When you want to escape to virtual worlds, a VR headset connected to a great gaming PC can significantly enhance your experience. While some top VR games are available on standalone headsets, these devices are limited in number and variety. For the best visuals and gameplay, connecting your VR headset to a capable PC is the way to go.
TL;DR - The Best VR Headsets for PC:
Our Top Pick### Valve Index
7See it at AmazonSee it at Steam
### Meta Quest 3S
3See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### HTC Vive Pro 2
1See it at Amazon
### HTC Vive XR Elite
2See it at Amazon
### PlayStation VR2
7See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at TargetThe best VR headsets for PC boast sharp displays, comfortable designs, precise tracking, and seamless connectivity with a gaming PC or gaming laptop. While these premium features can be costly, options like the Meta Quest 3S offer a great cheap VR headset for PC users on a budget. For those willing to spend more, the Valve Index provides the easiest integration with Steam, and even the PS VR2 supports PC VR with minor limitations.
Unfortunately, you often can't try these headsets for fit and functionality before buying. That's where our experts come in, having tested and researched these headsets to recommend the best VR headset for PC that meets your needs. Whether you prioritize versatility or top-tier graphics, one of our five picks will satisfy your PC VR requirements.
Valve Index
Best VR Headset for PC
Our Top Pick### Valve Index
7The Valve Index is the top choice for PC VR enthusiasts, though it comes with a higher price tag. See it at AmazonSee it at SteamProduct SpecificationsResolution (Per eye)1440x1600Refresh Rate120Hz (144Hz experimental mode)Field of View130°Tracking6DoFWeight1.79lbsPROSPowerful and convenient built-in speakersBest-in-class finger-trackingCONSHigh price pointOur review of the Valve Index may be a few years old, but we still stand by our assessment that it's one of the most uncompromising PC VR headsets available. With a 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution, games and apps appear crisp and smooth, crucial when navigating through intense scenarios like those in Half-Life Alyx or Alien: Rogue Incursion. The headset's premium padding and adjustable comfort dials ensure a snug fit, and despite weighing 1.79lbs, its well-designed frame keeps it comfortable.
Flip-down speakers and an easy-to-use passthrough system allow for seamless transitions in and out of VR. The Valve Index's integration with Steam provides access to a vast library of VR games, making it ideal for serious gamers. It uses external 'lighthouse' towers for highly accurate room-scale tracking, though this requires additional setup. Valve's 'Knuckles' controllers offer unparalleled hand-tracking, enhancing immersion. The only downside is the cost, but the included Half-Life: Alyx justifies the investment.
Meta Quest 3S – Photos
10 Images
2. Meta Quest 3S
Best Budget VR Headset for PC
### Meta Quest 3S
3An outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset with impressive performance, full-color passthrough, and more. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsResolution (Per eye)1832 x 1920Refresh Rate120HzField of View90°Tracking6DoFWeight1.13 poundsPROSPick up and play setupFull-color passthroughCONSNot a native PC VR setupVR gaming on PC doesn't have to break the bank, and the Meta Quest 3S demonstrates this. It's a streamlined version of the Meta Quest 3, which we've reviewed and loved, offering a lower price point while maintaining essential features. Although primarily a standalone device, it can connect to PC VR through a link cable or streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link with a robust Wi-Fi connection.
Weighing just 1.13lbs, the Quest 3S is lighter and more comfortable than many competitors, with a fabric Y-strap for easy adjustments. However, our reviewer noted that the strap might loosen during intense movement. The lenses use 1832x1920, 20ppd Fresnel lenses, a step down from the Quest 3's pancake lenses, resulting in slightly less clarity and some distortion. Despite this, the full-color passthrough, well-balanced controllers, and top-notch head tracking make it a significant upgrade over the Quest 2. With the same GPU, CPU, and RAM as the Quest 3, the Quest 3S delivers a smooth VR experience on both PC and standalone.
HTC Vive Pro 2
Best VR Visuals
### HTC Vive Pro 2
1The HTC Vive Pro 2 is the ultimate choice for those who crave the best graphics in VR. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution (Per eye)2448 x 2448Refresh Rate120HzField of View120°Tracking6DoFWeight1.9 poundsPROSSuperb graphical fidelityHigh-quality audio suiteCONSIntense hardware requirementsThe HTC Vive Pro 2 offers stunning visuals with a 2448x2448 per-eye resolution, minimizing the screen door effect. Its 90 to 120Hz refresh rate and 120-degree field of view provide a deeply immersive experience, perfect for games like Microsoft Flight Simulator. However, such high-end optics demand a powerful gaming PC.
