With Apple’s recent release of the Apple Vision Pro, more and more people have become more interested in the VR world. The Apple Vision Pro comes with an astronomical cost of $3,500, so a lot of people will be able to experience VR at its best. Thankfully, you won’t have to rob a bank to have a quality VR experience.
We will be talking about the cheapest VR headset for PC in this article, like the Meta Quest 2, for example—one of the best and cheapest VR headset for PC. Click to jump to a more detailed explanation of the cheapest VR headset for PC, or check out the list below.
Cheapest VR Headset for PC
VR is becoming more and more available and affordable as the technology evolves. By using VR headsets like the Meta Quest, you no longer need a powerful gaming PC or one of the latest gaming consoles to enjoy virtual reality. Even the best smartphones are advanced enough to offer a way to enjoy Virtual reality using ultra-cheap headsets. To help you navigate the complicated market of virtual reality headsets on a budget, we’ve selected our top five favourites that you can purchase today.
Meta Quest 2
SPECIFICATIONS
Platform: Standalone, PC
Resolution(Per-Eye): 1,832 x 1,920
Refresh Rate: 90-120Hz
Field of View: 89-degrees
Tracking: 6DoF
Weight: 1.1 pounds
REASONS TO BUY
- Standalone device
- Budget-friendly
- Great for beginners
- Impressive wire-free headset
REASONS TO AVOID
- Controllers can be large for small hands
- The newest iteration is a bit more expensive
The Meta Quest 2 is an affordable VR headset that offers a wide variety of features. Priced at $250, it comes with a vast library of immersive VR games and streaming apps.
Additionally, it offers a surprising amount of educational content that caters to all ages, providing a fresh and captivating learning format. The device is standalone, so there’s no need for a phone or PC. However, if you have a gaming PC or laptop, you can connect it via a link cable and gain access to thousands of PC VR experiences.
The Meta Quest 2 is a VR (virtual reality) headset that offers clear visuals and minimal screen door effect. It also has a high-resolution and 90-120Hz refresh rate, which helps to prevent motion sickness. Since it operates without cables, you can use it anywhere, and its built-in camera will alert you when you are close to any obstacles in your surroundings.
Additionally, the controllers have improved haptic feedback compared to the original model, and they feature a more extensive design for extra thumb space. However, people with smaller hands may find them difficult to hold. The low price makes this one of the cheapest VR headset for pc that hold up against its competitors.
PlayStation VR2
SPECIFICATIONS
Platform: PS5
Resolution(Per-Eye): 2,000 x 2,040
Refresh Rate: 90-120Hz
Field of View: 110-degrees
Tracking: 6DoF
Weight: 1.24 pounds
REASONS TO BUY
- 4K OLED displays with HDR and a 120Hz refresh rate
- Very comfortable headset and controller
REASONS TO AVOID
- Can only be used with a Playstation 5 console
Even though this list is of the cheapest VR headsets for PCs, we had to include the PlayStation VR2. In recent news, the PlayStation VR2 has been in development to be available on the PC.
However, if you own a PS5, this headset is the perfect portal to the virtual world.
If you are looking to elevate your PS5 gaming experience, the PlayStation VR2 is now available, giving the original headset a run for its money with its superior capabilities.
Although it starts at $550, it is worth the investment as it offers an array of features such as built-in tracking cameras and eye tracking, two tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Setting up the device is simple, but it is not entirely wireless. All you need to do is plug in a single USB-C, carry out a bit of calibration, and you are good to go.
It’s challenging to overlook the prominent and sharp visuals produced by the 4K OLED screens that come with HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view. The headset has a lot of power behind it, delivering virtual reality performance on par with a PC despite having better specs and more features than some more expensive PC VR headsets.
However, currently, you are unable to play any of the vast library of PC VR games or even the original PSVR games, which means your gaming options are limited at the moment and will increase your overall expenses. However due to the reason news, this will change, and the PlayStation VR2 will become one the cheapest VR headset for PC as well.
Google Cardboard POP!
SPECIFICATIONS
Platform: Android, iOS
Field of View: 95-degrees
Tracking: 3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)
Weight: 0.31 pounds
REASONS TO BUY
- Very affordable
- Soft padding
REASONS TO AVOID
- Very limited interaction for VR
Google Cardboard is one of the cheapest virtual reality headset that you can create using a simple cardboard frame that holds your smartphone, a pair of lenses, and a button for limited interaction inside VR. You can download a Cardboard app along with tons of other online VR content, allowing you to enjoy an immersive viewing experience. Google has also made plans for the headset publicly available, so there are many different versions from other companies available, or you can even make your own if you’re feeling crafty.
