What are the Best Virtual Reality Headsets in 2020?

Virtual reality (VR) headsets/systems are special hardware that allows one to immerse oneself in fictitious settings. Using three-dimensional imaging technology, VR headsets enable one to enter an artificial environment.

Whether game or film, the system is meant to make one feel as though the individual has entered the medium’s world. Advanced reality systems include physical interaction and more elements that make a complete experience.

Let’s look at the best VR headset options based on where the technology is at today.

Oculus Rift

Oculus rift is a rarity in any industry for one of the pioneering products to still be considered the best. It managed to stand the test of time and always be one of the best virtual reality systems on the market. The smooth, low-latency tracking contributes to an utterly immersive experience. Unlike many VR headsets, the oculus rift is versatile.

A user can enjoy interactive gaming during the day and follow it up with some relaxing Netflix action in the evening. The setup is swift that makes this particular VR system one of the best options for beginners. It manages to maintain a feeling of real interaction, using special sensors.

Valve Index

Valve’s new headset might be the most exciting PC virtual reality experience this year, just for its fancy new controllers. Its knuckle controllers are pressure-sensitive and can track all five fingers, making them almost like gloves. Not many apps make the most of them, but Valve’s hardware is mix-and-match compatible with the HTC Vive built on the Stream VR platform. The Index headset has excellent audio and a sharp wide field-of-view display.

Oculus Quest 2

The Oculus Quest 2 delivers virtual reality games and an immersive VR experience anywhere. It’s faster, smaller, cheaper, and more comfortable to wear than the original Oculus. But, a user has to log in to Facebook to use it.

The Quest 2 takes mere seconds to start up and fits well over glasses. The standalone VR headset has self-contained motion tracking and a full-motion six degrees of freedom. Apps are downloaded right to the standalone headset’s onboard storage. Its more limited mobile processor still plays games like Beat Saber, Moss, and SuperHot VR well, and it can even connect with a PC if a user wants to, using a single USB-C cable.

HTC Vive Pro

With the price of US$1099, HTC made Vive Pro a premium product. It includes two SteamVR base stations and two VR Vive controllers. Of all the virtual reality systems on the list, it’s the only one entirely suited for a one-room and multi-dimensional experience.

Its dedicated headphones are very soft and lull the user into sleep with just about any soothing simulation. The weight distribution is excellently executed, that is a rarity for a headset of this size. With an adjustable band, all head sizes can enjoy this VR experience.

Sony PlayStation VR

Sony’s three-plus-year-old PSVR headset is still the only head-mounted display for gaming consoles, and its screen still offers a surprisingly immersive experience. Even better, it’s often on sale for as low as US$200, sometimes with games thrown in. It provides plenty of games and compatible with many PS4 controllers like DualShock and Move.

This VR system is showing its age, although, compared to the alternatives. The new PS5, while it will work with the PSVR, will need the user’s old PS4 controllers and camera, plus a camera adapter to work.