Virtual reality is one of the hottest platforms and one of the fastest growing tech segments. Even if VR is already an area of interest for you, there’s a lot of information about different types of VR experiences, systems, performance and requirements; VR gaming; social engagement; and more. So, what do you need to know to enjoy the best VR experience? Let’s take a look.

First, there are a number of terms that relate to various types of virtual reality experiences. You may have heard of Mixed Reality, Augmented Reality, and Virtual Reality. So what is the difference?

Mixed reality can integrate a digitally created world with our own world, or immerse a user in a digital world where the real world and the virtual world appear to be as one. In mixed reality, the real world and the virtual world content both react to each other in real time through the use of a mixed reality device and via the device controllers.

Augmented reality is similar to mixed reality in that it blends a virtual environment with our own physical surroundings. Augmented reality also uses a device to overlay digital virtual objects or content, such as data, video, and sound onto our view of the real world around us, enabling interaction with the physical world as digital content as is imposed on it. In this scenario, the digital content supplements rather than responds to the real world.

Virtual reality uses a more complex device than either mixed or augmented reality. It also creates the most fully immersive environment whereby the user feels as if they have been completely transported into the virtual environment, with no connection to the real world. A VR device enables the user to interact with virtual objects using the device controllers to manipulate the virtual world.

HTC Vive, Vive Pro, and Oculus Rift: Three of the top VR system experiences out there. Though at the higher end of the price spectrum, both Rift and Vive offer exceptional VR quality, and an immersive experience that meets the rigorous demands of savvy VR users. Both systems are equipped to play the top VR PC games and include headsets, controllers, and motion tracking sensors. Serious VR enthusiasts and gamers will want to take advantage of all that these powerful systems have to offer.

PlayStation VR: If you’re already a fan of PlayStation, why not make the most of it by adding PlayStation VR? While the specs are a little lighter than Rift or the Vives, it’s still a really great, affordable option if you aren’t going for a top-of-the line system. One thing to note, Only PlayStation games will work on PlayStation VR.

Somewhat different than virtual reality, Microsoft offers a Mixed Reality system. Using HoloLense and immersive headsets, mixed reality enhances your physical space to depict a similar virtual world. You also can use motion controllers to move about in the virtual realm, offering perhaps your best Windows Mixed Reality experience. Another plus, you can use Cortana in Windows Mixed Reality.

Samsung HMD Odyssey is a Windows Mixed Reality headset. With a high resolution display and premium sound, will be a formidable weapon in any battle. An integrated microphone array is built right into the headset helping to reduce noise and assisting communication with Cortana. Make no mistake, the Odyssey will deliver an immersive adventure.

Google Cardboard / Daydream: Two major platforms for mobile VR. For Cardboard, you'll need the official Cardboard App and a compatible viewer. Add your choice of VR experiences and you have a relatively inexpensive entry into the world of VR. The Cardboard app is free for both Android and iOS. Install the app on your smartphone, pair it with your compatible viewer and VR experience, and you're ready to go. Daydream will work with any Daydream-ready phone. A number of headsets, which are reliant on mobile Android or iOS phones, will work with Google Cardboard and Daydream. Be sure whichever headset you use is compatible with your phone.

But wait! Isn't all of this just like using a game console system like an Xbox for example? No, it's not quite that simple. Some of the game console systems do have some VR features, they are usually designed to work best exclusively with their brand of games. Conversely, VR specific equipment and bundles, like those offered by Oculus and HTC, use specifically designed hardware in conjunction with a VR Ready PC in order to provide a more rich VR experience.

Do I have to use a VR Ready computer? VR specific hardware like the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift require sufficient computing power in order to provide the best VR experience. For best results, a VR Ready PC is required. This can be accomplished by purchasing a new VR Ready PC or laptop, or even by upgrading some existing PCs to the necessary specifications.

What are the specifications for a VR Ready PC?

Micro Center recommended VR PC specifications:

• Intel Core i5-6500 CPU or greater
• NVIDIA GTX 980 or AMD R9 390 GPU or greater
• 16GB+ RAM
• SSD (PCIe NVMe recommended)
• HDMI 1.3 and 3x USB 3.0 plus 1x USB 2.0
• Windows 7 64 bit or greater

*Actual requirements could vary slightly with different headset manufacturers. The above minimum recommendations are a good place to start, but be sure to consider requirements of the individual manufacturers when evaluating specifications. Finally, it is always a good idea to leave a buffer above the minimum requirements in case you want to upgrade in the future.

Will I Get Motion Sickness? Inconsistent frame rates can make your screen flicker like a bad TV. This can, in some people, cause a sense of motion sickness. A good-quality system with high-level consistent frame rates doesn't usually cause motion sickness in most people.

How Much Space Do I Need? A large room is not a requirement. A room measuring about 15 sq.ft. x 15 sq. ft. is probably the most space you would need, however, a number of VR games are meant to be played sitting down, which means you need enough space for a comfy chair.

How do I avoid contact with walls? Most VR systems, though not all, come with tracking devices that indicate where you are in physical space. This is designed to keep players from unexpectedly coming into contact with wall or other objects in the game play area. Some systems even display a virtual boundary where a wall is detected in the physical world. Keep in mind, mobile platforms are generally meant to be used while sitting or standing.

Can My Child Enjoy VR? There's really nothing about the VR hardware that would preclude a child from enjoying a VR experience, as long as the headset fits properly. The thing parents will want to use discretion on are the game content ratings, as with any type of game.

What if I get one system now and decide I want to use a different one later - can I switch? A lot of the VR content will work on either of the current VR systems, and in that sense, switching would not be a problem. Switching between a dedicated VR system and a gaming system that has VR capabilities is not likely to work out. As far as the hardware itself goes, competing systems have hardware with similar purposes, but it is not generally compatible with the competing brand's accessories, so it would be best to research first before attempting to make this kind of change.

Can I get multiplayer VR games? This type of feature is being developed and beginning to become available.

How Often Will I Need To Upgrade My System? There's no specific answer to that question. Like any tech device, components and software improve over time and this can mean upgrades to meet new requirements. Over time, you VR technology and your PC may need a few upgrades to keep things running smoothly and to deliver the best possible VR experience.

Will Prices Come Down? Over time, most electronic devices can become less expensive as new models are released. Since Rift and Vive launched, they have each dropped in price. But expect to pay more for newer models at the time of launch. Of course, top of the line hardware and components often cost more than what you’ll likely find in a standard system. But they also enhance performance, providing you with value for the added cost.