Microsoft’s Windows 10 VR headsets could give Oculus and HTC a run for their money

Last year, Microsoft revealed that it would be jumping into virtual reality by teaming up with third-party companies to build a slew of new headsets for Windows 10. Now today during its annual Build conference, the company unveiled the first two headsets, with prices that could give Oculus and HTC a run for their money. Microsoft has even built its own pair of motion controllers to go with it.

The first headset to be shown off is built by Acer. The headset on its own costs $299 but if you want to pick up the motion controllers too, it will cost $399. HP also has its own Windows VR headset on the way priced at $329. However, HP's version is aimed at developers, whereas Acer will be shipping to consumers later this Summer.

While we have heard about Microsoft's VR plans on a few occasions, its new motion controllers were a surprise. These are known as 6DOF Controllers, allowing for six degrees of freedom to move. This will take over from Xbox controllers as the primary form of navigation while wearing one of these headsets. That said, the motion controllers aren't required, similarly to the Oculus Rift and Touch controllers.

These headsets will start rolling out in a few months time, so we'll learn more about the full experience and what they are capable of closer to the time. From what we've heard previously though, some of these headsets will feature higher resolution displays than the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift, which would be particularly interesting to see.

KitGuru Says: While I'm not in a rush to buy another VR headset this year, I would like to see how much of a difference a higher resolution display can make.

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