Similar to other virtual reality headsets for smartphones, the performance of Google Cardboard relies on the capabilities of your phone. POP! A version of the headset has a cutout that allows you to capture photos while you are playing. It also has additional features such as cushioning around your eyes, a velcro strap that provides easy access to your phone, and a band that keeps the headset securely in place on your head.
Atlasonix VR Headset
SPECIFICATIONS
Platform: Android, iOS
Field of View: 105-degrees
Tracking: 3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)
Weight: 0.5 pounds
REASONS TO BUY
- Sits comfortably
- Easy setup
- Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
- Limited to your phone’s abilities
The Atlasonix VR Headset is an advanced gadget that utilizes the best iPhones and Android phones to provide a superior VR experience. It stands out from the competition in terms of clarity, comfort, and field-of-view, and what’s more, it is not made from cardboard. The headset comes with ample, breathable padding around the eyes and nose, ensuring maximum comfort during use.
Additionally, an adjustable strap helps distribute weight across your head, making it feel even more comfortable. The device also features an eye protection system and a pair of sliders on top of the headset that enable users to adjust the focal and pupillary distances. This feature helps prevent strain and ensures clarity for your eyes.
Getting started with the Atlasonix is a breeze since most phones up to 6.3 inches can securely fit into the cushioned slot without the need for a complicated setup or a tangled mess of wires. The headset is made of durable plastic that should last for a long time. Additionally, the package includes a Bluetooth controller, which makes it simple to navigate and interact with VR apps. All in all, this package offers excellent value.
Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04
SPECIFICATIONS
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Resolution(Per-Eye): 1,280 x 720
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Tracking: 3DoF
REASONS TO BUY
- Built from sturdy cardboard
- Fun project to do
REASONS TO AVOID
- No strap
- very limited to VR standards
Rumours about a Virtual Reality (VR) solution for the Nintendo Switch have been circulating for a long time now. However, the release of the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 in 2019 was still a pleasant surprise for many.
This unique VR headset is made entirely out of cardboard and comes with playful accessories like a blaster, a camera, a bird, and even an elephant, which allows you to use its trunk to explore the world of VR.
Each headset is designed to provide an immersive experience and is related to a specific game, making it an excellent accessory for both kids and adults who are young at heart. If you’re looking to add some fun to your Nintendo Switch gaming experience, the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 is a must-have accessory.
The Nintendo Labo VR kit is made of sturdy cardboard and has a pair of plastic lenses that use the Switch for its screen.
However, it’s essential to set your expectations accordingly. Since there is no fancy technology involved, you’ll only get the resolution and refresh rate that the Switch offers. This means that individual pixels may be visible, and action may not be the smoothest. Additionally, the kit doesn’t come with any strap, so you’ll need to hold the mask in place with one hand, which can cause fatigue during extended play periods.
Final Verdict For The Cheapest VR Headset For PC
If you want to buy a budget VR headset but you’re not sure what to look for, it can be overwhelming to sift through all the options. While some headsets like Meta Quest and PlayStation VR2 are pretty well-known, most are made by smaller brands you may not be familiar with.
When considering a VR headset, the first thing to think about is what type of VR experience you want. If you’re looking for an immersive gaming experience, you should go for high-end VR headsets like the Meta Quest 2 or 3 and PlayStation VR2. On the other hand, if you’re interested in exploring movies and still images, then phone-based VR headsets are a better and affordable choice. For phone-based VR headsets, we recommend getting a Bluetooth VR controller that will make the controls more accessible and intuitive.
It’s not necessary to spend a fortune to enjoy an exceptional virtual reality experience. Although the most engaging games are available on expensive headsets, there are still unique experiences to explore, even if you possess a moderately powerful smartphone. By following these tips, you will be able to find a budget-friendly VR headset that suits your needs and start exploring the wonders of the virtual world.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions )
What is the best and cheapest VR headset for PC?
The best and most affordable VR headset for PC can be different based on personal preferences and requirements. Nonetheless, some well-liked options are known for their affordability and functionality, such as the Oculus Rift S and Windows Mixed Reality headsets like the HP Reverb G2.
How much do a VR cost?
The price of a PC VR headset may vary based on brand, features, and specifications. Entry-level VR headsets can cost between $200-$300, while higher-end models can range from $400-$800 or more.
What is the cheapest VR headset for PC with controllers?
The cheapest VR headset for PC with controllers typically includes options like the Oculus Quest 2, which offers an all-in-one VR experience with its built-in tracking and controllers. Additionally, Windows Mixed Reality headsets like the Lenovo Explorer or Acer Windows Mixed Reality Headset often come bundled with controllers at an affordable price point.
What is the cheapest vr headset for pc gaming?
The cheapest vr headset for pc gaming that you can find on the market is the Meta Quest 2. It is the best vr headset Australia with how well it works and how much it costs.