AR/XR Glasses could get a lot slimmer thanks to this unique new hardware arrangement

During the pandemic, we were stuck in our homes and we got used to watching video content through our smart TVs or mobile devices. Now that we can once again enjoy movies in cinemas, there has been a push and pull between the “regular” cinema experience and the comfort of watching these movies in the comfort of our homes through OTT platforms. There are still limitations with the latter but we’re seeing technology trying to catch up through various devices and gadgets that we can use at home.

Designer: Woojin Jang

Movi is a concept for an XR eyewear device that can make the movie watching more immersive even when you don’t have the benefit of a large screen. Compared to other existing VR glasses right now, this one is conceptualized to be a lighter version that you can also carry with you so you can enjoy movies on the plane or wherever you want.

It is lighter because it uses a lens called Lenslet Array which reduces the focal length and eye relief distance. The regular distance is one of the main reasons why most VR devices are heavier and bulkier this lens is a two-dimensional array of around 20,000 small lenses that have been arranged in parallel. It also uses transparent OLED so that our eyes look outward so the glasses can be designed like actual eyewear you would wear every day rather than the weird-looking bulky VR glasses we have now.

As a concept, Movi seems to be an interesting way to make watching videos on our TVs at home on our mobile devices. It would also probably rely on how movie makers and content creators can make films and videos that can adapt these kinds of technology, although that will bring about even more debate on how this may destroy the actual cinema-going experience.

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VR headset lets you read e-Ink books through its lenses like a Kindle

If you’re a true bookworm, you’ve experienced falling asleep with a book beside you, or at worst, falling on your face. That is pretty painful depending on how thick the book is but it’s even more painful when you’re reading on your Kindle or iPad. While a lot of the AR/VR devices we’re seeing are catered to gamers and other early adapters for new tech, there is also a market out there for voracious readers who are just waiting for the next big thing when it comes to digital products.

Designer: Sol Reader

We might still be in the early days of this prototype but we might see that gadget that we’re looking for with Sol Reader. This is a VR headset that can bring you into the world of the book that you’re currently reading. It functions like most virtual reality goggles that are currently in the market but instead of the head strap, you get a glasses frame which makes it ideal for when you’re reading in bed as wearing glasses is more comfortable than wearing full goggles.

The pancake lenses project the text through electronic paper so it’s more comfortable on the eyes. You can “turn the page” by clicking on a wireless remote that comes with the device so there’s no need to constantly tap your glasses or anything like that. And since e-Ink is pretty low energy, the battery life can last long and you only need to charge it after 30 hours of use. Since this is still a prototype, the screen resolution isn’t the best yet so there’s still room for improvement.

The prototype was on display during the recent Consumer Electronic Show in Vegas so there were some bookworms who were able to try it out. One of those is YouTuber Brad Lynch. The early verdict is that it’s light (under 100 grams) and comfortable enough so you can take it to bed with you even as the screen quality leaves something to be desired. The expected price for the Sol Reader is around $350 so it might be pretty steep at the current quality. Let’s see if they are able to meet the premium status when it launches later this year.

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Panasonic’s VR Headset looks like something a Metaverse Mad-hatter would wear

Building on the VR glasses Panasonic debuted in 2020, the MeganeX was announced at CES 2022 and follows its predecessor’s steampunk spectacle aesthetic. Betting big on the metaverse, Panasonic is positioning these glasses as smaller, lighter, and more comfortable alternatives to the clunky VR headsets you see today. Despite its small size, the MeganeX has the ability to project 5.2K 10-bit HDR images at a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. It also supports 6DoF head tracking and is compatible with almost all SteamVR applications… all while weighing a mere 0.5 lbs (250 grams), half of what the Oculus Quest 2 weighs.

Designer: Panasonic

It seems like Panasonic has used the past two years to seriously refine its design. The MeganeX look quirky no less, but if I had to choose between a toaster-shaped VR headset and these steampunk bad-boys, you best bet I’d pick the latter. They look impressively futuristic, although I can’t help but chuckle at the two antennas that dangle from the side of each eyepiece! Maybe Panasonic should also provide a set of straps that hook to the antennas and loop around the back of your neck like old-timey spectacles. Now THAT would look funky.

