Virtual reality headsets for companies: a guide for beginners
for business use, the most practical option is usually standalone headsets (with no cables or computer), with hand tracking or controllers, good battery life and remote device management. If you need the highest graphical quality, there are headsets connected to a powerful PC. The choice depends on the content, the number of users and where they will be used.
Types of headset
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone | No cables or PC, easy to transport, quick to start up | Lower graphical power |
| Connected to a PC | Maximum quality and detail | A powerful computer, cables, more set-up |
| Mixed reality | They blend the real environment and the digital one using cameras | Greater complexity and cost, depending on the case |
More detail in Standalone VR vs PC VR.
Criteria for choosing
- Compatibility with your experience: the content is developed for specific hardware. Define the headsets before development, not afterwards.
- Visual quality and comfort: resolution, field of view, weight and fit. Long sessions require comfortable headsets.
- Tracking: controllers or hands, and whether it works without external sensors.
- Battery life, especially at events.
- Business management: the ability to manage a fleet of headsets, update applications and lock functions.
- Support and warranty for professional use.
- Hygiene: ease of cleaning, and disposable or washable covers.
- Privacy and security: control of accounts and data, essential in corporate environments.
Accessories worth planning for
- Spare face cushions and disposable covers.
- Cleaning wipes.
- External batteries or charging stations.
- Transport cases.
- Mounts or hooks for the stand.
- Headphones, if the ambient noise is loud.
Managing several units
If you are going to use more than a few headsets, you need:
- A device management system to install and update content.
- A charging and cleaning procedure between users.
- Someone responsible who checks the condition of the equipment.
- A plan to recover or replace damaged units.
Purchase, rental or a full service
- Purchase: if there will be continuous use (training or a permanent showroom).
- Rental: for trade shows, events and pilots.
- Full service: the agency provides the equipment, the staff and the content.
Health and accessibility considerations
Some people may feel motion sickness or fatigue in long sessions, and use by people who wear prescription glasses, or who have reduced mobility, requires attention. Keep sessions short, offer an on-screen alternative when possible, and check the manufacturer's age recommendations.
Key ideas
- Choose the headsets according to the experience, not the other way round.
- For corporate use, fleet management is as important as visual quality.
- Plan for accessories, hygiene and charging.
- Purchase, rental or a full service, depending on how often it will be used.
- Look after comfort and accessibility.
Frequently asked questions
Are consumer headsets suitable for a company?
They can be suitable for tests or occasional use, but fleets need device management and professional support.
How many headsets do I need?
It depends on how many people must use it and on the length of the session. At trade shows, you work in turns; in training, in groups.
Can they be used with prescription glasses?
Many models allow it, or have adaptor lenses. Check on the model you choose.
How often does the equipment need to be renewed?
It depends on use and on how the market evolves. Plan renewal as you would for any technology equipment.
More guides on this topic
How to create a virtual reality experience for your company
A process for creating a virtual reality experience: objective, script, 3D content, development, user testing, deployment and measurement. A step-by-step guide.
How to measure the engagement and ROI of a virtual reality experience
Which metrics to use to measure a virtual reality experience: participation, time, completion, learning, leads and return on investment, with examples.
How to organise a virtual reality experience at an event safely
A guide to organising a virtual reality experience at an event or trade show safely: space, staff, hygiene, queue management, health and a contingency plan.