The Samsung Gear VR has emerged as the most popular VR headset on the market and makes virtual reality more accessible for the masses. If you already have a Samsung phone then the Gear VR is often the obvious choice for you for VR headsets.
The Gear VR requires a compatible Samsung phone to work but while this might limit the use to Samsung customers, it’s a great alternative to other less portable PC options.
The Gear VR experience is powered by Oculus so there’s a commitment to delivering quality virtual reality.
Development History
There have been three notable versions of the Gear VR so far. The original was sized just right for the Samsung S6 phone and later models have added more functionality while accommodating for the larger screen size of the Samsung S7.
The Gear VR’s signature touch pad works well in conjunction with the responsive head tracking. A back button gives you more control over the navigation.
The newest version features a slick grey color and a controller that helps navigate menus and works with a small collection of VR games and applications. It was also designed to accommodate the S8. This being said, you’ll find that the biggest difference in the virtual experience really comes from the new controller and not what you get out of the updated Samsung S8 phone.
Occasional software updates over the past few months have greatly improved screen resolution and clarity incrementally. They’ve done a solid job keeping up with some PC VR platforms and in some ways surpassed them.
You’ll also find some new options on the updated headset that improves upon their existing system. More details are below.
Positive Points
If you have a Samsung phone then this is a quick and easy way to dive head first into VR. The Gear VR has a sturdy construction with a conveniently placed touch pad, focus and back button. The newest version in grey also features a handy volume control and home button right on the headset.
The Gear VR has always been comfortable with foam interior padding and durable head straps. The view area is also large enough to accommodate most sets of glasses as well. If you have vision issues, the design of the Gear VR should allow you enjoy VR just fine.
The Field of Vision (FOV) is pretty impressive with the Samsung Gear. Samsung also boasts an impressively high resolution compared to other headsets on the market.
Negative Points
The Gear VR does a superb job demonstrating what you can do in VR at this stage in the game. If you’re looking for a more premium experience that makes use of things like room-scale VR (think VIVE), you’ll be disappointed. The new Gear VR controller gives you the chance to navigate Samsung and Oculus menu screens with ease and control videos but there are limited VR games or other applications that make great use of this updated functionality.
Since you need to use your phone, prepare for it to really heat up after continued use. You probably won’t burn a flaming hole through your face but it is notable. We can’t wait for further updates.
If you don’t already have a Samsung phone or plan to get one this would be a crazy option. If portability is important to you and you don’t have an S6, S7 or S8 then you should take a closer look at the Google Daydream.
Check out a fun and informative review of the newest Samsung Gear VR headset from FalseDogs:
Conclusion
The Samsung Gear VR is the ideal “middle of the road” VR headset. The Gear VR is especially good for existing Samsung customers and will take a fair amount of punishment.
In our opinion, the Gear VR gives you the best field of view and overall virtual experience for the cost.