Want a taste of PC VR gaming but don’t want to splash out on one of the more expensive headsets? Lenovo has you covered.
The company’s Windows-based ‘mixed reality’ VR device, the Lenovo Explorer, is currently just $199 at the Microsoft Store. That’s $200 off of its original price and $200 cheaper than an Oculus Rift, $300 cheaper than an HTC Vive, and basically the same price as Sony’s PlayStation VR (PSVR) for PS4.
You can also save $200 on a bundle including the Explorer and Lenovo’s Legion Y720 gaming laptop with a 1060 graphics card fitted but, there isn’t any extra saving in buying the bundle over the headset alone.
The Explorer might not be quite as good as a Rift, Vive, or even other Windows headsets like Samsung’s Odyssey, but at this price it’s quite easy to recommend. The headset comes with a pair of motion controllers to bring your hands into VR and utilizes an inside-out tracking system, meaning you won’t need to place external sensors around the room like you do with the Rift and Vive. The tracking may not be as dependable as, say, SteamVR, but it’s far more convenient for the average home.
Better yet, the headset can play SteamVR games, giving you access to thousands of VR experiences on day one. The only caveat is that you’ll need a decent PC to power it, especially if you want to access Steam.
Elsewhere in Lenovo camp, the company is currently prepping to launch its standalone VR headset, the Lenovo Mirage Solo, next month.
