How to choose virtual reality glasses

These days, virtual reality can now be simulated relatively easily thanks to special VR glasses that can be connected to a smartphone, computer or game console.

The least expensive way to experience the world of virtual reality is with a pair of VR glassess for a smartphone. In essence, these act as holders for VR-ready smartphones. The smartphone display is positioned in front of your eyes and replaces a built-in display, making this the easiest and most affordable way to experience the world of VR.

VR glasses for computers are a much more sophisticated solution, which is reflected in their price. Virtual reality also places increased demands on a computer's hardware equipment, meaning you need to have the right equipment in place before you can consider investing in VR glasses for your computer.

VR glasses for game consoles offer a simple compromise. You can simply connect them to your console without having to worry about correct specifications or hardware configuration.

Remember that virtual reality is a very sophisticated technology that places a high demand on the hardware of the display device. Accordingly, it is important to check that the device you intend to use is VR-ready.

VR for smarphones - necessary features include motion sensors (accelerometer and gyroscope), a high resolution display (no lower than Full HD) and a high-performance processor (quad-core or more). Here is a list of VR-ready smartphones.

VR for computers - focus on the speed and size of the hard drive, RAM size, and the performance of the graphics card. Modern connectors such as HDMI 1.4 are also essential. Here is a list of VR-ready desktop computers.

VR for game consoles - if you own a game console, there's no need to worry about hardware issues. When choosing VR glasses and other accessories, the only requirement is that they are compatible with your console.

The cheapest VR glasses serve only as a holder for mobile phones - simply insert the mobile phone into the headset, switch into VR mode, and away you go. PanoBoard, whose glasses are made of cardboard, offer some of the least expensive models on the market.

Invest a bit more and you can get glasses made of comfortable EVA foam that feature more sophisticated built-in controls, focus wheels, and even their own screens. Currently, Samsung's Gear VR, designed for the Samsung Galaxy Note or Edge, is among the most popular mid-range glasses.

High-end VR glasses, such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, are designed for use with computers and game consoles and offer highly sophisticated features such as high-resolution screens, motion tracking, and the best available graphics.

To accompany amazing visuals it's important to have perfect sound. So consider investing in high-quality headphones or advanced speakers. 

You can also buy hand-held controllers, both wired and wireless, that will make a thrilling shooter or exciting game of tennis all the more "real". Among the most progressive accessories include special VR gloves and a revolutionary headset that immerses you further through the sense of smell!

VR cameras can create amazing 360° videos using an omnidirectional camera or a collection of cameras that contain multiple camera lenses. These videos open up plenty of exciting possibilies. In the future they could be used during inspections of residential or commercial premises, with educational applications, for tutorials, or in training simulators.

VR-Ready is the label given to devices or components that have the required hardware to support virtual reality. So if, for example, you buy a VR-Ready graphics card, you fan rest assured that it is poweful enough to support virtual reality.

With increased quality, improved image rendering and better quality sound systems, you can easily lose track of the space where you are physically located. Virtual reality is not recommended for outdoor use; ideally you should be at home or in a safe enclosed environment. Plunging into a virtual world can be so disorientating that in extreme cases you can lose your balance. Accordingly, we recommend sitting in a comfortable swivel chair with plenty of space around you. To be extra safe, ask a friend to watch you the first time you play.

Some applications or games may be too intsense for beginners. At first, avoid horror and high-action games, which can easily bring on motion sickness. If you experience any feelings of nausea, remove your VR glasses immediately and take a break.