Jokes aside, it seems like Panasonic is more serious about positioning the MeganeX as a pair of consumer-ready VR glasses. They’re designed to fit directly over your face, and although you can’t wear them with spectacles on, they come with built-in diopter adjustment that lets you change the focus based on your prescription eye-power. The gap between the eyepieces can be adjusted too since people have different eye-widths. Notably, the MeganeX doesn’t sport earphones like its 2020 predecessor (maybe they’ve got bone-conducting earpieces instead).

Panasonic’s yet to reveal a release date (or tentative price) for the MeganeX, along with whether they work as standalone glasses or need to be tethered to a computer.

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Thinnest VR headset in the world looks exactly like a pair of sunglasses and weighs just 37 grams

If the EM3 Ether is any indication, the future of the metaverse will have incredibly sleek VR glasses that don’t look like toasters attached to your face.

At first glance, it’s possible that you wouldn’t even notice that the person above was wearing VR glasses. Debuted in Beijing by VR startup EM3 Technology, the Ether currently holds the mantle of the world’s slimmest and lightest VR headset. It looks exactly like an ordinary pair of sunglasses and sits on your face just like one too, but behind that seemingly ordinary veneer is a cutting-edge near-eye optical display system powered by two cameras located on the front of the glasses.

For now, the Ether is a proof of concept for how slim and lightweight a VR headset can be. With current headsets like the Oculus Quest weighing well over 2 kilograms (4.56 lbs), the Ether is radically lighter, weighing a mere 37 grams (0.08 lbs) – roughly the same as your average pair of Ray-Ban wayfarers. This, EM3 believes, will allow more people to wear VR headsets for longer without developing fatigue caused by heavy gear.

The EM3 Ether prototype glass contains two micro-displays, 2560×2560 pixel resolution in full color. For now, the glasses offer a FOV (field of view) of 80° per eye, although EM3 claims that by using a larger format micro-display, the FOV can be pushed up to 100° without seeing any increase in the thickness of the glasses – which measure a record-setting 6.8mm for now.

Given how incredibly slim Ether prototype is (they’re thinner than most phones), it currently doesn’t have the processing capabilities to operate as a standalone VR headset and needs to be tethered to an external device like a smartphone or PC. Nevertheless, Ether sets a benchmark for what to expect in the future and EM3 has announced that a retail model of the VR glasses will probably be ready at the end of 2022. The implications for the technology, however, are far-reaching as companies like Facebook have announced a hard pivot into the metaverse, while there have been rumblings in the past few years that Apple’s been working on their own sleek VR headsets too. Seems like 2022’s going be a pretty interesting year for virtual reality and the metaverse!

Designer: Beijing EM3 Technology Co. Ltd.

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Panasonic’s VR glasses are living proof that virtual reality headsets can look ‘spectacular’

Now here’s a pair of VR glasses that don’t look like a toaster mounted on your face. Styled to resemble a wonderful pair of steampunk-style aviators, Panasonic has done for the VR headset industry what the Snap spectacles did for Google Glass (remember that?)

With an undeniably better form factor, and better image quality too, Panasonic’s VR glasses are classier and well, ‘glassier’ (as opposed to the massive ski-goggles that most VR headsets look like). Fitted with micro-OLED panels on the inside, the VR glasses can afford to be made smaller and have much better clarity too. In fact, unlike most VR headsets, you almost don’t notice the pixels in Panasonic’s product, allowing your VR world to be much more immersive because of its higher resolution. Panasonic also claims that they’re the first-ever VR glasses to support HDR, or a high dynamic range, allowing colors, saturation, brightness and contrast to all be incredibly lifelike. The glasses (they’re obviously not headsets) also come fitted with Panasonic’s own audio technology, using Technics drivers in those tiny earbuds to provide crystal clear audio.

As amazing as they look, Panasonic doesn’t plan on selling these to consumers (sad-face). They’re hoping that these glasses will see mostly commercial applications like VR sports and travel, but only once 5G networks are rolled out to be able to support high data-transfer speeds, especially given how high-resolution the video on these glasses are. I hope Panasonic changes their mind though. I’d definitely see myself lining up to own a pair of these beauts.

Designer: Panasonic

How To Choose The Best VR Headset 2016

How to Choose the best VR headset 2016

With a number of options available for those who are looking for virtual reality (VR) headsets, things become a little difficult while zeroing down on a particular headset to purchase. Moreover, with different companies advertising different features, and slightly misguiding terminology, a detailed guide is required to help you choose the right headset your money can buy.

image credit

Firstly, a VR headset is not the same as a 3D headset. A VR headset simulates your presence in the environment, while a 3D device creates just a simulated environment. It is safe to assume that VR headsets are a step above 3D technology, for they simulate your own presence in the game you are playing or the movie you are watching.

