How much do you have to spend to own a proper VR system?
If you’re looking for a quick answer regarding the cost of VR gear, we’d say you can expect to pay as little as $15 thanks to Google Cardboard. In fact, you can get it for even less on Amazon. Experiencing VR has become much more budget friendly since Google came up with this innovative and inexpensive cardboard box VR system. With smartphone users exceeding 2.1 billion across the globe, purchasing Google Cardboard offers a cheap way to give VR a go. After all, you just have to put your smartphone inside the cardboard box to begin your VR experience. However, pricing certainly seems to affect the quality. Even though Google Cardboard works as an introduction to the VR world, you’re probably going to want a high-end headset to truly appreciate the immersive experience.
What’s different about high-end VR headsets?
If you compare the Google Cardboard with the HTC Vive, you’ll notice quite a few differences. To begin with, the HTC Vive costs $499 instead of the Cardboard’s $15. Both headsets function similarly and involve your smartphone. However, what sets them apart is their level of comfort. When you wear the HTV Vive, you become fully immersed in the experience, complete with base stations and controllers. However, with the Google Cardboard, you know you’re just wearing a piece of cardboard that has lenses.
That isn’t to discredit the value of Google Cardboard. After all, Google made this technology much more accessible. It’s just that the high-end headsets are worth the extra cash for the luxury. Whether you’ll benefit from paying more ultimately comes down to the way you use it.
Additionally, as VR becomes the standard for the way we engage with online content, it will become less expensive. For example, the HTV Vive experienced a $200 price cut just last year, proving that the headsets will become more affordable as the industry grows.
Is VR only about the headset?
VR certainly isn’t just about the headset. High-end headsets such as the Oculus Rift or the HTC Vive have high-grade computer requirements to function optimally. With that said, their pricing includes accessories like base stations and controllers, which add to a higher cost. As a matter of fact, high-powered computers that are Oculus-ready start at around $950.
It’s evident that people aren’t backing off just due to the price. When you factor in the computer requirements, you’re looking at a significant investment, especially for first-time users. On the plus side, you won’t have to pay more for a VR-compatible computer when it’s time to upgrade your headset.
Which VR headsets are worth the money?
If you’re ready to drop some cash on a headset that costs more than the Google Cardboard, then these are some VR headsets worth investing in.
Oculus Go Wireless VR Headset (Price: $199)
Completely comfortable and free of wires, this all-in-one system allows you to move and interact with your VR environment in a whole new way. Once your Oculus Go is good to go, you can access more than 1000 games, 360-degree experiences, apps, and more in spectacular virtual reality.
HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset (Price: $349.99)
The dual resolution display rests right on your head, transporting you to an entirely different world. The hand controllers that come with the headset allow you to customize and interact with a wide range of content.
FOVE — Eye Tracking VR Headset (Price: $599)
Through the application of FOVE technology, game developers can produce authentic two-way interaction experiences in virtual realms. It also allows simulated light field rendering based on your field-of-view in real time.
Simply plug Mask into your smartphone using the HDMI, and you’re all set. The Mask enables you to stream your favorite video games, movies, TV shows and more. It creates an unparalleled viewing experience by creating a big screen anywhere you go.
HTC Vive VR Headset (Price: $499)
With the Vive, we’re able to be physically, visually and emotionally involved in virtual worlds, which is unlike anything we’ve experienced thus far. This form of innovation allows us to feel, touch, see and hear in a whole new way.
The actual cost of VR
As with other technologies, owning a VR headset is getting cheaper with time. However, the actual hardware that it requires is still on the pricey side. Still, it’s worth venturing out past the cardboard if you want to up your VR experience.
