Max. phone screen size
The largest diagonal of a smartphone compatible with the corresponding glasses (see "Intended use"). Note that this parameter can be specified both for universal models that do not have specialization for specific mobile phones, and for gadgets for specific devices (for more details, see "Compatible phone models"). The maximum diagonal is connected both with the features of the optics and with the physical dimensions of the "seat" for a mobile phone — a gadget that is too large simply does not fit there.
Note that even the smallest glasses for smartphones work quite correctly with devices with a diagonal of
5 – 5.5 ". So it makes sense to pay attention to this parameter if your device has a larger screen size. Nowadays, you can find glasses for gadgets
5.6 – 6 " and even
6" or more.
Field of view
The viewing angle provided by virtual reality glasses is the angular size of the space that falls into the user's field of view. Usually, the characteristics indicate the size of this space horizontally; however, if you need the most accurate information, this point needs to be specified separately.
The wider the viewing angle — the more the game space the user can see without turning his head, the more powerful the immersion effect and the less likely that the image will be subject to the "tunnel vision" effect. On the other hand, making the field of view too wide also does not make sense, given the characteristics of the human eye. In general, a
large viewing angle is considered to be an angle of 100° or more. On the other hand, there are models where this indicator is 30° or even less — these are, usually, specific devices (for example, drone piloting glasses and augmented reality glasses), where such characteristics are quite justified given the overall functionality.
microUSB
The presence of a microUSB connector in the glasses. This is the most popular of the smaller versions of the USB connector, widely used primarily in portable technology. However, for a number of reasons, this interface is rarely found in VR glasses — in single models of glasses for a smartphone, as well as in some independent devices (see "Purpose"). In both cases, it is provided mainly for charging the built-in battery (glasses for smartphones can also have such power — for example, for the operation of built-in Bluetooth headphones).
Bluetooth
The presence of a
Bluetooth module in the glasses; The Bluetooth version to which this module corresponds can also be specified here.
Bluetooth is a technology created for direct wireless connection between various devices. This technology is found in all types of VR glasses (see “Purpose”), although most models with its support are independent devices. In any case, the most popular way to use Bluetooth in virtual reality glasses is to broadcast sound wirelessly. Moreover, the format of such a broadcast may be different, depending on the specifics of the glasses themselves. Thus, standalone devices broadcast the reproduced sound to external headphones. Models for PCs and smartphones may have built-in headphones, and here the sound is transmitted via Bluetooth to the glasses from an external device; Audio from the built-in microphone can be transmitted in the opposite direction.
In addition, there are other possible ways to use Bluetooth, such as directly exchanging files with another device or connecting game controllers. Such capabilities are found exclusively in stand-alone glasses; the specific functionality for each model should be clarified separately.
As for the versions, the oldest one used in VR glasses today is Bluetooth 3.0, the newest is Bluetooth 5.0. However, the differences between different versions for such devices are not fundamental; this information is provided mainly for reference purposes.
Headphone output
Availability in points
of an exit for connection of earphones. Most often, the role of such a connector is played by a standard 3.5 mm mini-jack socket.
A full-fledged "immersion" in the virtual world requires not only a picture on the screen, but also an appropriate sound accompaniment, for which headphones are the best option. Its own headphone output allows you to connect wired "ears" directly to the glasses — it is much more convenient and safer during use than connecting headphones to a computer or set-top box. However, independent devices can also have such a connector (see "Purpose").
Note that there are VR glasses with their own built-in headphones, but this option is more convenient: it allows you to select the “ears” separately, according to the user’s own preferences.
Magnetic button
The presence
of a magnetic switch in the design of virtual reality glasses.
A similar switch is found only in models designed for telephones (see "Intended use"). It is usually installed on the side of the glasses and looks like a movable metal element. The meaning of this function is that when the switch is moved, the magnetic field inside the glasses changes, and most modern smartphones are equipped with sensors that can track these changes. Thus, the user gets extended control options: for example, in shooting games, the magnetic switch can play the role of a trigger.
Controller
The presence of a
controller — an additional control device — is included in the delivery of glasses.
The design and functionality of such an accessory may be different. So, the most popular option is specialized game controllers with a characteristic look — a handle with an analogue lever and buttons. There can be two such handles at once, under both hands; and in some models they are also used to control gestures. The movement of the hands can be tracked both by sensors in the controllers themselves and by cameras on the glasses. There are also simpler solutions — for example, portable gamepads or remote controls for controlling video playback.
