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ByNathan P. Gibson/May 17, 2023 1:15 pm EST
It was not too long ago when virtual reality gaming was something of a niche that very few people actually experienced. But a combination of factors, including cheaper options and wider availability of products, means that there is a growing market for VR headsets that can play immersive games. Many major publishers and developers are even adding virtual reality support to blockbuster titles such as "Skyrim."
However, for anyone who wants to try out these experiences for themselves, choosing the right VR headset can be a daunting decision. After all, many of these devices cost as much as a high-end gaming PC and there are so many different headsets to choose from that it can be hard to know which is the best one for you. Fortunately, there are a few standout examples that are more than worth your money, combining affordability, quality, and comfort into one package.
Every one of these VR headsets is among the very best of the best when it comes to virtual reality and should be top of any list when deciding what device to go for.
Meta Quest 2
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Developed by Meta's Reality Labs, the Meta Quest 2 is the second iteration of the virtual reality headset that was originally released in 2019 under the name Oculus Quest. An evolution of that design, it looks largely the same at first glance but does come with a variety of improvements that ensure it is one of the best options when it comes to VR. Chief among them is the higher resolution in the display thatdelivers a crisper image to users along with a higher refresh rate for smoother on-screen movement.
The Meta Quest 2 also features a more lightweight design that should make playing for longer periods more comfortable. Improved battery life for the headset and controllers also allows for longer game sessions while the extra processing power and memory within the device allows it to run more demanding games. This headset is also priced at a more competitive $429 for the 256GB model, a full $70 cheaper than the introductory price of the Oculus Quest which only came with 128GB of storage.
With its ability to run software as a standalone product and from desktop computers, the Meta Quest 2 can do a bit of everything reasonably well and is a great introduction to the world of virtual reality — especially for those who don't particularly want to spend huge sums of money to get the highest possible specs.
Valve Index
Valve
It shouldn't come as a surprise that Valve would enter the virtual reality headset market at some point. After all, the company has the most commonly used digital storefront on PC and a huge catalog of VR games. Valve had also earlier collaborated with HTC to produce the Vive, another virtual reality headset, giving the company some experience in developing virtual reality hardware. All of this led to the 2019 launch of the Valve Index, a high-end VR headset
As one of the more expensive options on the market, the Valve Index does plenty to make up for its high price. It has a high refresh rate of 120Hz but is also able to run at both 80Hz and 90Hz with support for an experimental 144Hz available, as well. Combined with its dual 1440×1600 LCD screens, off-ear headphones, and optimized pixel layout, it is an immersive and comfortable VR headset. There's also good news for those who previously owned HTC devices as the Valve Index is compatible with earlier controllers and base stations, meaning you might not have to spend extra money on purchasing new peripherals and accessories.
As an extra bonus for those who purchase this particular headset, Valve also throws in the highly-acclaimed virtual reality game "Half-Life: Alyx."
PlayStation VR2
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Sony first launched a virtual reality kit back in 2016, with the PlayStation VR released for the PS4. While reception to the device was mostly positive, some did criticize it for its lack of quality blockbuster titles. However, this is simply because the headset was designed to be used exclusively with the PS4 and so didn't have the same capabilities as a powerful gaming PC. Sony followed this original product up in 2023, releasing the PS5-compatible PlayStation VR2.
The fact that the PS VR2 has been designed specifically for the PS5 gives it some distinct advantages. For example, it connects to the console via a simple USB-C cable, meaning there's no need for a complicated setup or lots of different wires. Of course, this means that it can only be used for games released through Sony's own online store. The device sports A twin OLED panel that supports 4K resolution and frame rates of 90Hz and 120Hz. The designers also worked hard to make it lighter and more comfortable to wear, a common complaint of VR headsets.
While the PS VR2 does have some drawbacks, including a wired connection that may get in the way during play sessions, it is undoubtedly one of the best VR headsets available right now. SlashGearfound that it was a good value product that is easy to recommend to those who want to try out virtual reality without having to invest in an expensive PC.
