One of the newest trends to come to tech is the metaverse. Metaverses are simulated digital environments used in tandem with augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and blockchain. These digital spaces are created to build interactive user experiences that mimic reality.
The world of metaverse gambling is growing steadily, with the market predicted to reach the $800 billion mark by 2024.
One of the more prominent uses for this technology is metaverse casinos, which are virtual casinos that allow players to gamble within VR or AR, typically with the use of digital assets.
Users will need a VR or AR headset to enjoy these metaverse casinos with complete immersion. This article will compare all leading brands, highlighting prices, positives and negatives, specs, and more.
The Leading VR Headsets
Samsung Gear VR
The Samsung Gear VR is an affordable headset that attaches to your phone and costs around $129.
Positives:
- Affordable price
- Includes wireless controller
- It doesn’t require a PC, just your phone
Negatives:
- Controller powered by two AAA batteries
- Large & bulky
- It is only as powerful as your phone
HTC Vive Pro 2
The HTC Vive Pro 2 provides the best display in a mainstream VR headset, which is reflected in the $1,079.00 price tag.
Positives:
- One of the best displays on the market
- Very precise tracking
- Ergonomic, comfortable design
Negatives:
- High price point
- Heats up during use
- Set up can take some time
Valve Index
The Valve Index is one of the higher-end headsets, requires a fair amount of additional gear, and is priced at around $775 with a controller.
Positives:
- One of the most expansive field of view available
- Immersive controllers that track your fingers
- 120Hz refresh rate
Negatives:
- Requires a high-end PC
- High price point
- It can be cumbersome due to wires and hookups
PlayStation VR
The PlayStation VR comes from video game giant Sony, ensuring plenty of games. The headset is priced at $429.99.
Positives:
- Affordable price
- High-quality performance
- Large game selection
Negatives:
- It doesn’t come with the required accessories
- Light seeps into the headset
- Require PS4/PS5 system to play
Oculus Quest 2
The Oculus Quest 2 comes from a long line of headsets, with this version being a significant improvement over its predecessor. The headset is priced at $399.99.
Positives
- Affordable price
- No cables required
- Optional PC tethering with an accessory cable
Negatives
- Facebook login required
- Unreliable strap
- Short battery life
The Leading AR Headsets
Hololens 2
The Hololens 2 is considered one of the best AR headsets on the market but will cost you more than the most pricey VR headsets at $3,500.00.
Positives:
- See-through holographic lenses
- Real-time eye-tracking
- It comes with high-quality carrying case
Negatives:
- Very high price point
- Limited field of view
- More of a proof-of-concept
Magic Leap
The Magic Leap is an AR headset is touted as ‘a lightweight, wearable computer to enhance productivity’ with a price point of $2,295.
Positives:
- More affordable than the competition
- It comes in two sizes
- Sleek design
Negatives:
- CPU and GPU are underpowered
- The controller tracking is average
- Low field of view
As you can see, there are numerous choices when it comes to picking a new VR or AR headset.
For VR, the Oculus Quest 2 and Samsung Gear VR are the most cost-effective, while the Valve Index and HTC Vive Pro 2 offer the greatest performance but come at a price.
For AR headsets, Hololens 2 is the clear winner, regardless of its price, due to the poor performance and launch of the Magic Leap.
