The world of virtual reality (VR) can seem out of reach with high-end models like the Apple Vision Pro priced at a staggering $3,500. However, you don't need to spend a fortune to dive into immersive virtual worlds. There are budget-friendly VR headsets that offer a fantastic VR experience without breaking the bank.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Budget VR Headsets:
Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S
38See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### PlayStation VR2
13See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at Target
### Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04
8See it at Amazon
### Atlasonix VR Headset
13See it at Amazon
### Google Cardboard POP!
6See it at AmazonThe introduction of the Oculus Quest, now under Meta's ownership, revolutionized VR by offering a standalone headset that didn't require a gaming PC. This innovation, combined with its affordable price, made VR more accessible to a broader audience. Even today, standalone options remain limited, meaning most VR experiences still require integration with another platform.
Whether you're seeking a comprehensive VR experience with advanced tracking, six degrees of freedom (6DoF), and high resolutions offered by headsets like the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2, or you're just looking to test the waters, our experts have selected five budget-friendly VR headsets. Some of these options are basic and require a smartphone to operate, serving as an excellent entry point before investing in a more expensive model.
AnswerSee Results### Meta Quest 3S – Photos
10 Images
1. Meta Quest 3S
Best Budget VR Headset
Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S
38The Meta Quest 3S stands out as an outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset, boasting impressive performance, full-color passthrough, and more. It's a perfect blend of affordability and capability, making it our top pick for budget VR enthusiasts. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsPlatformStandalone, PCResolution (per-eye)1832x1920Refresh Rate90-120HzField of View90°Tracking6DoFWeight1.13 poundsPROSStandalone devicePerformance similar to the Meta Quest 3CONSFresnel lensesIn our hands-on review of the Meta Quest 3, we were impressed by its brilliant standalone VR experience. However, the price increase from the Quest 2 was a downside. Fortunately, the Meta Quest 3S addresses this by offering a cost-effective alternative that combines the best features of its predecessors.
The Quest 3S packs a punch with its CPU, GPU, and RAM, matching the Quest 3 and significantly upgrading from the Quest 2. Our testing of the Meta Quest 3S showed it effortlessly handling games like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural, even slightly outperforming the Quest 3 due to its lower-resolution lenses.
The downside is the use of Fresnel lenses instead of the pancake lenses found in the Quest 3, resulting in a resolution of 1832x1920 pixels per eye and 20ppd. While clarity and immersion may not match the pricier model, the 120Hz refresh rate and minimal screen door effect still deliver a satisfying VR experience. The full-color passthrough mode is a valuable addition for mixed-reality gaming.
The Quest 3S's design closely resembles the Quest 3, with comfortable, lightweight controllers and a well-balanced headset weighing 1.13lbs. A cloth strap ensures a secure fit, though battery life is limited to about 2 hours. For extended play, a link cable allows connection to a gaming PC.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
2. PlayStation VR2
Best VR Headset Under $600
### PlayStation VR2
13The PlayStation VR2 elevates your PS5 gaming experience with built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and two tactile Sense controllers featuring adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsPlatformPS5, PC (with adapter)Resolution (per-eye)2,000 x 2,040Refresh Rate90-120HzField of View110°Tracking6DoFWeight1.24 poundsPROS4K OLED displays with HDR and a 120Hz refresh rateTactile Sense controllersCONSCan’t play original PSVR gamesOur hands-on review of the PlayStation VR2 revealed its superiority over the original headset, offering a wealth of features at a starting price of $550. While not the most budget-friendly option, it provides exceptional value with its built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, and tactile Sense controllers. Setup is straightforward, requiring only a single USB-C connection and some calibration.
The visuals are stunning, thanks to the 4K OLED panels with HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view. The performance rivals that of many pricier PC VR headsets, though it cannot play original PSVR games. With the addition of a $59.99 adapter, the PS VR2 also supports PC gaming, enhancing its versatility.
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Lenovo Legion Tower 5 AMD Ryzen 7 7700 RTX 4070 Ti Super Gaming PC with 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD (Use Code: EXTRAFIVE)- $1,527.49Acer Predator Orion RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Gaming Desktop- $1,749.99HP OMEN 35L RTX 4060 Ti Gaming Desktop- $1,219.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PC- $1,349.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Gaming PC- $1,099.993. Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04
Best VR Headset Under $100
### Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04
8The Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 offers a unique VR experience using the Switch’s screen, housed in a simple cardboard headset with plastic lenses. It's playful and engaging, though it lacks a strap, which may cause fatigue. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformNintendo SwitchResolution (per-eye)1,280 x 720Refresh Rate60HzField of ViewNot listedTracking 3DoFWeight3.14 poundsPROSPlayful headsets you constructBuilt of sturdy cardboardCONSNo strapRumors of a VR solution for the Nintendo Switch have been circulating since before the console's launch, but the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 was a delightful surprise in 2019. This kit allows users to build various playful headsets, including a blaster, camera, bird, and an elephant with a VR-reachable trunk. Each headset enhances the immersive experience, making it a fun Nintendo Switch accessory for less than $100.
