- Contains: PlayStation VR headset, Processor unit, PlayStation VR headset connection cable, HDMI cable, USB cable, Stereo headphones, AC power cord, AC adaptor, PlayStation VR Demo Disc
- Games Come First - With gamers in mind, PlayStation delivers a new world of unexpected gaming experiences through PlayStation VR
I have had my PlayStation VR since it launched in October 2016.
The device is a mainstay in my living room, and I love it more than I do my in-laws.
The headset brings a cost-effective VR solution as you don’t need a PC to play games.
This headset has gotten better with time.
Today I’m going to be giving you my honest PlayStation VR Review, sharing why it’s so great.
Things to Consider When Buying a PlayStation VR Headset
Getting a PlayStation VR headset is a major purchase and there are some things you need to consider.
I got my headset right away without thinking, but in hindsight, I wish I would’ve waited.
There are some of the things I think you should consider before pulling the trigger on this purchase:
- Console - You need a PS4 console to run Playstation VR. I had the launch console when I got my PSVR, and it ran the games “okay”. If you want to run the games well, you need a PlayStation 4 Pro. The beefier hardware makes for a smoother experience. This is the best decision I made in regards to this headset.
- Motion Controllers - The PlayStation VR uses old Move controllers for their motion games. These aren’t nearly as good as the Touch controllers from Oculus or the Vive controllers, at least in my opinion. I have had a few times where the tracking wasn’t good enough for my taste, and you should know that this limitation is in place for PSVR.
- Cables - Admittedly, the PlayStation VR does have a lot of wires. I have a boatload of wires running from my console to a breakout box, which then runs to my headset across the floor. This can cause you to trip over cables if you’re not careful and is something to be aware of before you make a purchase.
The ideal PlayStation VR user is someone that already owns a PS4 console or is willing to do so. I believe that anyone can use VR, but some intense experiences are better left to those who don’t get queasy easily.
Presenting the PlayStation VR Headset
- Contains: PlayStation VR headset, Processor unit, PlayStation VR headset connection cable, HDMI cable, USB cable, Stereo headphones, AC power cord, AC adaptor, PlayStation VR Demo Disc
- Games Come First - With gamers in mind, PlayStation delivers a new world of unexpected gaming experiences through PlayStation VR
Sony’s PlayStation VR headset is the best-selling piece of VR tech as of the publication of this article. The device launched in 2016 and brings quality VR experiences to your PS4 console. The headset has been revamped since it was first launched, bringing HDR support and better sound.
The headset itself is well-designed. I love the way this thing feels on my face, and my sweaty gorilla body doesn’t ever make for foggy lenses. Weighing in at 21 ounces, the PSVR headset is balanced well on your head and can be worn for extended periods.
The headset’s main specs are as follows:
- Weight of 21 ounces
- 1080p RGB display (960 x 1080 per eye)
- 90-120 Hz refresh rate
- 9 built-in LEDs for positional tracking
The PlayStation VR is sold in multiple bundles. The headset is sold alone, or you can buy combos that have Move controllers, cameras and games included.
If you don’t already have a Move controller set from your PS3, one of the latter bundles is the best choice for you.
- Doesn’t require a gaming PC to run
- Hundreds of great games available
- Excellent 3D sound supported
- Move controller tracking isn’t the best
- Older models don’t have HDR passthrough
- Graphics aren’t as good as on a $2,000 PC
Features and Benefits
The PlayStation VR has some compelling features that make it a great headset. These key features can be broken down as follows:
Graphics
The PlayStation VR’s graphics are nice, especially in bright games. The technology shines in games like Astro Bot, which is teeming with life. The resolution is low though, which makes games look a bit blurry and there is some screen door effect present.
If you do run on the PS4 Pro, things are a bit better. The higher horsepower of the machine slightly improves the visuals in VR, and the framerate is better.
Controls
The PlayStation VR can be used with the Dualshock 4 or with Move controllers.
If I have my choice, I normally choose the Dualshock as it is more accurate for games where you’re seated.
The Move is old technology, and while it works, it’s not the best solution in VR. The tracking can be inaccurate.
It’s like having hands made of oven mitts, whereas Oculus Touch is like having gloves.
