You can find various flagship VR headsets on the market. However, it can be a tedious task to select the right one based on the numerous features.
This is why in today’s post, we’ll compare Samsung Gear VR with Zeiss VR One to determine which headset is suitable for you. Moreover, we’ll also answer some FAQs.
Before we get started, let’s check some key differences between the two.
Features
Compatible
Remote Control
FD/OD
Head Strap
Easy to Clean
Samsung Geat VR
With Android devices
Enabled
Adjustable
Oval shaped
No
Zeiss VR One
With Android and iOS devices
Not enabled
Limited adjustment
Circular
Yes
Samsung Gear VR Review - Durable and Lightweight
Samsung’s Gear VR is the flagship headset for its smartphones. It was developed with the help of Oculus technology to provide a highly immersive experience.
You can use any Samsung smartphone released after the S6 series. Other than that, it is also compatible with most Android devices on the market.
We must also mention that Samsung Gear VR comes with an adjustable head strap. It is made from velcro for comfort.
Features of Samsung Gear VR
- Highly durable
- Easy to wear
- Adjustable focal distance
- No blue light effects
- Remote control enabled
- Scratchless lens
- Washable head strap
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Oculus OS
- Motion detection
- Not compatible with iOS devices
Benefits of Samsung Gear VR
When it comes to VR headsets, almost every single headset has identical features. However, this isn’t the case with Samsung Gear VR.
Samsung has used various new hardware elements to make the VR experience more enjoyable. This includes the lightweight build and highly durable exterior shell.
Can I adjust the focal distance of the Samsung Gear VR?
One main advantage Samsung Gear VR has over other VR headsets is the distance adjustment. This helps you get the optimal picture quality.
You can change the object distance (OD) and the focal distance (FD) as well. This enables you to use multiple smartphones conveniently.
How do I change the object distance?
We must also mention that Samsung Gear VR features a combination of two side plates. You can adjust the plates to find the right angle for the display.
Moreover, these plates are lined with soft foam. This keeps your phone stable and safe from any scratches even while you are moving.
What are the available colors available for Samsung Gear VR?
Our team also found that Samsung Gear VR is available in two colors. It has a matte finish and is developed to be scratchless.
You can carry it around in your backpack without any worries. Furthermore, it also comes with a protective bag for safety.
Factors to Consider Before You Buy Samsung Gear VR
Now, let’s check out some essential aspects of the Samsung Gear VR that you need to keep in mind. Here they are.
Hardware
The first thing you need to keep in mind is the overall build of the Samsung Gear VR. After multiple tests, we found that the external shell is made from highly durable plastics.
The exterior is designed to adapt to your head movements for a smooth VR experience. Moreover, we noticed that the internal components are fixed in place.
What other hardware components does it have?
Besides that, it has retractable trays on both sides. You can also open the headset from the front to clean it easily.
We must also mention that the Samsung Gear VR also has two glass lenses. These lenses can be removed by simply opening the headset from the back.
Compatibility
The next factor you need to keep in mind is compatibility. While the Samsung Gear VR is compatible with pretty much every Android device, it is not compatible with iOS devices.
You can use any Android device released after the Samsung S6 series. The list also includes phones with a screen size of 5-inch or bigger.
Why isn’t it compatible with iOS devices?
The main reason why the Samsung Gear VR isn’t compatible is due to its flagship status. Samsung released this specifically for Samsung Android phones and other devices.
While it is possible to use an iOS device, you won’t get the same display output. In some cases, the display might even be distorted.
Utility
Lastly, you need to be aware of the utility this headset provides. Besides the VR aspect, you can use the Samsung Gear VR with some other phone apps as well.
You can use almost every single Oculus app. This includes games and other forms of entertainment.
What other apps can I use with it?
We must also mention that you can use the in-house VR app from Samsung as well. It features a variety of tours around the world.
You can simply log in with your Samsung account and choose a place to visit. The app features highly immersive visuals and audio effects.
What Do the Customers Think?