A VR headset uses sensors such as gyroscopes and accelerometers to change the position of the images depending on your head’s movement, helping you to create an illusion that you are present in the 3D environment for real. Some of the more expensive VR headsets also track your body movements, making you feel as if you are walking inside the simulated environment. However, these devices tend to be pricier.

In this VR headset guide, let us take a look at the questions you should ask yourself while purchasing a VR headset. This will help you buy something that you would love using, without feeling like you spent more than what you probably could.

After reading this article on the best way to pick your VR headset, don’t forget to go over our Best VR headset 2016 list to pick the one which is the most suitable for you.

 

  1. Is it Wireless?

It should be known that there are two kinds of VR headsets available in the market: PC headsets and mobile headsets. PC headsets connect to your computer and cannot be used on their own. These tend to be expensive, especially when they come loaded with features. Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear and HTC Vive are some of the best examples. Smartphone headsets on the other hand are usually mobile, and can be used on their own. They make use of smartphones and the ability to use mobile apps to bring you great content. Google Cardboard is very cheap, though there are many expensive mobile headsets too. Plastic VR headsets tend to be more expensive, but are mobile too. Samsung Gear VR – the Innovator Edition is an example. Unless you are looking for something expensive, to get a decent VR experience, you can choose a mobile VR headset and experience virtual reality in a small budget.

  1. Is It Interactive?

There are a number of ways you can interact with the simulated environment. Your eyeball movements, head movements, using the controller and sometimes even your body movements can be used to interact with the virtual reality environment. The extent of the ability of your headset to interact with the simulated environment depends on how advanced the technology is, and that also translates to the money you are ready to spend. The basic eyeball movements and head movement tracking should be enough to provide you with a decent VR experience.

  1. How Powerful Is It?

The more powerful VR headsets come with superior motion tracking sensors, higher density pixels and dual controllers. They also have more precision when it comes to motion-tracking and the advanced gyroscopes and accelerometers help you to experience a simulated virtual reality environment that feels hyper-real. Oculus, HTC Vive and others are in this category. These usually cost between $600 and $800. Even more affordable mobile headsets can be purchased for less than $100, with decent motion-tracking elements and pixels. You just need to read more reviews.

  1. Does It Support Your Device?

Most of the times, people do not realize that every VR headset is not compatible with the devices they own. Just because a headset is iOS or Android compatible does not mean it should be compatible with your device. Ensure that you read the fine print and check what is the screen size limits within which a particular headset works. You might also want to check the mobile OS version above which the chosen headset is compatible. Otherwise, you might end up buying something that may not be of any use. If you are using Windows Mobile devices or some other mobile OS, your choices will shrink drastically.

  1. Does It Have Enough Content?

Though there are a number of great headsets with powerful features, they do not necessarily have access to great content. You need to be able to play the most number of games and watch the most number of video content in order to make the optimum utilization of your device. Hence, it makes sense to buy a device that allows you to access the maximum range of content. Google Cardboard, for instance, has a wide range of content available. However, the devices are not as advanced as some of the more expensive ones are.

  1. What Kind of Lens and Screen Technology Does It Uses?

The cheaper ones use plastic lenses, whereas the more advanced ones may use Japanese glass lens of more than 40 mm. The better and more advanced a device’s lenses are, the more superior your experience will be. Plastic lenses tend to lose their sharpness over a period of time, unlike the glass ones. Also, you should look at the kind of screen technology that the VR headset uses. Different companies use different technologies and when you read the specs, you become aware of how to choose a headset based on its screen technology.

  1. What Is the Field of View Values For The VR Headset?

The human eye, with its peripheral view of 180 degrees in resting phase and 270 degrees with eyeball movements, can give you a wide range of vision. This field of view can be enhanced with the help of headsets. Star VR for instance has a 210 degree field of view. If you look for headsets that have a higher field of view, you might be able to see more of the same virtual reality environment. However, field of view should not be the sole criteria to choose your VR headset.

  1. What Is The Pixel Resolution?

You should try to choose the headset with the highest resolution your money can buy. If the resolution is higher, you will be able to see images more clearly. The minimum resolution should be at least 1080p. While 1080p is decent enough, it is still not something great. With this, we must also take pixels into account. Many reviewers suggest choosing headsets that are less than 3ms so that there is less motion blurring per pixels per second. Oculus Rift and HTC Vive surpass most devices available in the market today, in this context.

