Photo by Scott Webb
Virtual reality (VR) produces a computer-generated environment–complete with realistic sights, sounds and other sensations–which a person can explore by wearing a special kind of headset and, in some cases, using certain props. Basically every VR experience will allow the user to feel as though they are in this simulated world and look around it, while more advanced systems allow for movement and interaction.
While the ability of VR to provide valuable, realistic experiences without introducing real-world risks has found many fans across various industries (from healthcare to real estate), the most popular types of virtual reality content remain video games, movies and television.
For those starting to investigate what VR options are available, the following is an overview of some popular VR devices. We have strived to provide summaries of several common platforms, from basic to premium, including information on where they can be purchased and how they can be set-up. It’s important to remember that every VR device fits one of three categories: mobile (meaning it uses the user’s smartphone to produce its virtual world), tethered (meaning the device must be hooked up to a PC or console) or more recently, “all-in-one” (meaning the computing hardware is built into the headset itself).
Google Cardboard
$15.00 from Google
Cardboard will give curious individuals a chance to dabble in VR without spending a lot of money on a technology they don’t expect to use regularly. There are quite a few apps that provide visual experiences for Cardboard, and Android users can watch select YouTube videos in VR.
There are several videos online that can guide you through the assembly, and visual instructions are printed on the device itself. Once the headset is assembled, you can download and open the Cardboard app on your smartphone, scan the QR code on your headset, load up a VR experience, and slide your phone into the phone holder in front.
Google Daydream View
$99.00 from Google
COMPATIBILITY: The Google Daydream View is only compatible with these devices: Pixel, Pixel 2, Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, Galaxy Note 8, LG V30, Moto Z, Moto Z2, ZenFone AR, Mate 9 Pro, Axon 7.
Google’s Daydream View is a mobile VR device that comes with a handheld Bluetooth controller for navigation and gameplay. The Daydream platform includes a variety of games, visual experiences from companies like Discovery VR, and apps from news organizations and companies including Netflix, the NFL, and YouTube.
The first thing you’ll want to do after getting the Daydream View is get the Daydream app from Google Play and follow its instructions for setup. This includes making sure your device has the necessary updates, entering a form of payment in case you decide to make purchases later, and pairing your controller with the app.
Samsung Gear VR (with controller)
$129.99 from Samsung
COMPATIBILITY: The 2017 edition of Samsung’s Gear VR is only compatible with Samsung smartphones, specifically these devices: Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, Galaxy S7, Galaxy S7 Edge, Note 5, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, and Galaxy S6 Edge.
Samsung’s Gear VR is a major player in mobile VR and, like Google’s Daydream View, it comes with a handheld controller. There are plenty of games, apps, and videos available for this device. Mobile VR graphics are always imperfect, but the Gear VR has a reputation for making the most of them.
To set up your experience, you’ll need to install the Gear VR software on your phone by inserting your phone into the front of the headset and following the onscreen instructions. Afterwards, you’ll open the Oculus app on your phone to pair the handheld controller with your headset. Another app, Oculus Prologue, comes free with the Gear VR and will guide you through your first VR experience. Detailed instructions are available here.
Sony Playstation VR
$349.99 from Amazon
COMPATIBILITY: The Sony Playstation VR requires a Playstation 4 gaming console, specifically the PS4, PS4 Pro, or PS4 Slim, as well as a Playstation Camera and Playstation Move controllers.
The Playstation VR is all about high-quality VR gaming–its graphics aren’t meant for purely scenic experiences, but Sony boasts a diverse collection of action-packed games and the headset has been commended for its comfort, a rare praise for VR headgear. This is a strong option if you’re mostly interested in VR gaming and already own a PS4 and, ideally, one or two of the necessary accessories.
The process of setting up your Playstation VR will differ a bit depending on which model you get. Detailed instructions can be found here, but setup mainly involves hooking up your TV, your PS4, and your VR headset so they are all connected, and then configuring your headset with the Playstation Camera and controllers.
Windows Mixed Reality (Various Headsets)
$399.00-$499.00 from Microsoft