Sony PlayStation VR Headset


playstation virtual reality headset

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When it comes to gaming, Sony is one of the market leaders. Of course, it’s an old, trustworthy, and much-acclaimed producer of both games and PSs (PlayStation consoles). However, since the development of the new era-changing VR technology, they’ve shifted their focus to this new set of tech. We introduce you to the much-awaited SPVR (Sony PlayStation VR headset). Let’s go through it to see what it has, why it is worth it, and how have users felt during & after using it.

Sony PlayStation VR Headset – Specs

Headset TypeVR headset
Lowest Price$399.99
Resolution1920×RGB×1080
Field of View100°
Sensors9 sensors – 7 front and 2 rear
ControlsPlayStation camera; a DualShock 4 controller – which comes with the PS4 – or PlayStation Move motion controllers for different titles.
PlatformPS4/ PS4 Pro
Amazon Rating4.4 stars
Our Rating4 stars

The Sony PlayStation VR headset renders a 1,920 x 1,080 OLED resolution display. This means to say that it’s quite lower than that of HTC Vive. Yet, this should not be a problem, because the difference is only a tad lower. The refresh rate is situated somewhere at 120Hz, which offers a faster refresh rate than the one of the already mentioned HTC, which is only situated at 90Hz. It has a 100° field of view, which is by 10° smaller than its competitor’s one. However, this should not be seen as a concern. The Sony PlayStation VR does its job pretty and fairly well.

The main feature is the comfortable design of the headset. It’s designed in such a manner that you won’t feel pressure on your nose, neck. Rather, its design is made to feel well balanced, so the weight is properly distributed, mostly on the head’s temple. Two of its main features are that you can either use it while sitting or while standing up. The best part is that if you already own a PS4 or PS4 Pro, then you’re almost all set. You won’t need an up-to-date computer with the components updated as well. And the gaming library is pretty well-equipped too. And there’s more on the way for the not-so-distant future.

Sony PlayStation VR – Pros & Cons

We’re not that far in the future. So, naturally, there’s no perfect VR headset yet. It’s either too pricey, or it has its weak points. The Sony PlayStation VR headset is no exception from this rule. Here they are.

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  • It’s not expensive – it is quite affordable for the time being
  • It works well – for a VR headset that’s plugs directly into the PS4 or PS4 Pro version it renders quality well. No observable lags in video rendering, no latency in regards to the refresh rate
  • Well-designed and easy to install – its sleek design makes it wearable for extended periods of time. And it is also easy to install, thanks to the user’s manual and graphic indications-book.[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]

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  • The single-camera tracking system occasionally fails to detect where you are. This may turn to be problematic when turning around. Also, as already said, it’s a little lower graphical fidelity can be noticed.
  • Accessories, although necessary, don’t come with the Sony PlayStation VR headset.
  • It doesn’t completely seal out the light – while the headset has a sort of plastic sealing that keeps out light, it has the upper side of the headset has a weak spot. This allows light to sip in.[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column][/su_row]

Sony PlayStation VR – Design & Requirements

The Sony PlayStation VR headset is not a reimagining of the VR headset. Although the producer is a wise and trustworthy name on the market, it just can’t bring us the future. Not just yet, at least. So, the VR headset is almost like every other one. Tethered. However, its sleek design makes it easy to use and to wear. It has seven front facing sensors which help the camera pick up your location. There are two additional ones on the back of the strip whenever you’re required to move around. This helps the camera track your position at all times, no matter if you turn or are seated.

It does come with a certain list of requirements: fundamental, to own a PS4 or PS4 Pro. For the time being, it’s not compatible with other types of gaming consoles or PC-platforms. Second of all, you need to have all the peripherals that are not shipped with the headset: the detection camera, and the two different controllers: the DualShock4 controller and/or the PlayStation Move motion controllers for different titles. After you make sure that you wire all components accordingly. Sony has an info page regarding that.

Sony PlayStation VR – Controls and Display

Controlling the Sony PlayStation VR headset is not that much different from playing a video game on the PS4 or PS4 Pro in normal conditions. However, you must make sure that the camera detects both the DualShock4 controller or the motion controllers. Or even the headset, for that matter. It’s not a perfect VR headset, and the fact that, as opposed to a room scale detection device, it’s only limited to a number of feet within the play area can lead to these kinds of situations.

It has multiple types of display: 2D, 3D, cinematic display etc. Either DVD, Blu-ray, or streaming quality, it supports a wide array of video formats. However, we recommend reading the information regarding video formats. Especially for those who are not quite familiar with the whole labyrinth of video terminology.

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Sony PlayStation VR – Setup

You first need to make sure that you’ve properly connected the cables to our PlayStation VR headset. To make sure that you got it right, check to see that the system screen appears on both your TV and VR headset.

You must make sure that you use the Sony PlayStation VR headset within the Play Area. Because the headset facing camera captures your every move, make sure that you play directly in front of the camera. That the camera is placed in a vibration-free location. Make sure that the wireless controller is fully charged before use. After you complete the setting up of the Sony PlayStation VR headset, immerse yourself into the wowing world of virtual reality.

Sony PlayStation VR – User Experience

User’s reviews are mixed. Some praise the Sony PlayStation VR headset, some say it is not worth the price nor the time. Some praise the way in which Sony designed the headset, the realness of it and the way in which games were designed. The others simply despise the device, stating that it is a waste of time and money. What seemed promising was, for them, a disappointment. However, if we were to indicate a middle path, we would say that you must take this VR, as well as other VR, with a grain of salt. Most of those who gave negative reviews state that they felt motion sick.

But, of course, that is what any VR would induce, especially since the body is not prepared to receive a lot of virtually “real” stimuli. While not the best, it is still accessible for those who already own a PS station. If you’ve experienced the feel of it, or have questions, leave us a comment. We’ll surely reply!

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