Is VR the Future of Work? One Writer Put It to the Test
The idea of working in virtual reality (VR) sounds futuristic—like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.
But what if we told you that VR could actually improve your productivity, minimize distractions, and transform your remote work setup?
That’s exactly what one writer at The Guardian set out to test when he spent an entire week working in VR. The results? Surprisingly impressive.
In this article, we’ll break down how VR workstations can boost productivity, enhance focus, and provide a more immersive work environment—and how you can try it for yourself.
Why Work in VR?
For years, VR has been associated with gaming, entertainment, and social experiences. But what if it could also replace your office? Thanks to advancements in multi-screen workstations, mixed reality, and customizable environments, working in VR is becoming a viable alternative for remote professionals.
Here’s why more people are experimenting with VR for work:
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Distraction-Free Focus – Work in a virtual environment without external interruptions. No cluttered desks, noisy cafes, or distracting notifications.
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Unlimited Monitors – Apps like Immersed allow you to create up to five virtual screens—no need for a physical multi-monitor setup.
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Portability & Flexibility – Your entire office fits into a single VR headset, making remote work setups easy to transport.
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Better Ergonomics – Since you're not bound to a physical desk, VR workstations offer more flexibility for posture and movement.
How the Experiment Worked
Ed Newton Rex, founder of Fairly Trained AI and writer for The Guardian, decided to ditch his laptop and work exclusively in VR for an entire week. His setup included:
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A Meta Quest 3 headset
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The Immersed VR app for a multi-screen workstation
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A Bluetooth keyboard and mouse
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A digital workspace customized for focus and productivity
Initially, the experience felt strange. Typing on a real keyboard while seeing a virtual one in his headset took some getting used to. But after a few hours, he found himself fully immersed—experiencing deep focus, fewer distractions, and a surprising boost in workflow efficiency.
The Benefits of Working in VR
1. Ultimate Focus Mode
With no pop-up distractions, no phone buzzing nearby, and no background noise from the office or café, working in VR felt like stepping into a private office anywhere in the world.
2. A Multi-Screen Setup Without the Cost
Traditional multi-monitor setups can be expensive, requiring high-end laptops and additional screens. In VR, however, you can place as many virtual screens as you want—perfect for programmers, video editors, stock traders, or anyone who needs multiple displays.
3. Work from Anywhere
A VR headset is lightweight, portable, and adaptable. Whether you're in a hotel room, or at home, you can instantly create a productive workspace.
Should You Try It?
If you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, VR could be the future of your productivity. While it may take some time to adjust, the benefits—enhanced focus, multi-screen efficiency, and immersive workspaces—make it worth considering.
Want to Try It Yourself? Get started with the Meta Quest 3S—one of the most affordable VR headsets for work and productivity.
Or you could recreate Ed's experiment down to the tee and get a Meta Quest 3 headset
We'll end this article with this quote by Ed
"Today, the key to making the most of VR – if you’re not a gamer – is using it for activities you do on your own."
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