Top VR Headsets for PC Gamers Revealed

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 limited in number. Most games offer a superior experience when your VR headset is connected 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 Target

The best VR headsets for PC boast sharp displays, comfortable designs, accurate tracking, and seamless connectivity to a gaming PC or gaming laptop. While these features come at a premium, the Meta Quest 3S, an alternative to the Meta Quest 3, offers a great cheap VR headset option for those on a budget. For those willing to spend a bit more, the Valve Index provides the simplest Steam integration, and even the PS VR2 supports PC VR with minimal caveats.

Unfortunately, you often can’t try these headsets before buying, so our experts have conducted thorough hands-on testing and research to help you find the best VR headset for PC that meets your needs. Whether you seek versatility or top-tier graphics, one of our five picks will suit your PC VR requirements.

1. Valve Index

Best VR Headset for PC

Our Top Pick### Valve Index

7The Valve Index is the top choice for PC VR enthusiasts, though it comes at a higher 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 it remains 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, which is crucial in titles like Half-Life Alyx or Alien: Rogue Incursion. The Index features premium padding and comfort dials for a snug fit. Despite weighing 1.79lbs, its well-constructed frame and ergonomic design ensure comfort.

Convenient flip-down speakers and an easy-to-use passthrough system allow you to quickly enter and exit VR. Its integration with Steam makes it ideal for VR gamers seeking access to a vast game library.

The Valve Index uses external ‘lighthouse’ towers for hyper-accurate roomscale VR tracking, requiring extra space but delivering exceptional results. The ‘Knuckles’ controllers offer unmatched finger tracking for immersive gameplay. The high price is justified by the quality, especially with Half-Life: Alyx included.

Meta Quest 3S – Photos

10 Images2. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset for PC

### Meta Quest 3S

3An excellent entry-level standalone/PC VR headset with strong performance and full-color passthrough capabilities.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. This headset, a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, retains its core features while cutting some costs. Primarily used as a standalone device, it can be connected to a PC VR library using a link cable or streaming apps like Steam Link or Air Link with a strong Wi-Fi connection.

The Meta Quest 3S is lighter and slimmer, weighing only 1.13lbs, with an adjustable fabric Y-strap for comfort. However, IGN’s testing noted the strap might loosen during intense movement. The lenses are a downgrade from the Quest 3, using 1832x1920, 20ppd Fresnel lenses that may cause some distortion. Still, full-color passthrough, balanced controllers, and superior head tracking make it a compelling choice, especially with the same GPU, CPU, and RAM as the Quest 3 for seamless VR performance.

3. HTC Vive Pro 2

Best VR Visuals

### HTC Vive Pro 2

1The HTC Vive Pro 2 is the go-to choice for those who crave the best graphics in VRSee 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 stunning visuals with its 2448x2448 per-eye resolution and a smooth 90 to 120Hz refresh rate, perfect for games like Microsoft Flight Simulator. Its 120-degree field of view enhances immersion. However, these high-end optics demand a powerful gaming PC.

While the design is comfortable with balanced weight and supportive cushioning, it can be cumbersome to set up, requiring two base stations and multiple cords. The built-in headphones provide excellent hi-res audio, making an additional gaming headset unnecessary.

Though we haven't reviewed the HTC Vive Pro 2, our experience with the original HTC Vive Pro highlighted its impressive image quality and comfort.

4. HTC Vive XR Elite

Best VR Headset for Work and Play

### HTC Vive XR Elite

2The HTC Vive XR Elite is ideal for those needing a versatile VR headset for both work and playSee 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 for both professional and casual use, supporting virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences. To access the PC VR library, a link cable or the Vive Streaming app is required, trading off some raw power for portability and versatility.

Its wireless design and unobtrusive speakers make it ideal for travel and business use. The 1920x1920 resolution per eye and 110-degree field of view provide clear visuals, and multiple adjustments ensure a comfortable fit.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images5. 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 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 library.

Some PS VR2 features, like HDR support, eye-tracking, adaptive triggers, headset feedback, and controller haptics, are unavailable on PC. However, the 4K OLED panels still provide crisp visuals, and the 120Hz refresh rate and 110-degree FOV ensure immersion. Comfort, finger-touch detection, rumble, 3D audio, and see-through view remain available for PC gaming.

Our hands-on testing confirms the PS VR2 is a strong contender for PC VR, especially if you already own a PS5. Though it's pricey at over $600 with the adapter, it's a good value compared to other PC VR headset options.

How to Choose the Best VR Headsets for PC

Our selection of PC VR headsets is based on our VR expertise, IGN reviews, and consumer feedback. When choosing a VR headset, consider not only the digital specifications but also physical comfort, such as comfort dials, airflow, and build quality. The technology inside, including the headset's parts, significantly impacts performance in games. Additionally, consider quality-of-life features like tracking solutions, passthrough, and refresh rate, which affect 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 targeting specific games, check these requirements before purchasing to ensure compatibility. High-end hardware, such as powerful graphics cards and processors, is generally needed for the most demanding VR games. If a gaming rig is beyond your budget, consider standalone headsets that don't require an external computer.

What VR headsets don’t require a PC?

While PC VR headsets are powerful, standalone options like the Meta Quest 3S and the entire Quest lineup offer wireless VR experiences. The Pico 4 functions similarly to the Meta Quest, ideal for those avoiding tethers. The Apple Vision Pro is a powerful standalone headset that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, perfect for use with the best MacBooks. PlayStation VR2 doesn't require a PC but needs a PS5. Budget-friendly VR headsets can use your smartphone for a more immersive experience, suitable for children.

How do you ensure the best VR headset for PC experience?

A powerful gaming PC and a capable, comfortable VR headset are essential. Ensure a well-lit space for accurate tracking and a clear area to move around safely. Use a rug or other markers to indicate the play area's boundaries, and take advantage of any built-in indicators provided by the headset.

When do VR headsets usually go on sale?

The best times to find discounts on PC-compatible VR headsets are during Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. These events often feature significant deals on Meta Quest headsets, with occasional discounts on other models.