10 Best VR Headsets for Gaming (Premium and Budget)
Are you looking for the best VR headset for gaming? Check out this compilation.
I compiled a list of the best VR headsets to assist you in determining which one is perfect for you.
What are the best VR headsets for gaming?
If you’re looking for the best VR headset, your best option will be determined by your preferences in the virtual world.
VR is a fascinating and still-developing technology that can help anyone reach new levels of creativity and enjoyment.
So without keeping you waiting, here’s my list of the 10 best VR headsets for gaming.
10 Best VR Headsets for Gaming
- Meta Quest 2 — Best overall VR headset
- Valve Index — Best for PC
- PlayStation VR — Best for PS
- HTC Vive Pro 2 — Highest resolution
- HP Reverb G2 — Most versatile
- HTC Vive Cosmos Elite — Best alternative for PC
- HTC Vive Pro Focus Plus — Best for professionals
- Oculus Go — Best budget
- Merge VR — Best for smartphones
- Lenovo Mirage Solo — Best value
How to choose the best VR headset
What are the most important considerations when choosing the best VR headset for gaming?
When purchasing a VR headset, there are certain characteristics to keep an eye out for and factors to weigh.
Given that each of us has a different preference when it comes to finding the perfect VR headset, here are some factors to consider to ensure that it is worth the money.
- Type
- Field of View
- Resolution
- Refresh Rate
- Budget
To further understand why these things should be considered, here’s a further explanation:
Type
VR headsets that are physically connected to a PC or console through cables are known as "tethered headsets."
A wireless, untethered, or standalone VR headset contains built-in CPUs, sensors, batteries, and storage memory for easier operation.
A smartphone VR headset creates a virtual reality experience using smartphones.
Tethered headsets are currently the most powerful; standalone headsets are far more cost-effective and dynamic, while smartphone VRs are for beginners on a budget.
Field of View
The amount of graphics you can see when wearing a VR headset is referred to as the “field of view."
A broader field of view allows you to see more at once without having to crop the images.
It is recommended to buy a VR headset with a field of view greater than 100 degrees.
This is critical, especially if you’ll be watching movies or playing games with it.
Resolution
VR headsets, like other smart devices such as phones, have varying resolution displays.
The better the views and the more immersive the experience, the higher the resolution.
The resolution of most headsets ranges from HD to 5K pixels.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate of a display relates to how long it takes for new images to load each second.
A strong refresh rate makes the VR headset more responsive and fluid. The minimum recommended refresh rate is 70 Hz.
Some devices can even deliver up to 140 Hz, which is excellent for playing games.
Price
The better the performance of a headset, the more powerful it is.
The higher the quality of the performance, the more it will cost.
To identify the best VR headset to buy, you must first identify your needs and preferences.
After you’ve considered all of the other factors, consider your budget to see if the VR headset you choose is the best fit for you.
Take a look at this list of the best VR headsets to help you determine which is the best VR headset for you.
1. Meta Quest 2
The Meta Quest 2 is a standalone VR headset that is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 processor.
The best overall VR headset for gaming.
This device hits the perfect balance between price and usability.
The Quest 2 is the best VR headset for both beginners and professionals.
It’s easy to set up thanks to a self-contained inside-out camera tracking system, and it’s suitable for people with little technical knowledge.
The Quest 2 is the world’s most popular virtual reality headset and has revolutionized the all-around VR headset.
It’s a must-have for anyone searching for a high-end VR system that doesn’t require several wires or a PC-based VR setup.
If you are a gamer looking for the best VR headset experience, the Meta Quest 2 remains our top pick for the best on the market.
Specifications
Type: Standalone
Field of View: 100 degrees
Resolution: 1832 × 1920
Refresh Rate: 72Hz, up to 120Hz
Display: LCD
Controller: Oculus Touch
Connection: USB Type-C, 3.5mm headphones
Dimension: 16.5 x 7.7 x 5.1 inches
Weight: 1.83 lbs.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Wireless connectivity
Cons
- A Facebook login is required
- Limited battery life
2. Valve Index VR Kit
The Valve Index is the best VR headset for the PC and the most stunning consumer VR headset to date.
The best VR headset for gaming PCs.
The device’s pressure-sensitive “knuckle” controllers can monitor all five fingers, making them feel almost like gloves.
It’s important to remember that if you acquire such a powerful headset, your PC must be equally capable.
The Valve Index provides totally immersive virtual reality with its super smooth 144Hz frame rate and huge 130-degree field of view.
It doesn’t have the highest-resolution screen, but in almost every other way, it is the best PC-connected VR headset experience.
The Valve Index VR Kit is the most impressive alternative if you’re looking for the best premium VR headset for your PC.
