TL;DR The Meta Quest 2 is widely recommended as the best affordable VR headset for beginners, offering a solid balance between price and performance. For PC users, the Oculus Rift S provides better tracking but at a slightly higher cost.
Meta Quest 2
The Meta Quest 2 is frequently mentioned as a great starter option for those new to VR. It offers standalone functionality, meaning it doesn't require a PC to operate, making it versatile for various uses like gaming, fitness apps, and media consumption [2:1]. It's praised for its user-friendly experience and affordability, typically priced under $400
[2].
Oculus Rift S
For those with a gaming PC, the Oculus Rift S is another strong contender. It provides better tracking accuracy compared to cheaper options, thanks to its inside-out tracking system [4:5],
[4:7]. While it costs around $399, many users find the improved tracking worth the extra expense
[5:1],
[5:3].
Samsung Odyssey+
The Samsung Odyssey+ is another option that often goes on sale for around $299. It offers good screen quality and is compatible with Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) platforms [3:3],
[5:1]. However, its controller tracking may not be as robust as the Rift S, which could be a consideration depending on your intended use
[5:3].
Windows Mixed Reality Headsets
For those on a tighter budget, WMR headsets like HP, Acer, or Lenovo are available for around $200 [5:1]. These headsets provide basic VR experiences but may fall short in terms of tracking and overall build quality compared to higher-priced models
[4:1],
[5:3].
Considerations Beyond the Discussions
When choosing a VR headset, consider your primary use case—whether it's standalone gaming, PC-based experiences, or specific applications like fitness or media viewing. Additionally, ensure your PC meets the hardware requirements for VR if opting for a PC-based headset. Always check for sales or bundle deals, as prices can fluctuate and offer opportunities for savings.
I’m looking to get into VR and want to pick up a headset soon. There are so many options out there and I’m having trouble deciding which one is the best fit, so I’d love to hear from people who’ve actually used these headsets and can share their experiences.
Here’s what I’m looking for:
Right now, I’m considering the Meta Quest 3, Apple Vision Pro (though pricey), PSVR2 (already have a PS5), or something like the Pimax Crystal Light or a newer PC VR model. But I’ve also heard about some lesser-known headsets gaining traction this year.
Thanks in advance!
Yep, everything else is basically a niche device that comes with questionable support. Quest 3 was years ahead of its time proven by still nothing of a higher production quality surpassing it yet. That’s what you get when a tech giant pours billions into something.
All these threads basically have one answer unless you’re an enthusiast who wants to roll the dice and deal with the headaches of using a HMD from a two bit player.
This right here. The value proposition for the quest 3 would be good at $1200 (relative to other HMDs) considering the refined user experience. At half that, there really isn’t anything else that comes close. As someone who hates Meta, I really wish it wasn’t the case.
tough call given you have a ps5 as well. with $1200 you could buy both a quest 3 and psvr2 (thats what I did)..... that would give you access to all the exclusives.
for pc wired sims psvr2. (star wars squadrons, elite dangerous)
for wireless movement games quest 3.
as for exclusives
ps5+psvr2 exclusives
occulus pcvr+ quest 3 exclusives (for wireless there is also PrismXR Puppis), note there is a "re-vive mod" that lets you play these games on steam with any headset, but its finnicky
quest 3 only exclusives
steam Vr exclusive (works with either psvr2 or quest 3)
I have probably missed some. so a quest 3 and psvr2 gives you access to the most games. having said ALL that, if you dont mind a wire, the bigscreen beyond 2 is the headset that interest me most. due to how light it is, but it is pricey for the full kit and you do miss out on a lot of exclusives listed here
edit: if I could only chose one I would say quest 3 (with the elite battery strap, prismxr puppis wifi, and carry case). as it gives you a really nice put together package
I have Rift S, PCVR 2 and still looking for a better headset.
Although the resolution is clearly higher on the PSVR 2, the overall experience pales in comparison to my Rift S!
I too am looking for a ‘better’ VR experience and I was disappointed to see your post at the top.
No disrespect to you but I was hoping you were going to unveil a brand new Pimax that I didn’t know about or a mixed-reality set that broke boundaries for you.
Valve controllers for Rift S is probably best I can get at the moment.
