List of AR/VR displays and headsets

The quality of immersion in virtual reality (VR) is largely defined by the display device. A regular monitor can simulate a virtual environment, but the experience remains non-immersive. Mobile phones, when paired with simple headsets like Google Cardboard or VR Box, can offer a semi-immersive experience, since they use motion sensors to adjust orientation and viewing angles.

For a fully immersive VR experience, advanced head-mounted displays (HMDs) are required. These devices integrate sensors, cameras, controllers, and sometimes even their own computing hardware to deliver seamless interaction and presence.

Semi-immersive VR devices

• Google Cardboard & VR Box: Affordable solutions that use smartphones as displays.
• Provide basic stereoscopic viewing by splitting the screen.
• Rely on elastic bands or handheld mounting, which is ergonomically limiting.
• Some devices support Bluetooth controllers for added interactivity.
• Pros: Cheap and accessible.
• Cons: Limited interaction and comfort; not truly immersive.

Fully immersive VR devices

VR headsets deliver immersive experiences with features:

• High-resolution displays with refresh rates up to 120 Hz for realistic visuals.
• Sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetometer, proximity sensors) for precise movement tracking.
• Positional audio and stereo speakers for 3D sound.
• Camera-based and guardian systems for safe movement in physical space.
• Some devices require powerful external computers with high-end GPUs, while others (like Oculus Quest 3) can run independently.
• Pros: Comfortable, accurate, and deeply immersive.
• Cons: Expensive and, in some cases, limited by wired connections.

Comparison of VR headsets

The future of VR displays

While low-cost options like Google Cardboard remain entry points for casual users, the industry is moving toward standalone wireless headsets. High-end devices continue to push boundaries with ultra-high-resolution displays and advanced tracking, but they demand investment in both hardware and computing power.

Ultimately, the choice of VR display device depends on the balance between budget, mobility, and desired immersion level.

Source

• Siddiqui, M. S., Syed, T. A., Nadeem, A., Nawaz, W., & Alkhodre, A. (2022). Virtual tourism and digital heritage: an analysis of VR/AR technologies and applications. International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications, 13(7).