Top Affordable VR Headsets Reviewed

The world of virtual reality (VR) can seem out of reach with top-tier models like the Apple Vision Pro priced at a hefty $3,500. However, the good news is that you don't need to spend a fortune to dive into immersive virtual worlds. There are several budget-friendly VR headsets that offer great experiences without breaking the bank.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Budget VR Headsets:

Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S

38Experience a robust entry-level standalone/PC VR headset with impressive performance and full-color passthrough.
See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### PlayStation VR2

13Immerse yourself in VR gaming with built-in tracking, eye tracking, and tactile Sense controllers.
See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at Target### Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04

8Enjoy a unique, playful VR experience with this cardboard headset compatible with the Nintendo Switch.
See it at Amazon### Atlasonix VR Headset

13Transform your smartphone into a VR device with comfort and an eye-protection system.
See it at Amazon### Google Cardboard POP!

6Get an affordable introduction to VR with this simple yet effective cardboard headset.
See it at AmazonThe introduction of the Oculus Quest, now owned by Meta, revolutionized VR accessibility by not requiring a gaming PC. This breakthrough, combined with its reasonable price, made VR much more approachable for the general public. Today, while standalone options remain limited, they provide an excellent entry point into VR without needing additional hardware.

Whether you're seeking a full VR experience with advanced tracking, six degrees of freedom (6DoF), and high resolution, as offered by the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2, or just want to try VR with a smartphone-based solution, our experts have curated a list of five budget-friendly options. These choices cater to various budgets and levels of immersion, serving as a great starting point before considering more expensive models.

10 Images1. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset

Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S

38The Meta Quest 3S offers an outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset with significant performance capabilities, including full-color passthrough for a seamless experience.
See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsPlatformStandalone, PCResolution (per-eye)1832x1920Refresh Rate90-120HzField of View90°Tracking6DoFWeight1.13 poundsPROSStandalone devicePerformance similar to the Meta Quest 3CONSFresnel lensesOur in-depth review of the Meta Quest 3 praised its exceptional standalone VR experience, but noted the steep price increase from the Quest 2. Fortunately, the Meta Quest 3S offers a more budget-friendly alternative, combining the strengths of its predecessors into a capable VR headset.

The Quest 3S boasts robust performance thanks to its CPU, GPU, and RAM, mirroring the Quest 3 and significantly upgrading from the Quest 2. Our testing of the Meta Quest 3S confirmed smooth gameplay in demanding titles like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural, with a slight performance edge over the Quest 3 due to lower-resolution lenses.

While the Quest 3S uses the Quest 2's Fresnel lenses instead of the pancake lenses found in the Quest 3, it still offers a commendable VR experience with a 120Hz refresh rate and minimal screen door effect. The full-color passthrough mode enhances mixed-reality gaming.

The design closely resembles the Quest 3, featuring comfortable, lightweight controllers and a well-balanced 1.13-pound headset with a cloth strap for a secure fit. Battery life lasts around 2 hours, but a link cable allows for connection to a gaming PC.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images2. PlayStation VR2

Best VR Headset Under $600

### PlayStation VR2

13Elevate your PS5 gaming with the PlayStation VR2, featuring built-in tracking, eye tracking, and tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.
See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsPlatformPS5, PC (with adapter)Resolution (per-eye)2,000 x 2,040Refresh Rate90-120HzField of View110°Tracking6DoFWeight1.24 poundsPROS4K OLED displays with HDR and a 120Hz refresh rateTactile Sense controllersCONSCan’t play original PSVR gamesOur hands-on review of the PlayStation VR2 highlights its superiority over the original headset, offering a comprehensive suite of features for a starting price of $550. Setup is straightforward, requiring just a USB-C connection and some calibration.

The headset's 4K OLED panels deliver stunning visuals with HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view. It matches the performance of many pricier PC VR headsets. However, it's incompatible with original PSVR games. Thankfully, an adapter available for $59.99 enables PC support, enhancing its versatility despite some feature limitations on PC.

