting. In addition, such a simple design and cheap materials can significantly reduce the price of the product. And if you don't want to spend money, you can download instructions on the official website and make the model yourself.
In newer versions (2.0), manufacturers add an adjustable head strap to secure the headset, control buttons and improve ergonomics.
Important! All such gadgets are not suitable for long-term use. Especially Google company emphasizes that the use of head straps for securing is not advisable!
Based on this headset, many other analogues have been made, which are made from other materials, have an improved design and greater functionality. You can view the full range of the Google company by clicking on link.
Pros :
- Low price.
- Good video quality.
- Easy to assemble by yourself.
- Works with different smartphone models.
Cons :
- Eyes get tired quickly.
- The mounting of the smartphone and the glasses themselves leaves much to be desired.
2. Fibrum Pro
The Russian developer also did not stand aside. More recently, users have the opportunity to purchase an inexpensive mobile virtual reality helmet Fibrum Pro.
Unlike the previous model, this helmet is made of hygienic plastic with high-quality glass lenses. This gadget is universal, the reliable mount is designed for mobile devices with a diagonal from 4 to 6 inches. Software Can work with Android, IOS and Windows Phone. The device can be used by children from 9 years old, and due to its light weight, the helmet does not cause neck and back pain. However, it has one small drawback: the new plastic emits a characteristic odor, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
Important! According to the manufacturer, Fibrum Pro can be used by people with impaired vision from −5 to +5 diopters.
Overall, this accessory is an excellent budget option for people who want to try out new sensations from videos and games for themselves.
Pros :
- Budget model.
- There is always new content to watch.
- Easy and fast setup.
Cons :
- Lenses cannot be adjusted.
- The eyes also get tired quickly.
- Not very high quality plastic.
Middle price segment
The models presented in this category attract that category of users for whom the following parameters are more important: convenience, good quality lenses, high quality materials. We found three VR headset models that we thought were the best for the price.
1. Samsung Gear VR
Let's now take a closer look at the mid-priced models. As a rule, such headsets have more functional motion sensors, more control mechanisms, and a generally more attractive appearance.
The main advantage Samsung Gear VR Compared to the previous two models, is the ability to track the position of the user's head. While in cardboard models this option is implemented using a built-in accelerometer, which does not accurately determine changes in the position of the head in space. Due to this, Samsung Gear VR is much more interesting in terms of games and watching videos.
To prevent glasses from falling off or breaking during active head shaking, this device There are special strap fasteners. They will withstand even the most unpredictable head movements, so you can rest assured that your VR headset will remain safe.
Managing the glasses is very simple and convenient. All the necessary buttons are located on the sidebar (the “Main Menu” button and the “Back” button). Below is a touch panel that makes it easy to control the gadget. To prevent the user from getting bored after he bought the Samsung Gear VR and played all the games, the manufacturer is constantly creating new ones applications and projects that allow you to travel through the streets, museums and the like.
Pros :
- Realistic immersive effect.
- The software is constantly updated.
- Suitable for people with visual impairments.
- Convenient design
Cons :
- Only a few smartphones are supported.
- The quality depends on the connected phone.
2. Carl Zeiss VR One
Virtual reality glasses have been gaining crazy popularity lately. Following such companies as Google and Samsung, Zeiss presented its product to the public.
Unlike Samsung Gear VR, Zeiss VR One works with two smartphone models - iPhone 6 and Samsung Galaxy S5. By the way, quite recently models of the tray (the place where the smartphone is placed) were developed for the Samsung Galaxy S4, LG G3 and Google Nexus 5. On the official website you can download CAD file, and print it at any copy center that has a 3-D printer.
The appearance of the device is very good. White plastic with black inserts looks good together with the translucent shield on the front. The device is attached to the head with two straps, and to plastic case did not put pressure on the face, there are special foam rubber seals on the sides.
In order to earn points, you will need to download the special VR One Media application () to your smartphone. Due to the fact that the device does not have any control buttons, installing the smartphone is not difficult (you just need to place it at a certain distance from the lenses). However, this greatly limits application control.
Pros :
- Supports Android, IOS platforms.
- Lots of different apps and games.
- Supports several smartphone models.
Cons :
- There are no control buttons.