The Labo VR kit uses sturdy cardboard and plastic lenses, relying on the Switch's screen. While it lacks advanced technology, it offers a creative and engaging experience. However, the absence of a strap means you'll need to hold the headset, which can lead to fatigue during extended play.
Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit praised its ability to spark creativity, a core element of any Labo product from Nintendo.
Atlasonix VR Headset
Best VR Headset Under $50
### Atlasonix VR Headset
13The Atlasonix VR Headset enhances your smartphone's VR capabilities with ample padding, an eye-protection system, and a Bluetooth remote, making it a comfortable and user-friendly option. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformAndroid, iOSResolution (per-eye)Depends on deviceRefresh RateDepends on deviceField of View105°Tracking3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)Weight0.5 poundsPROSEasy setupComfortable on headCONSLimited to your phone’s abilitiesThe Atlasonix VR Headset leverages the power of the best iPhones and Android phones to deliver a VR experience, excelling in clarity, comfort, and field of view. Unlike cardboard models, this headset features breathable padding around the eyes and nose, an adjustable strap for even weight distribution, and an eye protection system. Adjustable sliders allow for personalized focal and pupillary distances, enhancing clarity and reducing strain.
Setting up the Atlasonix is straightforward, accommodating most phones up to 6.3 inches. Its durable plastic construction ensures longevity, and the included Bluetooth controller simplifies navigation and interaction within VR apps.
Google Cardboard POP!
Best VR Headset Under $20
### Google Cardboard POP!
6The Google Cardboard POP! offers an ultra-affordable VR experience with a simple cardboard frame, lenses, and a button for basic interaction. It's perfect for those looking to explore VR on a tight budget. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformAndroid, iOSResolution (per-eye)Depends on deviceRefresh RateDepends on deviceField of View95°Tracking3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)Weight0.31 poundsPROSExtremely inexpensiveEye cushioningCONSLimited interactions inside VRGoogle Cardboard creations like the POP! model are incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing a simple cardboard frame to hold your phone, lenses, and a button for limited VR interaction. You can download a Cardboard app and access a variety of VR content. Google's plans for the headset are publicly available, allowing for numerous versions or even DIY projects.
The capabilities of Google Cardboard depend on your phone's power. The POP! version includes a cutout for photography during play, along with eye cushioning, a velcro strap for easy phone access, and a secure headband. All this is available for under $20.
What to Look for in a Budget VR Headset
When choosing a budget VR headset, consider the type of VR experience you want. For in-depth gaming, opt for the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2. For movies and still-image exploration, smartphone-based VR is a cost-effective choice. For these, consider adding a Bluetooth VR controller for enhanced control.
Platform: The VR ecosystem is crucial, as it determines the available apps and experiences. Most budget headsets work with smartphones, supporting iOS and Android. The Meta Quest 3S is fully standalone with its own app store and PC connectivity. The PS VR2 requires a PS5 for optimal use, while the Nintendo Labo VR is exclusive to the Switch. Choose a headset that supports the games and experiences you're interested in.
Some platforms, like Google Cardboard, offer curated content ecosystems, providing quick access to compatible apps.
Design and comfort: Comfort is key for prolonged VR use. Budget headsets may compromise on comfort, and the cheapest options like Google Cardboard may not be comfortable for extended periods. Look for adjustable straps and ample padding around the eyes for long-wear enjoyment. For shorter sessions, holding the headset is feasible, but for longer, interactive experiences, hands-free operation with a controller is ideal.
Consider how the headset handles your phone. The best options have padding to prevent scratches and vents to manage heat, ensuring smooth gameplay.
With these considerations, you can enjoy a great VR experience without breaking the bank. Even with a moderately powerful smartphone, there are fantastic experiences to be had. Use these tips to find the perfect budget VR headset and start exploring the virtual world.
Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ
What's the difference between VR and AR?
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are distinct technologies. AR is more accessible, using smartphones to overlay virtual elements onto the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go. Apple's Vision Pro also uses AR innovatively. VR, on the other hand, creates a fully immersive, computer-generated environment, blocking out the real world. Examples include Asgard's Wrath 2 for the Meta Quest and the PSVR 2 version of Gran Turismo 7.
What are some standalone VR headset options?
Most VR headsets require additional devices like a gaming PC, smartphone, or console. The Meta Quest series, including the budget-friendly Meta Quest 3S, offers standalone VR with powerful processors. Other standalone options include the Pico 4, HTC XR Elite, and the high-end Apple Vision Pro, which integrates seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem and can connect to best MacBooks for enhanced functionality.
When is the best time to buy VR headsets on a budget?
While high-end VR headsets rarely see discounts, budget models often go on sale during key shopping events. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are prime times for VR deals, especially for Meta Quest headsets, though other models may also be discounted.
