VR: Google Daydream, MR: Microsoft Hololens

Headsets for VR:

  • Oculus Rift / Go
  • Samsung Gear VR
  • HTC Vive
  • Google Daydream

Headsets for AR / MR:

  • Microsoft HoloLens
  • Magic Leap
  • Meta (just shut down)
  • Google glass (for enterprise)

My preferred VR device is Google Daydream as it is cheaper and more accessible, yet provide enough immersion for the user to be engaged in the virtual world. Daydream is available in two modes – smartphone VR (using a supported Android phone as display) and standalone VR, and it comes with a handheld controller that allows the user to interact with the virtual world. Daydream VR apps are conveniently installed from the Google Play Store and one can watch immersive 360 videos from Youtube. Although not room scale VR, it is still a great starter kit for those prototyping or trying to get a taste of VR before investing in more expensive headsets.

My preferred MR device is Microsoft HoloLens. HoloLens, along with Magic Leap One, are considered state-of-the-art MR devices today. It has many interesting and useful potential applications such as for design visualisation, immersive communications and industrial training. However, it comes with a hefty price tag of ~$3000, which is out of reach of most consumers. HoloLens users are, as of now, mainly developers prototyping applications or businesses innovating for productivity.