  1. What Features Does It Have?

This is quite easy to get. Though you should not be counting all the frilly features a manufacturer advertises, you should still be getting a few more than the ones you have shortlisted. Look for decent lens, decent resolution, usability, user interface, certain extra features which the manufacturer might advertise, etc. While basic features are important, certain extra ones will not harm. Yet, this is also the time to question if the features that are being advertised are really what you want. Sometimes, you may not need the features that are advertised and hence, you can choose something more affordable and save money.

  1. What about Controllers?

Some of the simplest devices are just made from cardboard boxes and lenses, and the only control you have is your finger. You just need to stick your finger into a hole and tap the screen. However, better controllers come with at least one input. Some of the fancier devices let your eyeballs control the device, though this may get stressful at times. Look for a decent controller that will be provided along with the headset. Do not fall for marketing gimmicks that advertise fancy controllers which may not be of any use.

  1. Does it Have Any Unique Sensors?

Most VR headsets today come with motion sensors limited to eye movement and head movement. Some may not even come with that. Others may have more advanced accelerometers and gyroscopes. Still others may have the ability to track your body movement as well, so that you get a feeling of full immersion in virtual reality. You can shortlist the headsets based on the kind of sensors they use, and also the quality of these sensors. Some devices may come with unique sensors that give you enhanced experience of simulation.

  1. Is It Comfortable to Wear?

Most headsets are not comfortable to wear, especially when they are not padded or made from high quality fabric or leather. Some plastic ones may make your skin irritated and certain kind of straps and frames can hurt your nose bridge or downright give you a headache. Few other headsets can increases the chances of migraines and vertigo, especially as central nervous system is involved in processing simulated experiences. For this reason, try to find a headset that is marketed as comfortable and lists migraine, vertigo and pain and skin irritation as issues that are tackled.

  1. Does it Offer Support for Eyesight Problems?

A lot of us wear contact lenses but many choose to wear glasses to correct their myopia or short-sightedness. Even those who wear contact lenses usually go home and remove them after a long day at work. To wear contact lenses again to watch movies or play games is downright uncomfortable. For this reason, a number of headset manufacturers now make it an option for people to wear glasses within the headset itself. A few other expensive devices feature vision correction technologies, which means, you don’t have to wear either contact lenses or glasses while wearing these headsets.

  1. Can It Be Carried Around Easily?

A big reason why VR headsets are still not very popular is because they tend to be bulky. However, the newer entrant devices are getting smaller, much like their expensive brethren. Look for VR headsets that are not very bulky, heavy or voluminous. When you choose a headset that can easily be carried around, you will be able to have entertainment on demand, no matter where you are. However, the more ergonomic a device is, it also tends to be more expensive. So if price is a matter of concern, you may have to forego on this feature.

  1. Can You afford It?

It is no secret that you get what you pay for. If you can afford a great device like the HTC Vive, you will have the best VR experience your money can buy. However, if you are not able to spend more than a few dollars, Google Cardboard is all probably you can afford. However, some VR experience is still better than no VR experience at all. So, it makes sense to invest in a device that you can afford, instead of feeling intimated by the more expensive ones.

  1. Are you Getting a Bang for The Buck?

Just because a headset is expensive does not mean it has to be good. A number of companies offer headsets that are downright expensive but lack in features or even in technology. Make sure that you get more than what you pay for. This means, you will have to read a lot of customer reviews and professional editorials regarding each product you have shortlisted. Some VR headsets actually give you a bang for the buck you spend. Those should be the ones you should purchase.

  1. Is It Easily Available?

There are a few great headsets that are not easily available. Some other headsets may be sold out and a few more may be on the waitlist. When you decide to buy a VR headset, make sure that it is available where you live. Availability should also be considered based on content. If the device you choose is great and is also available, but does not have enough content, it is not a great choice. So, when choosing a VR headset, take availability into consideration.

  1. Does it Look Good?

Last but not the least, the device you purchase should also be attractive to look at. Aesthetic sensibility is one of the most important criteria when choosing any device. As VR headsets are something you are going to wear on your head, you should choose something that looks good as well. While technology and comfort should be your top priority, consider looks as criteria too, before making the final decision. After all, you can’t tell who will drop by when you are engrossed in your movie, while wearing a headset.