Meta Quest Pro
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Meta already has a number of virtual reality devices on the market. Most notable among them is the Meta Quest 2, which is an entry-level headset that can give gamers a decent experience at a very reasonable price. However, the company has also launched a higher-end device to try and appeal to those who want a more immersive and all-encompassing experience. Known as the Meta Quest Pro, it costs $1,499, making it more than three times as expensive as its cheaper predecessor.
For all that extra money, the Meta Quest Pro certainly packs a punch and has some unique features that help it stand out from Meta's other virtual reality products. Perhaps the most obvious of them is that the Meta Quest Pro utilizes augmented and mixed reality elements in a similar fashion to Microsoft's own HoloLens project. This blends virtual elements with the real world to provide an experience not available on most VR headsets, which includes the Passthrough feature that can present text and images on real-life objects.
Throw in the higher resolution quantum dot displays LCD displays and double the RAM to ensure this headset looks and performs better than the Meta Quest 2. Of particular note are the new compact controller design and the better weight distribution thanks to the battery being attached to the back of the headset.
HTC Vive Pro 2
HTC
Costing $1,400, the HTC Vive Pro 2 is among the most expensive commercial VR headsets currently on the market. However, that high price doesn't go to waste, with the device capable of delivering a native resolution of 4896 x 2448 and offering a field of view of 120 degrees. Throw in the 120HZ refresh rate and the HTC Vive Pro 2 is a headset that promises users some of the best visuals available. The one downside to this is that the device needs a pretty powerful computer to connect to.
The HTC Vive Pro 2 even supports HTC's wireless adapter, meaning that it can be played without any physical connection to a PC. However, that will limit gamers to a lower refresh rate of just 90Hz rather than the higher 120Hz. Those who have already owned a previous HTC VR headset will also be able to simply buy the headset as previous controllers and base stations are compatible with the newer model. For audiophiles, the headset features Hi-Res Audi Certified headphones that come with 3D spatial sound.
HP Reverb G2
HP
While the VR headset market has largely been dominated by just a few manufacturers — including Meta, HTC, Valve, and Sony — there are some other options out there for people who want to give virtual reality gaming a chance. The HP Reverb G2 is one such example, a mixed reality headset that had a sharp resolution of 4K across both lenses and an impressive 114-degree field of view. The image quality is so good that it almost completely avoids the screen door effect which has been a huge problem for VR headsets since they first launched.
Utilizing Microsoft's spatial audio technology as well as an audio format developed by HP Labs that features artificial intelligence, it offers great sound to users. Meanwhile, the newly designed speakers have a small gap between the ear for comfort and to ensure the spatial 3D audio works exactly as intended. Additionally, the headset features four cameras to track the controllers and user movements so there's no need for any external sensors that need to be set up, giving players more freedom when it comes to choosing where to use the headset.
This means that the HP Reverb G2 is among the easier VR headsets to plug in and play as it is far more user-friendly than some of its competitors. A 20-foot cable to connect it to the PC also provides lots of freedom to move around.
HTC Vive XR Elite
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HTC has been a major player in the virtual reality market for some time now and its latest offering is a high-end product that is designed to compete against the likes of the Meta Quest Pro. The HTC Vive XR Elite can be used as a standalone wireless headset thanks to its battery, which can provide up to two hours of gaming on a single charge, or connected directly to a PC. Like the Meta Quest Pro, it features 12GB of RAM while the 128GB of internal storage should be plenty considering the size of most virtual reality apps and games available for the system.
For those who want their gadgets to look stylish, the HTC Vive XR Elite is arguably the best-looking VR headset thanks to its stylish design and small form factor. This has the added benefit of making the headset lightweight compared to many other alternatives and it can be worn for long periods without causing too much discomfort. The location of the battery at the back of the device also means the weight is distributed evenly, which should help with comfort, as well.
One particular praiseworthy feature is its support for Wi-Fi 6E, which provides seamless wireless performance that is essentially on par with a wired connection. SlashGear noted in its review that the HTC Vive XR Elite's "lightness, comfort, connectivity, and display make it a superb choice" for anyone who wants a high-end virtual reality setup.
