When you want to escape to virtual worlds, having a VR headset connected to a great gaming PC can unlock even more immersive possibilities. While some top VR games can be enjoyed on standalone headsets, these devices are limited in number. Most games deliver superior visuals and performance 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 TargetThe best VR headsets for PC are designed to provide sharp displays, comfortable wear, precise tracking, and seamless connectivity with your gaming PC or gaming laptop. While these features come at a premium, the Meta Quest 3S offers a great cheap VR headset option for those on a budget. For those with more to spend, the Valve Index stands out for its seamless Steam integration, and the PS VR2 supports PC VR with minimal compromises.
Unfortunately, you often can’t try these headsets before buying, which is why our experts have rigorously tested and researched to ensure you find the best VR headset for your PC that matches your needs. Whether you're seeking versatility or top-notch graphics, one of our top five picks 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 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 firmly believe it's one of the most uncompromising PC VR headsets available. With a 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution, games and apps appear crisp as you move and turn your head – essential for dodging enemies in Half-Life Alyx or spotting threats in Alien: Rogue Incursion. The headset's premium padding and comfort dials allow for a customized, snug fit. Despite its 1.79lb weight, the well-constructed frame and ergonomic design ensure comfort during extended use.
The convenient flip-down speakers and an intuitive passthrough system enable quick transitions in and out of VR. The Index's integration with Steam makes it an excellent choice for VR gamers seeking access to a vast library of games.
Unlike other headsets, the Valve Index uses external ‘lighthouse’ towers for precise room mapping and roomscale VR. This setup requires additional space considerations, but the accuracy is unparalleled. Valve's ‘Knuckles’ controllers offer unmatched finger tracking for a hands-free experience. The only drawback is the cost, but you get what you pay for, including the bundled system seller, Half-Life: Alyx.
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 that delivers significant 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 break the bank, and the Meta Quest 3S proves it. This headset, a stripped-down version of the Meta Quest 3 – which we reviewed and loved, offers a cost-effective alternative while retaining essential features. Primarily designed as a standalone device, it seamlessly integrates with Meta's ecosystem, but connecting to a Steam VR library or other PC VR titles is as simple as using a link cable or streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link with a robust Wi-Fi connection.
The Meta Quest 3S's lightweight and slim design, weighing just 1.13lbs, enhances its appeal as a PC VR headset. The fabric Y-strap allows for easy adjustments, though IGN’s Meta Quest 3S testing noted some looseness during intense movement. Despite this, it remains comfortable for extended use.
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 introduces distortion. However, features like full-color passthrough, balanced controllers, and superior head tracking make it a significant upgrade over the Quest 2. With the same GPU, CPU, and RAM as the Quest 3, the Quest 3S offers a seamless and responsive 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 the ideal choice for those obsessed with graphical detail in VR.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 exceptional visual clarity with its 2448x2448 per-eye resolution, minimizing the screen door effect. Coupled with a smooth 90 to 120Hz refresh rate, it excels at showcasing detailed and vibrant environments in games like Microsoft Flight Simulator. Its fast-switch LCD panels support a wide 120-degree field of view for deeper immersion. However, this level of visual quality demands a high-performance gaming PC.
While the HTC Vive Pro 2 offers stunning visuals, its design is somewhat outdated. It's comfortable, with balanced weight distribution and supportive cushioning, but setting it up can be cumbersome due to the need for two base stations and multiple cords. This setup is the trade-off for its unmatched visual fidelity.
The HTC Vive Pro 2 also excels in audio, featuring built-in headphones that deliver high-resolution sound, 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 was positive, praising its image quality and comfort.
HTC Vive XR Elite
Best VR Headset for Work and Play
### HTC Vive XR Elite
2For those needing a VR headset for mixed reality work and play, the HTC Vive XR Elite is an excellent 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 offers adaptability, making it ideal for both professional and casual use, supporting virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. If you need a headset for work and gaming, the XR Elite is a strong contender.
The main limitation is its reliance on a link cable or the Vive Streaming app to access the PC VR library. However, its wireless design and unobtrusive speakers make it an excellent travel companion for business trips and gaming on the go. The 1920x1920 resolution per eye and 110-degree field of view provide clear and bright visuals, and multiple lens and band adjustments ensure a comfortable fit.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
5. PlayStation VR2
Best VR for Console and PC
### PlayStation VR2
7Featuring built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and two Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, the PlayStation VR2 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, initially exclusive to PlayStation 5, now supports PC VR with a PC adapter priced at $59.99. The setup is straightforward, requiring the adapter to connect to the PS VR2's USB-C cord and a DisplayPort 1.4 cable. Most budget gaming PCs meet the necessary requirements, allowing access to Steam's extensive VR game library.
However, some PS VR2 features are unavailable on PC, including HDR support on the 2000x2040 per-eye OLED panels. Yet, the 4K resolution ensures crisp visuals without a screen door effect, and the 120Hz refresh rate and 110-degree FOV maintain immersion. Features like eye-tracking, adaptive triggers, headset feedback, and controller haptics are absent, but the headset still offers 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 choice for PC VR. If you own a PS5 and are considering this headset, its PC compatibility adds significant value. While the total cost exceeds $600 with the adapter, it remains competitive compared to other PC VR options.
How to Choose the Best VR Headsets for PC
Our selection of PC VR headsets is based on extensive expertise, hands-on testing, IGN reviews, and consumer feedback. When purchasing a VR headset, consider not only digital specifications but also physical comfort, which is crucial for a pleasant experience. 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, impacts the fluidity and performance in games.
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, including powerful graphics cards and processors, is typically required for the most demanding VR games. If a gaming PC is out of your budget, consider standalone headsets that operate wirelessly without a PC.
What VR headsets don’t require a PC?
While PC VR headsets offer robust performance, standalone options like the Meta Quest 3S and the entire Quest lineup provide versatile, wireless VR experiences. The Pico 4 functions similarly to the Meta Quest and is ideal for untethered use. The Apple Vision Pro is a powerful standalone headset that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, offering innovative work capabilities on best MacBooks. PlayStation VR2 doesn't require a PC but needs a PS5 for the full VR experience. Budget-friendly VR headsets that use your smartphone are also available and suitable for younger users.
How do you ensure the best VR headset for PC experience?
To optimize your PC VR experience, ensure you have a powerful gaming PC and a comfortable VR headset. A well-lit space enhances tracking accuracy, and a clear play area free of obstacles or furniture prevents accidents. Some headsets come with indicators to help define your play space.
When do VR headsets usually go on sale?
PC-compatible VR headsets often see price drops several times a year. Amazon Prime Day in July offers significant discounts, while Black Friday and Cyber Monday typically feature the best overall deals, especially on Meta Quest models. Occasionally, other headsets are also discounted during these events.