Have we missed any other criteria?

While this is quite an exhaustive list of all the criteria that you should take into account while purchasing VR headsets, we may have missed out on a few. If you think we have, which criteria should be added to this list and why? What other aspects of a VR headset do you consider before making a purchase? Do let us know in the comments section below.

 

The Best VR Headsets

best vr headsets 2016

Virtual reality is longer limited to a niche audience like back in the 1990s. Though the concept started in the 1960s with the advent of immersive stereoscopic videos, things really started to pick up in the 1970s, when interactive realistic experiences were offered in viewing devices. However, the best of the devices were available in labs and many of them were too large to carry around.

Fast forward to 2016, the virtual reality (VR) device market is emerging and everyone wants to try it and see for themselves. Today, you can highly efficient, computerized VR devices that work in tandem with your cellphones, by making use of mobile applications. In fact, venerable publications such as The New York Times have begun to offer content dedicated to VR headsets, in an attempt to bring a more interactive experience to content they publish.

The smartphone-phone powered VR headsets are a fry cry from the previous virtual reality devices, which often were very clunky and exorbitantly priced, even if they were available outside scientific labs. In this article, we have shortlisted some of the best VR headsets available today. Take a look at them and do let us know if you managed to grab one of these.

Pasonomi VR Headset

Pasonomi is specifically designed to be used with smartphones and can be a valuable addition while watching movies on the big screen. You could consider the Pasonomi as your own private 3D cinema. Most importantly, the makers claim that the headset has been designed for all age groups, making it perfect to be used by the elderly and also by children. Many old people often complain about feeling fatigued or dizzy but not with the Pasonomi. This stylishly designed headset ensures that uncomfortable physiological responses are avoided thanks to the spherical resin lens materials. The best feature of this headset has to be the fact that it is environmentally friendly. Pasonomi is compatible with iPhones 4 and above, and most premium Android devices. At $30, it is also one of the more affordable VR headsets available online.

Linkcool VR01 3D Headset

A number of people feel intimidated by the prices some of the more expensive VR headsets command. However, there are a lot of great headsets that do not burn a hole in your pockets. Linkcool VR01 3D headset is one such device that costs just $15.94 after discount. This nifty gadget comes with an adjustable distance between cellphones and lens, making it suitable to be used by people with different vision issues. You can use the Linkcool headset with all iOS and Android devices with screen sizes between 4.7 inches and 6 inches. Most people who use this like its comfort and ease of use, though the immersion quality may not be as good as the more expensive devices available in the market.

Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition

If you have a Samsung Galaxy S6, you might want to try the Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition. This is not currently available but you can always leave a message for them to put it up for sale again. The device is compatible with Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge. You can find a lot of content thanks to Oculus and Samsung both playing a part in this one. However, the only catch is, it’s currently unavailable and it is not clear if it will be available again. It is also a certified refurbished product, which means though it’s been used previously, you will not find any evidence of someone having it used previously.

Ergonomic Sarlar VR Glasses

If there is something that stops people from using VR headsets continuously, it is the fact that they tend to cause eye strain. Many ophthalmologists advise people not to wear them continuously because of the fatigue that badly designed VR headsets cause. However, Sarlar VR Glasses are specifically designed to be easy on your eyes. These headsets exert zero pressure on your eyes and ensure that your lower eyelids remain stress-free. It is designed in such a manner that the headband does not exert pressure on your nose bridge and eyelids, making it easier for you to watch movies, play games and engage in other media for prolonged periods. Sarlar VR Glasses are compatible with most cellphones with screen sizes between 4 inches and 6.5 inches, making this device more accessible. At $23.99, this VR headset is compatible with not only iOS and Android devices, but also Microsoft phones.

Myopia-proof Motoraux Movie Visor VR Headsets

A lot of people are unable to use VR headsets because they need to wear regular glasses to correct their shortsightedness. Shortsightedness, which is also known by the name of myopia, causes the sufferer to not see things at a distance clearly. They need to wear glasses in order to correct their vision. The Motoraux headset has been designed with myopic people in mind. If you are shortsighted and wear glasses to correct your vision, all you need to do is, insert your regular glasses into the headset and then wear the whole contraption on your head. This device is compatible with iOS, Android and PC phone series with screen sizes between 4 and 5.9 inches. Originally priced at $62.99, it is now available for just $29.99 after a big discount. The headset also boasts of a great 3D immersive experience.

