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Here are the Best MR (Mixed Reality) Headsets for People With Glasses

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Mixed reality is the next evolution in the computer, human, and environment interaction, unlocking possibilities that were previously limited to our imaginations. MR is the result of blending the digital world with the physical world. It offers an immersive experience that everyone should enjoy – including those who wear specs! However, wearing a mixed reality headset over glasses can be complicated at times. Below, we have broken down which models are most attuned in every category of mixed reality headset for people with glasses.

#1 Dell Visor

Dell Visor is an offering to the stable Windows mixed reality headsets also keeping in mind the users with glasses. The first thing that comes to mind after using Visor is its weightless comfort. Most of the mixed reality experiences end up with dizziness due to prolonged usage. However, Visor doesn’t let you feel ill effects due to its ergonomic design. The convenient flip-up display allows the users to pause and take some time to rejuvenate like sipping a slurp of tea or a quick bite without actually removing the headset.

Specifications:

  • Contains a set of magnetometer, accelerometer, and gyroscopic sensors that will help users to monitor their position relating to their surrounding environment
  • Dual 1440×1440 pixel screens with 706 PPI

Click here for the best Dell Visor prices

#2 HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset

HP’s mixed reality headset boasts a generic design, but not in a bad way. It is matte-black, sleek and looks kind of MR headset you had seen in the science-fiction movies. However, beneath this design lies an ergonomic beast. HP’s mixed reality glasses are a blend of some of the best elements of mixed reality headsets of other brands. For example, the influence and echoes of Oculus Rift, the display of Vive, and others can be seen and felt. However, the only factor that drags this headset despite all these functionalities is that it uses LCD display rather than OLED display.

Specifications:

  • ‘home’ interface gives the feel of a science-fiction movie
  • Rubberized padding on both back and front makes it easier for users even with the glasses
  • Setup is easy and straightforward
  • 2280×1440 resolution with a refresh rate of 90Hz and FOV of 95°

Click here for the best HP MR headset prices

#3 Lenovo Explorer

The Lenovo Explorer is a great example of the potential of mixed reality platform. It is compatible with a wide range of glasses sizes and designs, both in terms of built quality and performance. Its key differentiator is its design, which is stunning. It is a good-looking headset, light enough to wear for a decent amount of time. Hardware-wise, the headset uses two inside-out motion-tracking cameras, an accelerometer, and a gyroscope for tracking movement. The two 2.89-inch lenses offer a FOV of 110° along with a refresh rate of 90Hz.

Specifications:

  • 2880×1440 LCD display
  • Decent build quality
  • Easy to install and use
  • Perfect hinge movement

Click here for the best Lenovo Explorer prices

#4 Acer Windows Mixed Reality Headset

Similar to the Lenovo Explorer and Dell Visor, Acer’s Windows mixed reality headset offers seamless features and options when it comes to experiencing enhanced levels of mixed reality. It is Acer’s first tethered MR headset that has its notable pros and cons. Setting up the device is truly a breeze with native support under Windows 10 and it doesn’t require any external sensors for movement tracking. However, its clunky ergonomic design is notwithstanding, hence, they are not meant for hardcore gamers, but they can be comfortably used by the users with glasses as it provides great comfort.

Specifications:

  • Dual 1440×1440 LCD display with 706 PPI
  • Proximity sensors, magnetometer, gyro sensor, and accelerometer
  • Stereo tracking cameras

Click here for the best Acer MR headset prices

The Best Cheap VR Headsets for Android

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“Well, I am curiously willing to buy a VR headset for Android but the problem is that I do not have enough money to buy a high-end VR headset. And I don’t think that the cheaper VR headsets would provide me with a better experience like the expensive ones.”

If that sounds like you, you need to read this article. We believe that the cheaper VR headsets can also provide you with a better experience. The only thing that consumers need to be worried about is to purchase a headset that will help them make the most out of their investment.

We know that there is a wide range of cheaper headsets available in the stores. And it can put you into a lot of trouble when you are trying to choose a cheaper but high-quality VR headset. So, we have conducted in-depth research and after trying multiple VR headsets, we have prepared a list of cheaper but high-quality VR headsets for you.

