Andoer Universal 3D VR Headset Review

Product status and source notes

Still sold? Unconfirmed. We could not find an official Andoer product page for this headset, and the Amazon listing linked in this review would not load for us, so we can't confirm stock or a current price. Treat it as old stock if you find it.

Still usable? Yes, as a basic phone viewer. It has no electronics of its own, so it works with apps that offer a Cardboard-style split-screen mode, such as the Google Cardboard app for Android and iPhone (the iOS version needs iOS 15 or later). YouTube's Cardboard mode works only in the Android app. Check your phone size first: the tray takes 4.7 to 6.0-inch phones, while every iPhone in Apple's current lineup has a main screen of 6.1 inches or more (see Apple's comparison page).

What to consider instead: a Cardboard-compatible viewer sized for your phone for 360-degree video, or a standalone headset such as the Meta Quest 3S for real VR games. All three alternatives in the original review (Gear VR, Noon VR and the first Oculus Quest) are discontinued. See current alternatives.

Things to Consider Before Buying Your First VR Headset

Virtual reality headsets are becoming increasingly popular entertainment devices, offering something for everyone, whether they be hardcore gamers, followers of the latest in film, or those curious about what VR can offer.

Most VR users are young adults with a good grasp of technology, but this is changing rapidly as the VR market expands and catches on with the masses.

If you’ve already bought a VR headset and/or have good experience with them, I would recommend skipping this review and seeing what else is on offer. However, if you want to know what VR is like, whether it is for you and are considering purchasing your first VR headset, then read on.

So, what should you consider when buying your first VR headset?

• Ease of Use/Setup: A straightforward setup makes the experience much more enjoyable and accessible.
• Hardware: How the headset’s features contribute to the overall VR experience.
• Software: What games and apps can you play?
• Comfort: The device must be comfortable to wear over extended periods of time.
• Value for Money: Every product makes a trade-off between price and quality, but the trade-off depends on your experience level, expectations and intended use.

Presenting the Andoer Universal 3D VR Headset

The Andoer Universal 3D VR headset is not aiming to be the best piece of kit on the market or demonstrate the upper limits of VR. Therefore, it is not the best choice for big spenders, seasoned VR users/gamers, or for anyone that is seeking a premium VR experience.

Instead, Andoer’s device is an affordable model serving as an introduction to virtual reality, suitable for children, families, people who are unfamiliar/uncomfortable with cutting-edge technology or anyone who is curious about VR.

The quality of the experience with the Andoer model is very limited and basic, whereas the leading VR headsets offer much more in terms of software, capabilities, and immersiveness. But for the price of a DVD, you can set foot into the world of virtual reality with the Andoer model.

Pros

• Low hardware requirements, just a smartphone is needed
• Adjustable head strap is included
• Affordable, very low price
• Turns your smartphone into a 3D movie theater
• Suitable for users with myopia (up to 600 degrees)

Cons

• Focal adjustment is not as good as other similarly priced models
• Your smartphone needs to have a gyroscope
• Limited and basic VR experience
• No built-in headphones
• Dirt or marks on smartphone screen may be visible
• Fits only 4.7 to 6.0-inch phones, smaller than most current models

See the similar iJoy VR glasses on Amazon (this link goes to a different product, which we cover in our iJoy VR headset review)

Benefits and Features of the Andoer Universal 3D Headset

Let’s start with the actual headset and see what comes with it.

The Andoer model comes with a manual to help you get started and a cleaning cloth so you can keep the device clean.

The main features and benefits of the Andoer VR headset are explained below.

Turn Your Smartphone into a 3D Theater

The Andoer device is accessible as it is compatible with iOS and Android smartphones; however, you will need to check that your smartphone has a gyroscope. Without one, the view won’t follow your head movements, and a Bluetooth controller can’t replace it: a controller only lets you select and navigate in apps that support one.

A sliding mechanism is used to place the phone inside of the headset and ensures the phone is fixed in the right position, which I think it does better than the clamping mechanisms used by similar devices, such as the Canbor VR headset.

The Andoer Universal 3D VR headset requires a smartphone that is placed in a tray, and is capable of holding devices measuring between 4.7 and 6.0 inches. The quality of the display will depend on the specifications of your smartphone but one of the key benefits is that you can turn your smartphone into a 3D movie theater. Most phones sold today are larger than 6.0 inches (every iPhone Apple currently sells has a main screen of at least 6.1 inches, according to Apple’s comparison page), so measure your phone before buying.

There are also a wide range of free VR games available with one of the most impressive being Incell, an action-racing game that provides a colorful and fun experience racing through human capillaries and cells.

Dinotrek is another game worth mentioning (but only available on iOS) which is basically the VR representation of the famous television program, ‘Walking with Dinosaurs’.

Note: the Google Play page for Incell and the App Store page for Dinotrek that this review originally linked to now return “not found”, so we could not confirm that either game is still available. The free Google Cardboard app is a safer starting point.

Spherical Optical Resin Lenses

This feature of the Andoer headset ensures that users do not experience visual fatigue or dizziness, even after using the device for a long time. The lenses can be adjusted to change the object distance and focal length until you are comfortable with it.

