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Writer's pictureAriane Negishi

Our pick for Top 5 VR Headsets in 2022

Updated: Jun 25, 2023


We truly believe in the future of virtual reality, and it is the only current method to teleport yourself into the metaverse. You can go to virtual spaces and feel precisely in that place with virtual reality. Whether it is a virtual island you have built on Minecraft or a game, virtual reality will astonish you.


No wonder everyone wants a view of virtual reality. In recent years, it has gained so much attention with gamers experiencing what it's like to be inside a virtual place and no longer taking a back seat view. With its popularity also came the rise of VR gadgets that will enable you to feel and explore the VR world.


Person trying on VR headsets

Your best portal to the metaverse lies in the best VR headset/goggles. If you want to experience a Stargate moment with virtual reality, you need to scour the market for the best VR headset. The best covers all the bases from price, quality, comfort, and user-friendliness when we say the best. Choosing the right VR headset is very important. Ticking off the right boxes from quality to function can give you value for your money and fully immerse yourself in virtual reality.


So if you are looking for the best VR headsets in the market that fits your taste and needs, say no more, as we will round them up with prices and specifications. Take your pick with the top 5 VR headsets in the market:



1. Vrgineers XTAL VR 3


Ratings: 5.0


Specifications

Platform: PC

Resolution (per-eye): 2650 x 1440

Refresh rate: 70Hz

Field of view: 170-degrees

Tracking: 6DoF

Weight: 1.7 pounds



This VR headset deserves the top of our list for its realistic beautiful display and, of course, its ability to immerse its user in virtual reality. This XTAL VR is a bit pricey, $6000 to be exact. VRgineers has made several new upgrades since its release last 2018. It is tagged as a premium VR headset allowing users to experience the ultimate VR environments with state-of-the-art technologies (XRToday). The XTAL VR 3 is built not only for commercial use but licensed as well for enterprise and military use. Keep in mind that this high-end VR is used for aviation simulations and other demanding scenarios, which explains its premium price point and the following key features according to XR Today:



XTAL VR 3's 180-degree field of view field of view benefits a lot of pilots as it lowers negative training and gives them an ideal setup to develop situational awareness. It has a one-of-a-kind mix of high fidelity and marketing leading FoV of 180 degrees horizontal and 90 degrees vertical, making it the best in the market.


Vrgineers XTAL 3 VR Headset
Photo Credits: VRgineers XTAL VR 3

XTAL VR 3 uses collected data from its integrated eye-tracking system for its eye-tracking data used for debriefing and behavior analysis. IPD (inter-pupillary distance) correction and its eye-tracking systems employ a one-dot calibration technique, increasing eye-tracking accuracy. And for instructors to improve their eye-tracking, they can apply advanced calibration techniques.


If you think 4K is enough, think again; XTAL VR 3 offers the greatest 8K resolution, allowing users to have crystal clear vision. Its two 4K high-density LCDs allow this to be possible. Don; 't you worry about the weight, as it is 30% lighter than its predecessor XTAL VR 2, which means a long period of comfort for users and a more comfortable face foam.


Why we chose XTAL VR 3

  • High quality immersive technology

  • beautiful realistic display and comfort

  • field of view close to human vision

  • 8K resolution


2. Varjo Aero


Ratings: 4.1


Specifications

Platform: Standalone

Resolution (per-eye): 2880 x 2720

Refresh rate: 90Hz

Field of view: 115-degrees (horizontal), 134 degrees (diagonal)

Tracking: SteamVR 2.0/1.0 Base Station

Weight: 1.07 pounds (1.5 pounds with headband)



The future of VR is something you can see and experience with the Aero Varjo VR Headset. It offers comfort, stunning VR visuals, and a straightforward setup.


Priced at $1990, it is one of the priciest VR headsets in the market, catering to individual consumers. According to Laptopmag.com, the Aero Varjo VR is designed as a professional VR. Content creators who use 3D software like Gravity Sketch can benefit from its features. Also, simulations like Microsoft Flight Simulator or VRM Switzerland's helicopter motion simulation platform.


To put it into perspective, VR users will be excited to feel Aero's superb visual clarity, performance, and comfort. But, a little downside to the kit it only comes with a headset, a VR adapter, in-ear headphones with a microphone, and a cleaning cloth. However, this can be resolved using other VR accessories such as Vive controller and SteamVR Base stations 2.0 and 1.0.



Design-wise, Laptopmag.com describes it as futuristic with the headset's seamless weight and excellent design, making the sensors non-visible thanks to its reflective black visor and a subtle "Varjo" logo. On the side, you can find the power and menu buttons and a 3.5mm audio jack; for extra comfort and ventilation, the top and bottom of the headset have vents to keep users cool, suitable for long hours of gaming.


Aero Varjo VR Heaset
Photo Credits: Varjo Aero VR Headset

Perhaps the most important and fantastic thing about Aero Varjo is its comfort as Laptopmag.com describes sliding onto the VR headset as comparable to squishing your face to fluffy pillows, so imagine being able to go for hours of VR sessions. The headband material is polyurethane with face cushions on the back, top, and goggles. Quick to clean and made to last. Stepping into the VR world has never been easier and more comfortable; hence Aero Varjo VR headset is worth its price.