LeNest VR Headset

If you are looking for a premium headset at a mainstream price, the LeNest VR Headset comes at a steal. It costs just $26.88 after a discount of nearly 76%. This device can be used by those who have myopia as well. The LeNest VR Headset can be used with all smartphones under the screen size of 6 inches. The adjustable head straps are made of high grade perforated leather material so that the pressure on your nose ridge and lower eyelids is reduced. The 42 mm diameter lens sets this headset apart from the usual 35mm lens, bringing more clarity and immersive experience.

VRKiX Virtual Reality 3D Glasses

Sometimes, we just need to spend a little more in order to experience all the goodness that technology has to offer. The VRKiX Virtual Reality 3D Glasses is a little pricey compared to its peers but promises a lot more than others. At $49.99, it may seem like an expensive gadget but with 360 degree viewing made possible on your smartphones, you couldn’t be asking for more. Most importantly, the thick soft face cushion ensures that you can use the device for hours. IT can also be cleaned easily, making it an ergonomic and well-designed headset. The device can also be used with smaller cellphones, as it allows screen sizes between 3 inches and 6 inches. The VRKiX Virtual Reality 3D Glasses is compatible with Android and iOS devices, and also with Google Cardboard app.

WEAREVR ET1 VR Headsets

If you are looking for premium technology and advanced materials, the WEAREVR ET1 headset is a great choice. The device comes with a 42 mm Japan technology lens and soft elastic head-straps that offer great immersive experience and comfortable wearing. This product has been specifically designed to reduce neck strain and the discomfort prolonged periods of watching at a screen in an angle causes. The straps come with the unique “pillow back” support that ensures that you do not feel tired at the end of your VR viewing experience. The device is compatible with both Android and iOS devices between 3 and 6 inches. At $34.99, the WEAREVR ET1 VR Headsets are moderately priced.

Habor 3D VR Headsets

If you are tired of sweat trickling down your face and making your headset’s strap wet and uncomfortable, the guys at Habor have heard you. The Habor 3D VR headsets come with a non-sweat-absorbent, elastic and hygienic leather which ensures that you can watch your movie or play games without feeling uncomfortable. It is also designed ergonomically to ensure maximum comfort and least pressure on the eyes. Myopic people can use these headsets too, while the blue coating film protects everybody’s eyes from the harsh blue lights that come from smartphone screens. In other words, Habor 3D VR is the perfect choice if you value hygiene, comfort and optical health. The headset is compatible with screen sizes between 4 and 6 inches and costs $47.99.

Google Cardboard v2.0 Virtual Reality Headset

If you are familiar with VR headsets, you will probably already know that Google’s cardboard headsets are affordable and work pretty well. They are not as comfortable as many others in this list but they still do their job quite well. Moreover, there is a lot of content available for these devices at Google Play. The Google Cardboard v2.0 Virtual Reality Headset costs $14.99 and is compatible with iPhones up to 6 inches and most Android devices. It is made from a high quality cardboard that will not wear out easily. Still, if you are looking for comfort, this may not be the headset of choice for you.

J-DEAL Large FOV 3D Headsets

Another headset with a 42 mm diameter lens is the J-DEAL Large FOV 3D Headset, which costs $24.99, after a discount of almost 58%. It simulates a 1000 inches big screen from a distance of 3 meters, making watching 3D-enabled movies a truly immersive experience. The headsets are also designed for myopic people and what’s more, they don’t even have to wear their own glasses. The headsets come with an in-built feature which makes it easy for people with myopia under 600 degrees to watch movies and play games without wearing glasses. The device can also be used in various positions. If you decide to watch the movie lying in the bed or while standing in the kitchen waiting for the broth to boil, you can go ahead and do that. This environmentally friendly device is compatible with all Android and iOS devices with screen sizes between 4.7 and 6 inches.

Innoo Tech VR Goggles

If you are looking for a panoramic immersive experience, look no further than the Innoo Tech VR Glasses, which cost $28.99. The headsets are widely compatible with devices that have screen sizes ranging between 3.5 inches and 6 inches. If you are still holding on to an iPhone 4S, you can safely use this headset with your older iPhones. The headset is also compatible with Android, making it a truly versatile device. The highlight of this headset is that it comes with a faceplate that ensures maximum heat dissipation so that it operates under temperatures almost 8 degrees cooler than other headsets. This means, you can watch or play for prolonged periods without worrying about your headsets becoming hot and uncomfortable.