However, the adjustable lenses are not as great as some of the competition. The Andoer’s lenses can be described as being somewhat flimsy sometimes and you may find that when you move your head, the focus may change slightly as a result.

The spherical optical resin lenses also create a three-dimensional effect when watching videos or playing games, providing an enlargement effect, enabling a broad vision and a good level of immersion.

Adjustable Head Strap, Heat Dissipation and Lightweight

The headset is very lightweight at just under 400 grams and also comes with adjustable focal lenses, an adjustable head strap and holes on the device for heat dissipation.

The design is also ergonomic, meaning that it minimizes discomfort and is easy to wear.

As well as the straps, there is a plastic bridge that rests on the top of your head to make it more comfortable and to reduce the load on your neck.

With the adjustable head strap, the Andoer Universal 3D VR has a clear advantage over the Google Cardboard device, which requires you to hold the device to your eyes. So in terms of comfort, the Andoer is one of the better models that are affordable.

The face padding is made of memory foam and reduces the pressure applied by the headset to your face.

The memory foam also makes it suitable for multiple users, as the padding should form to faces of different shapes and sizes.

If you wear glasses, then it’s likely you will be able to use the device without them on. The Andoer device is suitable for people with myopia, or shortsightedness, within 600 degrees. If you know that your myopia is more severe, then it may be best considering another option for the purposes of comfort.

Easy to Set Up and Use

The Andoer is a model that anyone can pick up and get started with, since the hardware requirements are very minimal requiring just a smartphone and there is no need to connect to other devices such as a gaming console or PC.

The headset also supports a wide range of smartphones, making it instantly accessible to almost anyone.

This feature is a benefit since you can buy the headset for the family to share and as long as everyone’s phones are between 4.7 and 6.0 inches, each family member can use their own smartphone.

App Library

There are a ton of apps available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Some are free, and others cost you. These apps range from simple games to 360-degree video apps. YouTube has an entire VR section you can check out, and it’s mostly free. Note that, according to YouTube’s help page, Cardboard viewing works in the Android app only and is not supported on iPhone or iPad.

Keep in mind, however, that these apps are limited. You cannot play the higher-end VR games that require more processing power or full motion tracking.

Affordability

At a price similar to a newly released DVD, the Andoer Universal 3D VR headset is one of the most affordable devices on the market.

At a similar price to the Google Cardboard and cheaper than models like the Google Daydream, Homido VR V2, and the Merge AR/VR Goggles, the Andoer is a good compromise between price and quality providing good value for money.

However, for a bit more money you can buy models like the Panasonic 3D VR headset or as mentioned already the Google Daydream which provide slightly better features and quality than the Andoer model.

Note: the Google Daydream View is no longer an option. Google stopped selling it in October 2019 and dropped Daydream support in Android 11. We have not re-checked the current prices of the other headsets mentioned here.

What Others Have to Say About the Headset

After searching the internet, we came across some reviews that seemed positive, with one Amazon user stating that the device provides a lot of fun for a small amount of money with lots of free apps.

The user also said it is “Very comfortable and feels like it will last a long time – way better than [Google] cardboard. Worked fine with my iPhone 6s and while I normally wear glasses or contacts worked very well without either”.

Another Amazon user who bought the Andoer device complimented the affordability, comfort and accessibility, saying:

“These are exactly as described and work perfectly! My son loves these! No need to spend $200 on others and I love the fact that this can work with just about any phone! Comfortable fit and adjustable for multiple users.”

A third Amazon user left a shorter, and somewhat positive, review simply stating that the device “gets the job done”, which encapsulates the product in just four words, i.e., a basic headset that will introduce you to VR.

View the listing on AmazonPaid link · Historical or unverified listing

Alternatives

What to consider instead

The three alternatives this review originally compared are all discontinued, so they are kept below for reference only. If you’re shopping today, these are the realistic options:

• A Cardboard-compatible phone viewer that fits your phone. Fine for 360-degree video and simple apps through the Google Cardboard app. Check the supported screen size against your phone, since many older viewers stop at 6 inches. See our VR headsets under $50 and smartphones for VR guides.
• Meta Quest 3S. A standalone headset with its own processor, tracking and controllers, so it needs no phone or PC. Meta lists it from $349.99 for the 128 GB model (US price as of 24 September 2026, after Meta’s April 2026 price change).
• Meta Quest 3. The higher-end option at $599.99 for 512 GB (same check), with sharper displays and better lenses than the Quest 3S. Our Quest 3 vs Quest 3S comparison explains the differences.

Samsung Gear VR (Discontinued)

Looking at alternative VR headsets, one model to mention is the Samsung Gear VR which like the Andoer model uses a smartphone. The advantage of the Gear VR over the Andoer headset is that it provides more immersive experiences and a better quality overall.

However, it is designed for Samsung smartphones and is much more expensive than the Andoer Universal 3D VR headset. The Samsung model also comes with support for Oculus app and game ecosystem, providing a wider range of experiences.