Half Life: ALYX is amazing and probably my main draw to VR.
The addon content through Steam Workshop is phenomenal and ever-evolving.
the pimax air dream (or is it pinax dream air, I can never remember).... is the headset from them that interest me most. but its constantly getting pushed back (and pinax QC scares me).
I also forgot to mention play for dream MR, which for vr games I would pick over the apple vision pro.
both fantastic headsets, but this assumes you play on steam. half life alyx is a great game (although I think lone echo 2, and resident evil 8 vr, and batman shadows vr..... all compare well).
I wish all the games I listed where on steam natively so I could use any headset, but unfortunately after half life alyx valve hasnt invested in publishing VR games (vertigo 2, and boneworks are probably the most valve has done, as valve assisted on those). Sony has invested a little in vr games, and Occulus/Meta have invested a LOT in vr games.
He’s just getting in to VR so he’d also need base stations and controllers, which probably puts it well outside the budget. It seems inappropriately risky to suggest high-end gear for something he may just not end up enjoying or using much.
Everything you said is correct. However, he did ask for " What's The Best VR Headset to Buy Right Now". In my opinion, its the Bigscreen Byond 2, it will be over budget. All in its around $1700ish. The oled and small light weight design is what makes it worth it to me. 2nd to none!
Since you have a PS5, I would say PSVR2. I have one and love it.
Interest piqued…. Please elaborate?
Works with SteamVR?
There is no standard alone unit that will compete with pcvr. I also don’t know any vr user that would rather watch Netflix or YouTube on their vr set vs their tv or computer.
And a laptop will never compete with a desktop. The Switch will never compete with the PlayStation. A phone will never compete with, well anything. Doesn’t mean those things don’t have inherent value, often even more than what they’re “not competing” against. This is doubly true of the quest that can double over as a really good wireless PC VR headset on top of standalone
I will use it for sim flying.
The small factor and the quality plus eye tracking made it the VR of choice.
Waiting patiently for it. Mines is the November batch.
I spent weeks digging into the “Best Affordable VR Headsets in 2025” across r/virtualreality, r/VRGaming, and other subreddits, and also checked dozens of YouTube and buyer reviews. My focus was simple: find VR headsets under $400 that don’t feel like compromises. I looked for comfort, tracking accuracy, compatibility with PC/console/standalone games, and overall user experience. After comparing the top 5 models Meta Quest 2, Quest 3S, PSVR2, Pico 4, and Lenovo Explorer this is my honest, no-BS breakdown.
Quest 2 is still the best way to get into VR without needing a PC or console. It’s wireless, super easy to set up, and has access to a huge library of games and apps. You can also connect it to a PC if you want to play SteamVR games using a Link cable or Air Link. It's lightweight, comfortable, and gets regular updates, even in 2025. If you’re new to VR or want something versatile, this is still a top pick.
Top 3 Features:
The Quest 3S takes everything good from Quest 2 and upgrades it with better internals. It has a faster chip, improved visuals, and more responsive tracking — all while staying under $400. It supports mixed reality features and works great for both gaming and productivity. You still get full standalone functionality and wireless PCVR streaming. If you want better performance without going full premium, this is the one.
Top 3 Features:
If you already own a PS5, PSVR2 offers one of the best visual experiences in VR. It has a super sharp OLED display, eye tracking, and awesome haptic feedback in both the headset and controllers. The recent PC adapter lets you use it with SteamVR now too. Setup is simple — one cable — and the build quality feels premium. For console gamers, this is the most plug-and-play headset with high-end features.
Top 3 Features:
Pico 4 surprised a lot of people with its visual clarity and comfort. It uses pancake lenses that make the headset slimmer and the image sharper, with less glare. It works as a standalone device but really shines when connected to a PC. The interface is clean, the controllers are responsive, and it feels very premium despite its price. It’s a great option if you’re mostly into PCVR but want something lighter than a Quest.
Top 3 Features:
This is the cheapest way to get into PCVR without sacrificing core features. It runs on Windows Mixed Reality, connects easily to SteamVR, and doesn’t need external sensors. The tracking is decent, and the visuals are perfectly fine for casual use. It’s not as flashy as the others, but for under $300, it’s hard to complain. If you're a PC gamer who wants to try VR without a huge investment, this one's worth it.