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Best VR Headset Under $100

### Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04

8Experience a playful and creative VR journey with this cardboard-crafted headset designed for the Nintendo Switch, perfect for kids and adults alike.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformNintendo SwitchResolution (per-eye)1,280 x 720Refresh Rate60HzField of ViewNot listedTracking 3DoFWeight3.14 poundsPROSPlayful headsets you constructBuilt of sturdy cardboardCONSNo strapThe Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04, released in 2019, surprised many with its innovative approach to VR. This kit lets you construct various playful headsets like blasters, cameras, and more, each tied to unique VR experiences. It's an affordable addition to your Nintendo Switch accessory collection at under $100.

Using the Switch's screen, the Labo VR kit offers a straightforward VR experience with visible pixels and a 60Hz refresh rate. Without a strap, it may cause fatigue during extended use. Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit appreciated its creativity, a core element of all Labo products.

4. Atlasonix VR Headset

Best VR Headset Under $50

### Atlasonix VR Headset

13Enjoy VR on your smartphone with the Atlasonix headset, featuring comfort, an eye-protection system, and a Bluetooth remote for enhanced interaction.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformAndroid, iOSResolution (per-eye)Depends on deviceRefresh RateDepends on deviceField of View105°Tracking3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)Weight0.5 poundsPROSEasy setupComfortable on headCONSLimited to your phone’s abilitiesThe Atlasonix VR Headset enhances smartphone VR with superior clarity, comfort, and a 105-degree field of view. Its breathable padding and adjustable strap ensure comfort, while an eye protection system and focal/pupillary distance sliders enhance clarity. Compatible with most phones up to 6.3 inches, it's easy to set up and comes with a Bluetooth controller for better VR interaction.

5. Google Cardboard POP!

Best VR Headset Under $20

### Google Cardboard POP!

6Enter the world of VR affordably with the Google Cardboard POP!, featuring a simple cardboard frame and a button for basic VR interactions.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformAndroid, iOSResolution (per-eye)Depends on deviceRefresh RateDepends on deviceField of View95°Tracking3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)Weight0.31 poundsPROSExtremely inexpensiveEye cushioningCONSLimited interactions inside VRGoogle Cardboard, such as the POP! version, is an ultra-budget option that uses a cardboard frame to hold your phone and lenses, offering basic VR interactions through a button. It's perfect for accessing VR content through Cardboard apps. The POP! model includes a cutout for photography, eye cushioning, and a secure headband, all available for under $20.

What to Look for in a Budget VR Headset

When choosing a budget VR headset, consider the type of experience you want. For deep VR gaming, the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2 are ideal. For movies and still-image exploration, smartphone-based VR is a cost-effective choice. For smartphone VR, consider a Bluetooth VR controller for better control.

Platform: The VR ecosystem is crucial, with most budget headsets relying on smartphones (iOS or Android). The Meta Quest 3S offers standalone functionality with its own app store and PC connectivity. The PS VR2 requires a PS5 for optimal use, while the Nintendo Labo VR is exclusive to the Switch. Research the games and experiences you're interested in to choose the right platform.

Design and comfort: Comfort is key for enjoyable VR sessions. Budget headsets may compromise on comfort, but look for adjustable straps and ample padding. For longer sessions, hands-free use and a controller are essential. Ensure the headset protects your phone from scratches and includes vents to prevent overheating.

With these considerations, you can enjoy a great VR experience without spending a fortune. Even with a modest smartphone, there are compelling VR experiences available. Use these tips to find the perfect budget VR headset and start exploring virtual worlds.

Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ

What's the difference between VR and AR?

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) differ significantly. AR, accessible via smartphones, overlays virtual elements onto the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go or Apple's Vision Pro. VR, however, fully immerses you in a computer-generated environment, with examples like Asgard's Wrath 2 on the Meta Quest or Gran Turismo 7 on PSVR 2.

What are some standalone VR headset options?

Standalone VR headsets don't require additional devices. The Meta Quest series, particularly the Meta Quest 3S, is the best budget option. Other standalone choices include the Pico 4 and HTC XR Elite. The Apple Vision Pro is a premium standalone device that integrates well with Apple's ecosystem and best MacBooks.

When is the best time to buy VR headsets on a budget?

While high-end VR headsets rarely see discounts, budget models often do. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are prime times for VR deals, with a focus on Meta Quest headsets, though other models may also be discounted.