TNW’s mid-2019 guide to virtual reality hardware

Virtual reality is a booming technology.

But theres more to VR than market value and technical specifications.

There are more options than ever in 2019 when it comes to VR hardware.

You could be stuck with something thats obsolete by the time you pop fire up package.

Keep in mind this is the VR equivalent to using a $50 tablet instead of a Macbook Pro.

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First off, are you looking for a standalone experience or a more robust PC or console-enabled one?

And its really designed for business customers anyway.

Oculus Go

Credit: Oculus

Lets start with theGo.

Hands down, its the most underrated of all the headsets in my opinion.

Its easier to use than any other VR gadget, which is why I use it the most.

But, admittedly, I use it mostly for work not gaming.

My favorite thing about the Go is that its designed to get you in and out of VR immediately.

The Rift was one of the first high-end VR headsets, but the S updates its specifications.

The Rift Sruns just fine on ahigh-end gaming laptop.

Next up in PC-powered headsets well discussHTCs ViveandVive Pro.

As far as Im concerned, wireless is the only way to play.

Credit: Nicole Gray

The Wireless Adapter also works withthe Vive Pro, HTCs premium VR headset.

The Vive Pro has a different form-factor, upgraded guts and screens, cushioned headphones, and comfy straps.

In essence its the Cadillac of VR headsets with a price to match.

With the Vive Pro youre getting the VR experience that developers intended (check out our full reviewhere).

Credit: Valve

I say almost, because of theValve Index.

While its arguably the worst-named of the modern headsets, its also among the most glorious.

We havent had a chance to review the Index yet, but early previews have been positive.

Firstly, its the most comfortable headset out there.

Its also the most practical to use.

Its wired, so thats a bummer.

Currently, you could get a PSVR bundle foras little as $237.

Also, dont sleep on the fact that PSVR works with regular PlayStation games.