I’ve been waiting for these googles my whole life, but sadly I’m afraid I might have to wait a little longer.
NOTE: I’ve paid for these goggles. They were not a freebie in return for a review (unfortunately). Although if someone wants to send me some free ones they are more than welcome ;)
First some background. I’m a military pilot. I have 20/20 vision and have never required any vision correction. My vision gets tested annually. I also don’t suffer from motion sickness. I only mention this now, not to brag, but it will become pertinent later when I bring up a couple of things I’ve learnt about myself from operating with Night Vision Goggles (NVG’s). I’m also not an optometrist/ophthalmologist so hopefully my opinions are close to correct.
I’m using my goggles with a Galaxy S7 Edge (no screen protector – as instructed by the goggles instructions).
First the good stuff…
- The Oculus app, and store (that come included – and are indeed required) is great. The Oculus app is it’s own ecosystem of apps… and all other apps are launched from WITHIN the Oculus app. It looks professional and sets the tone for a great VR experience. It’s your very first look into the VR world, and as soon as you put the goggles on you know you are in for something special. Oculus have done a great job and Samsung has done well to pair with them.
- A good number of the apps you can access for free, through the Oculus store, are pretty impressive even just simply accessing their main menu screens. They really leverage the VR experience.
MY TIPS:
(1) The download and installation of the REQUIRED Oculus app is fully automatic once you connect your phone. The setup is really easy so don’t stress if you are concerned about a big setup process. The Oculus app makes it all very easy.
(2) If you are like me and want to try and download the Oculus app and additional content prior to the arrival of your goggles don’t worry about it. There appears to be no way of doing it without the goggles, so like me you will be just wasting your time looking. I found there is not too much about the how to access the Samsung VR/Oculus apps written anywhere – I did search beforehand and was a little confused as to what was available and how to download them from Google Play Store. Basically… you don’t! (NOTE: you will find ‘Google Cardboard’ VR apps in the Google Play Store, and also find online workaround tips on how to use ‘Google Cardboard’ apps with the Samsung VR goggles. This is definitely not required, and these apps are run EXTERNALLY to the Oculus app and it’s ecosystem.)
(3) Definitely try the Netflix app, Moon VR player, Samsung Milk VR, Titans of Space. They are all pretty impressive. A number of the VR players on there will also allow you to play your own content from your SD Card.
Next… Get a controller… maybe…
- Although the Samsung VR goggles come with a touchpad controller on the side, which can do MOST stuff, life can be a little easier with a separate Bluetooth controller (sometimes). It also gives you access to some of the content that requires a controller.
- Don’t get confused when you read online about people using ‘magnets’ to control VR apps. This is a ‘Google Cardboard’ thing, and once again does not apply to anything from the Oculus store.
- I happened to have the “MOGA Pocket” Bluetooth game controller already, just by chance. It works with the Samsung goggles if you set it up properly. It took me a little while to track down the info on this.
- The “MOGA Pocket” is an older controller (but feels good and works well enough) that’s on Amazon for only $6 right now so why not? (That’s way less than what I paid for it 6 months ago.)
MY TIPS FOR THE “MOGA POCKET” CONTROLLER:
(1) Forget about the “MOGA Pivot App”. Unless you want it for the games on their website which (a) aren’t good (b) aren’t free (c) reportedly no longer work or download properly. Importantly… THE MOGA PIVOT APP DOES NOT WORK WITH THE OCULUS APP. I wasted hours trying to get this to work before conceding defeat and giving up. The redemption code included in the box for a free game also doesn’t work. Overall… very poorly done.
(2) Download the “MOGA UNIVERSAL DRIVER” from the playstore. Manually pair the controller via Bluetooth to your phone (I think my controller showed as ‘BD&A’ or something like that), then open the “MOGA Universal Driver” app, and continue the setup, and add it to your keyboards. NOTE: You need to open the app, pair the controller activate the keyboard, and enable the driver, prior to inserting your phone into the goggles each time. (There is probably a more automated way but I haven’t worried at this stage).