Top 3 Features:
Final Verdict:
Let me know what platform you use and how you plan to play I’ll help you pick the perfect headset based on that!
Meta Quest 2 I think would be a great option
Hi guys, so basically I’ve been thinking a lot lately about getting a headset and after experiencing my buddies wireless Vive Pro setup im fully persuaded and ready to make the jump. The only problem is that money is a little tight and the only reason I’m willing to plunge now is that I’ve been waiting for years and want to treat myself for my birthday. Im leaning towards the oculus rift s because of the quality mentioned in the resent Linus Tech Tips video and the reasonable price at $400. This is a little nerve-racking for me though as it’s a big investment and I’m worried that the lesser quality in comparison to wireless vice pro and valve index will dull down my experience and make it not worth it. Thoughts and suggestions?
Buy this headset now before it goes out of stock!
It may be cheapy-weepy, but it's a good little headset if you're wanting to get your foot in the door, and for $20 why not? It doesn't come with any VR controllers, but does come with a Bluetooth PC controller. As is, it'd be good for flight or driving sims and VRchat. If you have or acquire some VR controllers you have yourself a full kit! I just ordered mine, should be showing up Wednesday next week :)
However, if you're wanting a more current mainline headset, I'd go with a VIVE or go whole hog and get the Index as it appears that Steam VR support and interoperability of the VIVE base stations, controllers, "Knuckles", and the Index is the direction that the VR industry will most likely go down. I've been doing LOADS of research into what to get (I'm on the precipice of getting one myself). I think I'm going to grab a used Oculus Rift CV1 off ebay while I start buying the individual pieces of the Index kit, starting with the Knuckles.
edit-Did I mention that you can grab a used Oculus Rift CV1 off ebay for around $150? And that's a WHOLE SET for under $200. Yes I've seen multiple listings of the headset, the controllers, AND sensors all for under $200. I'm getting one of those sets to tide me over while I build towards the Index. Also, since HTC and Valve are already starting to build interoperability between their devices, owning that hardware set will put you ahead of the game for future releases.
This helps thanks
Cool appreciate it but I’m looking into games more like beatsaber and blades and sorcery
Look in to the Samsung Odyssey +. You can see lots of comparisons between it and the Rift S with some googling.
Samsung drops the price of the odyssey + to 299 fairly frequently
Thanks I will. Am looking to utilize my pc but I’ll definitely check it out
Its worth checking your computers hardware specs before you buy into VR, as Virtual reality can be very demanding, considerably moreso than flatscreen gaming.
Yeah, I’m not really concerned about that though as I built a decent pc last year with a 2700x and 2070
Hello everyone, I am very new to vr gaming and I was looking to buy my first headset really soon. I am not very aware of all the different types of headsets on the market, so I want to know your guys opinion on what the best vr headset is for a budget. I dont want to spend anything ridiculous, so please share with me your thoughts on cheap vr headsets for pc. Any information would help out!
If you don't already own a newer gaming computer, I'd say go with the Oculus Quest. It's a very able stand-alone headset. If you have a proper computer, go with the Rift S.
Best thing to do if you have a budget is not buying a vr headset yet. The cheap ones are shit so it’s not worth buying at all unless you can fork out $400+
HP WMR at ~$250
Samsung Odyssey+ at $299
Oculus Rift S at $399
Any wmr headset will do, the are cheap. But the controllers and the tracking is not good. I have the Medion one so I can confirm that it is true. If you really don't want to spend to much, go for wmr, but if you do have some extra money, I would recommend the rift s.
I will be willing to pay extra for something like the rift s that has better tracking. I was told to buy the rift s and get the knuckles controllers but I’m not sure what those are.
Whoever told you that has no idea what he's talking about. Even if Knuckles+Lighthouses worked with Rift S, this setup alone would cost another $600
As far as I know the knuckles controllers don't work with the rift s, because they use lighthouse tracking, and the rift s uses inside out tracking. But it doesn't really matter because the knuckles controllers are 300 euros for only the controllers. They use finger tracking so the are better than any other controller out there. But I would just stick to the standerd rift s controllers which are already leagues ahead of the wmr ones.