Currently, we will just share some information about the cheaper VR headsets that Android users can use. And the iPhone users should stay calm because we have prepared a list for them as well. So, without wasting your precious time let’s take a look at the best cheaper VR headsets for Android.

Samsung Gear VR (2015)

Well, Samsung is a well-known brand and it is known for producing the most reliable tech gadgets. This VR headset is the perfect shot for the brand conscious people that are afraid of buying cheaper products. It is an older version of the Samsung VR headset. So, we had some doubts that it won’t fit in the current scenario.

But after using this VR headset, we realized that it is still a better option as compared to the other VR headsets. The design of this headset didn’t inspire me at all. However, the weight of this headset is really impressive.

The touchpad of this headset is really comfortable and the newbies won’t face any problem while operating the touchpad. We played several games and videos to test the quality of the headset and the image quality was almost satisfactory.

I believe it is a cheap yet reliable option for the customers that are going to buy a VR headset for the first time.

Get Samsung Gear VR via Amazon

Canbor VR Headsets

The Canbor is also a well-known brand among the tech gadgets manufacturers. The reason why I have chosen this line of cheap VR headsets for my list is that it can easily accommodate the Android phones ranging from 4.7 inches to 6.2 inches. So, it can be an ideal option for the customers that are purchasing this VR headset for multiple purposes.

I watched multiple videos on this headset and played several games as well. And I didn’t feel irritated at any point. In fact, it’s Ergonomic T-Sharp style made me feel extremely comfortable. I would recommend this headset if you are willing to buy a VR headset that can provide you with extreme comfort for longer use.

In fact, it is an ideal option if you are willing to buy a gift for a friend or family member.

Get the best Canbor VR headset deals on Amazon

DESTEK V4 VR Headset

The shape and design of this VR headset are extremely amazing. My experience says that it is one of the most stylish VR headsets. And the best part is that an average schoolboy can easily afford this headset. The DESTEK V4 VR headset is compatible with all the latest Android phones. The 103-degree field of view provides you with an outstanding experience. And it carefully balances the immersion while you are watching 360-degree videos.

The face padding of this VR headset is made of soft leather material. Therefore, I felt very comfortable while I was using this headset. Another reason why I liked this headset is that it doesn’t put any kind of pressure on the head and nose and it is easily adjustable. So, my analysis says that DESTEK V4 VR headset is the best choice for gaming freaks and also for the VR enthusiasts.

Get DESTEK V4 VR headset via Amazon

Conclusion

We have chosen the most reliable and high-quality VR headsets for our list of best cheap VR headsets for Android. Regardless of your choice, I’m sure you’ll be more than satisfied with the cost-benefit ratio of either one of those listed above.

Are There Any (Free) VorpX Alternatives?

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Vorpx is a program that lets you play classic PC games in VR. While the catalogue of games available for the Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive is growing daily, many players nevertheless dream of being able to play all their favourite PC games in virtual reality. This is made possible thanks to incredible programs that are loosely known as VR 3D Drivers.

The principle of VR 3D Drivers is simple

While VR headsets such as the Oculus Rift or the HTC Vive allow you to play games specially made for virtual reality, 3D Drivers can allow you to play all your favourite traditional 3D games in stereoscopic 3D using a VR headset. In other words, they offer a dedicated gamer the opportunity to ‘port’ a favourite game to virtual reality.

Initially, there were three reliable and functional VR 3D Drivers

They were Vireo Perception, TriDef and Vorpx. However, TriDef have abandoned their efforts to bring traditional games to VR, which leaves us with the two remaining alternatives.

While Vorpx is one of these, it’s paid software, and there are quite a few people who’d like to see a free alternative.

Vireo Perception

Vireio Perception is the most viable free alternative to Vorpx as of the moment. Vireo Perception was, in fact, the first VR Driver developed and has been available since January of 2013. Initially, it had been created by a single developer, Andres Hernandez. Hernandez is also known as ‘Cybereality .MTBS3D’.