PlayStation VR
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Although it is now almost seven years old, the PlayStation VR still has a lot to offer to anyone looking to try out virtual reality gaming on a budget. This particular headset has a number of advantages over many of its rivals, including the fact that it is now much more affordable than other similar products and works with the PS4 and PS5. What that means for gamers is that they don't have to go out and purchase a high-end PC to play virtual reality games and can instead stick with a console that they might already have.
That makes PlayStation VR an enticing prospect, especially for console gamers. Even its specs are not bad given its age and price, with a 5.7-inch OLED panel that has a resolution of 1080p and 3D audio. It is also fairly easy to set up and play, using the PlayStation Camera to accurately track your movement through LEDs located across the headset.
Sony provides a great catalog of titles, with a library that boasts more than 500 games of various sizes for download. That means there should be something for anybody using the PlayStation VR, like "Marvel's Iron Man VR" and "Hitman 3" as well as first-party releases such as "Astro Bot Rescue Mission." As an entry-level headset, there are few better options that will provide the same level of comfort and quality at such a low price.
HTC Vive Cosmos Elite
HTC
Another high-performing HTC headset is the HTC Vive Cosmos Elite. It is higher on the budget end of the spectrum when it comes to virtual reality devices and comes equipped with a 4.3-inch LCD screen that is capable of outputting resolutions of 1440 x 1700 at a refresh rate of 90Hz. Using several base stations to accurately track user movements rather than relying solely on cameras mounted on the headset, it requires a relatively large playing area and several power outlets. But that shouldn't put off anyone looking for a dedicated virtual reality setup that won't break the bank.
Originally launched as part of a bundle that included multiple base stations and controllers, the headset now has a standalone release. This has made it a far more tempting option for those who already own other HTC devices and are considering upgrading, as it is compatible with all past accessories. The HTC Vive Cosmos Elite is available at $549 as a standalone purchase or $900 as part of the original bundle. As an added bonus, buyers also get a free copy of "Half-Life Alyx" to go with the headset and really show what virtual reality is capable of in games.
Pimax 5K Vision Super
The Primax 5K Vision Super is a VR headset from the Chinese virtual reality specialist Pimax. As you might expect from the name, it has a combined resolution of 5K and a wide range of FOV and refresh rate options. At its highest setting, the device offers a field of view of 170 degrees horizontally and 115 vertically. However, this number will drop depending on the chosen refresh rate, which can go up as high as 180Hz. Sacrificing one of these to enable the highest settings of the other may sound silly but it means users have a whole host of options to tailor the experience to their own standards.
In terms of sound, this headset uses a rather unique solution that sees audio being output from speakers at the top of the device. For those who want a more immersive experience, in-ear headphones can also be purchased at an additional cost. Reviews have also noted the quality of the microphone, allowing for clearer communication. Combined with an easy-to-use interface and a more user-friendly initial startup process, the Primax 5K Vision Super is one of the best quality starter virtual reality devices available.
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FAQs
Which VR is worth getting? ›
The Meta Quest 2 (formerly the Oculus Quest 2) is the best VR headset for most people. It doesn't need wiring to an expensive PC, offers movement and freedom, and it's easy to set up and use.
Is it worth getting VR yet? ›VR remains an impressive but still limited proposition for most people. Thanks to tremendous advancements in the visuals, tracking and overall performance of VR hardware, the best VR headset options have become more realistic and immersive.
Do you need an expensive VR headset? ›Virtual reality is more popular than ever, and as technology continues to evolve, affordable VR experiences are more accessible. You don't need an expensive VR headset and powerful gaming PC to have a great time, though if you want a more hands-on, immersive experience, the price will rise quickly.
Are VR headsets good or bad? ›VR headsets can cause severe eye strain among users. They strain their eyes in order to focus on a pixelated screen that uses a single refractive optic element. Headsets do not usually addresses the optic issues with near-to-eye devices, and they quickly become uncomfortable after a few minutes.
Is VR dying or growing? ›VR has been a work in progress for decades. It will slow down, but not die. The reason it feels VR is so massive is because of meta, going in and out of VR push.
What is a better VR than the Oculus? ›HP Reverb G2
It's pricey compared with the Oculus Quest 2, but it's more affordable and easier to set up than the Valve Index for a tethered-only VR experience. It also features a high resolution for the price, at 2,160 by 2,160 for each eye.
