Disposables have always been popular in our culture, despite the trend towards recycling and environmentalism. We just like to be able to throw stuff away whenever it breaks or we’re done with it!
Remember when disposable cameras were all the rage? (At least they were when I was growing up.) Now people hardly ever use stand-alone cameras anymore, except for professional photographers. Obviously times have changed, especially with the acceleration of technology.
Anyway, whether this VR headset we’re about to review is actually intended to be “disposable” is open to debate. Regardless, there’s no question it’s about as affordable as a VR headset can possibly be.
Remember when disposable cameras were all the rage? (At least they were when I was growing up.) Now people hardly ever use stand-alone cameras anymore, except for professional photographers. Obviously times have changed, especially with the acceleration of technology.
Anyway, whether this VR headset we’re about to review is actually intended to be “disposable” is open to debate. Regardless, there’s no question it’s about as affordable as a VR headset can possibly be.
Enter the DODOCase
I recently had an opportunity to preview the DODOCase VR headset. It’s an extremely affordable and highly functional VR headset made of low-cost materials including pre-cut cardboard, bi-convex lenses, Velcro, and an NFC tag. That’s it. The box is not fancy, but it’s presented well in terms of packaging.
Check out this unboxing video of the DODOCase for the full reveal:
Check out this unboxing video of the DODOCase for the full reveal:
The headset lends itself to a wide range of possibilities, simply because of the low price point. The advantage of affordability, however, also brings with it a few drawbacks. So let’s be as realistic as possible in listing the pros and cons of the DODOCase.
- Highly affordable alternative to VR Headsets, such as:
- Oculus VR
- HTC Vive VR
- Morpheus VR
- Merge VR
- Accessible to a wide audience: all smartphone users (2 billion by end of 2016)
- Suitable for educational and medical research use
- Easily replaceable
- Made from recyclable materials
DODO Case Pros:
One of the biggest things going for the DODO VR headset, of course, is its low price. This headset won’t set you back much, coming in at around $24. By comparison, many competitive models can be priced anywhere from $150 to $500.
Note that many of the VR headsets listed above require a mobile phone to use, so if you don’t already have one, that’s an extra $300-400. But, of course, a majority of people are already smartphone users, so the market for this headset is obviously huge.
Last but not least, it’s notable that 98% of the material used to make the headset is from cardboard, which happens to be recyclable. (Smart move, Dodo!)
Note that many of the VR headsets listed above require a mobile phone to use, so if you don’t already have one, that’s an extra $300-400. But, of course, a majority of people are already smartphone users, so the market for this headset is obviously huge.
Last but not least, it’s notable that 98% of the material used to make the headset is from cardboard, which happens to be recyclable. (Smart move, Dodo!)
DODO Case Cons:
- Build quality and durability is somewhat flimsy and prone to fall apart easily
- Assembly time took quite a bit longer than 10 minutes stated in the Instructions
- Application features are limited and dependent on phone technology
This is a terrific product for the price, no question. That said, there are a few things that could be improved upon. First off is the build quality. Much as I love the idea that these headsets are made from cardboard, I think I’d feel more comfortable having something more durable and rugged. Given the progress of 3D printers lately, there may be some other great low-cost alternatives – possibly models made of recyclable plastics (hint-hint!).
I could be that I’m just slow, but I think the instructions may have underestimated the build time for the headset (10 minutes). It seemed overly optimistic, since the flimsy material added time by making the assembly more of a challenge than it needed to be.
Lastly, the actual features were a bit limited. But then, there’s always a trade-off that comes with such an attractive price point.
I could be that I’m just slow, but I think the instructions may have underestimated the build time for the headset (10 minutes). It seemed overly optimistic, since the flimsy material added time by making the assembly more of a challenge than it needed to be.
Lastly, the actual features were a bit limited. But then, there’s always a trade-off that comes with such an attractive price point.
The Verdict
The VR Headset marketplace is changing rapidly – almost everyday! If you’re new to GamingWithPops.com, be sure to check out our previous post on VR Headsets in the Video Game Industry!
None of us has a crystal ball, but it’s clear that exciting things are in store for VR fans. This is still just the beginning for low-cost alternative VR headsets, and I, for one, am looking forward to seeing more from companies like DODCASE.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on low-cost alternative VR Headsets. Sound off in the comments section!
None of us has a crystal ball, but it’s clear that exciting things are in store for VR fans. This is still just the beginning for low-cost alternative VR headsets, and I, for one, am looking forward to seeing more from companies like DODCASE.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on low-cost alternative VR Headsets. Sound off in the comments section!
On a scale of 1 – 10 (10 being best), I rate the DODO Case a 7.0 — consider it a great start, with a lot of future potential.
What’s Next for VR Headsets?
The VR Headset marketplace is changing rapidly – almost everyday! If you’re new to GamingWithPops be sure
to check out our previous post on VR Headsets in the Video Game Industry!
None of us has a crystal ball, but it’s clear that exciting things are in store for VR fans. This is still just the beginning for low-cost alternative VR headsets, and I, for one, am looking forward to seeing more from companies like DODCASE.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on low-cost alternative VR Headsets. Sound off in the comments section!
to check out our previous post on VR Headsets in the Video Game Industry!
None of us has a crystal ball, but it’s clear that exciting things are in store for VR fans. This is still just the beginning for low-cost alternative VR headsets, and I, for one, am looking forward to seeing more from companies like DODCASE.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on low-cost alternative VR Headsets. Sound off in the comments section!