If you are searching for the best VR headset for movies? This detailed guide has got you covered!
Technology has grown in unprecedented ways, paving new opportunities for innovation as time progresses. There was a time when watching movies on the big screen was unthinkable.
Fast forward to a couple of decades later, and we can enjoy a movie in many ways. Now, add to that list a new experience: VR Headsets.
Have you ever dreamed of having a private theatre of your own where you and your friends can gather and enjoy the magic of cinema unfold before your eyes? That dream can now become a reality.
Virtual Reality Headsets offer a simulated immersive experience that takes you to another world. Thanks to sophisticated graphics and the audio and visual feedback it incorporates, it will almost feel like you are living inside the movie itself.
So, don’t think much and invest in a technology that will help you reimagine your movie-watching experience- go for a VR headset for movies!
Here, we have discussed the top headsets you can get yourself, and we have also briefly discussed the quality and features each brings to the table. Keep reading!
Is Purchasing a VR Headset Worthwhile?
But before we dig into the products, let’s go over whether investing in a VR headset is worth it.
Simply put, investing in a VR headset is 100 percent worth it. If you consider yourself a movie buff, you must know that a good movie calls for enjoying it with your friends. Because what fun is it if you cannot share or watch your favorite scenes with your close ones?
However, be it a novel virus wreaking havoc across the world or busy and demanding schedules, it is not always convenient for people to gather and watch movies together. That is where a VR headset for movies comes in.
There are hundreds of Discord channels and servers created solely for movie sessions. This allows people like you and me to meet other movie aficionados worldwide and enjoy the best movies together.
Not only that, but you will find a large community for anime, sports, and TV shows also. Even more than that, you will soon find yourself belonging to a wholesome community of people having similar interests. And the truth remains that no home theatre system can beat that.
Moreover, you can also enjoy 3D films, which you otherwise can’t with your regular TV. With a VR headset, you get to dive into a new world of endless opportunities, where the virtual world appears blended with the real world, where you can land on the moon and enjoy the ocean’s depths- all while sitting at your home.
Drawbacks of VR Headsets for Movies
While there are countless benefits to having a VR headset, there is one very minimal drawback. It certainly isn’t the resolution since contemporary VR headsets offer a crisp resolution for an optimal movie-watching experience. However, the lenses in the headsets (fresnel lenses) can sometimes pose a problem.
They can often cause glares, especially if the screen has high contrast. Although this isn’t a big issue for many people, it can occasionally be a troubling factor for some.
If it bothers you, there is something you can do: change the background from a black “space” background to a living room background. This can help minimize the glares.
Let’s go over our top picks so you can soon buy the best VR Headset for movies!
PS: here are the best mobile VR games without a controller.
4 Best VR Headsets for Movies
Oculus Quest 2
This product is relatively cheaper than others, which can sometimes create room for doubt.
But believe us when we say it offers one of the highest resolutions you will come across in the marketplace. Its unmatched high resolutions make it the perfect headset for enjoying movies.
The Quest 2 can also impress you if you are into gaming and like fitness games such as Beat Saber and social games such as VRChat.
And click here for the best headphones for Oculus Quest 2.
Key Specifications of Oculus Quest 2:
- The Oculus Go is a portable VR headset that does not require the user to be connected to a computer to operate it. You can access the device from any location.
- Battery life of 2.5 hours (the product allows you to use it when charging). Do note that adding a battery pack can enhance the battery life.
- The Quest 2 offers one of the highest resolutions on the market: 3664 x 1920.
- With three subpixels per pixel, the visual quality is superb. Compared to other headsets, there is a very minimal screen door effect.
- The refresh rate is 90 hertz.
- Viewing an angle of 100 degrees
- Supports all types of games (optional)
- Inexpensive
Drawbacks
The drawbacks compared to the perks offered by the product are almost none. The only problem you might face is that it can become inconvenient to wear the device for a considerable time.
For that, we recommend going for the “elite strap,” which can make the experience relatively more comfortable.
What Are the Benefits of Purchasing the Quest?
For the price point, the Quest 2 is, without any doubt, the best VR headset for movies presently available on the market.
It offers you high-quality resolution and visual excellence at a fair price. It is the ideal headset for watching Netflix, videos on YouTube, and movies (as well as explicit content). And it is capable of playing 4K videos.
Since Quest 2 brings a slew of perks to the table at such an affordable price, we have placed it at the top of our list.