(3) There is more info in the Amazon reviews for the MOGA controllers if I’ve not been clear here. (This was not meant to be a MOGA Controller review :)' )
(UPDATE: please note that someone in the comments has mentioned that they have had trouble trying to get this controller to work with the headset. The best I can offer is that the MOGA controller worked fine for me, although I no longer have the headset to test it out anymore (still working fine for Non-GEAR VR apps right now though)... if this concerns you there are a number of other controllers out there give a go. I do believe it was worthwhile having one.)
Now the negatives… and there’s a pretty big one…
… Within about 5-10mins of putting these goggles on I start to feel a painful eye strain. It is NOT excruciating, however it is quiet noticeable and uncomfortable and more importantly I can still feel it some many hours after taking them off. This is not motion sickness, but eyestrain. It feels like pulling a muscle… in your eye sockets. I’ve spent ages trying to work it out and I think it all comes down to the basicness and cheapness of Samsung’s build/design.
I’m not an optometrist/ophthalmologist but for what it’s worth here are my thoughts.
- Inter Pupillary Distance (IPD) – IPD is the distance between the pupils (your eyes) and hence how far the lenses are apart. Most of us have used binoculars before. You will recall there are normally 3 basic adjustments to be made:- IPD (when you adjust the width of your binocs), Diopter, and Focus. The IPD in the Samsung goggles is fixed, yet we don’t all have one-size-fits-all heads. I've read previously that the Samsung VR goggles are designed for 55-71mm IPD (I'm not sure what mine are). The spacing between the two images on your phone screen is also fixed. This affects the ‘convergence’ of your eyes. Think of the case where the lens’ IPD are too far apart. Each eye will be trying to look in opposite directions to see through each lens at the same time, whilst simultaneously trying to converge the 2 images into one in an attempt to create a stereoscopic image. This is not normal for your eyes. In real life they normally naturally converge onto one subject in a manner comfortable to them… not look outwards (as in the ‘too wide’ case) at 2 separate images. The opposite is true for too close – you must go slightly cross-eyed. Ideally, you should be able to adjust the lenses in the goggles, to your eyes IPD and natural convergence range.
Also... if you aren't looking through the centre of the lens, but rather the edge, they go out of focus. The spacing of the lenses in the is not the same as my IPD hence I am not looking through the centre of the lens most of the time.
- Diopter – Diopter is designed to let you compensate for differences between your own two eyes. Basically, some people’s eyes don’t focus equally… so what you do is close one eye, then focus for the open eye normally. Then change eyes and adjust the diopter for the now open eye. Both eyes should now be in focus. Think of it as individual focus for each eye. (On your binoculars it's the eyepiece with the +/- numbers around it.) The Samsung VR goggles do not have the ability to adjust diopter or focus for each eye individually. Just one central focus adjustment.
Now, as some background, prior to each flight on NVG’s we place them into a calibrated test unit and adjust the diopter and IPD (amongst other things) for myself and my special head. Most of us are all slightly different. The outcome however is that we can wear these goggles comfortably for many hours with no adverse eyestrain. In my case my diopter is generally 0 meaning my eyes focus about the same. The same goes for the diopter setting on my Canon DSLR. Now I don’t know if I have a bad set of VR goggles (but I do tend to trust the expensive and calibrated aviation NVG's), but with the Samsung VR goggles I find that if I close one eye and focus the goggles, when I switch eyes the other is always out of focus. Sadly as there is no way to adjust diopter (or focus each eye separately) this cannot be rectified and may be another source of this discomfort – as one eye is always struggling to focus an unfocusable image. I certainly personally have never experienced eye discomfort like this wearing goggles.
So why such a low rating from me? Because regardless of how awesome the technology behind it is, and how good the Oculus store and associated apps are, it is all a deal breaker if the goggles cause eye pain.
AND, because there are a number of small no name chinese manufacturers out their turning out plastic Google Cardboard goggles that are of comparable build quality (the Samsung goggles only have plastic lens’ also), that also offer IPD adjustment and individual eye focus, for less than $30. I find it astonishing that Samsung has not incorporated these features and can only assume that they might have been able to rectify my discomfort. Considering this is Samsung’s second generation of these goggles, and considering the resources behind Samsung, and considering SAMSUNG CHARGE 3xTIMES MORE! for their goggles, I would expect that they would have these basic features also included, just as the cheaper manufacturers have (they could also easily include a calibration section in the Oculus app allowing you to adjust the goggles and set the apps IPD, as well as calibrate Diopter).