Audio
The PlayStation VR has an audio jack built into the cable harness. Here, you can use the earbuds that come with the headset, or you can choose your own. I tend to use my PlayStation Gold Wireless Headset and it sounds a lot better. If you do use a headset, you should plug it in so that there isn’t lag between the game and your ears.
Software
The PlayStation VR uses the same software as the PS4 console itself. The operating system does work well in the headset, but it doesn’t have the same oomph of the Oculus software.
The upside here is the huge library of games available for PlayStation VR. I have so many different games that I’m yet to play them all. I highly recommend you check out Beat Saber, Astro Bot Rescue Mission VR, PlayStation VR Worlds, and Pinball FX2 VR.
The Overall Experience
Tying everything together, the PlayStation VR is an excellent VR headset. I have some gripes with the controls and the screen door effect, but that’s about it. I think the PSVR compares well to its competition. When you’re playing games in VR and the experience is good, you’ll hardly notice these faults.
Over the past several years, I’ve put in a lot of time with the PlayStation VR. I think it has the ability to change how VR evolves. Needless to say, I’m a big fan.
What Others Are Saying About PlayStation VR
There are millions of people that have purchased PlayStation VR headsets. As a VR nut myself, I sometimes have to check to make sure that my opinions aren’t crazy.
To ensure that I’m not insane, I went on YouTube and scoured for what others have to say about PlayStation VR. Here are some of the reviews I found that I think make interesting points.
Alternatives to the PlayStation VR Headset
As much as I love the PlayStation VR, I’ll be the first to admit that it’s not for everyone.
If you don’t have a PS4, or want something without wires, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
I’ve compiled a list of alternative VR headsets if you don’t think the PSVR is for you.
Oculus Quest
- All-in-one VR: No PC. No wires. No limits. Oculus quest is an all-in-one gaming system built for virtual reality. Now you can play almost anywhere with just a VR headset and controllers.
- Oculus touch controllers: arm yourself with the award-winning Oculus touch controllers. Your slashes, throws and grab appear in VR with intuitive, realistic Precision, transporting your hands and gestures right into the game
The Oculus Quest brings a full VR experience to players without any wires.
Even better, the Quest doesn’t need a gaming PC to power it. You simply download games and play.
This is a great piece of tech, and perhaps the only downside is that it doesn’t get PlayStation exclusive software.
- Great build quality
- Lots of great games
- Focused on gaming
- Can’t play PlayStation exclusive software
- Has different controller type
- Uses a battery, so time to play is limited
HTC Vive
- FLEXIBLE PLAY AREA - Use VIVE seated, standing or in a space up to 11'5" x 11'5". SteamVR Tracking provides the most ideal experience possible, so play the way that works for you.
- FULLY IMMERSIVE - Realistic movement and actions from precise, 360-degree controller and headset tracking with realistic graphics, directional audio and HD haptic feedback in the virtual world
If you have a gaming PC, the HTC Vive is as good a headset as they come.
I have logged a lot of time in this headset and can say it has a higher resolution than the PSVR and better tracking.
The Vive uses the Steam VR library to load games and feels a lot like the PlayStation Store.
If you’re looking to get heavy into VR and have a heavy duty rig, the Vive is a great choice.
To find out more about this headset, please read our HTC Vive headset review.
- Has hundreds of games
- Needs wires to connect to PC
- Needs base stations set up to track movement
- Requires a gaming PC to run
- Controllers are more accurate
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
The Oculus Go isn’t a heavy-duty headset, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t great. I love the wireless experience, and the Go is great for media consumption. You can play games on the Go, but there are only three degrees of freedom versus the PSVR’s six degrees. This means that you can spin, but you can’t get up and walk around in VR.
If you think that watching movies or TV in VR are going to be your main focus, then I’d recommend the Go to you. To find out more about this headset, please read our Oculus Go headset review.
- Feels great on your head
- Can play games and media
- Completely wireless
- Three degrees of freedom
- Uses Oculus interface
Conclusion
The PlayStation VR is special.
I have spent hundreds of hours in this thing, flying jets, being a robot, and shooting bad guys.
It is amazing and has changed how I look at VR technology. If you have a PS4, this is a must-buy and I recommend you to check it out.