The Best VR Headsets for PC Gaming

Immerse yourself in breathtaking virtual worlds with a VR headset paired with a powerful gaming PC. While some top VR games are compatible with standalone headsets, the majority deliver superior visuals and gameplay when connected to a capable PC.

**TL;DR - Top VR Headsets for PC:**

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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, precise tracking, and seamless PC integration. While premium features come at a price, the Meta Quest 3S offers a budget-friendly option. For enhanced performance and Steam integration, the Valve Index is a top contender. Even the PlayStation VR2, with minimal caveats, supports PC VR.

Given the inability to test headsets for fit prior to purchase, our experts have rigorously tested and researched these options to help you find the perfect fit. Whether you prioritize versatility or cutting-edge graphics, one of these five headsets will meet your PC VR needs.

1. Valve Index

Best VR Headset for PC

Our Top Pick### Valve Index

7

The Valve Index reigns supreme for PC VR, though it commands a premium price.

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, while a few years old, remains relevant. It’s one of the most uncompromising PC VR headsets available. The 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution ensure crisp visuals. Premium padding and adjustable comfort dials guarantee a comfortable fit, minimizing discomfort despite its 1.79lb weight. Convenient flip-down speakers and an easy passthrough system enhance usability. Its Steam integration provides access to a vast game library. The Index utilizes external lighthouse towers for precise tracking, while the Knuckles controllers offer exceptional finger-tracking immersion. The high price is the only significant drawback.

Meta Quest 3S – Photos

10 Images

2. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset for PC

### Meta Quest 3S

3

An excellent entry-level standalone/PC VR headset boasting impressive performance, full-color passthrough, and more.

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

The Meta Quest 3S proves that high-quality PC VR doesn't have to break the bank. Building upon the highly-rated Meta Quest 3, it retains core features while reducing the price. While primarily a standalone device, accessing Steam VR and other PC VR titles is easy via a link cable or streaming apps. Its lighter, slimmer design and comfortable fabric Y-strap enhance usability. Although the lenses are a downgrade from the Quest 3, offering Fresnel lenses instead of pancake lenses, full-color passthrough, balanced controllers, and excellent head tracking are significant upgrades. Its performance matches the Quest 3, ensuring a smooth VR experience on PC or standalone.

3. HTC Vive Pro 2

Best VR Visuals

### HTC Vive Pro 2

1

The HTC Vive Pro 2 caters to graphics enthusiasts.

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 delivers sharp, detailed visuals with minimal screen-door effect thanks to its 2448x2448 per-eye resolution and 90-120Hz refresh rate. Its fast-switch LCD panels support a 120-degree field of view. However, its high resolution demands a powerful gaming PC. While comfortable, its design is somewhat clunky and requires two base stations and multiple cables for setup. Its built-in headphones produce high-quality audio.

4. HTC Vive XR Elite

Best VR Headset for Work and Play

### HTC Vive XR Elite

2

The HTC Vive XR Elite is ideal for users seeking a VR headset for both work and play, offering mixed reality capabilities.

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 suitable for professional and casual use, supporting virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality experiences. However, PC VR access requires a link cable or the Vive Streaming app. Its wireless design and unobtrusive speakers enhance portability. While not best-in-class, its visuals are clear and bright. Multiple adjustments ensure a secure fit.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images

5. PlayStation VR2

Best VR for Console and PC

### PlayStation VR2

7

This VR headset, originally exclusive to the PS5, now offers PC compatibility via an adapter.

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

The PlayStation VR2 now supports PC gaming with a dedicated adapter. Setup is straightforward, requiring only the adapter and a DisplayPort 1.4 cable. While some features (HDR, eye-tracking, etc.) are unavailable on PC, the 4K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 110-degree FOV deliver an immersive experience. Comfort, finger-touch detection, rumble, 3D audio, and see-through view remain. Although expensive, it offers excellent value compared to other PC VR headsets.

How to Choose the Best VR Headsets for PC

Our selections are based on expertise, experience, IGN reviews, and consumer feedback. Comfort is crucial, considering factors like adjustable dials, airflow, and build quality. Technological aspects, such as tracking accuracy, passthrough capabilities, and refresh rate, also influence performance and user experience.

PC VR FAQ

Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?

VR headsets and games have minimum and recommended system requirements. High-end hardware (powerful graphics cards and processors) is generally needed for demanding VR games. Standalone headsets offer an alternative for users with budget constraints.

What VR headsets don’t require a PC?

Standalone headsets like the Meta Quest 3S and Pico 4 offer PC-free VR experiences. The Apple Vision Pro integrates seamlessly into the Apple ecosystem. The PlayStation VR2 requires a PS5 but doesn't need a PC. Budget-friendly smartphone-based VR headsets also exist.

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

Beyond a powerful PC and a comfortable headset, a well-lit space, ample movement room, and obstacle-free play areas are essential. Some headsets offer built-in play area indicators.

When do VR headsets usually go on sale?

VR headsets often see price drops during Amazon Prime Day (July), Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. These sales frequently feature Meta Quest deals, but other headsets may also be discounted.