So, whilst it guts me to say this, and I really really want to keep them… but every time I use them I can’t help but feeling I’m doing irreparable damage to my eyes… So I’m going to have to send them back. Hopefully Samsung will do a better job with their 3rd generation goggles - we are almost there.
In the meantime I might try some of the 3rd party goggles and see how they feel and will likely report back here with an update.
Sorry for the long winded review. Hopefully you found some of it useful.
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At a Glance:
- Be transported to amazing new worlds, in games, video and images
- Thousands of 360 degree panoramic photos
- Improved easy to use touch controls
- Games and applications available from the Oculus VR app store
Samsung Gear VR
Amazing Virtual Reality Anywhere
Mobile virtual reality is finally here. With the Samsung Gear VR, you can play amazing games, watch Hollywood’s best movies in your own private cinema (or even on the moon!), socialize with friends new and old, be at the center of a suspense thriller, and so much more. The Gear VR drops you right into the action—and it’s only from Samsung & Oculus.
The next generation of Samsung Gear VR, powered by Oculus, has been upgraded with new and improved features:
- Lighter weight so you can play and watch more comfortably
- Improved fit, including room for most eyeglasses and improved padding for extra comfort and durability
- An upgraded touch pad that’s even easier to use
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CompatibilityCompatible with more phones (software update from your carrier required for S6 edge+ and Note5) - Galaxy Note5 - Galaxy S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+ - Galaxy S7, S7 edge There are amazing new things to do in Gear VR. Try hundreds of games, apps and experiences. |
Samsung Milk VRBringing you amazing 360° virtual adventures, Samsung Milk VR is video like you’ve never seen. You are literally surrounded by the action. Amazing tours around the world, some of the world’s coolest cars, celebrities, musical performances and documentaries. There’s always something new in Milk VR. |
Best of Hollywood EntertainmentBuy and watch hundreds of Hollywood movies & TV shows in Oculus Cinema. In Oculus Video, watch 2D videos including trailers, clips, and your own movie files in a completely new way. You can choose from multiple VR theater environments including a home theater, a huge screen theater, and even the surface of the moon! |
And Much, Much MoreEnjoy incredible premium games for purchase such as Eve: Gunjack and Land’s End - Play 20 arcade classics in Oculus Arcade - Stream over 1 million short films and videos on Vimeo - Keep up with the best gamers in Twitch - Enjoy amazing new 360° videos daily on Samsung Milk VR |
Jurassic World
Land's End
Eve: Gunjack
Netflix
Disclaimer:
2015 Samsung Electronics America, Inc. Samsung, Galaxy, Note, Gear, Samsung Milk VR and Super AMOLED are all trademarks owned or registered by Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Other company names, product names, and marks mentioned are property of their respective owners and may be registered trademarks. Screen images simulated. Actual appearance may vary.
Use only in a safe environment. The Gear VR produces a distracting, immersive virtual reality experience that blocks your view of your actual surroundings. Read and follow warnings and instructions included with the Headset before use. The Headset should be calibrated before each use. Not for use by children under 13. A virtual reality experience may trigger health reactions. See a doctor before use if you have a history of seizures. Stop use if you experience a health reaction. Always be aware of your surroundings when using the Gear VR. Remain seated or stationary at all times. Take special care to ensure that you are not near other people, objects, stairs, balconies, windows, furniture, or other items that you can bump into or knock down when using – or immediately after using – the Gear VR headset. Do not handle sharp or otherwise dangerous objects while using the Gear VR. Never wear the Gear VR in situations that require attention, such as walking, bicycling, or driving.
Some apps and services may require payment or subscriptions to use. Netflix streaming membership required. Charges may apply.
