The first ever VR headset that I have tried on was an Oculus Rift DK2 for my Orbital Project. Back when I used DK2, the cable runs over the back of the head which sometimes can drop down over the neck or shoulders, feels like it’s in the way. The screen resolution was not ideal, and the headset is heavy, making it uncomfortable over prolonged use. Not only that, the camera must be connected to a computer, thus restricting some movements.
From my experience then, the factors that I looked out for in a VR headset are,
- Comfortable even for prolonged use
- High screen resolution and sound
- Freedom of movement and minimal physical restrictions
- Easy & Quick Set up and configuration
The latest VR head mount displays ranking high on the list are:
HTC Vive, Oculus Quest, Sony PlayStation VR, Google Daydream View, Oculus Rift S.
Here are the list of VR Headsets
Looking through the list, my most preferred device is Oculus Quest.
The Oculus Quest VR headset is wire-free with six-degrees-of-freedom motion tracking and two controllers, and all without the need for a separate computer to use it. It is reasonably priced at US$399 and cheaper compared to HTC Vive Pro ($599). The graphics are high res and stunning with an OLED display panel with 1440 x 1600 per eye solution and powered by Snapdragon 835 processor. It also takes room scalability into consideration, so the user doesn’t accidentally hit the wall.
The setting up of the headset is quick and easy just by using the Oculus mobile app, apps are downloaded right to the headsets onboard. The user is also able to share their VR experience with others via smartphone or tv.
The only downside to Oculus Quest is that it has slight light leakage and it has a short battery life, lasting only 2-3 hours.
However, compared to the other headsets in the list, Oculus Quest has fulfilled my criteria and is my most preferred device. From Hassle-free set up and configuration to an immersive experience anywhere with no wires and having self-contained tracking with full six degree of freedom motion to high-resolution built-in speakers, this is the excellent VR for a standalone device, and it is reasonably priced.
As for MR, my most preferred device is Microsoft HoloLens 2.
It is light, gaze and eye tracking capabilities, allowing voice commands and easy to adjust. No restrictions on physical movements as it is wireless. It also supports gaze, gesture and voice controls and able to track your eyes to see what you are focusing on. HoloLens 2 allows the wearer to interact more intuitively with holograms, such as grabbing and rotating them.
It is comfortable for people who wear prescription lenses (like me) and the fact that it has a flip up visor, allowing the user to just flip it up to make eye contact easily. Despite its price tag, I think it’s the best so far for me.
In addition, here’s the list of AR headwear