Virtual Reality Hardware Explained
There are several major brands that provide VR headsets usable for business solutions. In this article we will describe per brand their focus , the popular models, advantages and we will provide some of our own example project’s. This is the second in a series of articles on VR, AR hardware and accessories. Our first article was on VR headset types.
VR Headsets for Business
We will discuss the main brands currently being used by businesses in the Netherlands. Meta Quest, PicoXR and HTC Vive are the most frequently used brands. We have also included Varjo as for certain applications like automotive, aerospace and healthcare it can offer additional advantages. That doesn’t mean there is not more to offer. You might ask why not Apple Vision Pro. Well Apple is not quite suitable yet for most of the current applications requiring 6Dof solutions, but that might change with the next model.
Major Brands
Meta
Popular Products: Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, and older model still in use Meta Quest 2.
Focus: Offers standalone and PC-tethered VR headsets, targeting both casual gamers and businesses.
Advantages: The consumer version offers a really high end device for a low price. There is also a large library of consumer games. Installing business software and managing devices can be tedious, but is possible using SideQuest. They have revamped Oculus for Business, which is definitely interesting for businesses, but doesn’t support multiple brands. You can manage consumer devices with MDM software such as ArborXR or ManageXR. Quest 2 Applications also work on Quest 3.
Example projects developed for Quest 2
Pico XR
Popular Products: Pico 4, Pico Neo 3, Pico G3 and older model still in use Pico G2 (discontinued).
Focus: Standalone VR headsets with an emphasis on comfort and display quality, competing directly with Meta’s offerings, and with a longer focus on supporting businesses.
Advantages: Has business edition for which it is easy to add own software, set up kiosk mode and more. You can use SideQuest to install an application. Works with multiple Manage device software systems like ArborXR or ManageXR. Easy to develop for using Unity3D. Has a nice cast to TV functionality. Especially Pico 4 has a comfortable fit and automatic IPD setting. They have been very aware of supporting business use. Pico 3 applications also work on the Pico 4.
Example projects developed for Pico Neo 3
HTC Vive
Popular Products: HTC Vive Pro 2, Vive Focus 3, Vive XR Elite and often still used HTC Vive Pro.
Focus: Professional-grade VR headsets with high-resolution displays and extensive tracking options, suitable for both gaming and enterprise use.
Advantages: Good quality products. The only brand that provides external tracking systems and additional tracking possibilities. You can manage consumer devices with MDM software such as ArborXR or ManageXR.
Example projects developed for HTC Focus 3 and HTC Vive Pro
Varjo
Popular Products: Varjo XR-4, Varjo-XR-3, Varjo Aero (discontinued), Varjo VR3 (discontinued)
Focus: Ultra high resolution, PC-tethered VR headsets, used for industry and training solutions in need of maximum visual quality. Requires a very high end PC with a high end graphics card. The XR series are espcially known for their Mixed Reality possibilities. That has also led Varjo to discontinue its normal VR series and only offer XR that can support both VR and mixed reality. The headset always need s to connect to the PC using a cable.
Advantages: Has the highest visual precision and frame rate.
Conclusions
At ImproVive we have access to most of these headsets. All of these headsets can support professional solutions for training, marketing, simulation or cultural expression. The choice depends on needs and budget. Using the Unity development platform we have seen that you can support any of these headsets, or even multiple brands at the same time. Below you can find some links to vendors and review sites.
Want to know more about what you can do with VR?
Go to our VR-solutions page.
In a next article we will further discuss the world of AR and XR headsets.
– Coming soon! –
Vendors and Reviews
Vendors VR Headsets
These are a number of hardware providers in the Netherlands offering a large range of VR headsets. These are two suppliers we often use because of their focus on business customers.
Reviews VR Headsets
Do you need more information on specific headsets?
These are two websites that have regular product evaluations:
Tony’s blog – Tony is a VR consultant giving you a professional unbiased view
Road to VR - A news site on the latest VR developments both hardware and software
More Info?
Would you like to know more about which headsets fits your needs? Contact us!
