VR headset with glasses: your options
1. Keep your eyeglasses on.
All Varjo headsets can be used with eyeglasses. Depending on the size of your glasses, you can either wear them as is or use our extended face cushions specifically designed for users with eyeglasses. These face cushions feature an opening on either side to accommodate thicker eyeglass frames.
Moreover, ensuring that the VR/XR headset is worn in the correct position can enhance both your comfort and the visual experience. Varjo headsets, regardless of the headset generation, each have two main adjustable dials that should be used to ensure the headset is in the correct position and that the lens’s optical axis aligns with your eyes. Here you can read more about how to customize Varjo’s headset for your individual needs, especially considering the XR-3 amd VR-3 headsets. For the Varjo XR-4 Series, you can find instructions here.
2. Use third-party VR prescription lenses.
Image by VR Optician
The second option can be a preferred option for people who use Varjo headsets often and each of their VR/XR session takes several minutes (or even hours). Moreover, if you need to take the headset on and off several times during the day, opting for prescription lenses can save you the trouble of juggling between your headset and glasses at your desk. By using prescription lenses, you can ensure a comfortable, immersive VR/XR session without any hassle or discomfort. This is particularly important for VR/XR developers as it reduces friction in the development process.
Prescription lenses are not part of Varjo’s solution offering, but there are a couple of third-party vendors that are worth considering, such as VR Optician and VR Lens Lab.
The benefits of using prescription lenses include:
- A wider field of view: Compared to wearing glasses with your headset, you don’t suffer from decreased FOV when using prescription lenses. There is no need to worry about missing out on seeing some details due to the limitations that your eyeglasses might cause to the field of view.
- Comfortability: You’ll have more room inside the headset, and considering ventilation, it’s better to have nothing extra inside the headset.
- Protection of the lenses: You can avoid the struggle of managing two sets of lenses that could potentially get scratched or smudged.
In addition to the benefits listed above, prescription lenses offer the option of a fixed setup for those who need it. For example, you can have demo lenses with fixed values, like -1, -2, -7, ensuring that people can enjoy VR/XR content without glasses.
3. Use the headset without your glasses.
If you have only a slight vision impairment, such as clear near vision, you might find that you can use VR/XR headsets without your glasses, as you can see things up close quite well.
Additionally, don’t rule out contact lenses if they are part of your comfort zone. If you’re comfortable with wearing contacts, they can be a great option for enjoying a seamless VR/XR experience.
Varjo VR/XR headsets are designed to cater to all users, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience for everyone. Whether you choose to wear your glasses, use prescription lenses, or go without glasses altogether, each option offers its own benefits and possibilities. Every user is different, and the best way to figure out what works for you is to try out a few options and see what best accommodates your immersive VR/XR experience.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses with a Varjo headset?
Yes. All Varjo headsets can be used with eyeglasses. Thicker frames fit with the extended face cushions, which have an opening on either side.
Does Varjo provide prescription lenses?
No. Prescription lenses are not part of Varjo's solution offering. Third-party vendors such as VR Optician and VR Lens Lab supply them.
Why does headset position matter for glasses wearers?
The lens optical axis must align with your eyes. Two adjustable dials on every Varjo headset generation set the position, and correct positioning improves comfort and visual quality.
Can I use contact lenses with a Varjo headset?
Yes. Contact lenses are a suitable option for users who already wear them comfortably.
Is there a way to set up a shared headset for users with different prescriptions?
Third-party vendors can supply demo lenses with fixed values, for example -1, -2, and -7, so users can work in the headset without their own glasses.