Specifications
Type: Tethered
Field of View: 130 degrees
Resolution: 1440 × 1600
Refresh Rate: 120Hz, up to 144Hz
Display: AMOLED
Controller: Valve Index Controllers
Connection: DisplayPort, USB 3.0, USB 2.0
Dimension: 23.5 x 17 x 9 inches
Weight: 16 lbs.
Pros
- Great FOV
- Extremely comfortable to wear
- Audio immersion
Cons
- Expensive
- No wireless options are available
Buy Valve Index VR Kit on Amazon
3. Sony PlayStation VR
The PlayStation VR headset provides immersive virtual reality for PS4 and PS5.
The best PS4 console VR headset.
This VR headset is affordable compared to most VR headsets available.
It was designed for gaming, but it’s also excellent for watching movies and creating art with apps like Google Tilt Brush and CoolPaintrVR.
You can watch as the game world comes to life with a continuous field of vision no matter which way you turn with PlayStation’s VR 360-degree perspective.
The PS Camera uses dual lenses and 3D depth sensors to track the headset, PS Move controller, and DualShock 4 wireless controller from any angle.
If you are a PS gamer who owns a PS4 or PS5 and are looking for the best VR headset for you, Sony PlayStation VR is the obvious choice.
Specifications
Type: Tethered
Field of View: 100 degrees
Resolution: 1920 x RGB x 1080
Refresh Rate: 90Hz, up to 120Hz
Display: OLED
Connection: USB, HDMI
Dimension: 6.3 x 10.6 x 8.3 inches
Weight: 7.04 lbs.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lot’s games to offer
- Fully-immersive
Cons
- With average motion controls
- Exclusive for PS console
Buy Sony PlayStation VR on Amazon
4. HTC Vive Pro 2
The HTC Vive Pro 2 is the highest-resolution VR headset we’ve seen so far, but it’s also the most expensive.
The best gaming VR headset with the highest resolution.
You can wear it comfortably for long work hours without any issues.
This is a highly recommended VR headset because of its Valve Index controller compatibility and SteamVR base stations.
If this compilation were purely based on headset quality, the Vive Pro 2 would be the winner.
If you want the best VR experience possible and don’t mind mixing and matching components, it’s worth considering.
If you’re a professional user who prefers art and design over gaming, the HTC Vive Pro 2 VR headset is a great option.
Specifications
Type: Tethered
Field of View: 120 degrees
Resolution: 4896 × 2448
Refresh Rate: Up to 120Hz
Display: LCD
Connection: DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0
Dimension: 20.9 x 13.6 x 7.3 inches
Weight: 13 lbs.
Pros
- Incredible display
- Replacement parts are easily available
- Breathable design
Cons
- Expensive
- Not easy to set up
5. HP Reverb G2
If you’re looking for a VR headset with the best visual quality in consumer VR, the Reverb G2 is a great option.
The most versatile VR headset for gaming.
This VR technology may be the best option for devoted VR fans and expert gamers.
The updated Reverb G2 is more comfortable and more dependable than its predecessor, but it is still affordable.
It is one of the best VR headsets available today, thanks to a collaboration between Valve and Microsoft.
The Reverb G2 isn’t the most flamboyant headset, but it provides an immersive and hyper-realistic experience without breaking the bank.
While it isn’t a cheap VR headset, it is reasonably priced, especially considering how crisp the display is.
If you can’t afford the HTC Vive Pro 2, the HP Reverb G2 is an excellent alternative, but it falls short in a few key aspects.
Specifications
Type: Tethered
Field of View: 114 degrees
Resolution: 2160 × 2160
Refresh Rate: 90Hz
Display: Dual LCD
Controller: HP Reverb G2 Controllers
Connection: DisplayPort 1.3, USB 3.0
Dimension: 7.32 x 3.31 x 2.95 inches
Weight: 1.1 lbs.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great resolution
- Comfortable controllers
Cons
- The connector cable is a weak link
- Standard controller quality
6. HTC Vive Cosmos Elite
HTC’s latest VR headset, the Cosmos Elite, is a considerable leap over both the original Vive and the more expensive Vive Pro.
The best VR headset alternative for PCs.
It eliminates the need for external sensors entirely.
The Cosmos Elite is virtually the same as the first Cosmos, including first-generation base stations and controllers, but with a new faceplate on the headset.
It’s a fairly heavy headset, but HTC does a good job of making it seem comfortable with plenty of ergonomic fit adjustment points.
The controllers-which are identical to those of the original Vive-are comfortable enough.
If you are looking for the best alternative VR headset for PCs, the HTC Vive Cosmos Elite is a great option.
