Virtual reality headset how do they work is a common question we get asked. In addition, it is legitimate concern many beginners have regarding virtual reality. This is a relatively new technology having only been introduced to the mass public in the early 2010s.
Virtual reality is now contributing in different sectors. You can find it in medical, engineering, training, education, etc. It has made a lot of things possible and much easier. It has revolutionized many things. Researchers are still working on and it will create more benefits for people in the future. To get into virtual reality, you need a virtual reality headset. This headset allows you to enter into the virtual world where everything is possible. Virtual reality has blown the mind of people; therefore, they want to know, “What is virtual reality headset, and how do they work?”
This is a valid question, people are curious to know the science behind it, but not everyone wants to dive into math, physics, and technicalities of the virtual reality headset. They want to know about working in simple words so that they can understand easily. Therefore, we are going to answer the following question,
What is a virtual reality headset and How Do They Work?
Before diving into the answer, we want you to know the difference between “Virtual Reality” and “Virtual Reality Headset”.
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality is a 3D environment that is generated through a computer. It requires certain hardware or software to work. When you enter this world, you can see the virtual world just like you see the real world. The virtual environment is created, and it looks like real.
Virtual Reality Headset
A virtual reality headset is a hardware device that is just like a helmet. You wear it on your head, and it takes you to the world of virtual reality. The headset shows you a 3D environment that is created through any computer or software. There are numerous virtual reality headsets to choose from in the marketplace. There are some that are very expensive like the Valve Index. The Index will run you north of $2,000. That being said, if you are not on a budge and want the very best that is our top recommendation.
Blunt Truths
The bottom line up front is you want to find a product that fits your needs and will not break your bank account. We provide a great deal of options her at VR Gear Pro. There is no doubt about it, there is a VR headset perfect for you here. We have cheap options to choose from as well as cover the higher priced models.
Lastly, we discuss the pros and cons with these systems as well. It does us or you no good to only talk on the positives of these headsets. We purchase these items too and always do our homework before we buy. So, we get it. It is just the wise thing to do anyway to know the pros and cons of the headset you have interest in.
What are Other Virtual Reality Uses?
A virtual reality headset has two displays. These two displays are for both eyes. Now two focus lenses are placed between eyes and the screen. So, both eyes have a separate screen and a separate lens. On both LCDs, a 2D environment is created through software. Thus, there are two 2D images. These two 2D images are converted to 3D by the lenses. The two 2D images and lenses are angled in such a manner that they create a 3D picture. To make these pictures a video there are certain frames shown per second. The FPS is usually 60 or greater. This is how virtual reality headsets work.
We have told you the creation of the 3D world only. There are sensors on the headsets that track your movements. The three essential sensors are gyroscopes, magnetometer, and accelerometer. These keep track of your movements and translate them into the virtual world.
Additional VR Uses
In addition, there are numerous other uses of virtual reality most folks don't think about. Yes, virtual reality is a huge industry for gamers. The majority of people who think of VR headsets are thinking mainly about gaming. That being said, there are other uses for virtual reality.
For example, virtual reality is being used in medical schools to help train medical students for surgery. In addition, it is heavily used within the military to help Soldiers prepare for the battlefield. So, this technology is literally saving lives as well. The industry itself is due to grow to over $44.7 billion dollars by the year 2024. What does that mean for you and I? Well, it means better products will be delivered and in the near future prices will also drop.
We already mentioned there are higher end models to choose from. This is perfect for gamers that want the very best money can buy. That being said, what about the majority of others who are on a budget or are beginners? The great news is there are alternatives and a few of them we list below. Furthermore, these are only 4 of many others we have covered here at VR Gear Pro. They're reasonably priced and offer a ton of benefits with minimal flaws.
These were the main components of you any VR headset, there can be a camera, microphone, speaker and other components as well, but they are optional. What can you do with a virtual reality headset is another question we have answered here at VR Gear Pro.
We have explained, “What is virtual reality headset, and how do they work?” Let’s discuss some VR headsets.
Best Virtual Reality Headset: Top 4 Products
We are going to list some of the best products for your ease. We will explain the features and mention the pros and cons of each product.
Oculus Rift S PC-Powered VR Gaming Headset
Oculus Rift S is a famous VR headset that is specially made for PCs. It has a high-quality resolution and clear display. Further, it has a reduced screen-door effect, so you will get a sharp image. It has two touch controllers that allow you to do actions and those actions will be translated into the virtual world. It has an accurate tracking of your movements as well. No matter where you are, it will track your movements. It is very easy to set up and it will take a few minutes. Its ergonomic design allows you to wear it with comfort. It has soft padding all over the headband and eye area. It will take you to a new world of adventure.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy to setup
- Excellent insight tracking
- No external sensors are needed
Cons
- Wired
- Requires an expensive PC
All-in-one VR Gaming Headset
This is a standalone VR headset that has an OS. It has a high-resolution display which is 1920 x 1080. So, it will provide you a detailed image. You can select 2D, 3D or 360˚ according to your choice, it has all the three options. It has a 90˚FOV for a broad view of the virtual world. There are navigation buttons on the headset to use it with ease. It has an internal memory and it supports external storage as well. So, you can store VR games and videos in it. It is portable and you can take it anywhere.
Pros
- Requires no PC or phone
- Excellent resolution
- Face padding
- Adjustable strap
Cons
- No controller
Samsung Gear VR
This VR headset is excellent to use with Samsung Galaxy phones. It has a comfortable design. You can use it for hours. You can enjoy 3D contents such as movies and games with this headset. It provides you a mesmerizing 360˚ experience. You don’t need to wear glasses with its because it has focus adjustment. You can focus the screen according to your comfort. There is a touchpad on the side to navigate and click without any controller. Get ready to enjoy your favorites shows on Netflix and Hulu.
Pros
- Touchpad
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Only for Samsung phones
SHINECON 3D VR Glasses
SHINECON 3D is simple and inexpensive 3D glasses that can work with iPhones and Android. The phone should have a screen in the range of 4.7”-6.2”. It has PD and FD adjustment to adjust it for clear visuals. But you can also wear glasses with it. You can insert your headphones form side openings, and these side openings also keep your phone cool. It has comfortable soft padding around the eye area and adjustable strap to use it with comfort. The lenses have an anti-blue and anti-reflective coating to keep your eyes safe and sound.
Closing Thoughts
We have explained, “What is a virtual reality headset, and how do they work?” We hope you have got a clear idea of the working of VR headsets. For your ease, we have also listed some of the best products with their features, pros, and cons. Enjoy the world of 3D with VR headsets.
Read our Virtual Reality Headset Buyers Guide
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