All Mode
A new VR headset recently hit the market that attempts to combine 3D visuals with stereoscopic sound. It’s called the OLVR and, much like the Gear VR and Google Cardboard, the device is meant to be used in tandem with your smartphone. While the headset is far from perfect, it manages to solve many traditional headset problems, without sacrificing much in the way of quality or cost.
All In One
The OLVR headset.
The main selling point of the OLVR is that it has a pair of headphones built right into the headset. The benefits of this should be immediately obvious to anyone who’s struggled with smartphone-based headsets in the past.
Convenience Is Key
Volume controls.
One of the most difficult aspects of dealing with smartphone VR has always been audio and, in particular, volume control. By adding the headphones to the device itself, OLVR not only saves its users the hassle of finding and connecting their own ear buds but most importantly, it allows volume controls to be placed along the bottom of the headset.
Large Lenses
Image credit: OLVR
The audio isn’t the only thing that the OLVR got right. Equally impressive are the large optics that sit inside the headset. The lenses are big enough to offer a full 120-degree field of view which is exceptionally wide for its price point. FOV is important because it minimizes the amount of black screen that you see in your peripheral vision while using the headset.
Just to put these numbers in perspective, the Samsung Gear VR and Google Cardboard only offer around a 90-degree field of view. Even the Oculus Rift only touts around 120 and it’s not until you get into HTC Vive territory that you find anything that’s significantly wider than what the OLVR offers.
Comfort
Adjustable ear piece.
The straps and padding on the device are good quality and almost everything on the headset is adjustable. You can alter the distance and width of the lenses as well as the length of the ear cups.
Unfortunately, the additional weight of the headphones does detract a little from the overall comfort of the headset and the ear pieces definitely get in the way if you are someone who wears glasses. Ventilation is also very limited which can be a problem if you have the tendency to sweat during extended VR porn sessions.
Additional Features
Image credit: OLVR
Beside the volume controls on the bottom of the headset is a telephone button to answer incoming calls. This obviously doesn’t add much to the VR immersion but it’s a handy feature to have nonetheless. There’s also the option to pair the headset with a Bluetooth remote for added functionality if that is a concern to you.
Conclusion
The OLVR combines quality and convenience into a single headset making it a great solution for most smartphone VR users. The built-in headphones provide a significant boost in usability, while the large lenses offer an exceptional value for their price.
amazing! wish I have one 🙁
I’m not sure I’d say amazing, but it’s a solid vr headset to go with your smartphone.
whats the cost of this one? looks good
It’s available on Amazon bro