Specifications
Type: Tethered
Field of View: 110 degrees
Resolution: 1700 x 1440
Refresh Rate: 90Hz
Display: LCD
Controller: HTC Vive and Vive Pro Controllers
Connection: USB Type-C, 3.5mm headphones
Weight: 2.2 lbs.
Pros
- Clear display
- Better motion control.
- Better tracking
Cons
- Not particularly innovative
- Expensive
Buy HTC Vive Cosmos Elite on Amazon
7. HTC Vive Pro Focus Plus
The HTC Vive Plus is a professional-grade virtual reality headset designed for professionals.
The best VR headset for professionals.
You can view even more details with exceptional clarity and fewer ring effects.
This headset is more balanced and comfy, and it rests on users’ heads more easily.
The HTC Vive Plus is easy to clean, sturdy, eyeglass compatible, and includes an adjustable IPD.
The VR navigation and hand motions are incredibly intuitive and engaging thanks to the controller’s 6 DoF tracking.
If you’re a professional, the HTC Vive Pro Focus Plus is ideal because it comes with unlimited Enterprise Portal access.
Specifications
Type: Standalone
Field of View: 110 degrees
Resolution: 1440 x 1600
Refresh Rate: 75Hz
Display: Dual AMOLED
Controller: Vive Focus Plus controller
Connection: USB Type-C, 3.5mm headphones
Dimension: 15.16 x 12.64 x 7.68 inches
Weight: 0.087 lbs.
Pros
- Incredible display
- Stunning hardware
- Futuristic design
Cons
- Suitable for pros
- Big in size
Buy HTC Vive Focus Plus on Amazon
8. Oculus Go
The Oculus Go is a decent starting VR headset that provides an untethered virtual reality experience on a budget.
The best budget VR headset for gaming.
It offers amazing 3D graphics, robust build quality, spatial audio, fast speed, and long battery life.
The hand-held controller is simple to use and allows you to launch apps and games with just a few button presses.
It’s an excellent choice for VR newbies who want to see everything virtual reality has to offer.
If you are looking for a VR headset that will perfectly suit your budget, the Oculus Go is the right option.
Specifications
Type: Standalone
Field of View: 101 degrees
Resolution: 1280 × 1440
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Display: Single LCD
Controller: Oculus Go Controller
Connection: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
Dimension: 8.3 x 8.3 x 4.8 inches
Weight: 2.71 lbs.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Great 3D graphics
- Crystal clear images
Cons
- No microSD slot
- The software library is limited
9. Merge VR
The Merge VR is a low-cost device that requires no complicated cords to connect to a PC or gaming console, only your smartphone.
The best VR headset for smartphones.
It’s a multipurpose headset that works with iPhones and Android devices.
It is composed of soft and resilient foam that can fit any face.
Its technologies and experiences were created exclusively for students, so you could use them in a classroom with confidence.
If you are looking for a low-cost smartphone VR headset, look no further than the Merge VR.
Specifications
Type: Smartphone
Field of View: 85 degrees
Resolution: Depends on the smartphone
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Controller: None
Dimension: 8.03 x 7.08 x 10.61 inches
Weight: 1.42 lbs.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Comfortable to use
- Smartphone compatibility
Cons
- Super basic
- Not particularly interactive
10. Lenovo Mirage Solo
The Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream is the first standalone Daydream VR headset in the world.
The best VR headset for its value.
Lenovo and Google teamed up to create the Lenovo Mirage Solo.
It has the same user interface as Google’s smartphone-powered Daydream View mobile headgear and can run the same Daydream apps.
The best thing is that Daydream leverages the Google Play Store to download apps directly into headsets, just like an Android phone.
The Lenovo Mirage Solo headset is the best option if you’re just looking for a compelling option that doesn’t require an expensive smartphone or computer.
Specifications
Type: Standalone
Field of View: 110 degrees
Resolution: 1280 × 1440
Refresh Rate: 75Hz
Display: Single LCD
Controller: Lenovo Mirage Controller
Connection: USB Type-C Cable, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Dimension: 8.03 x 7.08 x 10.61 inches
Weight: 1.42 lbs.
Pros
- Affordable
- Excellent screen
- Similar to a game console
Cons
- Has fewer apps
- LCD instead of OLED
Buy Lenovo Mirage Solo on Amazon
Conclusions
VR headsets are best for relaxing, learning, and playing, and virtual reality will continue to gain traction.
Which VR headset is the best?
Your needs and preferences will play a crucial part in determining which is the best VR headset for you.
Tethered headsets such as the Valve Index and HTC Vive Cosmos Elite tend to be more expensive than untethered headsets such as the Meta Quest 2 and Lenovo Mirage Solo.
This was my ultimate recommendation for selecting an appropriate VR headset for professional and gaming purposes.
Originally published at https://www.ebaqdesign.com on October 31, 2022.
