When you want to escape into virtual worlds, having a VR headset connected to a great gaming PC can significantly enhance your experience. While some top VR games are compatible with standalone headsets, these are relatively rare. Most games deliver superior visuals and performance when your VR headset is linked to a capable 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, comfortable designs, precise tracking, and seamless connectivity to a gaming PC or gaming laptop. While these high-end options come with a hefty price tag, the Meta Quest 3S offers a great cheap VR headset for PC users on a budget. For those willing to spend a bit more, the Valve Index stands out for its effortless Steam integration, while the PS VR2 supports PC VR with only minor limitations.
Unfortunately, you can't try these headsets before buying, which is why our experts have done the legwork, testing and researching to ensure you find the best VR headset for PC that fits your needs. Whether you're seeking versatility or top-notch graphics, one of our five selections will meet your PC VR requirements.
Valve Index
Best VR Headset for PC
Our Top Pick### Valve Index
7The Valve Index stands out as the premier VR headset for PC users, though it comes with a significant cost. 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 continue to endorse it as one of the most comprehensive PC VR headsets available. With a 120Hz refresh rate and a 1440x1600 resolution, games and applications appear sharp and fluid, which is essential when navigating immersive experiences like Half-Life Alyx or spotting enemies in Alien: Rogue Incursion. The headset's premium padding and adjustable comfort dials ensure a snug fit, and despite its 1.79lb weight, its well-designed frame and ergonomic features maintain comfort during extended use.
The Valve Index features convenient flip-down speakers and an intuitive passthrough system for quick transitions in and out of VR. Its integration with Steam makes it an excellent choice for avid VR gamers seeking access to a vast game library.
Unlike other options, the Valve Index employs external 'lighthouse' towers for precise room mapping, enabling highly accurate tracking and roomscale VR. This setup requires additional space considerations, but the benefits are undeniable. Valve's 'Knuckles' controllers further enhance immersion with their advanced finger tracking. The only drawback is the high cost, but the quality and bundled games like Half-Life: Alyx justify the investment.
Meta Quest 3S – Photos
10 Images
2. Meta Quest 3S
Best Budget VR Headset for PC
### Meta Quest 3S
3The Meta Quest 3S is an outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset that delivers impressive performance and features like full-color passthrough. 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 a PC doesn't have to be expensive, and the Meta Quest 3S exemplifies this. It's a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3 – which we reviewed and loved, retaining core functionalities while trimming some features to lower the price. Although primarily a standalone device that works well with Meta's ecosystem, connecting to a PC VR library is straightforward with a link cable or streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link, provided you have a robust home Wi-Fi.
The Meta Quest 3S is lighter and slimmer, weighing just 1.13lbs, with an adjustable fabric Y-strap for a comfortable fit. However, IGN's Meta Quest 3S testing noted that the strap might loosen during intense movement. Still, it remains comfortable for extended sessions.
The primary downgrade from the Quest 3 to the Quest 3S is the use of 1832x1920, 20ppd Fresnel lenses instead of pancake lenses, which impacts clarity and causes some distortion. Nevertheless, the full-color passthrough, well-balanced controllers, and superior head tracking surpass those of the Quest 2 and many other headsets. Equipped with the same GPU, CPU, and RAM as the Quest 3, the Quest 3S offers similar, if not better, performance for a seamless VR experience, whether used standalone or with a PC.
HTC Vive Pro 2
Best VR Visuals
### HTC Vive Pro 2
1The HTC Vive Pro 2 is ideal for those who prioritize graphical fidelity in their VR experience. 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 delivers unparalleled detail with its 2448x2448 per-eye resolution, minimizing the screen door effect. Coupled with a 90 to 120Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth gameplay in visually rich environments like Microsoft Flight Simulator. The fast-switch LCD panels support a 120-degree field of view for an immersive experience, though this demands a powerful gaming PC.
