Advancement in science and technology provides an avenue for improving the quality of virtual reality headsets. Meanwhile, technological upgrades will only get better, making virtual worlds look as realistic as possible.
Hardware devices such as virtual reality headsets are essential for navigating a virtual space as though you are in it. As advancement continues, we all dump old gadgets for newer ones.
Meanwhile, when it comes to VR headsets, you should consider some factors before selecting the headset you want to buy. Big tech companies are developing more advanced VR headsets compatible with their products.
For example, Samsung Electronics released the Samsung Gear VR in 2012. In May 2016, LG Electronics launched the LG 360 VR. Also, in October of 2016, Sony released the PlayStation VR. Furthermore, in 2019, Valve began selling the Valve Index headset.
Uses of VR Headsets
The functions of virtual reality headsets include:
- Watching movies
- Control drone
- Advanced Medicare, e.g., CT scan
- Gaming
- Livestreaming
- Fitness
VR Headsets You Should Use in 2022
Based on what you enjoy doing, there are some factors to consider when choosing a VR headset. For example, a wireless headset would do a better job if your hobby is physical fitness.
Other essential factors include affordability, image quality, audio quality, and headset weight.
The following are some of the best virtual reality headsets available today:
Meta Quest 2
The best virtual reality headset on this list is Oculus Quest 2 (or Meta Quest 2). It is a standalone VR headset that does not need any external hardware to work correctly.
Meanwhile, to play games not available directly on Quest 2, users will need a USB-C cable to connect the headset to a PC. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 system-on-chip powers Meta Quest 2.
Some features of Meta Quest 2 include:
Memory: Meta Quest 2 comes with 128GB or 256GB memory. Accordingly, players can store a vast library of games, movies, and other applications.
Connectivity: Quest 2 is a wireless headset. Thus, you have complete freedom to roam without the fear of tripping a cable or falling off during a workout session. Users can connect to a PC with a USB-C cable, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Display: it has an LCD 1920×1832- pixel resolution per eye display.
Weight: A 1.31lbs weight would make users comfortable while wearing the gear.
Other features of Meta Quest 2 include 4 infrared cameras, 2 inbuilt speakers, and 2 controllers. Likewise, the battery can last up to 2 or 3 hours of continuous use. Moreover, it does not need a tracker, and its 90hz refresh rate will deliver much fun to players.
As of this writing, the price of the Meta Quest 2 headset is $300.
Sony PlayStation VR (PS VR)
Being the only VR headset for a game console, the PlayStation VR is a wireless headset for an excellent video gaming experience. It offers immersive virtual reality to fans of PS4 and PS5.
The PS VR headset does not have an in-built memory. Also, players have to connect it to a game console.
In the meantime, PS5 fans will have to wait for the launch of PlayStation VR 2 for better gameplay. Nevertheless, PS VR delivers a breath-taking experience, whether you are playing Dead Street, Ace Combat 7, or any other game available on PlayStation 4 and 5.
Features of PlayStation VR
Connectivity: you can use a micro-USB cable, HDMI cable, or a cord to connect your PS VR with a camera, console, and TV.
Display: it features an O-LED 960× 1080-pixel per eye display.
Weight: at just 1.3lbs, the device is much more comfortable for players to wear.
Sony released the PlayStation VR headset in October 2016, and it delivers an addicting gaming experience for $300.
Valve Index
The Valve Index is compatible with the latest devices because it is a second-generation VR headset. However, it will give users a run because it costs a whopping $1200.
Unlike Meta Quest 2, Valve Index is neither wireless nor a standalone VR headset.
Regardless, check out some of the specs of this headset:
Connectivity: similar to all wired headsets, it needs a cord for connection. Users will need a USB 3.0, a power cord, and a display cable.
Display: two 1440×1600 LCDs per eye gives you an excellent visual display.
Weight: 1.87lbs might be a bit bulky for a headset. However, an immersive experience could compensate for any discomfort you might feel.
Other features of the Valve Index include a Base station 2.0 (for tracking), controllers, and audio jackets.
HTC VIVE Pro 2
Regarding visual fidelity, the HTC VIVE Pro 2 headset is a device to beat. It offers the best visual effects you can get from a VR headset. Meanwhile, excellent video quality does not come at a low price, as the VIVE Pro 2 sells for $800.
The following is what you should know about HTC VIVE Pro 2:
Connectivity: a USB 3 display port and a power cable are all you need to run your headset.
Display: a 5K LCD (2440×2440 per eye) resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate are among the best display resolutions.
Weight: it weighs 1.875lbs which might make it a bit bulky.
HP Reverb G2
This VR headset offers a brilliant visual display unit due to its ultra-high resolution. Although it is found mainly within the U.S., it is not out of your reach for VR lovers living elsewhere.
As of this writing, the price of the HP Reverb G2 headset is $600. In comparison, this virtual reality headset costs half the price of the Valve Index.
Consider the following features of HP Reverb G2:
Connectivity: a six-meter cable, a display point 1.2, and a USB 3.0 is all you need to run the connections.
Display: its 4K LCD screen (2160×2160 per eye) delivers an immersive experience.
Weight: with a weight of 1.1lbs, the HP Reverb G2 headset is comfortable to wear.
The Meta Quest 2 VR headset might be the best choice due to its affordability and ease of handling. While the HTC VIVE Pro 2 might offer the best display resolution, it is not a standalone headset. Yet, it costs three times the price of Quest 2.
Each virtual reality headset has its pros and cons. Therefore, players should ensure the VR headset of their choice delivers a fully-immersive gaming experience.
