The Best VR Headsets
There's nothing like stepping into a virtual world. With a good VR headset, you can be transported to a digital reality where you're the hero. Nowadays, VR headsets are more advanced and affordable than ever. In this article, we've found some of the best models on the market. Keep reading and we'll describe each one in-depth for your consideration.
What to Look For
To curate this list of the best VR headsets, we asked a few important questions: Does it include its own processor or require a gaming PC to play? How are the resolution and framerate? And does it have adequate motion tracking controls? For example, the Meta Quest 2 has two ergonomic controllers that track nearly perfectly. The headset itself is a standalone unit, so you can play it anywhere without needing to be tethered.
For something simpler, the Destek V5 makes for a great headset to watch 3D movies on. It has simpler controls, but also costs quite a bit less than the Quest or Playstation VR headsets, for instance. Read on below to learn more about these awesome virtual reality headsets.
Meta Quest 2 All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset
The top dog
After extensive use with the Meta Quest 2, formerly known as the Oculus Quest 2, we can confidently confirm that it’s one of the best VR headsets on the market, period. With the onboard processor, there’s no need for an external PC to drive it. The controllers are super lightweight and are tracked incredibly accurately. With recent firmware updates, there’s even accurate finger and hand tracking — so you don’t even need the controllers. With the Meta app, you can even wirelessly connect this to your PC for watching movies or playing PC-exclusive games.
Pros:
- Accurate hand and controller tracking
- Huge selection of apps
- Easy to play multiplayer online
Cons:
- Requires a Facebook account to use
Destek V5 VR Headset with Controller
Expand your horizons
The VR experience doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Nor do you need a fancy graphics card — this headset simply uses a smartphone, which is also more affordable than ever. The Destek V5 headset is great for watching 3D and virtual reality videos, using your phone’s built-in motion sensors to track your head movements. And while there’s no hand tracking, you can connect the Bluetooth remote to your phone to play games.
Pros:
- Much cheaper than higher-end headsets
- Fits many models of phones, both Android and iPhone
- Lightweight, so it won’t strain your head as much
Cons:
- Hard to control the phone without taking it out of the headset
Desktek V5 VR Headset for Kids
Fun for all ages
Kids love VR, as it’s an immersive and fun way to experience movies and games. However, getting their own headset can be pricey, which is why we’re recommending this model. All it needs is your smartphone to work. The apps are simple, fun, and easy to set up. This is sure to delight younger kids and keep them entertained for hours.
Pros:
- Fits smaller heads snugly but can expand for adults
- Doesn’t require an expensive device to use, even older smartphones will work
- The controller is easy to use, even for smaller children’s hands
Cons:
- Can be a bit basic in terms of apps and games
Meta Quest 2 Bundle
The ultimate package
The Meta Quest 2 is great on its own, but with this bundle, it’s downright unstoppable. First, let’s talk about the case: it feels luxurious and premium, with a nice soft fabric covering the hard shell. It’s easy to store the headset and controllers in this compact case. The main star accessory of this bundle is the head strap and battery. It greatly increases the battery life of the unit and makes it more comfortable to wear for long periods. Once you get used to the upgraded strap, it’s hard to go back to the original band.
Pros:
- The head strap add-on is comfortable enough to play for hours
- Can connect to PCs wirelessly to stream games and movies
- There is a quick-adjust dial that’s intuitive to use for tightening and loosening the head strap
Cons:
- The case zipper can get stuck occasionally
PlayStation VR Marvel’s Iron Man VR Bundle
Get your blood flowing
Sony entered the VR space with this awesome headset. You’ll need a Playstation console, but it does at least work with both the PS4 and PS5. And compared to something like the Oculus Rift or Valve Index, this is much easier to set up. Everything feels incredibly fluid and smooth — the extremely high 120hz refresh rate means less motion blur and reduces the likelihood of motion sickness. The controllers are a bit hefty, but they’re great for games like Beat Saber.
Pros:
- Can work with a PC using third-party software called Trinus
- Has exclusive VR games that can’t be played on PC
- One of the best framerates on the market at 120 frames per second
Cons:
- Works best with a Playstation console, which is already decently expensive
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a VR gaming headset with glasses?
If you are near-sighted and want to game with glasses, fear not. Many headsets, like the Quest 2, have options for prescription lenses. Other devices, such as the Vive Cosmos, have an adjustable focal length. Some of the more inexpensive models that use your phone as the display probably won’t fit with glasses — you’ll have to wear contacts for best results.
How does the refresh rate affect virtual reality headsets?
Refresh rate refers to the number of images per second displayed. So a 90hz display means it can show 90 frames per second. This leads to smoother motion, without that annoying stuttering. The higher the refresh rate, the more lifelike the image will seem. This reduces motion sickness and makes games more immersive.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.