When you want to escape to virtual worlds, having a VR headset that connects to a great gaming PC can unlock even more possibilities. While some top VR games work on standalone headsets, these devices are few and far between. Most games look and play better when your VR headset is hooked up 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 offer sharp displays, comfortable designs, accurate tracking, and a seamless connection to a gaming PC or gaming laptop. While these top-tier headsets can be pricey, the Meta Quest 3S stands out as a great cheap VR headset for PC users on a budget. For those with a bit more to spend, the Valve Index provides the simplest integration with Steam, and the PS VR2 supports PC VR with minimal caveats.
Unfortunately, you often can’t try these headsets for fit and functionality before buying. That’s why our experts have conducted hands-on testing and research to help you find the best VR headset for PC that meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for versatility or top-notch graphics, one of our five picks will suit your PC VR requirements.
Valve Index
Best VR Headset for PC
Our Top Pick### Valve Index
7The Valve Index is the premier 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 opinion that it is one of the most uncompromising PC VR headsets available. With a 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution, games and apps look crisp as you move and turn your head – essential for dodging headcrabs in Half-Life Alyx or spotting sneaky xenomorphs in Alien: Rogue Incursion. The Index features premium padding and comfort dials for a snug fit. Despite weighing 1.79lb, its well-constructed frame and ergonomic design ensure comfort during extended use.
Convenient flip-down speakers and an easy-to-use passthrough system allow quick transitions in and out of VR. The Index’s integration with Steam makes it a top choice for serious VR gamers, offering access to a vast library of games.
Unlike other options, the Valve Index uses external ‘lighthouse’ towers for hyper-accurate tracking and roomscale VR, which requires additional setup but delivers exceptional results. Valve’s ‘Knuckles’ controllers provide peerless hands-free immersion with finger tracking. The only downside is the price, but the quality and bundled game (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
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 be expensive, and the Meta Quest 3S proves it. It’s a streamlined version of the Meta Quest 3 – which we reviewed and loved, offering a lower price while maintaining core features. Primarily a standalone device, it works seamlessly with Meta’s games and entertainment, but it can also access a Steam VR library or other PC VR titles using a link cable or streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link with a solid home Wi-Fi connection.
The Meta Quest 3S is lighter and slimmer, weighing just 1.13lbs, and features an adjustable fabric Y-strap for a comfortable fit. However, IGN’s Meta Quest 3S testing noted that the strap might loosen with excessive movement. The lenses are a downgrade from the Quest 3, using 1832x1920, 20ppd Fresnel lenses, which can cause some distortion. Despite this, the full-color passthrough, well-balanced controllers, and top-notch head tracking are significant upgrades over the Quest 2. With the same GPU, CPU, and RAM as the Quest 3, the Quest 3S delivers a seamless 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 VR enthusiasts who crave top-notch graphics.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 boasts a 2448x2448 per-eye resolution, minimizing the screen door effect and delivering sharp, detailed visuals. Coupled with a smooth 90 to 120Hz refresh rate, it’s perfect for vibrant vistas and realism in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Its fast-switch LCD panels support a 120-degree field of view for deeper immersion. However, these high-end optics demand a powerful gaming PC.
While the HTC Vive Pro 2 offers impressive resolution, its design isn’t as innovative. It’s comfortable with balanced weight, supportive cushioning, and an adjustable head strap, but it can be clunky and requires multiple cords and base stations for setup. The built-in headphones provide excellent hi-res audio, eliminating the need for a separate gaming headset.
Although we haven't reviewed the HTC Vive Pro 2, our hands-on experience with the original HTC Vive Pro impressed us with its 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, offering virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences.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 is highly adaptable, making it suitable for both professional and casual use. It supports virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences, making it a versatile choice for work and gaming. However, to access the PC VR library, you’ll need a link cable or the Vive Streaming app.
The XR Elite’s wireless design and unobtrusive speakers make it ideal for travel and business trips. While not the best in class, its 1920x1920 resolution per eye and 110-degree field of view provide clear visuals. Like the HTC Vive Pro, it offers multiple lens and band adjustments for a secure fit.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
5. PlayStation VR2
Best VR for Console and PC
### PlayStation VR2
7With built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and two tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, this VR headset is designed for the PS5 but also works on PC.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, originally exclusive to the PlayStation 5, now supports PC VR with a PC adapter for $59.99. Setup is straightforward: connect the adapter to the PS 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 VR game library.
However, some PS VR2 features are unavailable on PC, such as HDR support on the 2000x2040 per-eye OLED panels. Still, you’ll enjoy crisp 4K visuals, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree FOV. Features like eye-tracking, adaptive triggers, headset feedback, and controller haptics are absent, but you’ll still benefit from a comfortable fit, finger-touch detection, rumble, 3D audio, and see-through view.
Our hands-on testing confirms that the PS VR2 is a great option for PC VR. If you own a PS5 and are considering the VR headset, its new PC functionality makes it an even more compelling purchase. It’s pricey at over $600 with the adapter, but it’s a bargain compared to other PC VR headsets.
How to Choose the Best VR Headsets for PC
We’ve selected these PC VR headsets based on our expertise, experience with VR, IGN reviews, and consumer feedback. When choosing a VR headset, consider more than just digital specifications; physical comfort is crucial. Comfort dials, airflow, and build quality affect the headset’s feel during use. Additionally, the technology under the hood, such as the headset’s parts, impacts performance in games.
Quality-of-life features like tracking solutions, passthrough, and refresh rate also influence the fluidity of your VR experience.
PC VR FAQ
Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?
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, such as powerful graphics cards and processors, is necessary for the most demanding VR games. If building a gaming rig for PC VR is out of your budget, consider standalone headsets that work wirelessly without a PC.
What VR headsets don’t require a PC?
While PC VR headsets are highly capable, standalone options like the Meta Quest 3S and the entire Quest lineup offer flexibility for playing away from a computer. The Pico 4 is another great hybrid option, and the Apple Vision Pro is a powerful standalone device that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, ideal for use with 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 screen for a more immersive experience, suitable for children.
How do you ensure the best VR headset for PC experience?
Beyond having a powerful gaming PC and a capable, comfortable VR headset, consider these factors. A well-lit space ensures accurate tracking, and a clear play area free of obstacles is essential 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, but other models may also be available at reduced prices.
