Introduction
If you want to check out the metaverse, consider strapping on an all-in-one VR headset. They require minimal equipment, getting you into the game sooner than PC VR options. Let's take a few minutes to learn the basics about all-in-one devices, how to set them up, and the differences between all-in-one and PC VR units.
What is an All-In-One VR Headset?
All-in-one headsets, also called standalone VR headsets, are wearable devices with screens, a processor, and a battery, all within a head-mounted display (HMD). Some units, like the PICO 4 all-in-one VR and the PICO Neo3 Link, feature a high-fidelity speaker to enhance your experience with 3D sound. If the device doesn't have hand-tracking capabilities, it will include one or two controllers, depending on the system's configuration.
One of the most significant benefits of vr all in one headset is the untethered experience. There is no interference from cords or cables, resulting in fully immersive, uninterrupted gameplay. In addition, standalone VR allows anyone to have fun in the virtual realm. Users don't need to invest in an upgraded PC system to get into the game. Lastly, without a PC, users can enter the metaverse anywhere, rather than being limited to the room that their computer is in.
There aren't many drawbacks to all-in-one VR, but the main one lies in the graphics. PC VR devices harness the power of a computer's processor, which is likely more powerful than the processor contained in a standalone device. This means that while the images are still amazing, an all-in-one VR headset sometimes produces less vivid pictures than their PC-connected counterparts.
What’s the Difference Between All-In-One VR And PC VR?
As we've already touched on, PC VR systems require a computer to operate, while all-in-one systems are self-contained. With no PC connection required, VR All-in-One devices, such as the PICO 4 or the PICO Neo3 Link, are more portable than PC VRs. Use your all-in-one device to engage in relaxing experiences in the comfort of your bedroom or play high-octane, physical games in your rec room. If you own a PC VR unit, you might enjoy better graphics, but you'll be limited to using your device in the same room as your computer.
PC VR systems offer slightly different gaming and content options than all-in-one VR headsets. This is due to the differences in graphics between the devices. All-in-one systems typically support less-complex content that you can experience with 3DoF controls, while there are fewer limits to PC VR gaming.
If you are curious about the best all-in-one VR headset, check out PICO 4 all-in-one VR or the PICO Neo3 Link. These state-of-the-art systems don't require a base station, but feature 6DoF controls for an experience comparable to PC VR devices.
Are There Additional Fees or Expenses For VR?
According to Jason Cipriani from technology journal, once you purchase your VR headset and the related hardware (if applicable), you're not out of the woods with regard to additional costs (2022). If you have any experience with video games, you already know this is the norm. Although many games on standalone and PC VR units offer free trials and demos, you'll need to buy the complete version to maximize your experience.
Subscriptions are available to give users access to multiple games and experiences for a monthly or annual price. These can save avid gamers money, especially if the subscription targets their interests. In addition, some games, such as sports-based experiences, require users to purchase accessories or attachments for the best results.
So, does one VR system incur more additional expenses than the other? Beyond the initial investment, the games associated with PC VR devices often come at a higher price than standalone games. PC VR games typically have more intense graphics, leading to a higher price tag.
Do I Need A Gaming PC to Use a VR Headset?
If you opt for a standalone headset, such as a PICO 4 all-in-one VR system or a PICO Neo3 Link, you won't need to purchase a gaming PC. The only additional pieces you need are the accessories associated with certain games. On the other hand, PC VR systems require a pretty powerful computer to support the intense graphics these systems are known for. That said, the PICO 4 and PICO Neo3 Link both feature high-resolution displays and an extra-wide field of view, so many users feel as though they are getting a similar experience with these systems as they would with a PC VR.
There's no right or wrong answer when determining which VR headset will help you reach your gaming goals. For many people, the cost will guide their decision. Those new to the metaverse often opt for vr all in one system because they have a lower price point and don't require an additional investment in expensive hardware.
All-in-one headsets are also a little simpler for new users to navigate. Since no cords connect the device to a gaming PC, gamers can interact freely with their virtual environment. Without extra cords and connections, these devices are also less complicated for novice VR gamers to set up.
How Much Space Do I Need To Use A VR Headset?
Whether you opt for a PC VR or an all-in-one model, the space needed to experience the metaverse varies depending on the game. In general, the more area you have, the better. At a minimum, you will need enough room to freely swing your arms, spin your body, and take a step or two in any direction. If you select a PC VR, remember to position your gaming computer carefully so that it doesn't get damaged and gives you as much free movement as possible.
In some VR games, such as Fruit Ninja 2, players primarily stand in one spot. In others, such as the ever-popular Arizona Sunshine, players roam freely within their environment. If you're playing a free-roaming VR game, how can you prevent running into furniture, walls, or worse? The answer is room-scale tracking. This feature encourages realistic gameplay by using a specialized tracking system within the device that guides users away from real-life barriers within the room or gets around these barriers via teleporting.
Conclusion
All-in-one VR systems are on the cutting edge of virtual entertainment. Unlike PC VR units, these standalone devices allow for increased flexibility in VR gaming. They are more affordable than PC VR systems and can be played anywhere, allowing for endless opportunities to enter the metaverse. Check out PICO VR, the best all in one VR headsets for new and experienced gamers!