After our thorough examination, we decided to check some online reviews. Here’s what we found.
Many customers praised the headset for its high-quality display and immersive visuals. They stated that there was no stutter or signs of screen tear.
Some users also stated that it was quite easy to clean the headset. They mentioned how easy it was to open the headset and put it back together.
Some users also praised the compatibility aspect of the headset. They stated it was quite easy to use multiple Android phones with this headset.
Best Durable and Lightweight VR Headset
The Samsung Gear VR is a durable and lightweight VR headset. This is because it has a lightweight exterior shell with a strong head strap. You can wear this headset for extended periods without any fatigue.
Zeiss VR One Review - Compatible and Easy to Use
There is no doubt that VR headsets tend to be bulky. This brings a lot of difficulty in the operating aspect at the user’s end.
Zeiss VR One, on the other hand, is specifically designed for convenient use. It features a compact design with ergonomic aspects.
Which devices are compatible with Zeiss VR One?
We must also mention that the Zeiss VR One is a universal VR headset. You can use it with any smartphone with Android or iOS.
Features of Zeiss VR One
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Rigid head strap
- Scratchless body
- High-quality lenses
- Easy to wear
- Adjustable head strap
- Convenient to clean
- Removable lenses
- Comfortable cushion padding
- Limited app support
Benefits of Zeiss VR One
When it comes to VR headsets, Zeiss VR One is quite unique in its functionality. While most headsets are bulky, Zeiss VR One is sleek.
We noticed that the interior and exterior shells don’t have any extra components in them. It only includes space for your phone.
Can I use Zeiss VR One for gaming?
We must also mention that Zeiss VR One is equipped with flagship Zeiss lenses. In combination, they provide a highly immersive display output.
Moreover, you don’t experience any blue light effects. This enables you to use this headset without any strain on your eyes.
How can I clean the Zeiss VR One headset?
You can easily clean the entire headset by taking it apart. It is locked with the help of small hinges that can be easily opened.
The headset itself is made out of four components. You can separate the tray, lenses, cushions, and head strap.
Factors to Consider Before You Buy Zeiss VR One
Let’s check out some factors you need to keep in mind before purchasing Zeiss VR One.
Hardware
Besides the aforementioned Zeiss lenses, we noticed that Zeiss uses an in-house material for its exterior shell.
It is lightweight and scratchless. You can easily wear it for extended periods without any strain on your forehead and neck.
What other hardware components does it come with?
Other than that, both lenses are separate and you can remove them individually. This provides convenience for cleaning your lenses.
You can also adjust the focal distance of each lens. Moreover, it also lets you move the phone tray to find the best angle.
Compatibility
Next factor you need to keep in check is compatibility. We tested many phones with it and found no compatibility issues.
You can use any phone with a screen size of 4.8-inch or bigger. This includes Android and iOS devices.
Can I use VR apps from both platforms?
We must also mention that you can use almost every app available on the Playstore and Appstore. This includes the gaming category as well.
Furthermore, there is a user manual that helps you determine the right OD and FD for your phone. You can virtually use any smartphone with it.
Utility
Unlike most VR headsets, Zeiss VR One provides utility for multiple forms of entertainment. You can use it to surf YouTube, play games, or simply hang around in a VR world.
On top of that, Zeiss also has an in-house app for various purposes. You can use it to watch high-quality landscapes captured with Zeiss cameras.
Does it have a remote controller?
The only downside is that Zeiss VR One doesn’t have a remote controller. You can use a third-party universal controller.
To connect a controller, you must simply turn on your phone’s Bluetooth and pair it with your device. After that, you can control everything in VR.
What do the Customers Think?
Now, let’s check out some of the online reviews from different customers.
Many customers stated the Zeiss VR One is fun to use. They mentioned it was quite easy to operate and get used to.
Moreover, they also praised how convenient it is to clean this headset.
We also found multiple reviews that praised the overall display quality. They mentioned the overall VR experience of Zeiss VR One is quite immersive.