Why we chose Varjo Aero

  • Professional grade VR headset

  • Straight forward set up

  • Impeccable visuals

  • Designed for long VR sessions


3. HTC VIVE PRO 2


Ratings 5.0


Specifications

Platform: PC

Resolution (per-eye): 2,448 × 2,448

Refresh rate: 90/120 Hz (only 90Hz supported via VIVE Wireless Adapter)

Field of view: Up to 120 degrees (horizontal)

Tracking: 6DoF

Weight: 1.9 pounds




HTC Vive Pro VR Headset
Photo Credits: HTC Vive Pro UK

HTC VR headsets have the best screens in the market; imagine the 2,448 × 2,448 native resolution per eye; this must be heaven for all PC VR gamers. If you are looking for a premium and a VR headset that will fully immerse you in PC VR gaming, then HTC Vive Pro 2 is for you. The tag price is steep because it ticks off all the things you need and wants in a VR headset (PCGamesn)





High-end VR headsets like HTC Vive Pro 2 need high-end machines, so you might want to prepare your pockets for this ultimate experience. For this setup, HTC recommends:

  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 20-series

  • Radeon RX 5000-series GPU


HTC Vive Pro 2 gives you a tethered experience; PCGames describes that it may affect your overall virtual experience during intense plays. An adapter is available for $349 for a wireless experience; of course, it's another cost, but if you are serious about your PC VR gaming experience, you can consider it, but it limits the refresh rate to 90hz, which may not be ideal also.


Why we chose HTC Vive Pro

  • Affordable price point for its performance and quality

  • Best VR headset screens in the market

  • Gives the best immersive experience

  • Best for PC VR gamers

4. Meta Quest 2 (Oculus Quest 2) 128GB


Ratings 4.1


Specifications

Platform: Standalone, PC

Resolution (per-eye): 1,832 x 1,920

Refresh rate: 90Hz

Field of view: 100-degrees

Tracking: 6DoF

Weight: 1.1 pounds



According to IGN, Meta Quest 2 is best for users who are still discovering their preferences for VR headsets. With its capabilities and price, you might just add this to your cart immediately. IGN describes Meta Quest 2 (formerly known as Oculus 2) as a device that can give a phenomenal experience for everyone. For its price and performance, you can't think of any other. Meta Quest 2 has a virtual theater that allows you to enjoy the world of vast, immersive games and the capability to meet other VR players face to face in fascinating virtual spaces.



You can enjoy the best virtual reality experience without even a PC or console with Meta Quest 2. And get this, experience wireless intuitive controls that allow you to roam around, plus with its high resolution at 1,920 by 1,832 per eye, which means no more screen door effect for you.



Meta Quest 2 (Oculus Quest 2)
Credits to Android Central | Meta Quest 2 (Oculus Quest 2) - www.androidcentral.com

Meta Quest 2 is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset and 128GB storage; included in the single package are the two motion controls for full 6DOF head-and-hand motion tracking. If you enjoy playing Half-Life: Alyx, you can tether Meta Quest to your PC with its five-meter USB-C cable that lets you connect Meta Quest to your PC; though this can be an additional cost of $79, it's still a good buy as the Quest 2 is $100 cheaper than the Original Quest.


Why we chose Meta Quest 2

  • Best for VR newbies

  • Affordable price point with amazing performance

  • Stand alone VR headset

  • Players can enjoy an immersive games and can meet other VR players face to face from other virtual spaces


5. VALVE INDEX VR


Ratings 4.1


Specifications

Platform: PC

Resolution (per-eye): 1,440 × 1,600

Refresh rate: 120Hz (144Hz experimental mode)

Field of view: 130-degrees

Tracking: 6DoF

Weight: 1.79 pounds



PCGamer describes this VR headset as one of the best in terms of visuals. Valve Index's visual resolution can be comparable to Vive Pro, Quest, and Odessy+.


The granddaddy of VR headsets is pricey, but it is worth every penny. The $1000 price tag for the whole kit makes up for being hailed as one of the latest and greatest PC VR headsets. Imagine this 1,440 x 1600 pixels at a refresh rate of 120hz, plus a 130-degree field of view. It ticks the box of comfort, which fits for long hours of gaming, according to IGN.


Woman with long hair wearing Valve Index VR sideview
https://www.theverge.com/2019/6/28/19102584/valve-index-steamvr-headset-review-shipping-today

PCmag explains its revolutionary controller, which can track your fingers' individual movements, making it more immersive to play the games. But you will need a large play area for Valve Index VR as it employs base stations and a new set of controllers to support finger tracking. To experience the all-out experience, you can set up four base stations to create a 10-meter by 10-meter space play (IGN)


Why we chose Valve Index VR

  • Built for long hour of gaming/sessions

  • Revolutionary controller that tracks your individual finger movements

  • Justifiable price point as you will get a VR kit, no more worries for add ons

  • 1,440 x 1600 pixels at a refresh rate of 120hz, plus a 130-degree field of view


Our recommendation


The top 5 VR headsets we have chosen are the best in the market based on their specifications and performance. But, one of them stands out and has ticked all the boxes from superb visuals, best price point, comfort, and immersive experience to all kinds of users is the Meta Quest 2 (Oculus Quest 2) 128GB. It is an all-in-one virtual reality headset that you can enjoy with or without a PC and console. It lets you experience the best virtual reality as it allows you to meet VR players in other VR spaces, making it our best recommendation. So please check it out on Xcite.com and experience the best virtual reality now.



Cinemagic's Vision


As an innovative company we are committed to work with the best technologies out there, we have developed a metaverse lab to help us innovate and create immersive experiences for organizations around the world.


We have been creating metaverse and VR-related projects since 2017. We have created a parallel metaverse to help showcase the Government of Kuwait's vision of 2035. That was a completely immersive virtual reality experience that helped influence global investors and government entities.


To know more about our latest innovations in media production log on to www.cinemagics.com

Man in VR Headset

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