Back then, virtual reality headsets are only seen on TV shows, science fiction movies, and books that are popular in the ‘90s. But thanks to the technology of today, they are now a real thing that is easily accessible.

Right now, people are starting to enter immersive worlds through VR headsets. And contrary to what others think, this amazing invention is not just for gaming. Rather, you can use it to interact with people who are on virtual social forums and watch movies and concerts. You can even use it to visit a virtual gallery and more. You see, the possibilities with VR headsets are almost endless.

True enough, people cannot entirely live their lives online. But the worlds of virtual gaming and entertainment are continuously expanding as the years pass. With a VR headset, you have the chance to get closer than ever to the games and blockbuster movies that they love. What is even better is that while today’s VR headsets are aesthetically similar to their fictional ancestors, they are far from being bulky or heavy.

But since this innovation is something that is pretty new, it can be difficult to choose the model that you will purchase. To narrow down your choices, we have compiled some of the best ones that you should check out, so keep reading!

How Does a VR Headset Work?

VR devices generally take the same form. However, they differ in terms of how they project imaging in front of the user’s eyes. most VR headsets are commonly called HDMs. This implies that they are head-mounted displays. Even without using your hands to make it work, just holding up your Google Cardboard to show your phone’s display in front of your eyes can already immerse you in a completely virtual world.

But what is a Google Cardboard? Well, it is basically a VR construct that lets users block any external visual stimuli. As a result, they will be able to focus on the imaging that the device’s screen produces.

As mentioned VR headsets differ in the way that they produce images. This means that not all VR devices need to use a Google Cardboard to work. There are sensor-filled ones that have LCD screen glasses and are packed with technology. They have sensors embedded in their insides to track the user’s head movement. Such is something that is known as 6DOF or six degrees of freedom — a concept that allows head-tracking to function.

6DOF basically works by plotting the user’s head in an XYZ plane. After this, it measures the head movements backward, forward, yaw and roll, and side to side. What makes the system work this way are the sensors called gyroscopes, magnetometers, and accelerometers.

Moreover, VR headsets work realistically by tricking our brains into thinking that they are inside a virtual space. To do such, the lag and response rates of these devices need to be fast and flawless. Tracking the head movement has to be less than 50 milliseconds. If not, the user’s brain will start thinking that something is not right, which will result in them feeling sick.

Apart from the response rate, the refresh rate of the screen also needs to be high. And by high, that means a least 60 to 120 fps. With a response rate lower than 60 fps, VR headsets will induce nausea.

To make the virtual experience even more realistic, a majority of VR environments utilize Binaural and 3D audio. This allows them to create an entire audio-visual landscape of the environment a user is virtually in.

The 5 Best VR Headsets that You Can Have Today

1. Samsung HMD Odyssey+ Windows Mixed Reality Headset

There is no doubt that the VR headsets produced by Samsung have come a long way since the time users had to slide in their Galaxy smartphone and use it as a display. Today, the company is creating VR systems that are filled with different features. The HMD Odyssey+ is one of the best examples.

This VR headset by Samsung has a high-resolution display and amazing audio systems. To use it, however, you first need to plug it into a PC that is powered by Windows 10. After connecting the device, you will be able to access the huge catalog of VR experiences and games that Microsoft offers. To make things even better, the HMD Odyssey+ has controllers included. This, along with mixed reality capabilities will give you the chance to interact with the real world in a way that you never experienced.

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2. HTC Vive Pro Eye Virtual Reality Headset

Although it comes with plenty of gaming options, the Vivo Pro Star VR headset can do much more than just battling with aliens and monsters.

This virtual reality headset boasts HTC’s precision eye-tracking tech, foveated rendering capabilities, as well as high-resolution display. It also has several commercial purposes. If you have a product or any creation that you need to present to a client, you can use this VR headset to show off in a new way.

Moreover, you can purchase the optional peripherals and controllers if you are planning to use this VR headset for gaming. However, anticipate for the price to double if you do so.

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3. Oculus Rift S PC-Powered VR Gaming Headset

The Oculus Rift S is one of the best-selling VR headsets right now. It is tethered, which means you need to connect it to a PC that has enough power to run it. So, this one might not be the perfect choice if you are new to virtual reality.

But if you are looking for a high-end VR headset and you do not mind being connected to a PC while using it, then the Oculus Rift S is a must-have. Also, another thing worth noting is that you will need to have a Facebook account so you can use this device.

This device is quite comfortable to use and the screen resolution is excellent. It also has insight tracking. That means all the sensors are built into its body. For this reason, you no longer have to mount any external camera when using this one.

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4. Sony PlayStation VR

We all know how powerful the waves of PlayStation 4 are. And if you are someone who bought this system when it was released, then his VR headset is geared towards you.

Think of the Sony PlayStation VR as an add-on to your PlayStation 4 for a better experience. It has a maximum level of comfort even when you are using it with your eyeglasses on. You will also have the ability to play any game in the system as if you are really in the place of the game. More than just gaming, you can use this VR headset to watch your favorite movies on big virtual screens.

Moreover, the seamless visuals of this device will keep you in the virtual world using an expansive 4.7-inch OLED 1080p display running at 120 frames per second. What’s more, it is equipped with 3D audio technology that will allow you to pinpoint the sounds from where they are coming from.

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5. Destek V5 VR Headset – Best Budget VR Headset

For people who are new to the world of virtual reality, an excellent thing to do is to start with a VR headset that is easy on the wallet. That being said, check out this Destek V5 VR Headset. Despite its price, this device has some really nice perks including blue light protection lenses. It can also hold a smartphone that has a size of up to 6.8 inches.

With blue light protection, that means this device 94 percent lens light transmittance. The lens is also covered with an anti-reflective and anti-blue light coating. For this reason, you will never get an eye strain while using this VR headset.

In addition, this device’s lens has aspheric and anti-distortion capabilities. As a result, you will be able to view sharp, high-definition images when you connect this VR headset with your smartphone. For a better visual experience, Destek designed it with a Pupil Distance button that has a larger range.

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Best VR Headsets for PC and Gaming for This Year

There is no denying that VR headsets are an expensive investment. But with all the features and new technological experiences that they can offer, it is safe to say that they are worth spending your money for.

If you are seeking to bring your gaming and movie-watching experience to a whole new level, then a VR headset will help you do just that. So, make sure to get the best one to change your perspective about virtual reality.

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