Verdict. The Quest 2 is still definitely worth it in 2023. Although occasionally a bit buggy, it offers both an unrivaled experience as a standalone headset, and as a wireless VR headset for your PC.
Is Oculus Quest 3 coming out? ›Since then, though, Meta has confirmed the Quest 3 will be arriving in 2023, but we're not entirely sure when. Meta dropped the news during its third-quarter earnings report, which came with another interesting bit of info: Meta had lost $3.67 billion, with expectations for bigger losses in 2023.
How long should you stay in VR for? ›Most manufacturers recommend that VR systems be used for no more than 30 minutes at a time. As long as you take a break every 30 minutes, you can play as long as you like. Do not resume using VR if you are still feeling unwell after taking the recommended breaks.
What is a normal price for a VR? ›The average price of a virtual reality (VR) headset in the United States stood at 430 U.S. dollars in 2022, and is expected to remain at around this price in the following years. Notable VR headset vendors include Meta (previously Oculus), Pico, Sony, HTC, and Valve.
What are the disadvantages of a VR? ›
VR equipment can be expensive, making it less accessible to some people, which is a disadvantage of VR. Health Concerns: Some VR experiences might cause motion sickness or other physical discomforts. Using VR equipment for a long time might negatively affect vision and balance.
What is the downside of VR? ›One of the main disadvantages is the health risks associated with using VR headsets. These headsets can cause eye problems, such as eyestrain, headaches, and nausea. They can also cause motion sickness because they can make users feel like they are moving when they are not.
What is the biggest problem with VR? ›VR Sickness Among Consumers
A new term has cropped up in the VR community — VR sickness. Essentially, VR sickness is a term that describes the negative physical effects some users experience while immersed in a VR world. Common symptoms include eye strain, nausea, dizziness, disorientation and motion sickness.
Doing so will help you better understand how the experience presents to a user and make sure the content and perspective is appropriate for your kids. All that being said, manufacturers often note that VR headsets are recommended for kids 13 and up.
Can VR improve eyesight? ›When used as instructed by an optometrist, some VR headsets enable vision development and improvement. Systems have been developed to improve visual acuity in amblyopia and to enhance eye-hand coordination, depth perception, reaction time, and eye coordination.
How advanced will VR be in 10 years? ›By 2030, the latest VR screens now have 8k resolution, which has 4 times the number of pixels as 4k screens. When you view character models and objects up close with these devices, there is zero visible pixilation resulting in breathtaking detail and realism.
What are the dangers of VR in the future? ›Risks of virtual reality in gaming
There are also negative aspects of virtual reality gaming: Virtual reality sickness – VR gaming can disrupt the sensory system and cause similar symptoms to motion sickness – nausea, dizziness, headaches, fatigue and loss of balance.
VR technology is continuously advancing. The visuals are getting more realistic, eye tracking and motion tracking are improving, and the VR headset is becoming both more accessible and sophisticated, setting the stage for eventual full dive VR experiences.
What is the new VR technology in 2023? ›2023 could go down as one of the most eventful years in the history of virtual reality. This year will see the release of both the Playstation VR 2 and the Meta Quest 3. Both devices are likely to leave a lasting mark on the industry, just like their predecessors.
What is VR glass? ›Virtual reality glasses or goggles are a type of eyewear which functions as a display device. They enable the wearer to view a series of computer generated images which they can then interact with.
What is a cheaper alternative to VR? ›
- 3.1 Pansonite 3D Virtual Reality Headset.
- 3.2 Oculus Go.
- 3.3 HTC Vive.
- 3.4 Google Daydream.
- 3.5 Samsung Gear VR.
- 3.6 Sony PlayStation VR.
We believe that the Meta Quest 3 will retail for around $499. Mark Zuckerberg himself suggested that the price tag will cost at least $400.
Should I buy Oculus now or wait? ›If you want the latest technology and the most up-to-date features, then you should wait for the Oculus Quest 3. However, if you want to get an Oculus Quest now and don't mind missing out on some of the newer features, then the Oculus Quest 2 is a great option. Is buying an Oculus Quest 2 worth it in 2021?
