Virtual reality headsets allow us to experience video games in a dimension previously unknown. They enable us to travel to unimaginable places thanks to the power of technology. With these devices, we can explore a virtual space or a video game as if we were actually there. This is all achieved through a combination of cameras, motion sensors, optics, and high-resolution displays integrated into a headset that we wear over our eyes.
Virtual reality technology is still in its early stages, but it's gaining popularity thanks to the experiences offered by these headsets. Zuckerberg's focus on the metaverse will also bring this technology even closer to people who want to experience new sensations through technology.
Which type of VR headset is better: wired or wireless?
Currently, virtual reality equipment can be divided into two main groups : wired and standalone . Wired systems connect directly to a PC or PlayStation, such as the HTC Vive Pro 2, PlayStation VR, or Valve Index. The cable is obviously a drawback, as it can cause tripping and makes the experience a bit more cumbersome. However, the content is rendered directly by a powerful machine like your computer . The virtual reality experience in this case is much more immersive thanks to the higher quality and frame rate. You'll need a truly powerful computer to take full advantage of these products. This is a complicated task, as the crisis in the silicon sector is causing massive price increases for essential components like high-performance graphics cards.
On the other hand, standalone VR headsets are completely wireless, requiring no external device. All data processing is done on the headset itself . They are generally much less powerful than wired versions, but this doesn't mean they can't offer a realistic experience with detailed graphics and smooth performance.
Are they just for playing?
Not at all. The brands behind these new devices are laying the foundation for a new paradigm in computing. The goal isn't just to create realistic games, nor to develop new ways to enhance our capabilities with applications for engineering , remote work , communication, and entertainment.
Standalone VR glasses (wireless)
The best options when buying cable-free virtual reality glasses are the following.
Oculus Quest 2
Behind Oculus is none other than Facebook (or Meta, to be more precise). Oculus was the first brand to make a name for itself in the world of virtual reality, and Zuckerberg quickly recognized its potential, eventually acquiring the company. Initially, Oculus made connected devices , such as the Oculus Rift S, but the latest models from this brand are completely standalone.
The Oculus Quest 2 costs approximately €350 and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor. Its resolution is 1.920 x 1.832 pixels , making it the highest-resolution standalone headset on the market to date. It includes two controllers for motion control and boasts a robust array of 6DOF (6 degrees of freedom) sensors for a truly immersive experience.
Another strong point of the Quest 2 is that it can be converted into a wired headset . For this, we can use the Oculus Link , a five-meter-long powered USB-C cable. It's not a cheap accessory, but with it we can connect the Quest 2 to a PC and enjoy titles that aren't natively available on the Oculus platform.
Sony PlayStation VR
PlayStation VR is one of the easiest ways to enjoy virtual reality. It uses the headset and PlayStation Camera and allows you to play on PlayStation 4. It's also compatible with PlayStation 5 , although Sony is already working on a model for the next-generation console with redesigned controllers and greater precision.
Wired Virtual Reality Glasses
These are the best models of wired virtual reality glasses that currently exist on the market.
Valve Index
The company behind Steam has also launched its virtual reality offering. Its device is one of the most expensive on the market, at around €1.079 . It also boasts the highest refresh rate of any wired VR headset , supporting 120Hz and featuring an experimental 144Hz mode . Taking full advantage of this device means having recently invested several thousand euros in a desktop PC, so it's not a headset for everyone.
Its controllers are truly revolutionary . They can independently track finger movements, allowing for incredibly realistic trigger simulations . The only downside to the Index is that the triggers are sold separately for an additional €299. Fortunately, you can use them with other virtual reality headsets like the HTC Vive or Vive Pro.
The Valve Index headset as a whole is the most complete headset you'll see in this guide, but it also represents a huge investment, so it's only suitable for enthusiastic gamers who aren't afraid to spend a large sum of money to enjoy this technology.
HTC Live Pro 2
The Vive Pro 2 stands out as the wired headset with the highest resolution on the market to date: 2.448 x 2.448 pixels per eye, or 5K . It offers spectacular sharpness with its LED screens (the previous model was OLED) and a 120Hz refresh rate . It's suitable for both gamers and professionals looking to make their mark in the metaverse. However, it's not a cheap headset. The headset costs approximately €779 . The controllers and base station must be purchased separately . While all-inclusive kits are available, the most interesting option is to purchase the Valve Index controllers , as they are fully compatible with the HTC Vive and are significantly more advanced.
This headset is also fully compatible with SteamVR , but it has its own service store called Viveport . There you can download all sorts of applications and utilities to get the most out of the brand's virtual reality equipment. There's also a subscription membership called Viveport Infinity.
HTC Vive Cosmos and Vive Cosmos Elite
We've talked about some very expensive products, so now it's time to mention something more affordable . The HTC Cosmos is an improved version of the original Vive . The complete package costs around €750 and offers enhanced features compared to the first-generation Vive.
The Elite version costs about 150 euros more and offers the external base and motion control sensors that provide better accuracy.