Best Compatible and Easy-to-Use VR Headset
The Zeiss VR One is a compatible and easy-to-use VR headset. This is because you can simply put your phone inside it and enjoy an immersive VR experience. It features compatibility with almost every smartphone.
Buyers’ Guide
Now, let’s take a look at some important aspects to keep in mind at all times.
Hardware
The first thing you need to keep in check is the hardware of a VR headset. While most VR headsets share the same hardware, it is a good practice to double-check.
The hardware includes the lenses, phone tray, cushions, and head strap. You should focus on the lenses and the cushions.
Why are these components important?
Low-quality lenses can cause blue light effects. This will put unnecessary strain on your eyes. On the other hand, cushions provide comfort while you are wearing the headset.
Compatibility
The next factor you need to keep in check is compatibility. It is quite easy to check whether a VR headset supports your phone or not.
Simply check the product details. Here you can find compatible phones based on screen size and operating system.
What other compatibility factors should I check?
Other than that, you should also check the shape of the head strap. There are three options for it. You can either get a circular, oval, or t-shaped head strap.
Utility
Lastly, you need to keep in mind what sort of utility a VR headset provides. Some VR headsets are designed for VR videos while some focus on gaming.
We recommend that you purchase a headset that provides a mix of the two. This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Now, let’s check some commonly asked questions related to VR headsets we found on the internet.
What should I use to clean my VR headset?
You can clean your VR headset with any surface cleaner and a piece of fabric. Simply take apart the headsets and use the fabric to gently rinse the headset. This will remove any excess dust from the inside.
Which head strap is the most comfortable?
The shape of the head strap is comfortable based on the user’s preference. While it is convenient to wear circular or oval-shaped straps, t-shaped straps provide more grip. This provides a lot of help while VR gaming.
How do I change the FD of my VR headset?
If your VR headset features adjustable FD, you can do it with the help of a dial. This dial is usually located on top of the headset or under it. Simply wear your headset and adjust the distance to find the optimal angle.
How do I change the OD of my VR headset?
The phone tray in your VR headset can be used to adjust the object distance. Simply put your phone inside the tray and move it. Once the picture becomes sharp and clear, this is your optimal object distance.
Can I buy third-party straps for my VR headset?
There are numerous third-party straps that you can find online. However, it is important to check whether your VR headset supports dual-link or triple-link straps. You can check this information in the user manual.
Are all iOS VR apps compatible with VR headsets?
Most of the apps you can find on the Appstore are compatible with VR headsets. However, some apps like Google Street View work with certain headsets. This is mainly because these apps are designed for VR headsets with a built-in OS.
Can I remove the cushion of my VR headsets?
This feature is unique to every VR headset. Some VR headsets enable you to remove this for cleanliness while some headsets do not. VR headsets with removable cushions have this feature clearly mentioned in the product details.
How do I remove the cushion of my VR headset?
In order to remove the cushion of your VR headset, simply remove the head strap first. After that, pinch the cushion and gently pull it. This will dislodge it from the hinge. To put it back, simply repeat the process and you’ll be good to go.
Which head strap is suitable for VR headsets?
For a solid grip, you should look for head straps with velcro. Such head straps provide extra grip and fluid movement for your VR headset. Moreover, these straps also reduce the overall strain on your forehead.
Can I watch live games with VR headsets?
You can use multiple apps that provide VR streaming for sports. You simply select a stream and place your phone inside the VR headset. However, in order to fully experience the VR elements, you’ll need a remote controller.
What is the screen door effect?
This effect usually happens when the OD and FD aren’t aligned. You may find rays of light inside your display output. It can be removed by adjusting the dials and phone tray.
Final Verdict
After a careful comparison, we have concluded that there is no clear winner. Both headsets are unique in terms of the utility they provide.
Samsung Gear VR provides a highly immersive experience with a durable build and adjustable specs. On the other hand, Zeiss VR One focuses on compatibility and comfort. You can use it for extended periods.
Do let us know which VR headsets are your favorite in the comments below.