- Transform your smartphone into an immersive VR viewer
- Watch movies, 360º videos or play games in 3d
When I speak about mobile VR, I always point out that the headsets are essentially the same thing.
You don’t need a pricey headset to experience the magic of the tech.
This is why I wanted to do an Xtreme VR VUE Headset review.
Is it worth your time and money?
Things to Consider When Buying a Mobile VR Headset
I maintain that mobile VR is great for beginners. The low price of entry and relatively comfortable experiences serve as a great stepping stone for users. That being said, it’s not for everyone. There are some important considerations to take in before deciding to buy a headset, such as:
- Device size - Not all phones fit in all headsets. You want to look at the size of your phone screen to verify that it fits inside that shiny new headset you’re considering buying.
- Motion sickness - While apps are a lot better than they used to be, VR still has the ability to make people motion sick. I can tell you that I watched someone hurl on the floor while riding a virtual rollercoaster. It wasn’t pleasant. If you’re someone prone to motion sickness, you may want to reconsider buying a VR headset.
- Expectations - You can do almost anything in VR, but mobile VR is way different than the standalone headsets that are run on powerful gaming PCs. You need to temper your expectations if you’re using mobile VR. The experience is good for media consumption or limited gameplay, but you’re not getting room scale combat like you would with an Oculus Quest.
I say that the ideal mobile VR consumer is someone that is looking to try VR out before taking a bigger leap into better technology. If you have a decent phone and don’t get queasy easily, then you’re probably going to love virtual reality.
Introducing the Xtreme VR VUE Headset
- Transform your smartphone into an immersive VR viewer
- Watch movies, 360º videos or play games in 3d
The Xtreme VR VUE Headset is a mobile headset that is developed by electronics group Xtreme Cables. The headset is dark and resembles the Oculus Rift DK1 in terms of design.
Weighing in at just over a half pound, the device is well-suited for smaller users that don’t want a bunch of weight on their head.
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
- Size: 8 inches x 4 inches x 3 inches
- Adjustable head strap
- Affordable price point
- Xtreme Cables puts out quality products
- Lightweight
- No controller built-in
- No IPD adjustment dials
- Not suited for long play periods
Features and Benefits
Visual Quality
In mobile VR, a lot of the benefits you get are dependent on the mobile device you’re using. A good headset does help, though, as lens quality and adjustments can help dial in the experience.
While the lenses are decent enough, there isn’t any adjustment dial to better fit different head sizes.
This can result in some blur coming in.
Audio Quality
There aren’t any built-in audio headphones on this headset, but there are good ports for headphones. Headphones are vital for this headset, as sound from your phone’s speakers doesn’t travel well through the plastic of the headset.
Build Quality
I was impressed with the general build quality of the VR VUE, but there are some aspects that can be improved upon. The plastic build is lightweight but sturdy, and I think it could survive a small fall without issue.
My main issue is with the head strap. I found it to be uncomfortable and not large enough for my noggin, which has been described as the size of a rotten cantaloupe.
Software
There isn’t any exclusive software offered by Xtreme Cables. Instead, you’ll download your VR apps through the iOS App Store or Google Play Store for Android.
There are more experiences on Android, but there are good experiences on both. I prefer Jaunt VR, Discovery VR, and Google Cardboard.
Overall Experience
When you tie the entire experience together, the Xtreme VR VUE headset is a decent entry-level piece of tech.
As I stated above, you don’t need anything too fancy for mobile VR, and this headset serves its purpose of being a sturdy but basic headset.
What Others Are Saying About the Xtreme VR VUE Headset
As opposed to some of the other headsets I’ve reviewed, there isn’t a ton out there about the VR VUE headset. I did look around the internet and found the following opinions on the headset.
“You pay what you get, I'm glad I got these while on sale. My biggest issue with these is that the viewer use suction grippers to hold the phone in place. If you have a galaxy s5, the back of the phone has little dimples so the grippers don't really work. Works fine on any phone that has a smooth back.”
This reviewer doesn’t share my opinion, but I still respect what he’s saying:
Alternatives to the Xtreme VR Vue Headset
There are many alternatives to the Xtreme VR Vue Headset, some better and some worse. If you decide that you want to go a different way, these are great alternatives.
Destek v4 VR Headset
- √ Eye Protected Anti-blue Light HD Lenses - Eye-protected lenses with unparalleled clarity make VR movies a visual experience comparable to world-renowned IMAX. DESTEK V4 will always make sure you have the best seat in your private theatre wherever you really are.
- √ More Gaming fun with Touch Button – Press the button, take on hordes of zombies, aliens or any other foe you want to vanquish to achieve your mission; Target...shoot...collect bonuses to win the Frisbee game. The Touch Button brings more fun and versatility in your VR games.
The Destek v4 is perhaps my favorite mobile VR headset that I’ve reviewed. I find it very comfortable, and the wide FoV is comparable to higher priced headsets.
In terms of headsets for mobile phones, this is among the best.
- Compatible with iOS and Android phones
- Affordable VR experience
- Made by a recognizable company
- Has anti-blue light coating on the lens
- Heavier than the VR VUE
- Has a touch button
Oculus Go
- Personal Viewing: The littlest, big screen. Crystal clear optics and state-of-the-art 3D graphics make your headset feel more like a personal theater
- Viewing with Friends: Watch with friends. Meet up in VR with friends and fans from around the world to catch live sports, concerts, or just your favorite TV show
If you want to go up to the next level, the Oculus Go is a great all-around VR headset.
I reviewed this headset and love how it gives you a better VR experience than mobile devices without the wires of a PC headset.
Sure, it’s more expensive, but it’s worth the investment if you know you like VR.
- Wireless
- Includes adjustable head strap
- Much higher quality
- Includes a controller
- Built-in 3D headphones
Conclusion
I recommend the Xtreme VR VUE Headset if you’re new to VR and don’t want to dive right in with an expensive headset. The build quality is nice, but this is a no-frills experience.
Definitely, buy this one if you’re not sure what to expect, but don’t think it’ll be something you use forever.
If you’re interested in purchasing this headset, you can do so by clicking the link below.