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| HTC Vive | Oculus Rift | PlayStation VR | Samsung Gear | Google Cardboard | |
| MSRP | $799.00 | $599.00 | $399.99 | $99.99 | $15.00 |
| Platform | Windows PC | Windows PC | PlayStation 4 | Samsung Smartphone | Smartphone |
| Experience | Seated VR, Standing VR, Room-scale VR (up to 5 m diagonally), Positional tracking | Positional tracking, Standing VR, Seated VR | Positional tracking, Standing VR, Seated VR | Seated VR | Seated VR |
| Field of View | 110 degrees | 110 degrees | 100 degrees | 96 degrees | Varies |
| Refresh Rate | 90 Hz | 90 Hz | 90 - 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
| Display Resoluion per eye | 1080 x 1200 | 1080 x 1200 | 1080 x 960 | 1440 x 1280 | Varies |
| Headset Weight | 1.2 lbs | 1.0 lbs | 1.3 lbs | 0.7 lbs | 0.2 lbs |
| Fit | Adjustable headset strap, fits most glasses, 2 eye relief adjustments: lens distance from eye & interpupilliary distance | Fits glasses, Iinterpupilliary distance adjustment | Fits glasses, lens distance from eye can be adjusted, Iinterpupilliary distance adjustment | Fits glasses, focus adjustment | Varies |
| Included in the box | Headset, 2 x Controllers, 2 x Base Stations, Earbuds, Link Box, Link Box power adapter, Link Box mounting pad, 2 x Base Station power adapter, 2 x Micro USB chargers, Sync cable, HDMI cable, USB cable, Cleaning Cloth, Alternate face cushion | Oculus Rift Headset, Camera Sensor, Remote, Xbox One Wireless Controller, Xbox USB Wireless Adapter, 2xAA Batteries, Integrated Headphone Removal Tool, 2 x Oculus Logo Stickers, Oculus Lens Wipe Cloth | Headset, Processor Unit, connection cable, HDMI cable, USB cable, Stereo headphoes, AC power cord, AC adaptor, demo disc | Headset | Headset |
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Very cool experience, everyone needs one of these
Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2016
This is for sure one of the coolest thing you will ever try. It is awesome. The one thing I am having a problem with is overheating. After about 15 minutes of using the device the phone overheats. The Samsung Gear VR uses your phone to create an awesome 3d virtual world that is something I have never experienced before. I did somewhat fix the overheating problem by putting a fan on me while I wear the device. I know this is not the best fix in the world but it seems to work pretty well. I still get the overheating notifications, but the device is not shutting down anymore. There are 2 notifications with the overheating. One notification is that the device is starting to overheat and the other one is that the device has to shut down due to overheating. At first I did not really even notice the product had an overheating issue, because in only a few minutes of experiencing the 3D world I felt I needed to stop. Now, I am used to the experience and can spend at least 30 minutes or more without any issues. I watched a Cirque du Soleil show that was unbelievable. It truly is the next thing from being there that you can experience and for that reason I gave it a 5 star even with it having the overheating issue that I did somewhat overcome.To use it you just attach the head strap (its Velcro so its pretty simple) and then pop of the cover and plug your phone in. I would not put the cover back on because of the lack of air flow it will over heat even faster. Before you can actually use the Gear VR you will have to go online and get an Oculus account and then download the software to your phone.If you really want the full experience you will want to be sitting in a computer chair with enough room to swivel 360 degrees. Plus I would have a fan blowing on the device. I used a normal stand type isolating fan that I kept stationary right in front of me. I did some looking around online and some people have done some pretty cool modes to the Gear VR to mount fans in the cover, something you may want to think about if you get into the Virtual Reality. Virtual Reality is new and a product like this that brings it to you for under $100 is unheard of so for me even if I do have to make my own fan and mount it it is still a 5 star item. Hope this review helps you on better understanding the Gear VR.
Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2016
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Cliente de Amazon
Tengo Samsung galaxia note 10 no queda
Reviewed in Mexico on September 2, 2021Kevin
Would recommend waiting till the Gear VR 2 comes out
Reviewed in Canada on May 5, 2016Alex
ALMOST perfect, cant use USB mass storage using the micro USB port, but i think im the only one who tried
Reviewed in Canada on April 18, 2016
