VR headset buying guide

Augmented reality (AR) is a blend of the real world and VR. Images are rendered as an overlay on top of what you see in the real world. On the other hand, VR is completely computer-generated and the scenes in it appear to be real to make you feel immersed.

If you've ever used Instagram and Snapchat filters, you have already experienced mixed reality (MR). It is a blend of the real world and the digital world where elements can interact with each other.

FOV is the area you can see when you put the VR headset on. A wider field of view means you can see more of the virtual world around you. It's like having a larger window that lets you take in more of the virtual environment.

Choosing a headset with a high-resolution display allows you a crisp and immersive visual experience. Plus, a higher refresh rate means the images on the VR headset's display change more frequently, creating smoother movements. It helps to reduce motion blur and makes the virtual world feel more realistic.

It renders the part of the screen you are looking at in high resolution, whilst the other parts are rendered at a lower resolution to save on processing power.

A wireless VR headset offers freedom of movement without being connected to a computer or console, making the immersive experience better. It allows you to freely explore virtual environments, eliminates the risk of tripping over wires and cables, and provides greater convenience for both gaming and non-gaming applications.

Tracking systems determine how accurately a headset tracks your movements. Many VR systems need an external sensor or camera to track your physical movements with accuracy, helping determine the position of your headset and controllers in the virtual environment.

VR headsets generally use a USB-C port for charging, but some require batteries. If you are travelling, it’s best to have a power bank with suitable output and adequate capacity to charge your VR headset (or just carry replacement batteries).

VR sessions are generally lengthy, so comfort is key. Always look for a headset with adjustable straps, enough padding, and good weight distribution. Factors like ergonomics and ventilation ensure a comfortable fit.

Quantum dot displays are great as they show vibrant and lifelike colours, offering an improved picture quality. This makes them popular in a range of electronic items, including televisions, computer monitors, and mobile devices. They emit pure red, green, and blue light when stimulated by electricity. In a quantum dot display, these dots are placed in a layer above the backlight. When the backlight shines through the dots, they convert the blue light into vivid red and green lights, resulting in more accurate colours on your screen.

Haptic feedback are the vibrations that match the action on the screen. Headset haptics vibrate the whole headset, and that's unique to PS VR2. Most other platforms use controller haptics to add a level of realism to your interactions with the VR world.

Oculus is simply the old name for Meta Quest. Meta changed the name of the Oculus range to Meta Quest in 2022.

Yes, you can wear glasses with a VR headset. The glasses may get pressed against your head slightly, so smaller glasses frames are better to reduce this. Some headsets also have additional spacers to create more room around the eyes to make wearing glasses more comfortable. It is advisable to put the VR headset over your glasses first and then stretch the strap over the back of your head second to avoid any sudden pressure on your glasses and face.

Yes. You can mirror your VR headset’s display to a TV using built‑in casting features or third party devices like Chromecast. This lets others see what you’re experiencing in real time.

VR headsets work with a wide range of apps, including VR games, fitness apps, streaming apps, social platforms, and immersive learning tools. Popular options include YouTube VR, Netflix VR, Meta Quest apps, and SteamVR.

Avoid using VR in unsafe spaces, wearing it for long stretches, or letting small children use adult headsets. Don’t expose the lenses to direct sunlight, as that can permanently damage the display.

It depends on your specific model. Most modern VR headsets (from about 2018 onwards) do not require a smartphone. Standalone headsets work independently, while PC‑VR headsets connect to a computer instead. Only older mobile VR models rely on a smartphone.