Immerse yourself with the latest in VR technology

Virtual reality is no longer in the realm of future possibility. When the early versions of virtual reality or VR arrived in the ‘90s, the graphics were blocky and headsets were very clunky. It was also very expensive. The only way most people could experience VR was in an arcade. The good news is that VR technology has advanced to the point that the graphics now look more realistic and everyone can now have their own headsets without spending a fortune.

The question remains: which VR headset to buy? There are several options available which either require a high-end computer or just a phone. To help you get started, we’ve made a handy guide for picking the right VR headset for your budget.

HIGH-END

HTC Vive

SRP: P60,000

Requirement: High-end PC

The Vive is the most priciest consumer VR headset and for that money, you get full-head tracking a which allows you to move your head towards or away from objects in the virtual world. Two sensors also allow for real-time positioning and a front-facing camera lets you view the real world without taking off the headset.

Oculus Rift

SRP: P30,000

Requirement: High-end PC

If price is not an issue, one of best VR headsets you can get right now is the Oculus Rift. Designed for home use, the Oculus Rift requires a powerful VR-ready PC in order to run virtual reality software such as games. For the price, you get the best-looking graphics and access to games specifically designed for the Oculus Rift. Two free games and an Xbox One controller come bundled with the headset.

MID-RANGE

Samsung Gear VR

SRP: P5,000

Requirement: Select Samsung phones

Gear VR delivers a portable and untethered virtual experience using a compatible Samsung mobile phone. Designed for VR, 360, and video apps, this lightweight high-quality headset opens up to accommodate Samsung’s premium phone models. The Gear VR features Oculus optimized software and has its own app store that currently has more than 180 apps.

Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge

SRP: Plan dependent

Requirement: Gear VR

For a mobile phone-based VR setup, the one of the best phones for the job is a Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge. Both phones have a brilliant QHD Super AMOLED display for eye-popping VR. Inside, there’s a fast processor and 4GB RAM for high performance 3D graphics and precise head-tracking. For a flagship, the S7 series delivers when it comes to VR.

BUDGET

I Am Cardboard DSCVR

SRP: P1,800

Requirement: Android or iPhone smartphone

The DSCVR headset is designed with portability and simplicity in mind. It’s also easy on your wallet. The DSCVR is compatible with a variety of phones that have 5 to 6-inch screens such as the Note or iPhone 6 plus. The headset is made from impact-resistant plastic and can fold into a compact size. The silicon strap holds your phone in place and a capacitive button allows one-tap phone control. An added bonus: the DSCVR comes in several candy colors to suit your style

Lenovo AntVR

SRP: P1,644

Requirement: Android smartphone

The AntVR can be purchased separate or bundled with a Lenovo Vibe K4 Note. The headset is compatible with most 5 to 6-inch phones. The AntVR folds for storage, and head straps allow for hands-free viewing. The dual aspherical lens gives a viewing angle of about 100 degrees. When used with the TheaterMax app found in Lenovo phones, the headset turns into a virtual widescreen cinema.

Lenovo Vibe K4 Note

SRP: Plan dependent

The Vibe K4 Note lets you build a VR-ready setup without breaking the bank. The K4 Note’s 5.5-inch full HD screen is perfect for experiencing immersive VR with the bundled headset. An 8-core CPU and 3GB of RAM keeps things snappy for playing VR-ready content. Providing increased audio realism is a pair of Dolby Atmos-powered speakers.

VR Box Virtual Reality Headset

SRP: P1,850

The VR Box VR headset has a universal docking system that’s compatible with most phones including phablets. The lens allows slight adjustments for better focus and 3D effect. The adjustable headstrap and foam lining provide great comfort during prolonged use. The phone’s headphone and charging port can still be accessed using the headset’s open side slots.