3D technology is popping up in all sorts of products, from movies to video games and cameras. Chris Olsen shows you which ones live up to the high tech hype.
Watching 3D television isn't just about sports or movies. An increasing number of 3D video games are coming out. At Consumer Reports' labs, the games are creating quite a buzz -- the staff love them.
Video games are just one of many new 3D products now on the market. There are also 3D laptops. But Consumer Reports tests on an Acer laptop show the 3D effects aren't very exciting and the viewing angle is very limited.
But Consumer Reports' Terry Sullivan says a 3D point-and-shoot camera is more promising.
Sold for $700, the Fujifilm Finepix Real 3D W1 camera is pricey but it shoots 3D photos and videos.
"It's really cool that you can watch 3D video on this camera without needing to wear special glasses. But you have to shoot it horizontally, not vertically," Sullivan said.
However, take a pass on the camera's $500 3D digital frame. Tester Rich Fisco saw double images and experienced eye strain.
When it comes to 3D televisions, testers are still finding big differences in performance.
"So far, we're finding that plasma is a better technology for 3D. And when it comes to screen size, bigger is definitely better for 3D's immersive experience with movies and video games," Consumer Reports' Jim Willcox said.
Consumer Reports' advice: if you're looking to buy a high-end TV right now, go ahead and get one that's 3D. Top-rated is the Panasonic VT-25 series, which starts at about $3,000 for the 50-inch model. There are other expenses to consider before you buy. You'll need a 3D Blu-ray player for movies and that costs $350 plus additional fees for glasses, which cost $150 or more.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
