Is Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 VR Compatible?

The Samsung Galaxy A5 2017, while possessing a capable display, does not officially support VR headsets, particularly Samsung's Gear VR. Although the device has hardware and sensors that could theoretically support VR, it lacks the necessary performance to deliver a satisfactory virtual reality experience.

Official Compatibility and Sensor Requirements

Unfortunately, the Samsung Gear VR is only officially compatible with a select few models, including the S6, S6 Edge, S7, S7 Edge, S8, and Note5. These models have the necessary sensors and performance to support the VR experience effectively.

If you're looking to use VR, it's recommended to consider purchasing a more powerful smartphone that meets the specifications required for VR applications. However, for those who cannot change their current device, there are alternatives available. For instance, Google Cardboard can be used in conjunction with compatible VR apps, and the BoboVR Z4 is another option that can provide a decent experience.

Checking Sensor Capabilities

To determine if your Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 has the necessary sensors to support VR, you can check whether it has the following:

Accelerometer Gyroscope Magnetometer

If your device lacks these sensors, these VR features will not function properly. You can verify if your device has these sensors by searching online using the following keyword:

“[Model Name] sensors list”

VR Usage Considerations

While the Galaxy A5 2017 does have the potential to support VR, the specific VR app or game you wish to run can further impact its performance. Some basic VR apps might work, but they may not provide the optimal experience.

For a more immersive and seamless VR experience, you might need to consider upgrading to a more powerful device. If this is not feasible, you can opt for alternative VR solutions like Google Cardboard or the BoboVR Z4, which can still provide a decent VR experience, albeit not as advanced as premium VR headsets.

Given the official list of compatible devices, the closest you can get with the Galaxy A5 2017 is to experiment with some VR apps that do not heavily rely on high-performance hardware. However, for a full VR experience, you might need to invest in a more recent Samsung device that meets the requirements.

Alternative VR Solutions

For those who are keen on experiencing VR but cannot afford a newer Samsung device, there are other affordable options available:

Google Cardboard: A simple and cost-effective solution that works with most smartphones. While the experience may not be as immersive as dedicated VR headsets, it's still a good entry point into the VR world. BoboVR Z4: This headset provides a more advanced VR experience while still remaining affordable. It's a more portable and budget-friendly option for those looking to immerse themselves in VR without breaking the bank.

However, if you're willing to spend a more substantial amount, you can also consider purchasing a Samsung S6 for around $300 and a Gear VR for $99, providing a more premium VR experience. This option is significantly less expensive compared to the high-end VR headsets from brands like Microsoft, Sony, and Oculus, which can start at $999 and upwards.