Vireo Perception is an open source project that is available for free

Initially, about twenty games were compatible with Vireo Perception, including Skyrim and Half Life. It goes without saying that that number has increased massively over the years. Denis Reischl and Joshua Brown were added to the Cybereality team and have brought new capabilities to the system.

The latest version of Vireo Perception is 4.0

4.0 is the ultimate version of Vireo Perception. It brings a concept called Vireo Cinema to gamers. You sit in a gaming room in virtual reality and can play games either in flat screen or in stereoscopic 3D. In stereoscopic mode, your mouse in the game becomes a laser pointer that works on the virtual screen. While this virtual gaming room is an option, it goes without saying that you can switch to an immersive mode that lets you truly experience the game in virtual reality.

Vireo Perception now completely supports Vive controllers, actually allowing them to be emulated by a combination of the keyboard and mouse. The developers plan to support the Oculus touch controllers next. With new features being added regularly, it’s a great way to experience older, non-VR games in virtual reality.

Vorpx

While Vorpx is paid software, it does remain an exceptional system for bringing classic games to VR, is very cheap, and should therefore be considered. Don’t reject Vorpx just because you have to pay a small fee of thirty euros to use it – the program is good.

Vorpx was also launched way back in 2013, but was released in September of that year. It also allows you to play traditional games in stereoscopic 3D and incorporates head tracking. It also supports both the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift.

A wide range of titles

The range of titles offered by Vorpx is greater than Vireo at the moment, as over 150 games can be played in VR using the application. There are a great many titles in addition to those, that can be played with a VR headset, but in mono and with head tracking. That’s a vast arena of games. Vorpx is a much more user-friendly program than Vireo, and will suit the less technically minded much better.

Vorpx – Features

When you play a game in stereoscopic 3D in Vorpx, you can choose between a very fast Depth Buffer system, which gives you a refresh rate of about 60 frames per second, or you can go in for the usual split image 3D.

The variation offers new possibilities for more resource intensive games. Thanks to its multi-threaded architecture, latency in Vorpx is reduced to a minimum. This advantage allows for superior immersion, and for a fairly good experience in any supported game in virtual reality.

The EdgePeak and ImageZoom features help to correct any imaging issues

The second is particularly useful, as it allows you to zoom in or out on the screen. You can also force a widening of the field of vision. Vorpx also offers you the option of a virtual keyboard, consisting of 16 keys that can be pressed at a glance. The shortcuts of the virtual keyboard are completely configurable.

The latest version of Vorpx to be released is 18.2.0

A considerable number of interesting titles have been added to the system with this version. You can play The Hunter: Call of the Wild, Conan Exiles, Unreal Tournament 3, Farming Simulator 2017, Final Fantasy XV and much more. It’s the number of titles supported by Vorpx that really gives it the edge, and whether you’re playing Assassin’s Creed III or Jade Empire Special Edition, the immersive modes and stunning visuals will leave you spellbound.

So which do you choose, Vorpx or Vireo?

Vireo Perception is free and is certainly a powerful and functional 3D Driver. Vireo keeps expanding its pool of games, and they might soon be on par with those offered by Vorpx. The best thing to do is to try out both the programs and see which one suits you best.

Whether you opt for Vireo or Vorpx, these programs offer a splendid chance to breathe new life into old and much-loved game titles.

The Best, Must Have Accessories for Windows Mixed Reality Headsets in 2018

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There are plenty of great mixed reality accessories, ranging from motion controllers and headphones to chargers and memory cards. What accessories you can use with a particular headset depends upon compatibility, of course, but here are some accessories that go well with just about any mixed reality headset on the market today.

Adding accessories to your Mixed Reality experience using Bluetooth

Bluetooth accessories are just about the most convenient in mixed reality, for obvious reasons – there aren’t any wires to break into the immersiveness of your experience – or to trip over while playing a game.

Adding in Bluetooth accessories is very intuitive in Windows 10. You can also do it on a mobile that is using the same operating system. Simply access ‘Settings’ through the Start Menu, and then click on ‘Devices’. You’ll find a slider over there that allows you to switch Bluetooth on or off. Make sure that the setting is ‘on’. Now, you need to pair your Bluetooth device.

