Upfront InvestmentAcquiring the hardware and software necessary to implement a good VR experience is where institutions and companies will see the large costs associated with VR. Once these are acquired, VR has very minimal operating costs. Upfront investments can cost anywhere between $5 to $1500 for the VR headset alone. This does not include the cost of a computer rig that is capable of running the software which can add another $500 to $2000 to the price. Additionally, the software has a wide variety of options from free downloads to proprietary software. These mentioned costs are for a single unit. Depending on the organization, there may be a need for multiple units.
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VR Gear
There are many options when looking to purchase a VR headset(s). Criteria must be established when looking to buy headsets. In the context of workforce training for companies or schools, high-performance headsets are most likely the best option. The following is a list of different options at different price points:
OCULUS QUEST
brand new to 2019, the Oculus Quest offers one of the best all-in-one systems. This headset requires no computer connection. This package is on the expensive end of the scale and lacks the performance of other headsets but can be used without expensive computer rigs.
PRICE $900-$1200
brand new to 2019, the Oculus Quest offers one of the best all-in-one systems. This headset requires no computer connection. This package is on the expensive end of the scale and lacks the performance of other headsets but can be used without expensive computer rigs.
PRICE $900-$1200
HTC VIVE
The HTC Vive is the most popular headset and can offer users life-like experiences at reasonable costs. This headset offers full room tracking and smooth graphics. However, a powerful rig and accommodations are required.
PRICE $700
The HTC Vive is the most popular headset and can offer users life-like experiences at reasonable costs. This headset offers full room tracking and smooth graphics. However, a powerful rig and accommodations are required.
PRICE $700
HTC VIVE PRO
HTC recently released their professional grade system that offers a 78% increase in resolution, noise-cancelling 3D audio, and greater performance. However, this will be the most expensive headset available today considering the need for an even more powerful computer rig.
PRICE $1000-$1700
HTC recently released their professional grade system that offers a 78% increase in resolution, noise-cancelling 3D audio, and greater performance. However, this will be the most expensive headset available today considering the need for an even more powerful computer rig.
PRICE $1000-$1700
Google Cardboard
Google offers a VR alternative that is great for younger students or for those on a tight budget. However, this option is not viable for trades training as it is only capable of using a phone screen to create the VR experience. Although, it can introduce younger students into VR and into manufacturing as this project can be DIY built.
PRICE $5-30
Google offers a VR alternative that is great for younger students or for those on a tight budget. However, this option is not viable for trades training as it is only capable of using a phone screen to create the VR experience. Although, it can introduce younger students into VR and into manufacturing as this project can be DIY built.
PRICE $5-30