While the design isn't as innovative as its visuals, the Vive Pro 2 remains comfortable with balanced weight and supportive cushioning. An adjustable head strap and lens distance tweaks enhance the fit, though the setup can be cumbersome, requiring two base stations and multiple cords. The built-in headphones deliver high-resolution audio, eliminating the need for a separate gaming headset. Although we haven't reviewed the Vive Pro 2, our experience with the original HTC Vive Pro confirms its impressive image quality and comfort.
HTC Vive XR Elite
Best VR Headset for Work and Play
### HTC Vive XR Elite
2Ideal for those needing a versatile VR headset for both work and play, the HTC Vive XR Elite excels in mixed reality environments. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsResolution (Per eye)1920 x 1920Refresh Rate90HzField of View110°Tracking6DoFWeight1.38 poundsPROSConvenient wireless designHighly adaptable and comfortable to wearCONSNot a native PC VR solutionThe HTC Vive XR Elite's adaptability makes it a great choice for those needing a headset for both professional and casual use. It offers virtual, augmented, and mixed reality experiences, suitable for work and gaming. However, to access PC VR, you'll need a link cable or the Vive Streaming app.
Its wireless design and unobtrusive speakers enhance portability, making it ideal for travel and business trips. The 1920x1920 resolution per eye and 110-degree field of view deliver clear visuals, though not the best in class. Multiple adjustments for lenses and bands ensure a secure fit, much like its sibling, the HTC Vive Pro.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
5. PlayStation VR2
Best VR for Console and PC
### PlayStation VR2
7Designed for the PS5, the PlayStation VR2 now supports PC VR with a $59.99 adapter, offering built-in tracking, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and tactile Sense controllers. See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsResolution (Per eye)2,000 x 2,040Refresh Rate120HzField of View110°Tracking6DoFWeight1.24 poundsPROSCrisp, smooth graphicsRelatively simple setupCONSSome features only available on PS5The PlayStation VR2, once exclusive to the PlayStation 5, can now connect to a PC with a simple adapter. Setup involves connecting the adapter to the PS VR2's USB-C cord and a DisplayPort 1.4 cable, compatible with most budget gaming PCs. With a Steam account, you can access a wide range of VR games.
Some PS VR2 features, like HDR support, eye-tracking, adaptive triggers, headset feedback, and controller haptics, are not available on PC. However, you still benefit from 4K visuals, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 110-degree FOV, comfortable fit, finger-touch detection, rumble, 3D audio, and see-through view. Our hands-on testing confirms that the PS VR2 is a solid choice for PC VR, especially if you already own a PS5. At over $600 with the adapter, it's a worthwhile investment compared to other premium PC VR headsets.
How to Choose the Best VR Headsets for PC
Our selection of PC VR headsets is based on our extensive experience and expertise, as well as IGN reviews and consumer feedback. When purchasing a VR headset, consider not only digital specifications but also physical comfort, which is crucial for a prolonged VR experience. Comfort dials, airflow, and build quality all play a role in how the headset feels during use. Additionally, the technology inside the headset, such as tracking solutions, passthrough, and refresh rate, significantly impacts your gaming experience.
PC VR FAQ
Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?
VR headsets and games, like PC games, have minimum and recommended system requirements. Before investing in a VR setup, check these requirements to ensure your gaming rig can handle the applications you want to play. High-end hardware, including powerful graphics cards and processors, is typically necessary for the most demanding VR games. If a high-end PC is out of your budget, consider standalone VR headsets that don't require an external computer.
What VR headsets don’t require a PC?
While PC VR headsets offer robust capabilities, standalone options like the Meta Quest 3S and the entire Quest lineup provide excellent standalone experiences. The Pico 4 operates similarly to the Meta Quest, offering a tether-free experience. The Apple Vision Pro is another powerful standalone option that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, ideal for use with the best MacBooks. The PlayStation VR2 doesn't require a PC, but you'll need a PS5 for the full experience. Budget-friendly VR headsets that use your smartphone screen offer a fun, immersive experience suitable for children.
How do you ensure the best VR headset for PC experience?
To maximize your VR experience, ensure your gaming PC is powerful enough and your VR headset is comfortable. A well-lit space is essential for accurate tracking, and a clutter-free area allows for safe movement. Consider using rugs or markers to define your play area, and take advantage of the safety features some headsets offer.
When do VR headsets usually go on sale?
PC-compatible VR headsets often see price drops several times a year. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are prime times for VR discounts, particularly on Meta Quest models, though other headsets may also be available at reduced prices.
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