Most such devices will have a button that you need to press to set up the pairing. Once that is done, your Bluetooth device or devices should come up in a list in the devices section on your PC. When you see the device you want to use in the list, all you need to do is select it, and then press ‘pair’. If you have more than one device, make sure that you pair the right one.


Motion Controllers

If you’ve used VR controllers before with the Rift or the Vive and would like to do so in Mixed Reality, the Windows Mixed Reality controllers are certainly satisfactory.

These Motion controllers are a great accessory in MR because they provide an extreme level of precision, and that’s the reason many gamers and enthusiasts prefer them, whether they’re playing a virtual game or using a mixed reality app. Best of all, compatibility with these controllers is assured with most dedicated MR headsets on the market today, and the link-up is virtually plug-and-play.

The controllers themselves are really rather well designed

Of course, Microsoft has been able to build upon the initial offerings of other companies, but the truth must come out. Windows Mixed Reality controllers merge the finest features of Rift or Vive motion controllers seamlessly, and offer maximum gaming compatibility as well, as they incorporate not only an analog stick, but a trackpad and traditional triggers as well.

The chassis is slim and ergonomic, and all the controls can be accessed pretty intuitively. Sure, some people prefer the Oculus Touch, but it’s a matter of opinion which is better, while there’s little doubt that Windows Mixed Reality controllers outclass Vive controllers.

Get the best Motion Controllers deals here


Gamepads

While the Windows Mixed Reality controllers are really rather optimal where more active games are concerned, many dedicated gamers prefer to fall back on an old standard, the Xbox One controller. There are very good reasons for this. One is, of course, that the Xbox One controller can easily be made compatible with most Mixed Reality headsets.

But more than that, the mixed reality tracking system is based on two forward facing cameras based in the headset, and those cameras can lose track of the motion controllers in your hands in certain games. For games like those, the Xbox One controller allows for precision and perfect responses.

Best of all, the later generations of Xbox One controllers incorporated Bluetooth, which allows for virtually both ease-of-use and compatibility – just look at the ‘Bluetooth accessories’ section at the beginning of this article to know how to get your PC to recognize your Xbox One controller. Xbox controllers also offer massive compatibility with Mixed Reality games titles because you can also use a direct cable connection to link them to your PC. Windows recognizes them as part of its plug-and-play system, and you’re good to go.

Get the best Xbox One prices here

Wireless keyboards

Can you really use a physical keyboard in Mixed Reality? Interestingly enough, you can, and there’s a wide range of wireless keyboards available. A company called Keybodo has made keyboards easier to use in Mixed Reality by designing special elevated stickers so that you can feel the position and recognize individual keys with your fingers, even if you can’t actually see the keyboard.

It goes without saying that you should be a good typist to use a keyboard in this way, and also that you should only use a keyboard in Mixed Reality that you’ve used in the real world for a while.

Click here for the best foldable keyboard prices


Logitech G933 Artemis Spectrum Gaming Headset

This headset is really a must have with windows Mixed Reality, because it creates such an exquisitely clear soundscape, and so massively adds to the immersion. You’ll hear crystal clear high notes and rumbling basses. Not only will your Mixed Reality experience be enhanced, but it goes without saying that your games will have a whole new dimension added to them.

This headset, of course, incorporates a 7.1 surround sound system that will bring your virtual universe to acoustic life. These headphones have all the frills, including programmable keys and RGB lighting. They are also excellent for cancelling out outside noises, which makes them a big asset to immersion in Mixed Reality. The headset can be used either wired or wireless.

Click here for the best Logitech G933 prices


Unpairing a peripheral from Windows Mixed Reality

Once again, in Windows 10, go to the Start Menu and select ‘Settings’. Once you select ‘Settings’, bring up the devices list. Simply scroll down the list until you find the device that you want to unpair from your system and click on ‘remove’.

Feel free to experiment with other devices and accessories in Mixed Reality from the ones I’ve mentioned here, but do ensure that they’re compatible with the Mixed Reality headset that you’re using.