What is the recommended age for the Oculus Quest 2? ›Designed for Age 13+
Meta VR Systems are not toys and must not be used by children under 13. Younger children have greater risks of injury and adverse effects than older users.
Good news for Quest fans - it's been reported numerous times that the Quest 3 will feature notable display improvements over the Quest 2. We expect that the Quest 3's display resolution will be 4128-by-2208 pixels, which is quite a bit higher than its predecessor's 3664-by-1920 (or 1832-by-1920 pixels per eye).
Will the Oculus Quest be discontinued? ›Developers can now discontinue Quest 1 support for VR games.
A few months ago, Meta announced the end of support for the original Quest. New features will no longer be rolled out to the VR headset, and social features like Horizon Home and the ability to create parties have already been turned off.
The Quest 3 should get many of the Quest Pro's features
Expect Meta's next headset to adopt many of the Quest Pro's best qualities: the color passthrough cameras and mixed reality capabilities, the smaller lens system and crisper visuals, and on top of that, likely a faster, better processor.
A recent study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that sleeping with VR headsets encourages relaxation techniques, making it easier to fall asleep and get a night of quality sleep.
Why do I feel weird after playing VR? ›While there is typically no actual “movement” during VR travel experiences, the brain is “tricked” into thinking that it is moving due to visual input from the eyes, but the body and inner ear remain still, and it is this disconnect that can cause VR motion sickness in some people.
How much is too much time on VR? ›Spending more than the recommended 30 minutes in VR will — in nearly every case — cause you to lose spatial awareness of the room around you. After 30 minutes, it is much more difficult to identify where things are in the physical world, from inside your headset.
Why is VR so expensive from now? ›
Virtual reality glasses are not a costly material as they are only made up of lenses and housing. However, it is the allied processing power that makes the overall cost of the experience costly. The price is further added if you consider including additional sensors and actuators for a fully immersive experience.
Do games cost money on VR? ›VR game prices vary widely: Some games are free, while others can cost as much as $60.
Is VR cheaper than AR? ›Less Expensive Than VR — AR is less expensive than VR, especially if your business already has tablets, or if your employees have phones they can use. Plus, if you have the hardware necessary for AR training, you'll have an easier time delivering it at scale.
What are 3 advantages of VR? ›- Learning can become fun. ...
- On-the-job learning made possible. ...
- Speed up the learning process. ...
- The “try-before-you-buy” concept. ...
- Remote training made possible. ...
- Trigger an emotional response from the learners.
| Pros and Cons of VR | |
|---|---|
| Pros | Cons |
| Gives detail views | Users addict to the virtual world |
| Connects with people | Technology is still experimental |
| Effective communication | Training in VR environment is not real |
So, is the Oculus Quest 2 worth it? Yes. It's priced lower than a lot of the competition, and with high marks for storage, resolution, and platform convenience, it's a good value in the VR space.
Why do I get sick playing VR? ›Since there is this discord between the eyes and the ears, a form of motion sickness can occur. The images projected from typical virtual reality headsets have a major impact on sickness. The refresh rate of on-screen images is often not high enough when VR sickness occurs.
Why is VR still unpopular? ›According to research, in 2020, lack of content was the number one VR adoption barrier. A third problem binds the two above. Stand-alone headsets are not powerful enough to support refined games. Tethered headsets cost much more and also need a high-performance computer.
Why does VR fail? ›Lack of Content
Mediocre responses and insufficient resources being devoted to the industry currently could keep Virtual Reality content confined to a novelty.
Virtual Reality can cause motion sickness. Some people can feel dizzy and suffer from eye strain due to the mismatch between their body movements and the virtual world. Potential users are concerned about eye damage. Computer Vision Syndrome is a result of the widespread use of computers.
Should I get my kid an oculus? ›
VR headsets vary in age requirements, but Oculus recommends theirs for kids 13 and up. However, this is precisely the age range that predators target for grooming. Studies show that children ages 12-15 are particularly vulnerable to predatory manipulation.
