Virtual reality technology may not have been the instantly world-changing, paradigm-shifting technology that many predicted it would be, but that doesn't mean that it doesn't have huge potential to offer businesses.
Whether it's architectural models, 360-degree video content or promotional experiences, VR technology can add value to a wide range of companies. However, if you're going to extract that value, then you need to ensure that you're using the very best technology available. There's a wealth of VR headsets on the market, covering both lightweight mobile devices and high-end PC-driven powerhouses - and these are the best of the best.
Samsung Gear VR
Samsung managed to largely corner the mobile VR market by offering a polished, premium experience at an attractively low price point. The Gear VR does admittedly require a Samsung device to function, but it provides one of the best mobile VR experiences around.
Google Daydream View
After finding success with the Cardboard viewer, Google last year decided to step up its VR offering, releasing a proper premium headset, complete with an attractive, comfortable design and even a bundled remote. While there's still not many devices that support it, Google Daydream is an excellent headset.
Google Cardboard
The original and still one of the best, Google's Cardboard viewer is brilliant in its simplicity. Although it's little more than a slot for your phone and some rudimentary lenses, Cardboard is still the easiest way to experience mobile VR. It's also incredibly low-cost, making it an excellent choice for proof-of-concept demonstrations.
HTC Vive
It may be more than two years old at this stage, but the venerable HTC Vive has retained its status as one of the most technically capable headsets on the market. HTC also released the Deluxe Audio Strap last year, which adds integrated headphones and improved weight distribution and ergonomics. Combined with a healthy price-cut, this arguably makes the original Vive a better-value option than the newer Vive Pro.
HTC Vive Pro
While we don't quite think that the HTC Vive Pro is worth the extortionate 800 ticket price when compared to the original, the fact remains that it is the most technically capable and well-built VR headset currently on the market. If you need the best of the best - and you've got deep pockets - then the Vive Pro is for you.
Oculus Rift
The surge of interest in VR was kickstarted five years ago by Oculus and although it hit some stumbling blocks along the way, the Oculus Rift is still one of the most sophisticated and powerful virtual reality devices. If you've got the money and a PC powerful enough to run it, you're unlikely to be disappointed.
PlayStation VR
Sony is currently the only console manufacturer to offer its own virtual reality headset and it's proved a huge success straight out of the gate. Not only is it an excellent-quality headset, it also supports a wide range of games, indicating that third-party support won't just be a flash-in-the-pan.
