By Consumer Team

Compare Top 5 Virtual Reality Headsets

Virtual reality is a craze that may just be getting started. For now it’s most popularly used for gaming and entertainment, but someday, it may go well beyond that. For now, here are our topic picks for the top 5 virtual reality headsets this year.

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1. HTC VIVE

The HTC Vive is a tethered VR headset (which you connect to your personal computer) which comes with two motion controllers with 360 degree movement, and two base stations. The player can either stand or sit, and the player’s movements can be tracked in a 10-foot cube (the Vive is the only VR system that allows that). Head tracking and image quality are improved by the use of an external camera tracker and motion sensors that are built in. If you reach the limits of your play area, a chaperone system alerts you. Plus, with the front facing camera, you still keep a view of the real world. You have access to nearly 1500 games since the Vive is powered by Stream VR. The Vive can be purchased from Amazon for around $599.

2. SONY PLAYSTATION VR

The Song Playstation VR is a tethered system that comes with a PlayStation Demo Disc,an AC adaptor and power cord, headphones, a USB and HDMI cable, a VR headset connection cable, and a processor unit. The headset has theater mode with an advanced VR display, 3D audio technology, mirroring mode, and separate mode. The PlayStation VR is considered one of the most user-friendly systems available. The manufacturers suggested retail price is $399, but you can get it at most stores for $349.

3. OCULUS RIFT

The Oculus Rift is a tethered system that comes with integrated headphones, sensors in the headset, and a display for each eye. A Xbox One wireless controller and a Xbox wireless adapter for windows is included. The headset will work with StreamVR, even if you load VR apps from other sources. The headset will also allow the the player to wear glasses since the eyepiece has a detachable foam lining. The player can sit or stand because the sensors will establish the area you can use. If your computer is powerful enough, you will get the ultimate 3D effect. Price range goes from $394 to $499.

4. SAMSUNG GEAR VR

The Samsung Gear VR (mobile system) is built with foam cushioning which is very comfortable for and prevents light from coming in. For the consumer to play on the Gear, they must have a Samsung Galaxy smartphone that is compatatible. Although this might limit some buyers, the Gear VR is sometimes bundled with one of Samsung’s phones, so it might be possible to purchase a Galaxy S6 up to a Galaxy S8, and get a free headset at the same time. The Bluetooth controller has motion sensing and a touch pad. Prices range from $299.99 to $399.99.

5. GOOGLE DAYDREAM VIEW

With the Google Daydream View (mobile), you can experience everything with a panoramic view that covers 360 degrees. The unit has lenses that when you put your phone in the headset, separates the screen into two images. The headset is lightweight, but very durable, and tracking is enabled with the smart sensors. More VR apps and games are being made available for this unit. Prices run from $70 to $79.

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