3.Homido VR
Virtual reality glasses for the Homido smartphone are the most versatile. gadget compatible with smartphones Apple, Samsung, Sony, Asus, LG, HTC, Huawei, Google and so on ( full list devices can be viewed on the official website). But even if you don’t find your phone in the list of supported devices, don’t worry, most likely smartphones with a diameter of 4.2 to 6 will work correctly, the main thing is that they have a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope.
The quality of assembly and materials from the French company is excellent. In this regard, they have only one competitor - Samsung. Adjusting the focal and interpupillary distance allows you to customize the device as much as possible “for yourself.” To prevent the glasses from pressing on the skin of the face, there are foam rubber on the sides. Overall, this is a fairly comfortable device that can sit on your face for a long time.
The Homido V2's viewing angle is quite large, reaching 105 degrees for each eye. However, the image quality is more affected by the smartphone, so it is better to use with a FullHD screen.
The manufacturer also took care of applications. Application catalog, which work with virtual reality glasses are quite large. You can learn more about them by installing Homido Center.
Pros :
- Good optics.
- High quality materials.
- Supports a large number of smartphone models.
Cons :
- Little quality software.
- There are no control buttons.
- Poor phone mount.
Major League
We have already included the “heavyweights” of this genre into this category. There are no cardboard structures in them, no phone jacks and the like. These are already full-fledged VR helmets for immersion in virtual reality.
1. Oculus Rift
Unlike previous models, Oculus Rift does not require smartphones to be installed on board. It has everything you need to work autonomously (except for a PC, of course, on which you will need to install special software and connect a sensor and glasses to it) - these are separate OLED screens with a resolution of 1080x1200 pixels, an infrared sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope and much more.
A 3.5-inch screen diagonal and a viewing angle of 110 degrees are more than enough to cover the user’s entire field of vision. With Oculus Rift, you can rest assured that you'll get a smooth, full picture with clearly visible pixels.
The manufacturer also took care of the content for users so that they do not get bored. Thus, in the catalog for Oculus Rift you can find 30 different applications that will allow you to fully experience the virtual world from the inside. In addition, the price of games is relatively low (when compared with the price of games on consoles). Most apps will cost around $20.
As for convenience, everything is very good here too. Foam inserts fit evenly to the face and give a feeling of softness and comfort. There are headphones attached to the side, the position of which can be adjusted, and, if desired, can be removed altogether. Virtual reality glasses are attached to the back of the head using rubberized straps.
Pros:
- Light weight (only 470 g).
- High video quality (1980x1920).
- New content is constantly being released.
Cons:
- High price.
- A good controller needs to be purchased separately.
2. HTC Valve Vive
HTC Valve Vive is a product that was created through collaboration between two renowned companies: HTC and Valve. The resulting virtual reality helmet allows the user to fully enjoy the virtual world with a viewing angle of 360 degrees.
To begin with, it is worth noting the comfortable fit on the head. A special adjustable strap allows you to select the required size as accurately as possible in order to be able to spend a lot of time in another reality. Foam layers will provide the necessary softness and comfort during prolonged use, and the shape of the helmet is specially designed to fit almost any face shape.
As in the previous model, the viewing angle is 110 degrees, that is, when wearing glasses, you will not see the dark walls of the helmet (in cheaper versions of VR glasses you get the impression that you are looking through a window), but are completely immersed in another reality . High resolution (2160 x 1200) and refresh rate (90 Hz) allow you to delight the user with high picture quality.
This is perhaps one of the most advanced VR headsets at the moment; the only difficulty that users have encountered while using it is problems with installation.
Pros:
- Freedom of movement, you can move around the room.
- High image quality.
- Excellent hand and head tracking.
Cons:
- High price.
- Lengthy setup.
- The existing permission is clearly not enough.
3. Sony Playstation VR
Sony also did not remain aloof from new products in the world of VR, creating glasses specifically for the PlayStation 4. Now all PS users will be able to move into the very heart of virtual worlds.
With Playstation VR you can take part in the game with your friends. To do this, you will need a TV screen on which the image will be displayed in parallel.
Cinematic mode allows you to immerse yourself in the world of cinema. At your disposal will be a huge virtual screen (225 inches), on which you can view various multimedia materials. 3D sound technology ensures ideal sound in headphones.
