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Is now the time to get into a standalone VR headset?

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anotherquestion
anotherquestion Posts: 454 Forumite
Fifth Anniversary 100 Posts Name Dropper
edited 7 February 2022 at 7:16PM in Techie Stuff
Hi there folks, 

I have always been interested in Virtual Reality (VR) but have always found the cost too much such as having a powerful computer, and the technology not really mature.

Seems like things are changing with the Oculus Quest 2 standalone headset, would like at least the 128gb one at £299.

I have to admit I have never really tried a VR headset in my life, and I also have the eyesight problem of Nystagmus, but still think I might be able to use the headset.

I have been reading a bit about the Oculus 2 these past few days, and simple things like virtual walks I believed based  on Google St View on the Oculus definitely appeal to me, Wander  is the name of the app that is needed for this I believe.

Just wondering for any of you has who have got Oculus 2, is it really worth it, and any other info appreciated.
Also when will the Oculus 3 be out as probably there will be improvements.

Many Thanks for any info.

Comments

  • deannagone
    deannagone Posts: 1,114 Forumite
    1,000 Posts Fourth Anniversary Name Dropper
    edited 8 February 2022 at 7:01AM
    After two experiences of VR headsets breaking, with the manufacturer making replacement very difficult (long list of updates required to pc, then another set after you'd completed the first, they were quite complicated too and producing print outs of the updates installed required, in spite of establishing an alternative VR headset worked on the pc the last time, it was definitely a sensor problem).., I would not buy another VR headset.  £300 a time, forget it.   They get used at first, then the fad fades.

    Our lives continue fine, without VR headsets.
  • As you have never tried a VR headset, you could start with https://arvr.google.com/cardboard/ - as you would be using your smart phone, it'll likely not be on par as £300 headsets but if all you are interested in the VR world (pardon the pun!), it's not a bad way to start.
  • My local City Centre has a couple of VR "experience" places (I've not tried them) where people are driving F1 cars, walking on the moon, flying over the Grand Canyon and suchlike. Might be good to try out the tech first.

    I picked up a pair of VR goggles (the sort you slide your mobile into) for a couple of quid in the bargain bin of an ASDA. Bit rubbish but interesting to set up the Google Glass app and find some examples of VR content. 


  • Thanks a  lot for replies.

    Seems not many have tried the Oculus, I do notice they are getting quite good reviews at Argos, but will do some more research before I part with any money.

    Thanks.
  • Penguin_
    Penguin_ Posts: 1,586 Forumite
    Fifth Anniversary 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    My son has the Oculus & I have to say it is very immersive & impressive. 

    I have had a few goes & I must admit you do get really drawn into the game & forget you're only wearing a headset.
  • Penguin_ said:
    My son has the Oculus & I have to say it is very immersive & impressive. 

    I have had a few goes & I must admit you do get really drawn into the game & forget you're only wearing a headset.
    Thanks for that, wonder if you have tried the Wander app on it, like Google street view but just that its runs on the Oculus with the better 3d experience.
  • forgotmyname
    forgotmyname Posts: 32,928 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper
    I was thinking of going VR but thought is it a waste of money.  Bought the Samung Gear VR for a cheap taster.

    It got used daily for a week or two and then less and less until it went on a shelf in the cupboard.  Its OK but for
    us its limited use once you have finished the new toy phase.

    Some people can feel sick very quickly with them so make sure you test one for a decent length of time.

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