Many generations of people dreamed about virtual reality: such fantasies were realized in science fiction books and films, met in computer games, and so on. Today, people perceive virtual reality as a special technology, thanks to which it is possible to travel across distant and unexplored worlds, to fall into various interesting situations. Thanks to her, a person can plunge into another space without leaving his home.
With the help of virtual reality glasses, you can go through various games, watch movies, completely immersed in what is happening around. However, not everything is so simple with them, especially since this market segment is developing very actively. An inexperienced buyer can easily get confused and purchase a model that is not quite suitable for himself. To avoid this, it is necessary to clearly understand exactly what features and characteristics this product has. In our review today you will find not only an analysis of specific models, but also a description of the main points that you need to pay attention to when choosing this product.
Summary of the rating:
What do you consider when buying virtual reality glasses?
These glasses are universal or purely gaming. Universal gadgets are suitable not only for games, but also for watching movies, as well as for working with complex programs. Purely gaming products have good smoothing qualities, quick response. It is very important to choose a product that can be combined with various platforms. One of the key points is a wide viewing angle and high-quality sound - these parameters allow for maximum realism. For top models, the viewing angle is approximately 110 degrees, but cheaper products have an indicator of only 45 degrees, which is why most of the field of view of the human eye will remain unused.
Many manufacturers offer their customers Full HD helmets. It is worth noting that other factors will have a direct impact on the final image quality: response speed, frame refresh rate, display format, the use of various technologies aimed at smoothing the image.
The basis of any glasses or helmets of virtual reality are the accelerometer and gyroscope, with which the picture will be adjusted to the movement of the person. However, manufacturers of top products have decided to go even further. Included with the device can be a vest that controls the position of the human body. Advanced products are also equipped with a front camera, which will monitor the movements of the operator in space, hand controllers are provided that provide interaction with the virtual reality world. One of the most modern solutions is the installation of base stations, thanks to which operator movements will be tracked even more accurately.
The mass of the device is very important, since the helmet will give additional load on the spine and neck, which is why they can get tired pretty quickly, so it is best to purchase a design that has a minimum weight.Many users during the testing of this equipment, note the presence of symptoms of motion sickness - nausea, dizziness, and so on, moreover, they are most noticeable in shooters. In this regard, before buying, you should test several product options and choose the most suitable for your vestibular apparatus.
Unfortunately, today you will not be able to find cheap virtual reality helmets on sale, since this is the latest technology, for which you will have to give a tangible amount of money. We tried to include in our rating devices that have the best value for money. When compiling the review, we relied primarily on user reviews, so only the most popular and common models were included in it. Now is the time to start a direct analysis of the characteristics of such products.
The best glasses for smartphones in an inexpensive price category
3. Xiaomi Mi VR Headset
Looking at this equipment, you can immediately understand that by the style of design and in its form, it almost completely copies the Sony PlayStation VR. However, this does not detract from the useful qualities of the product. This device looks quite attractive, it is made on the basis of high quality materials. The inner side of the product, which is in direct contact with the skin of the face, is sheathed with a special soft cloth that can perfectly absorb moisture. The remote control looks like Apple products. On its surface there are two buttons and one touch-type panel, which is also able to respond to clicks. It is worth noting that these glasses are quite difficult to adjust the focal length for themselves, which directly affects the clarity of the picture. Many users note that even after a long setup, some blurring of the elements along the edges is still observed.
The diameter of the headband is adjusted using a special button on the back of the head. The mechanism for installing the smartphone is quite reliable, it will be fixed quite firmly. In order to be able to take advantage of all the features of this product, you will need to download the special Mi VR application from the Google.Play service. It is implemented only in Chinese, but the network has a special patch that allows you to Russify this software. Any video plays perfectly. Unfortunately, this cannot be said about games. The picture is quite smooth, this indicator is provided thanks to the 9-axis gyroscope.
Benefits:
- Attractive appearance;
- The kit comes with a touch panel;
- High quality materials and assembly;
- Reliable smartphone mounting mechanism.
Disadvantages:
- It works only through a special application that does not officially support the Russian language;
- Not all games can be launched.
2. HIPER VRS
Almost all users say that this is a basic model that is perfect for beginners. A special microfiber cloth is supplied with the product, which will thoroughly clean the lenses of all kinds of contaminants, and you can not be afraid to damage them. This virtual reality helmet is one of the most budgetary on the market - the manufacturer was able to achieve a similar effect largely due to not very wide configuration and modest design. The helmet itself is a device made of high-quality matte plastic in black, on the front there is a manufacturer’s logo. The design has lenses and a fixing strap made of soft rubber, and its length can be adjusted if necessary. The distance between the eyes and lenses is fixed, it will not be possible to correct it.
The device has a very convenient smartphone mount mechanism. To do this, you need to click on the button at the top of the product, after which a special cover will open, under which you will need to put a smartphone.There is no need to fix it, as it will be pressed down by the cover itself, which is equipped with a foam pad to protect the product from scratches. By the way, foam gaskets are also available on the outside of the product. They will fit snugly to the face and make using the headset more convenient. Electronics in this device is not provided, however, for the correct work with glasses you will need to download the Fibrum application. After using the glasses, wipe their case with wet wipes. Lenses clean as they become dirty. The glasses are suitable for mobile devices with a screen diagonal of 4.3 to 6 inches, regardless of the platform on which they work - iOS or Android.