Merge VR Headsets

There is something icky about sharing headsets with family and friends. More than being icky, it can pose a risk of transmitting infections and germs. If you are worried about hygiene and will be sharing your headset with others, you might want to try the Merge VR Headsets. This iOS and Android-compatible headset is easy to clean and very hygienic, as it has been designed with sanitary conditions in mind. These headsets are also easy to wear and very comfortable, reducing or at least, minimizing the eyestrain that you might experience. The headset comes with innovative dual touch inputs compatible with VR apps, which negates the need for an actual controller. At $79, the Merge VR Headset is a tad too expensive for most people.

Uvistar 3D Glasses

While there are many headsets out there with each claiming to be better than the other, it becomes a little difficult to choose the right one, especially when our budget is not very high. The Uvistar 3D Glasses cost just $28.99 and are great for home use. If you are planning to buy your child or nephew his first VR headsets, this might just be the right choice. It can be used in any position at any location, making it perfect for children who tend to sit, stand and lie down all through the movie or while playing games. The Uvistar 3D Glasses are compatible with iOS and Android devices between 4.7 and 6 inches, which means, your older iPhones may not be compatible with this device.

Shengsite VR BOX Headset

With the holiday season arriving in a few months, you might as well start thinking about all the gifts you might have to buy for your extended family and friends. The Shengsite VR BOX is a great choice for those who love 3D and virtual reality. It simulates movie viewing experience at screens similar to that of an IMAX 3D, which also translates to a 1000 inches screen from a distance of 3 meters. Whether you want to watch your favorite football star kick a ball or you want to watch a movie with its 3D effects, the Shengsite VR BOX is the right choice. The device is compatible with screen sizes between 4.7 and 6 inches, and you can use it with both iOS and Android smartphones. At $21.99, it is also quite affordable, if you are buying several pieces for your friends and family.

JEQEYA VR Headset

If you are looking for a head-mounted 3D home theater experience, look no further than the JEQEYA. It comes with a manual control mode that helps you watch videos and play games easily. It also has an audio quality similar to that of hi-fi headphones and is very comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time. Moreover, the design has been humanized to suit the needs of the wearers, including those who have myopia. At $48.80, it is a great headset that can be used easily without worrying about the nitty-gritty like many other devices of its kind.

IGEO VR Glasses

If you are looking for an affordable VR headset, the IGEO headset seems to be the right choice. With its revolutionary technology, you can convert your cellphone into a virtual reality viewer. It provides the same quality of viewing experience as an IMAX does. With more than 300 VR apps available on Google Play Store and iTunes Store, you can rest easy that you will have an endless supply of entertainment for a very low price. The IGEO costs just $18.99 and even features an ergonomic head belt design. If you want to wear your myopia glasses, you can do so. All you need to do is, wear the glasses before you wear the headset.

Atongm 3D VR Glasses

If you were looking for a mouse game pad that could simulate more realistic gaming, you will probably like the Atongm 3D VR Headset, which comes with an incredible mouse game pad mode that will impress most hardcore gamers. Most importantly, the device has been designed with myopic people in mind, which ensures that they can watch and immerse in virtual reality without feeling constrained by having to wear regular glasses under the headsets. The Atongm 3D VR costs $27.89 and is compatible with most cellphones with green sizes between 3.5 and 6 inches.

Uber-advanced HTC Vive

If you want the best if the lot, you can go ahead and choose the HTC Vive, which of course is the most expensive on this list. It costs a whopping $830 including shipping and is really for serious VR enthusiasts. This is no toy and provides a realistic experience that is hyper-real, if you would like to call it that. You get the headset, two base stations and two wireless controllers when you purchase the set. You will also get the Tilt Brush, Job Simulator and other goodies for free. With room scale experiences and precision taking, gaming will never be like before. The front facing camera brings real world awareness that is out of this world. It is simply impossible to describe all the features that this amazing headset has, which understandably is the best in the VR world. If you can afford its high price tag, this is the best you can buy.

Choose the one best suited for your needs

The VR headset world is very diverse and versatile. There are headsets for as little as $15 and you can find something amazing like the HTC Vive for $830. It really depends on how much money you can bear to spend and how hyper-real you want to get. There is something for everyone in the list above, and you can find a great VR headset depending on your needs and budget. If you’ve already purchased one of these headsets or do plan to buy one, share with us your experience in the comments section below.