Cheapest VR Headset

- Google cardboard is the cheapest and can be purchased for under $10. Can be made from plastic,
cardboard or aluminium. VR Headsets can be created using plastic magnifying lenses, a sheet of cardboard
and a smartphone as a screen; this is the most basic and cost-effective way of producing a VR Headset.
Higher-quality headsets are made of aluminium or plastic.

How is VR Developed

- Computer technologies are utilised to create interactive virtual environments viewed through a headset. VR
headsets are essentially just machines designed to replace our surroundings with something created in
software. There are gyroscopic sensors, accelerators, and magnetometers in headsets to determine how
you move and track your interactions with a virtual space. Software engineers use game engines such as
Unity or Unreal engine to be used as the building blocks for VR programs, and use computer languages
such as c++ to code and develop VR Programs and games. The VR game development cost usually
depends on genre, gameplay, and category. A simple game for VR park with a single navigation mechanic,
like race, jumping arcade, and others, usually costs in the range of $5,000 to $15,000. In China, most VR
teams are 5–15 people. Per capita monthly salary of 1000-2000 US dollars.

Overall costs

- The most basic VR Headset can be developed with just plastic magnifying lenses, cardboard sheets and a
mobile phone; this is the most cost-effective way. A Team of software developers is required to program and
develop the set; the team may only require members ranging from 2-8 individuals as this would be sufficient.
The number of software developers is down to your preference, as well as the capabilities of each software
developer. VR App development costs between $40 to $240 ( in North America). To develop VR, software
such as unreal or unity is required ; unreal is free while unity is $1,800-$2400 per year.

Low Cost System - Barebone DIY Budget - $1, 500

● Pre-configured gaming computer: $1,000

● Low cost HMD such as Oculus Rift S: $399
● Free and open source software and in house development: Free

How can costs be minimized

1. Using basic materials for headset development. Plastic can be used to keep quality at an acceptable level
rather than something like cardboard.
2. Not incorporating unnecessary features such as motion capture, bio-physio measurement and data gloves,
all which are incredibly pricey and need a budget of at least $5000 dollars
3. Keeping software development team small
4. Using a free software engine such as unreal engine