Virtual reality nowadays
Why are cardboard glasses no longer relevant?
When virtual reality came out of cardboard
This type of VR glasses was available in many variants: colorful, creatively designed and in a wide variety of shapes. They were particularly popular promotional gifts at trade fairs and events and opened the door to new digital experiences. Numerous companies and developers took up the idea and still produce their own versions made of cardboard or simple plastic nowadays.
cheap, simple, but with many limitations
However, these advantages have their limits: The simple design can neither keep up with the resolution of modern displays nor with advanced tracking. Motion control, precise position tracking or immersive audio functions are completely absent. The wearing comfort often leaves a lot to be desired, and the models are simply unsuitable for longer sessions. In addition, the dependence on the smartphone leads to compatibility problems – especially with older or less powerful devices.
The present time: high-end instead of cardboard
In the meantime, the VR landscape has changed fundamentally. Autonomous all-in-one VR headsets such as the Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro or Pico 4 are setting new standards. With integrated position tracking, their own controllers, high-quality displays and long wearing comfort, they offer an experience that can no longer be compared with the cardboard solutions of the past.
This is one of the reasons why Google has long since discontinued the production of cardboard glasses – and the market has evolved. If you want to use VR at trade fairs, in retail or in marketing, it is better to use professional headsets. This is the only way to truly utilize the immersive power of the technology and exploit its full potential.
Conclusion: Cardboard VR has had its day
The question arises for many people: Is cardboard VR still relevant? VR glasses made of cardboard have their place in the history of virtual reality – as an appealing, low-threshold solution for the first steps. But in 2025, they are no longer up to date. Too limited, not immersive enough, too far removed from what is technically possible these days. Anyone who is serious about VR relies on quality – not cardboard.
