When you want to escape to virtual worlds, connecting a top-notch VR headset to a great gaming PC can unlock a whole new realm of possibilities. While some of the best VR games can be enjoyed on standalone headsets, the selection is limited. For the richest experience, most games look and play better when your VR headset is linked 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 Target
The best VR headsets for PC provide sharp displays, comfortable designs, accurate tracking, and seamless connectivity to your gaming PC or gaming laptop. Although these features come at a premium, the Meta Quest 3S offers a great cheap VR headset for PC users on a budget. For those with more to spend, the Valve Index is the go-to for seamless Steam integration, while PS VR2 supports PC VR with minimal compromises.
Choosing the right headset without trying it on can be tricky, but our experts have done the legwork to ensure you find the best VR headset for PC that fits your needs. Whether you're seeking versatility or top-tier graphics, one of our top five picks will cater to 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 higher price tag.
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 dated, but it remains one of the most uncompromising PC VR headsets available. With a 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution, games and apps appear crisp, which is crucial for dodging enemies in Half-Life Alyx or spotting threats in Alien: Rogue Incursion. The headset's premium padding and comfort dials ensure a snug fit, and despite weighing 1.79lbs, its ergonomic design keeps discomfort at bay.
The convenient flip-down speakers and easy-to-use passthrough system enhance the overall experience. The Valve Index's strong ties to Steam make it ideal for VR enthusiasts seeking access to a vast game library. Using external 'lighthouse' towers, it offers hyper-accurate roomscale VR tracking, complemented by Valve's 'Knuckles' controllers with peerless finger tracking. The only downside is the cost, but the included system seller, Half-Life: Alyx, justifies the investment.
Meta Quest 3S – Photos
10 Images
Meta Quest 3S
Best Budget VR Headset for PC
### Meta Quest 3S
3The Meta Quest 3S is an excellent entry-level option for both standalone and PC VR, offering robust performance and handy features.
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 PC doesn't have to break the bank, and the Meta Quest 3S proves it. This headset is a streamlined version of the Meta Quest 3 – which we reviewed and loved, offering a lower price point by cutting some features. Although primarily a standalone device, connecting to a PC is straightforward with a link cable or using streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link over a strong Wi-Fi connection.
The Meta Quest 3S is lighter at 1.13lbs and features a comfortable fabric Y-strap, though IGN’s Meta Quest 3S testing noted some looseness with vigorous movement. The biggest compromise is the use of Fresnel lenses instead of pancake lenses, which impacts clarity and causes distortion. However, the full-color passthrough, 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, it delivers a seamless VR experience on both PC and standalone platforms.
HTC Vive Pro 2
Best VR Visuals
### HTC Vive Pro 2
1The HTC Vive Pro 2 is the ultimate choice for VR enthusiasts seeking the highest graphical fidelity.
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 the screen door effect, and a smooth 90 to 120Hz refresh rate that enhances realism in titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator. Its 120-degree field of view deepens immersion, but requires a powerful gaming PC to maintain performance.
While the design isn't revolutionary, the headset is comfortable with balanced weight, supportive cushioning, and adjustable head and lens settings. However, setup can be cumbersome, requiring multiple cords and base stations. The built-in high-res audio places you right in the action, eliminating the need for a separate gaming headset. Although we haven't reviewed the HTC Vive Pro 2, our experience with the original HTC Vive Pro highlighted its impressive image quality and comfort.
HTC Vive XR Elite
Best VR Headset for Work and Play
### HTC Vive XR Elite
2The HTC Vive XR Elite is perfect for users needing a versatile VR headset for both work and play.
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 adaptability makes it an excellent choice for those needing a headset for both professional and casual use, supporting virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences. To use it with PC VR, you'll need a link cable or the Vive Streaming app. Its wireless design and unobtrusive speakers make it ideal for travel, suitable for work and play. The 1920x1920 resolution per eye and 110-degree field of view deliver clear visuals, with multiple adjustments for a secure fit.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
PlayStation VR2
Best VR for Console and PC
### PlayStation VR2
7The PlayStation VR2 offers an exceptional VR experience for both PS5 and PC users.
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
Originally designed for the PlayStation 5, the PlayStation VR2 now supports PC VR with a PC adapter for $59.99. The setup is straightforward, requiring only a USB-C connection and a DisplayPort 1.4 cable, compatible with most budget gaming PCs. Accessing Steam's VR library is easy, though some PS VR2 features like HDR support, eye-tracking, and adaptive triggers are unavailable on PC. Despite these limitations, the 4K OLED panels, 120Hz refresh rate, and 110-degree FOV ensure a crisp, immersive experience. Our hands-on testing confirms its suitability for PC VR, making it a compelling option for PS5 owners considering VR.
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 both digital specifications and physical comfort, including comfort dials, airflow, and build quality. Technological aspects like resolution, refresh rate, and tracking solutions also play crucial roles in performance and user experience.
PC VR FAQ
Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?
Yes, VR headsets and games have specific system requirements. For the best experience, especially with demanding titles, you'll need a high-end gaming PC with robust graphics cards and processors. If a powerful PC is out of budget, consider standalone headsets that operate independently of a computer.
What VR headsets don’t require a PC?
Standalone options like the Meta Quest 3S and the entire Quest lineup are excellent for wireless VR gaming. The Pico 4 offers a similar experience, and the Apple Vision Pro provides a powerful standalone solution within the Apple ecosystem. PlayStation VR2 requires a PS5, not a PC, and some budget 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 your gaming PC meets the required specifications, and choose a comfortable, capable VR headset. Additionally, a well-lit, obstacle-free space enhances tracking accuracy. Some headsets offer built-in indicators to help define your 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, and Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. These events often feature discounts on Meta Quest headsets, though other models may also be available at reduced prices.