Benefits:
- High quality workmanship;
- Universality;
- Reasonable cost;
- Ability to use anywhere.
Disadvantages:
- It will not be possible to adjust the distance between the eyes and magnifying lenses.
1. VR Box VR 2.0
This is a fairly lightweight design, the mass of which is about 400 grams. It works well with devices running both on iOS and on the Android platform. The most complete immersion is provided if the screen resolution is at least 1920x1080, and the device’s diagonal is 5.5 inches. The design is fixed on the head with special Velcro straps. Setting them up is easy, but they are very reliable. Lenses are distinguished by a high degree of clarity, if necessary, you can adjust the diopter and center-to-center distance. The design is carefully thought out, as it provides good ventilation for the smartphone, allows you to access the camera and headphone jack. Ultimately, by acquiring such a model, a person gets at his disposal a very effective tool that allows you to play various mobile games, watch movies with the most complete immersion effect.
These virtual reality glasses allow you to achieve the effect of presence due to the separation of the picture for the right and left eye. The video signal is separated directly on the screen of the mobile device, and the glasses themselves act as a separator of the video sequence and hold the smartphone in one place in front of the user's eyes. The head position is monitored by special telephone sensors, so the user is even more immersed in what is happening on the phone screen. You will have to pre-download applications or movies on your smartphone for use in these virtual reality glasses. The mobile gadget is fixed as follows: on the front side it will be necessary to slide the panel and fix the structure there, after which it is returned to its original place.
Benefits:
- High-quality housing;
- Reasonable cost;
- Attractive appearance;
- Large lenses are adjustable.
Disadvantages:
- It is not compatible with outdated versions of Android software.
The best glasses for smartphones in terms of price and quality
3. Fibrum Pro
The first model in our review developed by domestic specialists. Like all other designs, in fact it is not a full-fledged helmet of virtual reality, since all images will be broadcast through the smartphone screen. For these devices, models with a diagonal ranging from 4 to 6 inches are suitable. This design is not too expensive compared to the helmet of virtual reality in its classical sense. The software is designed for all major mobile device platforms - Windows Phone, iOS and Android. The glasses themselves do not have any special settings, even the lenses are designed for a wide audience. According to the creators of the gadget, such a product will be convenient to use even for people with visual defects from -5 to +5 diopters.
All individual image adjustment is performed using a special application, the quality of perception will directly depend on the display resolution.In principle, users note that the helmet sits very comfortably on the head, the effect of presence is felt to the fullest. The mount for the mobile phone is well thought out - it will not press on the power or volume buttons. The part adjacent to the screen has special soft plastic bumpers that will prevent damage to the display.
Benefits:
- It is made of high quality materials;
- No need to adjust the glasses themselves;
- For a long time retain their original appearance;
- Smartphone mounts are thought out very well.
Disadvantages:
- The rubber gasket in contact with the face does not have ventilation. The skin under her sweats quickly.
2. HOMIDO V1
This virtual reality helmet is made of high-quality hypoallergenic plastic, which will be absolutely safe for children and adults. Glasses gently sit on the head, largely due to the ergonomic design. They are equipped with special soft nozzles. During use of the product there is no need for a wired connection, so that the user retains freedom of movement. The design is able to work in tandem with equipment that operates on the basis of the Android or iOS platforms. However, all this is not the main thing. The key distinguishing feature of this helmet is a very wide viewing angle of 100 degrees. To achieve such a great result, developers have helped modern technology and carefully thought-out arrangement of lenses. The user can be inside the game and at the same time fully navigate.
It is worth noting that the lenses are adjustable here - the distance between them and the eyes can be changed. Largely due to this feature, you can use smartphones with a diagonal of up to 7 inches in glasses. The overall dimensions of the device are 166x98x93 mm, while it does not weigh too much - only 195 grams, so it is almost not felt on the head. It works with the universal Google Cardboard application.
Benefits:
- Superior image quality with a wide viewing angle;
- Cones for lenses are interchangeable - this will be very useful for people suffering from myopia or farsightedness;
- Between the skin of the face and glasses there is a softening pad;
- The helmet itself is made of hypoallergenic plastic;
- Reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- The nose hole is not too big - many may find it uncomfortable.
1. Samsung Geat VR (SM-R323)
This model is a very interesting and curious design, which has an excellent appearance. It will be retained by the product throughout its life. On the side and reconciliation on the case there is a special joystick to move the cursor. If you fail to adapt to it, then you can purchase an additional remote control that will perform the same functions. The design is made on the basis of high-quality plastic with a soft-touch coating, which makes this gadget resistant to scratches or cracks; fingerprints or dust will not accumulate on it. It is fixed on the head using special adjustable straps. Elements that are in direct contact with the skin are sheathed with special soft materials that do not allow the person to sweat while using such glasses.