While the HTC Vive Pro 2 offers top-notch resolution, its design isn't groundbreaking. It's comfortable with balanced weight, supportive cushioning, and an adjustable head strap, but setting it up can be cumbersome due to the need for two base stations and multiple cords. The built-in headphones provide high-resolution audio, eliminating the need for a separate gaming headset.
Although we haven't reviewed the HTC Vive Pro 2 directly, our experience with the original HTC Vive Pro left us impressed with its image quality and comfort.
HTC Vive XR Elite
Best VR Headset for Work and Play
### HTC Vive XR Elite
2For a VR headset that excels in both professional and gaming environments, the HTC Vive XR Elite is a versatile choice. 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 stands out for its adaptability, suitable for virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences in both work and play settings. To access PC VR, you'll need a link cable or the Vive Streaming app, but the trade-off is enhanced portability and usability in professional environments.
Its wireless design and discreet speakers make it an excellent choice for travel, suitable for business trips and gaming on the go. While not the highest resolution, the 1920x1920 per eye and 110-degree field of view provide clear visuals. Multiple adjustments for lenses and bands ensure a secure fit, similar to its HTC Vive Pro counterpart.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
5. PlayStation VR2
Best VR for Console and PC
### PlayStation VR2
7The PlayStation VR2 offers a comprehensive VR experience for both PS5 and PC users, featuring built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. 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, initially designed for the PlayStation 5, now supports PC VR with a PC adapter priced at $59.99. Setup is straightforward: connect the adapter to the VR2's USB-C cord and use a DisplayPort 1.4 cable. Most budget gaming PCs meet the minimum requirements, allowing access to Steam's extensive VR game library.
However, some PS VR2 features aren't available on PC, including HDR support, eye-tracking, adaptive triggers, headset feedback, and controller haptics. Despite these limitations, the VR2 still delivers crisp 4K visuals, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree FOV. You'll also enjoy a comfortable fit, finger-touch detection, rumble, 3D audio, and see-through view.
Our hands-on testing confirms that the PS VR2 is an excellent option for PC VR. If you own a PS5 and are considering the VR2, its PC compatibility makes it a compelling choice. 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 our expertise, hands-on experience with VR, IGN reviews, and consumer feedback. When purchasing a VR headset, consider not only the technical specifications but also physical comfort, which is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Factors like comfort dials, airflow, and build quality significantly affect how the headset feels during use. Additionally, the technology inside the headset, such as tracking solutions, passthrough, and refresh rate, directly impacts in-game performance and immersion.
PC VR FAQ
Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?
Just like PC games, VR headsets and games have minimum and recommended system requirements. If you're interested in specific VR games, check their system requirements before purchasing a headset to ensure compatibility. High-end hardware, including powerful graphics cards and processors, is typically necessary for the most demanding VR games. If building a gaming rig for PC VR is beyond your budget, consider standalone headsets that operate wirelessly without a PC.
What VR headsets don’t require a PC?
While PC VR headsets offer advanced capabilities, standalone options like the Meta Quest 3S and the entire Quest lineup are excellent for playing without a PC. The Pico 4 operates similarly to the Meta Quest and is ideal for those who prefer a wireless experience. The Apple Vision Pro is another powerful standalone headset that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, offering innovative work capabilities on the best MacBooks.
The PlayStation VR2 doesn't require a PC but needs a PS5 for the full VR experience. Some budget VR headsets use your smartphone as a display, providing an immersive experience suitable for younger users.
How do you ensure the best VR headset for PC experience?
In addition to a powerful gaming PC and a capable VR headset, consider other factors for an optimal experience. A well-lit space enhances tracking accuracy, and a clear, obstacle-free area allows for safe movement. Placing a rug or markers can help define your play area, and some headsets offer built-in indicators for this purpose.
When do VR headsets usually go on sale?
The best times to find deals on PC-compatible VR headsets are during major shopping events. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday typically offer significant discounts, especially on Meta Quest headsets, though other brands may also be available at reduced prices.
