Wired VR Headsets

Tethered VR headsets (which can also be known as desktop VR or PC VR headsets), require a permanent connection to a powerful computer making use of external sensors and cameras to identify the user’s position.

This gives users high-quality immersion in the virtual environment but can take up an awful lot of space in housing the equipment.

HTC VIVE COSMOS ELITE

The HTC Vive Cosmos Elite Headset is comfortable, balanced and is easy to set up. The screen panel has a high resolution so colours are more vibrant and detail look more realistic. The VIVE headset has it all: room scale, 6DoF controllers and comfort.

Technical Specification

  • Platform(s): SteamVR, VIVEPORT
  • VR headset price: £549 – £899

Pros:

  • The VR community LOVES it!
  • VIVE Wand controllers and sensors are included
  • Can be worn over glasses
  • Accurately tracks position

Cons:

  • VIVE controllers lack finger tracking
  • More difficult installation/setup

OCULUS RIFT S

The Oculus Rift S is an entry point into PC-based VR which is easy to set up. Although your movement is somewhat limited, as it is powered by your PC, it it’s capability of taking you to more advanced and ambitious VR worlds is a definite plus!

Technical Specification

  • Platform(s): Oculus
  • VR headset price:£299

Pros:

  • Includes two 6DoF controllers and two sensors
  • Lots of positive reviews from the VR community

Cons:

  • Can let light in (screen door effect)
  • Heavy with less comfort.

SONY PLAYSTATION VR (PSVR)

Sony’s PlayStation VR headset (PS VR headset) works with PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 gaming consoles.

The PS VR doesn’t come with the external camera, (necessary for positional tracking), or controllers.  Annoyingly, you have to purchase these items separately, although bundle purchases do exist from some retailers.

Technical Specification

  • Platform(s): PlayStation
  • VR headset price:£249 (VR and camera bundle)

Pros:

  • Simple setup for PS4 users
  • Fast refresh rate
  • Ongoing support from Sony

Cons:

  • Cameras and controllers are sold separately (and PS4)
  • Positional tracking can be inaccurate
  • Now four years old

Smartphone

Headsets that utilise your smart phone are the cheapest point of entry into the VR market.

Wireless

Today’s wireless headsets feature zero delay technology but can be more expensive than their wired counterparts.

Wired

Wired headsets offer an immersive experience, albeit with a tethered connection to a processing unit.

Virtual reality apps

If you have VR headset and don’t know what to do next, the next step is often to download a VR app to display compatible content.   In many cases you are actually able to do this via a typical web browser, but in case you’re looking for something even more spectacular we’ve put together a handy compilation of apps that will make your VR experience as exciting and immersive as possible.