The phone must be inserted by first removing the special cover. The fasteners are reliable, the device is qualitatively fixed in one position and does not hang. The operating instructions describe in detail how to use the device correctly. Manufacturers warn of possible harm to health. The helmet is not compatible with all phones, but only with products of the Samsung S brand, starting from 6 models and older.
Benefits:
- Good level of virtual reality;
- You can play many games;
- Made of hypoallergenic materials;
- Long period of operation of the device.
Disadvantages:
- Only works with Samsung brand phones belonging to the premium class;
- The glasses heat up quickly enough.
The best glasses for personal computers
3. Acer Mixed Reality Headset
This device looks very beautiful.The frontal part is painted in bright blue. On the front side, strictly in the center is a horizontal black stripe. There are tracking cameras on the sides. The rim of the product is black, soft inserts are also provided here. On the back you can find a blue wheel, with which you can adjust the diameter of the rim. This allows the user to quickly and tightly fix the helmet on his head. A pair of liquid crystal displays are provided inside the helmet. All areas that are adjacent directly to the skin of the face are equipped with special ventilation grilles. This allows you to use such virtual reality glasses for quite some time.
This element is fixed to the head with a special hinge. So that the user can return to the real world, he will not have to take off his helmet, just raise the glasses themselves. On the right side is a combo cable that has USB 3.0 and HFMI 1.4 / 2.0 sockets. The latter has a length of 4 meters - not very much, but in most cases it is quite enough, but this will still limit the space for maneuvers and movements. The dimensions of this device are 74x196x110 mm with a mass of 848 grams. As you can see, the weight of the device is pretty decent, because of which, after a long use, the user may feel some discomfort. Acer Mixed Reality Headset AH101 controllers come with a helmet, they look like oblong joysticks, and at their upper end there is a round bezel with control sensors.
Benefits:
- LCD displays have high resolution;
- The presence of ergonomic controllers;
- Pleasant appearance;
- The setup is very easy;
- There are all the necessary sensors to ensure the full effect of presence;
- Quality speakers delivering realistic sound.
Disadvantages:
- Batteries are not included with the controllers;
- If the computer needs to be restarted, the device will have to be reconnected;
- Cable lengths may not be sufficient for some users to ensure freedom of movement.
2. HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset
This is the latest model of virtual reality glasses, which appeared on sale not very long ago - just a few months ago. The manufacturer made sure to use such products as conveniently as possible. The main positive aspects in this case are the improved design of the head lining and nasal opening. The belt is equipped with two pillows. This facilitates contact with the head during operation of the device. Despite the fact that the helmet looks pretty solid, it has a small mass: even after many hours of use, the neck muscles do not get tired at all. Largely due to the built-in front cameras, the user manages to provide six-step freedom of immersion. Turns can be made not only to the right or left, but also up and down, back and forth. The design is equipped with an adjustment knob and a swivel mechanism so that the liquid crystal display is always in the same position before the eyes. Due to this, it is possible to plunge even deeper into virtual reality.
There is no need to make a special adjustment of the gadget - just connect it to a personal computer via USB and HDMI. All necessary sensors are already integrated in the helmet. However, certain requirements are imposed on a personal computer: an 8-core processor, the Windows 10 operating system, 10 GB of internal memory, at least 16 GB of RAM, and a Bluetooth module version of at least 4.0.
Benefits:
- Very high image quality;
- Easy to set up and use;
- The design is made of durable plastic;
- Reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- The PC is subject to fairly stringent requirements;
- A longer cable could be provided.
1. HTC Vive
In all respects, these are the best virtual reality glasses of this year, although they have been on sale for quite some time - almost three years, even today if there are products that can surpass them in terms of performance, then it will cost several times more. The model is equipped with two OLED displays, the resolution of each of which is 1080x1200 pixels. In addition to them, there are a large number of sensors and even a built-in webcam. All mounts are pleasant to the touch and very high quality. This allows you to use the design for several hours without interruption. Here, drops are used as headphones, which will need to be connected on their own.
Two motion controllers are supplied with this device. They look bulky. It seems that they have a decent mass, but in fact they have excellent ergonomics and low weight. Such controllers fit perfectly in the hand. They are charged through standard telephone charging. They are coated with a special coating, so they will not slip out of your hands during use. Two base stations and a special adapter that connects the product to a personal computer are supplied with this equipment - it was called the link box. According to the developers, it will take about half an hour to configure the equipment. To do this, you will need to download a special application to the computer. Base stations are quite high and tilted so that they are directed towards the playing area. With their help, it will be possible to determine the location of the player in space.
Benefits:
- The display refresh rate on the displays is 90 Hz;
- The resolution is very high 2160 × 1080 pixels - the picture is very clear;
- Large viewing angle of 110 degrees.
Disadvantages:
- High computer requirements;
- The need to specifically configure the equipment.
In conclusion, a useful video
Our review of the best virtual reality glasses of the year is now complete. We hope that the information we collect will be quite enough for you to choose the most suitable product for yourself. If you still have any questions, you can ask them in the comments. Also here you can share your experience in using this product - it will be very interesting for us and our readers to find out about it.