How to Use Xbox One Controller in SteamVR Dashboard?

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To use an Xbox One controller in SteamVR Dashboard, you need to first ensure in advance that your Xbox One Controller is working smoothly in Windows Mixed Reality. While most people opt for motion controllers when they’re in Windows Mixed Reality, there are still certain apps and especially games where the Xbox One controller really works best. So here’s how you get the Xbox One controller to work smoothly in Mixed Reality.


Setting up a wireless adapter

The first generation of Xbox One controllers did not have compatibility with Bluetooth. You’ll find the same problem with Elite Xbox One pads. If you have this problem, you’re obviously going to need a wireless adapter. This is relatively cheap and will slot into a USB port on your PC. Most of the later generation of Xbox One controllers came with such adapters, but if the one that you own didn’t, you will have to purchase one.

Getting Windows mixed reality to detect the adapter

The first step to using an Xbox adapter with SteamVR is getting WMR to detect it. Now here’s a step by step approach to ensuring that your Xbox One controller is detected in Windows Mixed Reality.

You start by inserting the wireless adapter into a USB port on the computer

Only then must you put the batteries into the controller. Don’t interchange those two steps. First, plug in the adapter, and only then put the batteries into the controller.

Now, keep the controller’s Xbox control pressed down. It will light up. Once that is done, you need to activate the synchronization control on your Bluetooth adapter. This is usually done by holding down the said button for about four seconds or so. When you do this, you should see the controller’s Xbox button flash a bit, after which it will glow steadily to show that it has linked up successfully with the adapter.


Integrating an Xbox controller with Bluetooth

If you have a controller and a laptop or a PC that has integrated Bluetooth, then setting up the connection is even easier. Do note that only later versions of the Xbox One controller will have Bluetooth. To link the controller with an integrated Bluetooth system, simply keep the Xbox button pressed down. It will light up.

Now, hold down the controller’s synchronization control for a few seconds. From your PC’s Start Menu, select ‘Settings’, and then select ‘Devices’.

Xbox controller with Bluetooth

You’ll find an option there for Bluetooth devices, which you need to select

A list of the devices within range of your PC will come up, and the Xbox controller will be there. Simply select the ‘pair’ option to pair the controller with your PC.

Don’t have the Bluetooth compatible Xbox One controller? Get it today!


The most reliable connection to ensure your controller is detected in SteamVR

Remember that the PC can be connected to your Xbox controller via a micro USB cord. Not only is this good for those with neither a wireless adapter nor Bluetooth, but it is actually the most reliable way to connect the controller with the PC, as it activates the PC’s plug-and-play system automatically, and this integrates flawlessly with Windows Mixed Reality.

To use your Xbox One controller in SteamVR, you will, of course, have to have a Steam account, and will have to install SteamVR. After this, you will have to set up the special Windows Mixed Reality system, designed to let it work with SteamVR.

That’s all that it should take to let you use your Xbox One controller effortlessly in SteamVR. The Xbox One controller is detected by Windows Mixed Reality, and Windows Mixed Reality will handle its integration with SteamVR.


Steam Dashboard

You can bring up the Dashboard by pressing on the Xbox button. You can then use the direction buttons or the left-hand stick to navigate. Use the Start button on the controller to move between the upper section in the window and the lower one.


Troubleshooting

Many people have problems with the controller not being detected in Windows Mixed Reality, as well as in SteamVR. One of the simplest reasons why a controller doesn’t seem to work sometimes in Windows Mixed Reality is that the input device is still focused on your desktop.

Simply press the Windows key and the Y key at the same time and input will automatically switch over into Windows Mixed Reality, and your controller will be working.

If you still have issues with using the Xbox One controller, remember that the controller must be active and set up, as well as recognized by Windows Mixed Reality before you launch SteamVR.

You’ll find that Vive’s games are especially compatible with the Xbox One controller, and you can play lots of games such as Skeet, Endless Night and The Solus Project. In the rare case you still have issues, disabling SteamVR home, or opting out of SteamVR beta tends to make sure your controllers work flawlessly in SteamVR.