Top VR Headsets for PC Gamers Revealed

When you want to dive into virtual worlds, pairing a VR headset with a great gaming PC can unlock a multitude of possibilities. While some top VR games are compatible with standalone headsets, these are relatively scarce. Most games deliver a superior experience when your VR headset is connected to a powerful PC.

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, ergonomic designs, precise tracking, and seamless connectivity with a gaming PC or gaming laptop. While these high-end features come at a premium, the Meta Quest 3S stands out as a great cheap VR headset for PC, perfect for budget-conscious users. For those willing to invest a bit more, the Valve Index is the go-to choice for seamless Steam integration, and the PS VR2 now supports PC VR with minimal compromises.

Unfortunately, trying out these headsets for fit and functionality before buying is often not an option. That's why our experts have rigorously tested and researched to help you find the perfect VR headset for your PC that meets your specific needs, whether you're seeking versatility or top-notch graphics.

1. Valve Index

Best VR Headset for PC

Our Top Pick### Valve Index

7The Valve Index stands out as the premier choice for PC VR enthusiasts, despite its higher cost. Its crisp visuals and ergonomic design make it a worthwhile investment for those looking for the best VR experience on PC.

See it at AmazonSee it at Steam

Product Specifications

• Resolution (Per eye): 1440x1600
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz (144Hz experimental mode)
• Field of View: 130°
• Tracking: 6DoF
• Weight: 1.79lbs

Pros

• Powerful and convenient built-in speakers
• Best-in-class finger-tracking

Cons

• High price point

Our review of the Valve Index may be a few years old, but it remains one of the most uncompromising PC VR headsets available. The 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution ensure that games and apps look sharp as you move, which is crucial in immersive experiences like Half-Life Alyx or Alien: Rogue Incursion. The headset's premium padding and comfort dials allow for a custom fit, minimizing discomfort despite its 1.79lb weight.

The Valve Index features convenient flip-down speakers and an easy-to-use passthrough system, making it easy to switch in and out of VR. Its integration with Steam provides access to a vast library of VR games, making it ideal for dedicated gamers.

The Index uses external 'lighthouse' towers for hyper-accurate room-scale tracking, which requires additional setup but delivers unparalleled precision. Valve’s 'Knuckles' controllers offer exceptional hand-tracking, enhancing immersion. The only drawback is its cost, though the value is evident with the included game, Half-Life: Alyx.

Meta Quest 3S – Photos

10 Images2. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset for PC

### Meta Quest 3S

3The Meta Quest 3S offers an excellent entry-level solution for both standalone and PC VR, combining affordability with robust performance.

See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Product Specifications

• Resolution (Per eye): 1832 x 1920
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz
• Field of View: 90°
• Tracking: 6DoF
• Weight: 1.13 pounds

Pros

• Pick up and play setup
• Full-color passthrough

Cons

• Not a native PC VR setup

VR gaming on a PC doesn't have to break the bank, and the Meta Quest 3S is a testament to this. It's a streamlined version of the Meta Quest 3, which we highly praised in our review, maintaining core functionalities while reducing cost. Though designed primarily as a standalone headset for Meta's ecosystem, connecting it to a PC for VR gaming is straightforward with a link cable or streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link on a robust Wi-Fi network.

Weighing just 1.13lbs, the Quest 3S is lighter and more comfortable, thanks to its fabric Y-strap. However, IGN's testing noted that the strap could loosen during vigorous movement. The lenses, while not as advanced as those in the Quest 3, still provide a decent experience, though with some distortion. The headset's full-color passthrough, balanced controllers, and superior head tracking make it a compelling choice, especially considering its performance matches that of the Quest 3 due to identical GPU, CPU, and RAM.

3. HTC Vive Pro 2

Best VR Visuals

### HTC Vive Pro 2

1For those who prioritize visual quality, the HTC Vive Pro 2 is an unbeatable option, delivering exceptional graphics on PC VR.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Resolution (Per eye): 2448 x 2448
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz
• Field of View: 120°
• Tracking: 6DoF
• Weight: 1.9 pounds

Pros

• Superb graphical fidelity
• High-quality audio suite

Cons

• Intense hardware requirements

The HTC Vive Pro 2 boasts a stunning 2448x2448 per-eye resolution, minimizing screen door effects and offering a smooth 90 to 120Hz refresh rate. Its 120-degree field of view enhances immersion, perfect for games like Microsoft Flight Simulator. However, these high-end visuals demand a powerful gaming PC.