Besides, if you are searching for the best battery packs for Oculus Quest 2, here are the right guides.
Google Cardboard
If you are entirely new to the world of VR and are looking for something that will help you get a head start and a better understanding of how these products work, look no further and go for Google Cardboard.
At only $15, you get a durable headset that will take you on a cinematic journey. Granted that the product is at no par with the Quest 2, you get a surprisingly good deal for the price.
It’s the perfect device for watching 2D movies and isn’t that gimmicky! The only problem is that it takes a little longer when trying to pause or change movies.
Key Specifications of Google Cardboard:
- Quite inexpensive.
- Compatible with most devices, including some of the most modern iPhones and Android models.
- Despite the low cost, it provides a nice “theatre experience” in movies.
- It is ideal for watching videos on YouTube.
Drawbacks
- Offers 360 degrees view. However, rotating motions are not as fluid as with other headsets.
- It has a slightly gimmicky feel to it.
- Only smartphone VR experiences are supported.
- It runs on your smartphone.
- Poor resolution
- It is mostly used for watching 360° videos on YouTube.
What Are the Benefits of Purchasing the Google Cardboard?
At a minimal price, the Google Cardboard provides you with a glimpse of just how excellent VR can be, making it the best VR headset for movies for beginners.
Truthfully, one can never expect too much with just $15. But do give it a try. However, skip this one if you are looking for something more sophisticated.
Oculus Rift S
Movies are a way to unwind and relax which is why comfort is a big factor when watching movies, and that is exactly what Oculus Rift S offers with its product. You can wear this headset for hours at a stretch!
The Rift S has no mods and is presently the most convenient VR headset for movies you can get for yourself. Regarding the features and price point, the Rift S is similar to the Quest 2.
However, the only difference is that the Rift S is wired while the Quest is not, which gives it an edge. Yet, one aspect where the Rift S can easily beat the Quest is its weight: the former has a more lightweight feel, making it more comfortable to wear for long hours.
Key Specifications of the Oculus Rift S:
- Excellent for gameplay and viewing movies
- Image quality is comparable to that of the Quest
- The resolution is 2560×1440, which is rather good
- Viewing angle of 100 degrees.
- The refresh rate is 80 Hz, which is somewhat higher than that of the Quest.
Drawbacks
The product doesn’t have that many drawbacks except a few: as already mentioned, since it is a wired device, it can be troublesome for some users.
Apart from that, its only drawback is that it necessitates computer use.
What Are the Benefits of Purchasing the Oculus Rift S?
If discomfort is a deal-breaker for you and you want something you can use for hours at a stretch, then the Oculus Rift S is the best VR headset for movies!
If you are willing to make peace with a wired product, there’s no reason you shouldn’t go for this headset!
HP Reverb G2
If the resolution is the ultimate factor for you, then the HP Reverb G2 should top your list when looking for a VR headset for movies.
It offers a resolution of 2160 x 2160, and with regard to its visual performance, it presently has no competitors.
However, if you are on a tight budget, this product must be left out since it costs close to $600.
While its resolution makes it a favorite, the only drawback is that you need to connect it to a PC to operate it.
In this case, the Quest 2 beats the Reverb G2 since it is wireless. Do note that to play VR games, you also need a robust PC that will run the games smoothly.
What Are the Benefits of Purchasing the HP Reverb G2?
If your budget is not restricting you, and you can choose to go for premium-priced headsets, then the HP Reverb G2 should beat all the other alternatives. Moreover, it also brings more comfort than the Quest 2.
Things to Keep in Mind
In your search for a VR headset for movies, there are a few things you should bear in mind, such as price, comfort, whether it is wireless or not, resolution, the field of view, and refresh rate. Considering these elements will help you come to a more informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What’s the best VR headset for watching movies? Each headset has its strengths, so the best one depends on your specific needs and preferences.
- Can you watch Netflix on a VR headset? Yes, Netflix and other streaming platforms can be viewed on most VR headsets.
- Are there any health concerns when using VR headsets? Some people might experience motion sickness or eye strain. It’s advisable to take breaks when using VR for extended periods.
- Do I need a powerful PC for a VR headset? It depends on the VR headset. Some are standalone, while others require a high-end PC or gaming console.
- Can all movies be watched in VR? While not all movies are made for VR, you can watch any movie in a VR headset. However, the experience may vary.
Final Thoughts
We hope that with the help of this detailed guide, you can decide to buy the best VR headset for movies. Enjoy movies from a whole new perspective now!
