Whether you like it or not, the VR headset revolution is underway, and just because you own an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus doesn’t mean that you can’t get in on some headset gaming action. True, Apple doesn’t have its own VR headset, but that may change in the future. In the meantime, here’s a selection of the best VR headsets that are compatible with the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus.
Best VR Headsets for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
Before we take a look at what is available for iPhone users, it’s best that we come clean now. Mobile VR headsets are not going to give you the same experience as the PSVR, HTC Vive, or Oculus Rift. You will get what you pay for. Yes, there are some mobile VR platforms already in existence, such as Samsung’s Gear VR and Google Cardboard, but they are seen as a pathway towards what others see as true VR headsets.
With that out of the way, here’s our list of the best VR headsets for the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
Google Cardboard
While many of the headsets available on Amazon and eBay are cheap, nothing comes much cheaper than Google Cardboard. Compatible with both of the latest iPhones, it offers a quick and low-cost entry into virtual reality.
Depending on where you look, you can pick one up for below $20, and it comes with a strap and NFC technology. Because it’s only made from AAA-grade corrugated paper, you shouldn’t expect it to last long. However, it will give you a much-needed taste of what VR can offer. The headset is compatible with all handsets between 3.5 inches and 6 inches in size. It is currently available for $11.66 via Amazon.
View-Master DLX VR
Second on our list of the best VR headsets for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus is Mattel’s second Generation View-Master mobile VR headset. It will be the first to be sold by Apple in its stores.
Since the first-gen device, Mattel has worked to make it more compatible with different size iPhones. This new model has a completely new smartphone mount which makes it compatible with 5.5-inch iPhones and smaller. The headset uses the Google Cardboard platform to enable iPhone users to enter stunning VR worlds and experience entry-level VR.
The View-Master is available for $29.99 via Amazon.
Magicoo 3D VR Box
If you’re looking for something which offers a bit more comfort, then this Magicoo 3D VR Box does just that. However, with comfort comes cost, and this device is the most expensive one on our list of the best VR headsets so far.
As looks go, it’s rather fashionable, comes with a head strap, and has face padding for extra comfort. The straps are adjustable, as are the pupil settings, both of which help create a great VR experience. The designers of this device have tried to find a way to prevent dust from getting into it. The solution used is a slide-in smartphone tray, which an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus is compatible with.
Right now this headset is available via Amazon for $53.99.
DESTEK V3
Probably one of the only VR headsets made specifically for the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus is the DESTEK V3, which offers great functionality. Features include a short focus lens which enables you to manipulate images and bring them closer. This greatly enhances the gaming and film-watching experience, making it a truly immersive experience.
Another feature is its compatibility with all types of eyesight, whether good or poor. Extremely lightweight and packaged with adjustable straps, it has everything needed to cater to an enjoyable VR experience. Additionally, there are multi-functional vents which help dissipate heat quickly.
This iPhone-compatible headset is available on Amazon for $29.99.
ZEISS VR ONE
So far our list of the best VR headsets has included a selection of cheap devices, each offering a cardboard / plastic case and a couple of lenses. But with this Carl Zeiss model, you’re getting something completely different. It’s the only headset on our list which comes with a set of specially-designed leading-edge optics, which was designed with precision for the ultimate immersive visual experience. Also there it has tracking sensors and is compatible with many apps on Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Unfortunately for a headset of its price, surprisingly, there is no head strap, and a particular tray is required for the iPhone 7. Fortunately, ZEISS, does have another second-generation model coming soon called the VR One GX. This will address the issues we just mentioned, which will make it a great kit for a reasonable price.
The ZEISS is the most expensive of the five headsets we’ve featured that are are compatible with the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus. It’s available on Amazon for $99.99.
