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 run on standalone headsets, the majority offer superior visuals and gameplay when connected to a capable PC.

TL;DR - Top VR Headsets for PC:

Valve Index

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Meta Quest 3S

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HTC Vive Pro 2

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HTC Vive XR Elite

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PlayStation VR2

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The best VR headsets for PC boast sharp displays, comfortable designs, precise tracking, and seamless PC connectivity. While premium features come at a price, the Meta Quest 3S offers a budget-friendly option. For a superior Steam experience, the Valve Index is unmatched, and the PlayStation VR2 surprisingly supports PC VR with minor limitations.

Our experts have rigorously tested and researched these headsets, ensuring 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

Valve Index

The Valve Index reigns supreme for PC VR, despite its premium price.

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Product Specifications

Resolution (Per eye): 1440x1600
Refresh Rate: 120Hz (144Hz experimental mode)
Field of View: 130°
Tracking: 6DoF
Weight: 1.79lbs

Pros: Powerful, 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. Its 120Hz refresh rate and 1440x1600 resolution deliver crisp visuals. The comfortable design, including adjustable padding, ensures extended play sessions remain enjoyable. Integrated speakers and easy passthrough enhance usability. Steam integration provides access to a vast game library. The Index utilizes external lighthouse towers for precise tracking, demanding ample playspace, but delivering exceptional results. The Knuckles controllers offer unparalleled finger-tracking immersion. The high price is the only significant drawback.

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2. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset for PC

Meta Quest 3S

The Meta Quest 3S proves that high-quality PC VR doesn't have to break the bank.

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Product Specifications

Resolution (Per eye): 1832 x 1920
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Field of View: 90°
Tracking: 6DoF
Weight: 1.13 pounds

Pros: Easy setup; full-color passthrough

Cons: Not a native PC VR setup

The Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable alternative to the Meta Quest 3, maintains excellent performance. While primarily a standalone device, connecting to a PC is straightforward using a link cable or streaming apps. Its lightweight and comfortable design, along with full-color passthrough and accurate tracking, makes it a compelling option. The lenses represent a slight downgrade compared to the Quest 3, but overall performance remains impressive, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice for PC VR.

3. HTC Vive Pro 2

Best VR Visuals

HTC Vive Pro 2

For graphics enthusiasts, the HTC Vive Pro 2 delivers unparalleled visual fidelity.

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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: High hardware requirements

The HTC Vive Pro 2's 2448x2448 resolution per eye and 120Hz refresh rate provide incredibly sharp and detailed visuals. However, its demanding specifications require a high-end gaming PC. While comfortable, its setup is somewhat cumbersome, requiring base stations and multiple cables. Despite this, its impressive visuals and high-quality audio make it a top contender for those prioritizing graphical fidelity.

4. HTC Vive XR Elite

Best VR Headset for Work and Play

HTC Vive XR Elite

The HTC Vive XR Elite is a versatile headset ideal for both professional and gaming use.

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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

Cons: Not a native PC VR solution

The HTC Vive XR Elite's adaptability makes it suitable for various applications. Its wireless design and comfortable fit enhance portability. While not a native PC VR solution, it offers PC VR access via a link cable or streaming app. Its versatility and convenient design make it an excellent choice for users seeking a balance between work and play.

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5. PlayStation VR2

Best VR for Console and PC

PlayStation VR2

The PlayStation VR2 offers a compelling PC VR experience, despite its console origins.

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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

With a dedicated PC adapter, the PlayStation VR2 seamlessly integrates with PC VR. While some features are PS5 exclusive, its 4K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and comfortable design provide a high-quality PC VR experience. It’s a premium option but a worthwhile investment for those seeking console and PC compatibility.

Choosing the Best VR Headset for PC

Our selections are based on extensive testing, IGN reviews, and user feedback. Comfort, technological capabilities, and quality-of-life features like tracking and refresh rate are crucial considerations.

PC VR FAQ

Do I need a powerful PC to use VR?

VR headsets and games have system requirements. High-end hardware is recommended for demanding titles. Standalone headsets offer alternatives for users with less powerful PCs.

What VR headsets don’t require a PC?

The Meta Quest 3S and Pico 4 are excellent standalone options. The Apple Vision Pro offers a powerful standalone experience within the Apple ecosystem. The PlayStation VR2 requires a PS5, but is now PC compatible with an adapter.