Is it OK for a 4 year old to use VR? ›Plus, headsets are not designed to fit young children. The Oculus Quest 2 Safety manual lists the following in their safety guidelines for children: The headset is not sized for children under 13. The headset should not be used for prolonged periods of time by children 13+
Why can't kids under 12 play VR? ›However, there is concern that VR may impact eye development in children due to the near-sightedness that occurs when taking part. Near-sightedness or otherwise known as myopia is a condition where close objects appear clear but objects far away are blurry.
Is it safe to wear glasses in VR? ›To put it simply — yes, you can wear a standard VR headset with glasses on. Learners with glasses will need to complete a few extra steps to ensure their headset is comfortable and displays a clear virtual environment.
Why do my eyes hurt after VR? ›When using VR, a user's brain is forced to process visual stimuli in a different way than normal. This can cause eye strain, which is simply a case of the eye muscles becoming fatigued. Eye strain will not cause long-term problems, but it is a sign that the eyes and brain need a break from the activity.
How do you protect your eyes with VR? ›You can reduce digital eye strain or eliminate glare caused by digital devices by wearing specialized lenses such as Eyezen™ or Crizal®.
Is the Oculus Quest 2 worth buying? ›So, if you're looking to join the VR revolution, we'd say that the Oculus Quest 2 is a great way to do just that. It'll serve you very well as a standalone headset, and it'll support PC VR as well if you invest in a powerful computer later.
Is Oculus 2 the best VR? ›We think the Meta (formerly Oculus) Quest 2 is the best headset for most people because it's the easiest to use and offers access to the widest range of games and experiences.
Can a 10 year old use Oculus Quest 2? ›Designed for Age 13+
Meta VR Systems are not toys and must not be used by children under 13. Younger children have greater risks of injury and adverse effects than older users.
The Quest 2 has a significantly improved screen resolution over the Quest 1, providing a better and more immersive visual experience. In detail, the Quest 2 has a screen resolution of 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye, while its predecessor comes out at 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye.
How much will the Quest 3 cost? ›
We believe that the Meta Quest 3 will retail for around $499. Mark Zuckerberg himself suggested that the price tag will cost at least $400.
How much does Oculus Quest 2 cost? ›How much does the Oculus Quest 2 cost, and is it worth it? The Meta Quest 2 costs $399 for the 128 GB and $499 for 256 GB. (There used to be a 64 GB Quest for $299, but Meta quietly discontinued it in 2021.) Third-party sellers aren't really worth your time.
What VR is better than Quest 2? ›All three VR headsets run on Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 platform in their standalone modes, so performance should be very similar. The Pico 4 has a bit of an advantage over the Quest 2 though, with its 8GB of RAM compared to the Quest's 6GB. While the Vive XR Elite boasts 12GB making it the most powerful of the bunch.
Is Oculus safe for eyes? ›VR isn't bad for your eyes. Although VR screens can temporarily affect vision, creating good eye habits can alleviate most symptoms. Just as digital screen use is part of your every day, you should also make time every day for eye health.
What age is appropriate for VR? ›Doing so will help you better understand how the experience presents to a user and make sure the content and perspective is appropriate for your kids. All that being said, manufacturers often note that VR headsets are recommended for kids 13 and up.
Why is VR not for under 12? ›However, there is concern that VR may impact eye development in children due to the near-sightedness that occurs when taking part. Near-sightedness or otherwise known as myopia is a condition where close objects appear clear but objects far away are blurry.
What's better the Oculus or the quest? ›The Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone headset that's $100 less than the Oculus Rift S, with higher resolution and the option of using it as a tethered headset just like the Rift S (via an accessory cable). Add the fact that Oculus is phasing out the Rift S, and there's really no question: Get the Quest 2.
Is the quest or Oculus better? ›There are no differences between the two devices. There are no pros and cons to weigh other than whether or not you like the name Meta over Oculus. They have the same features and same access to the best games in VR.
What is better PS5 or Oculus Quest 2? ›If you have a PS5, it simply offers a superior VR experience. The Meta Quest 2 shouldn't be discounted, though. Although it has less power, the Quest 2 has a much larger library and its standalone design is more convenient than dealing with a cable.