Moving up in price and features are VR headsets. They're similar to viewers in that you download VR apps from the app store and insert your phone in them. Headsets work with the exact same apps as the viewers (except for the Samsung Gear VR and Google Daydream View) but give you a more immersive experience.
The advantages of headsets are that they're more comfortable to wear for a longer time, they fit better (preventing light leaks), they have better lenses, and they often have earphone ports. That's why some people like to use them to view videos. They don't make the videos three-dimensional, but they provide a personal-movie-theater-type experience. They also typically have built-in game controllers on the headset itself or work with handheld controllers, giving you more options in apps than you would have with a simple viewer.
Key features
- Pricier than viewers
- Compatible with most smartphones (except the Samsung Gear VR and Google Daydream View) and iOS or Android apps labeled "VR"
- More believable, you-are-there experience, but limited ability to interact with your environment
- Good for games, educational content, and movie viewing
- Selection of high-quality apps is currently fairly limited. Try the New York Times' VR Virtual Reality Stories and these recommendations.
- Headsets have minimum age requirements set by the manufacturers; check the age before you buy.
