Epple Google Cardboard DIY 3D VR Glasses Review

Epple Google Cardboard DIY 3D VR Glasses Review

Back in the early days, VR headsets were heavy, robust pieces of tech riddled with seemingly unsolvable problems. Aside from the technical problems, these clumsy contraptions were notorious for making people nauseated and dizzy within minutes.

In recent years, VR sets have made huge progress from the futuristic and almost useless devices to household items. Today, VR sets offer a far more pleasant experience, as well as a wide range of apps and games. They can even be used as learning tools or built from cardboard in a matter of minutes.

Epple Google Cardboard DIY 3D VR Glasses

The Epple Google Cardboard DIY 3D VR Glasses kit is one of the best “do-it-yourself” options available in the budget class. Due to its cardboard construction, the set is far lighter than plastic models. It is compatible with iOS, Symbian, and Android devices, as long as they’re in the 4”-5.5” diagonal range.

Who is this for?

This DIY kit is perfect for the tinkerers out there who like to make their own toys. A simple and easy-to-follow assembly guide is printed on the back of the cardboard panel used for making the main unit.

Aside from the DIY bunch, this kit can also be a great gift for your children or young relatives if you’d like to introduce them to the joy of building stuff on their own. Also, this kit can be enjoyed by beginners and everyone else who want a bare-bones headset to enjoy VR.

What’s included?

Like most DIY kits out there, the Epple Google Cardboard DIY 3D VR Glasses kit is spartan. It comes with only the necessary parts and components. The list includes the cardboard needed to assemble the main unit, lenses, magnet, and Velcro-style headband. The headphones and remote controller are not included in the kit.

Overview of features

The main feature of this fantastic VR headset is its unparalleled portability. You can tear it down in a matter of seconds and pack the parts in a bag for transport.

The assembled kit is around 4 ounces and on the compact side. This makes it great for both casual VR experiences and longer adventures, such as films where you are the main character. Thanks to its super lightweight, the kit won’t put any strain on your or your kid’s head or neck.

That being said, it might take some time to get used to the cardboard housing and the elastic headband. That’s mostly due to the lack of padding between the housing and your face. However, once you get used to it, the ergonomically shaped housing won’t bother you. The same goes for the elastic strap.

On the technical side, the kit is equipped with a pair of glass lenses. They can’t be adjusted like on the plastic VR kits. Also, they are not made of optical-grade glass. On the other hand, they can easily be installed and uninstalled in case you need to pack up your Epple DIY VR kit.

Since they’re not optical lenses, you don’t have to worry about focal point and lens distance. Likewise, there are no headphones for this bare-bones set. The only source of sound will be your trusty smartphone speaker(s).

If you’d like to enjoy games and interactive applications, you’ll have to invest in a Bluetooth remote controller. There are many variants out there, so make sure to get one that’s compatible with your phone’s OS.

The elastic nylon headband only goes around your head, instead of over and around as seen on many plastic models. The strap is attached to the housing’s sides and can be adjusted to fit both kid and adult heads.

In the compatibility section, this DIY kit is on par with ready-to-use models. It can accommodate smartphones with 4” to 5.5” screen diagonal. Compatible operating systems include Android, iOS, and Symbian.

While certainly not something you’d call sturdy and rugged, this DIY kit can last a long time with proper maintenance and care.

Tutorial

Given the fact that the Epple VR set comes as a DIY kit, you’ll have to know how to assemble it. Here’s how to do it.

1. First, locate the pulling strip and tear it off from the “Tear off the seal from here” spot.
2. Disassemble the cardboard from the “Detach here” spot.
3. Locate the “Start Here” point and insert the numbered pieces into the corresponding slots.
4. Once you’ve connected the numbered pieces, secure the box with glue or tape.

Here’s how to use your Epple DIY VR kit once you’ve assembled it.

1. First, scan the QR code with your smartphone to download the app. You can alternatively search for it on the Apple Store or Google Play.
2. Open the front cover and insert your phone. Make sure it’s aligned properly.
3. Close the front cover.
4. Put the kit on your head.
5. Use head motions to pick a game.
6. Pull the magnet down and release it to start the game.

Alternatives

While surely an entertaining kit, the Epple Google Cardboard 3D VR Glasses kit might be too simple for some users. If that’s the case, you can try the VR Shinecon Virtual Reality Glasses. This is a full-featured set with adjustable lenses and 3D headphones. The set is also equipped with a remote Bluetooth controller with which you can play more complex games and interactive apps. You can use 4.0”-6.0” iOS and Android phones with this set.

In case you’re looking for a slightly sturdier and more versatile VR set, the Merge VR Goggles might interest you. The housing is made of soft foam and there’s an adjustable headband. Like its Epple counterpart, the Merge model features no headphones or remote controllers. However, the Merge VR Goggles can be paired with the Merge Cube for AR experiences.

Conclusion

The Epple Google Cardboard 3D VR Glasses kit’s main draws are affordability, ease of use, and super-portability. Though it lacks some of the features commonly seen on affordable plastic models, this kit compensates for it with sheer fun and joy.