Augmented reality, or AR, needs a screen display that overlays graphics over our existing vision. Now, to do that, either we can use our mobile devices such as smartphones etcetera, or we need a head mounted device. The head mounted device is sure to give a more immersive experience, but just working good is not enough. It should be unobtrusive enough for actual every day wear, so that the person using it does not look out of place using them.

Now, AR is not the same as VR, or virtual reality. Unlike VR, which attempts to recreate the entire world around the user from scratch, augmented reality just expands and enhances the user’s interactions and experience. Just this last point alone is the reason that the tech sector believes that AR has the highest potential for mass acceptance and usage when compared to others technologies in the extended reality family.

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented reality is a concept where take part in an interactive experience where the real world is enhanced using digital information, sometimes across multiple sensory modes. The aim is to integrate the digital content with the real world in such a way to provide a seamlessly immersive experience to the user.

While it is part of the extended reality family, it not quite different from virtual reality or VR. VR works by creating the visual world from scratch, rather than overlaying and enhancing like AR.

The real life application of augmented reality mobile apps, or augmented reality software services in general is quite diverse and widespread. Being an integral part of military equipment, or an important classroom tool to provide a more interactive approach to studying, or just using an AR mobile app to show a prospective buyer what a particular piece of furniture would look like at their home, AR is fast becoming a regular part of our lives. Many tech companies are working to create their own version of AR glasses, such as the augmented reality Microsoft glasses called the HoloLens project, or the augmented reality Apple Glasses.

Now let us look at some of the offerings for augmented reality wearables available on the market.

Best AR glasses on the market:

When we usually talk about AR wearables, we generally mean AR smart glasses, as the majority of more sophisticated wearables are for business or enterprise use. So let us start our list of the top ranked augmented reality glasses 2020:

• Epson MOVERIO BT-300:

The Epson MOVERIO BT-330, also known as the MOVERIO BT-300 FPV is a set of smart glasses of Japanese origin, which provides an impressive list of specifications for an affordable price. The glasses themselves are of quite high quality, and the Epson App market that comes with it provides its users with a vast array of apps to go with the glasses.

A 720p HD resolution display, a high quality 5 megapixel camera and a long battery life make it an impressive addition in the smart glasses category.

The drone addition allows you to control a DJI drone directly via the glasses, or you can use the included controller.

These smart glasses are currently available on amazon for the competitive price of 550 Pounds Sterling.

• Everysight Raptor:

AR capable smart glasses are becoming more popular with athletes, as it allows them instantaneous access to a lot of information about their physical activities. These smart glasses are designed specifically for cyclists. With a battery that can power the glasses for up to 8 hours with a single charge, a high quality front camera to record the biking trips, and connectivity options such as Bluetooth, WIFI, GPS, GLONASS etcetera, these glasses are truly wonderful. Not only that, considering the sports aspect, there the option to swap the lens tint according to the conditions or preference.

The buyer has the option of buying the compatible controller with the glasses, which turns the experience up a notch.

The base price for the glasses, without the optional controller and lens tints, is 500 Pounds Sterling.

• Google Glass Enterprise Edition:

Also called the Google “EE”, this is the updated version of the Google Glass and the Google Glass Explorer. The upgrades include a faster processor, better camera, more reliable WIFI connectivity and a better GPS, which shows that Google listened to the feedback from customers of their previous products. Though the smart glasses are quite feature rich, the hefty price tag of 1400 Pounds Sterling is a roadblock towards widespread adoption of the device, and therefore targets enterprise and business users.

• Vuzix Blade Smart Glasses:

Vuzix Blade AR glasses are compatible with both Android and iOS devices. This stylish yet low profile and unobtrusive pair of smart glasses boast an impressive 8 megapixel Hi definition camera, an innovative set of rechargeable batteries and as well as the capability to provide haptic feedback.

The current price for a pair of Vuzix Blade AR glasses is 630 Pounds Sterling, which might be a bit expensive for general users, but those in the market for a stylish pair of feature rich smart glasses but don’t want to pay for the enterprise level options, these are just perfect.

To conclude, the market for AR glasses is expanding day by day, with many companies working to create cheaper and better options for a wider adoptability by the users. For now, we can try to snag the cheaper options to try out and enjoy the experience they offer.

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