Note: the Gear VR is no longer a current option. In March 2020 Oculus stopped adding new Gear VR features and removed Oculus Video and Oculus 360 Photos from download, and by May 2020 Engadget reported that the headset was no longer available and that Samsung was shutting its XR video service on 30 September 2020. It also works only with older Samsung phones.

Want the background on this smartphone-powered headset? Read our Samsung Gear VR review.

Similarities

• Lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods

Differences

• The Samsung Gear VR offers a higher quality of visuals and virtual experience
• The Gear VR can only be used with Samsung smartphones
• There were a wider range of apps and games available on the Gear VR

View the listing on AmazonPaid link · Historical or unverified listing

Noon VR (Discontinued)

The Noon VR model is closer in price to the Andoer Universal 3D VR headset, being slightly more expensive.

While they are both compatible with smartphones, with the Noon VR you can also stream from your PC and can also stream from multiple devices, so it might be a good substitute if you have a PC.

However, the Noon VR headset is only capable of supporting smartphones between 4.7 and 5.7 inches, so if your smartphone is slightly larger, you should consider the Andoer headset.

Note: we treat the Noon VR as discontinued. Its website, noonvr.com, now redirects to an unrelated site, and we could not confirm that the Noon VR app or its PC streaming software is still available.

For more detail, see our Noon VR review.

Similarities

• Powered by smartphones
• Both headsets are generally affordable pieces of tech
• Each can provide excellent 360 degree video experiences

Differences

• The Noon VR model offers Wi-Fi and PC compatibility
• The Noon VR model offers a more comfortable and sleek design
• The Andoer model supports a wider range of smartphones (between 4.7 and 6.0 inches)

View the listing on AmazonPaid link · Historical or unverified listing

Oculus Quest All-in-one VR Gaming Headset (Discontinued)

The last alternative we will look at is the Oculus Quest headset which provides a premium VR experience and is the most expensive alternative mentioned here.

But for the higher price, you get a deeper VR experience, an all-in-one gaming experience that does not depend on how good your smartphone is and provides cutting-edge games unrivaled by more basic headsets like the Andoer or Noon devices.

The Oculus Quest is clearly aimed at hardcore gamers and seasoned VR users, so if that description fits you, check out the Oculus Quest here.

The original Oculus Quest was discontinued in September 2020 when the Quest 2 arrived. Meta ended its security updates in August 2024 and stopped accepting app updates for it in May 2025, so buy a current Quest 3S or Quest 3 instead (see current alternatives).

Similarities

• Other than both being VR headsets, there are no similarities

Differences

• Built-in computer and lenses
• Full 6-Degrees of Freedom motion control
• Better audio and video quality
• Hand-controllers included
• Fully immersive VR experience
• Larger virtual reality app library

View the listing on AmazonPaid link · Historical or unverified listing

FAQ

Does the Andoer Universal 3D VR headset work with new phones?

Only if your phone's screen is between 4.7 and 6.0 inches and it has a gyroscope. Most current phones are larger: every iPhone in Apple's current lineup has a main screen of 6.1 inches or more, according to Apple's comparison page. Older models such as the 4.7-inch iPhone SE still fit.

Can I watch YouTube VR videos with it on an iPhone?

Not in Cardboard mode. YouTube's help page says Cardboard viewing is not supported on iPhone and iPad, so you need the Android app for split-screen VR video.

Conclusion

People tend to buy a ‘banger’ or ‘clunker’ as their first road vehicle. Similarly, with VR you want a basic model that can help you decide if virtual reality is a hobby worth pursuing.

The Andoer is a decent model to get started with, as it is very affordable, provides decent comfort with an adjustable head strap and heat dissipation, and finally, it is very accessible as it is compatible with iOS and Android phones that fit its tray and the setup process is straightforward.

Today, phone VR is a much smaller niche than when this review was written: the 6.0-inch limit rules out many current phones, and YouTube’s Cardboard mode is Android-only. If you already own an Andoer headset and a phone that fits, it still works for 360-degree video. If you are buying your first headset now, a standalone headset like the Meta Quest 3S gives you real VR games without a phone.

If you still want to try phone VR this way, you can check the Andoer Universal 3D VR headset here, but availability is unconfirmed.

Research behind this guide

Check the linked specifications and support documents, or read how we research. Original review experience stays attributed to its author.

View 12 sources

• Google Cardboard (Google AR & VR)
• Google Cardboard app (Apple App Store)
• Watch VR videos and 360 videos (YouTube Help)
• Compare iPhone models (Apple)
• Google Daydream View is no longer available from the Google Store (9to5Google)
• Google drops Daydream VR support with Android 11 (GSMArena)
• Oculus ends Samsung Gear VR updates (UploadVR)
• Samsung is killing its VR applications now that Gear VR is dead (Engadget)
• Oculus Quest (Wikipedia)
• Changes coming to Quest 1 (Meta for Developers)
• Compare Meta Quest headsets (Meta)
• An update on Meta Quest pricing (Meta)

Explore the related guides in VR headsets.