While the Vive Pro 2's design isn't groundbreaking, it remains comfortable with balanced weight and supportive cushioning. The setup process, however, can be cumbersome, requiring multiple cords and base stations. Its built-in high-resolution audio places you right in the heart of the action, negating the need for a separate gaming headset.

Though we haven't reviewed the Vive Pro 2 directly, our experience with the original HTC Vive Pro was positive, praising its image quality and comfort.

4. HTC Vive XR Elite

Best VR Headset for Work and Play

### HTC Vive XR Elite

2The HTC Vive XR Elite is an excellent choice for those needing a versatile headset that excels in both professional and gaming environments.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Resolution (Per eye): 1920 x 1920
• Refresh Rate: 90Hz
• Field of View: 110°
• Tracking: 6DoF
• Weight: 1.38 pounds

Pros

• Convenient wireless design
• Highly adaptable and comfortable to wear

Cons

• Not a native PC VR solution

The HTC Vive XR Elite's versatility makes it an appealing choice for users seeking a headset that can handle virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences. It's suitable for both work and play, though accessing PC VR content requires a link cable or the Vive Streaming app.

Its wireless design and unobtrusive speakers make it ideal for travel, suitable for business trips or gaming on the go. While its resolution and field of view are solid, they don't match the top-tier offerings. The headset's comfort is enhanced by multiple lens and band adjustments, ensuring a secure fit.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images5. PlayStation VR2

Best VR for Console and PC

### PlayStation VR2

7The PlayStation VR2, originally designed for the PS5, now offers PC compatibility, bringing its advanced features to a broader audience.

See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at Target

Product Specifications

• Resolution (Per eye): 2,000 x 2,040
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz
• Field of View: 110°
• Tracking: 6DoF
• Weight: 1.24 pounds

Pros

• Crisp, smooth graphics
• Relatively simple setup

Cons

• Some features only available on PS5

The PlayStation VR2 now supports PC VR with a $59.99 adapter, allowing you to connect to your PC using a USB-C cord and a DisplayPort 1.4 cable. Most budget gaming PCs meet the requirements, and with a Steam account, you can access a wide range of VR games.

While some PS VR2 features like HDR support, eye-tracking, and advanced haptics are not available on PC, the headset still delivers crisp 4K visuals and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The comfortable fit, finger-touch detection, rumble, 3D audio, and see-through view ensure an enjoyable PC gaming experience.

Our hands-on testing confirms that the PS VR2 is a strong contender for PC VR, especially for those who already own a PS5. Though it's pricey at over $600 with the adapter, it remains a cost-effective option compared to other high-end PC VR headsets.

How to Choose the Best VR Headsets for PC

Our selection of PC VR headsets is based on extensive expertise, IGN reviews, and consumer feedback. When choosing a VR headset, consider not only the technical specifications but also physical comfort, which is crucial for prolonged use. Comfort dials, airflow, and build quality significantly impact the overall experience. Additionally, the technology and performance capabilities of the headset are vital for enjoying your favorite VR games.

Quality-of-life features such as tracking solutions, passthrough, and refresh rates also play a significant role in the fluidity and immersion of your VR experience.

PC VR FAQ

Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?

Yes, VR headsets and games have specific system requirements that you must meet to ensure smooth performance. If you're targeting specific games, check their system requirements before purchasing a headset. High-end hardware like powerful graphics cards and processors are necessary for the most demanding VR games. If building a gaming rig is out of budget, consider standalone headsets that don't require a PC.

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 are excellent for wireless VR gaming. The Pico 4 and Apple Vision Pro also provide powerful standalone experiences, with the latter integrating seamlessly into the Apple ecosystem. The PlayStation VR2 requires a PS5, not a PC, and some budget-friendly VR headsets use your smartphone for a more accessible VR experience.

How do you ensure the best VR headset for PC experience?

To maximize your VR experience, ensure you have a powerful gaming PC and a comfortable VR headset. A well-lit space is essential for accurate tracking, and a clear, obstacle-free area allows for safe movement. Some headsets come with indicators to help you stay within the play area.

When do VR headsets usually go on sale?

The best times to find deals on PC-compatible VR headsets are during Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. These events often feature discounts on Meta Quest headsets, though other models may also be available at reduced prices.