So I was watching some vids about VR and I always and wanted one but always forgot to this time, I searched it up. I quickly found out the price of it so I was wondering, in your opinion what is the best VR headset? Thanks
Depends on the budget:
At ~$200 HP, ACER or Lenovo WMR
At $300 Samsung Odyssey+
At $400 Oculus Rift S
And yes, overall quality scales with the price, you get what you pay for.
can u link some "~$200" since I can't find any... Thanks!
HP headset currently $130 at Microcenter.:
https://www.microcenter.com/product/608531/hp-mixed-reality-headset-and-controllers---black
Other WMRs often go on sale on amazon or Microsoft store to $200-230, but never as low as this.
Agree. The difference is less stark if you are using gamepad, wheel or HOTAS, but if you want to use tracked controllers, then Rift-S is when it starts getting serious. The others have decent screens but tracking of controllers not so much.
I am building a new pc with a ryzen 2700x and 2070 supper or 2080 supper what is the best, good priced vr headset out there. please reply to this post with any suggestions. And thanks for any feed back.
At this moment? The cheapest and decent? Refurbished WMR headsets often can be found for $150.
Best bang for the buck? Rift S: $400, great software, very good tracking, very good controllers.
In November? Oculus Quest with Oculus Link might be a good alternative.
Incorrect. You can get new, not refurbished, HP Mixed Reality Headset from Microcenter for $130. This is also the best bang for your buck.
Not entirely correct. New WMR headsets can be found for $150 or less such as Microcenter Online / In-Store deal currently on sale for $130 but usually $150. https://www.microcenter.com/product/608531/mixed-reality-headset-and-controllers---black
Refurbished Acer WMR headsets for $103 https://acerrecertified.com/acer-windows-mixed-reality-headset-controllers-ah101-d8ey/ and those with cosmetic scratches or dents for $85 https://acerrecertified.com/acer-windows-mixed-reality-headset-controllers-ah101-d8ey-scratch-dent/ .
All of these deals includes motion controllers as well, not just headset only.
Very good answer. Accurate and succinct.
Samsung Odissey+ WMR is the best bang for the buck right now, if you need even cheaper, the Lenovo Explorer WMR is a good choice, if you want any higher end than the Odissey, a Pimax 5k xr oled is the next stop. But a full set including the Valve Index controllers can go near the $1000. I don't recommend getting anything used, the smallest scratch in the lenses can be very noticeable.
Be careful...you get what you pay for...as you're dealing with shitty janky tracking with an extra 100 in your pocket I guarantee you will start to question if you should have just gotten the rift s....I say avoid wmr for this exact reason. Oculus has gotten their shit down pat and will deliver the best bang for your buck in the long run...money < your VR experience every time imo.
I had a Lenovo Explorer and the only complaint I had was the lack of oled panels, because of the bright grey blacks. The tracking has more tricks than you think, the accelerometers and other things will keep track of the controller even when is outside the cameras, and with 2 years of being in the market the software is actually pretty good, the VR desktop is superb and you have access to Minecraft VR if that your thing
Edit: also high pixel density, no ghosting because of the low latency panels and 90hz
I would say for the best overall experience shell out the 400 for rift s. The tracking is beautiful, runs great, can play all the oculus exclusives without all the revive jank...in the immortal words of Shia Lebeouf...JUST DO IT!
You can often find the Samsung Odyssey+ on sale for $300.
Rift s
I wanted to get a VR headset for a longer time. Is there an advanced VR headset that has a decent price?
I might start saving money for it.
I'd say the Beyond from Bigscreen, it features
-Lightweight
-Ergonomic
-Micro OLEDs
-2.5k x 2.5k pixel per eye
But recommend, i would the G2, since it's half the price and has very high quality aswell, plus speakers that compete with my 200€ over-ear Studio-Headphones, while the BB has..well..none.
2 base stations plus controllers plus $1000 set..and no reviews yet as a first product from a new company is what you recommend?
It´s not based on reviews, which are good, but on my personal experience.
I went OGrift>Odyssey+>reverbG2>BigsscreenBeyond, so yes, this is what i recommend.
Also, OP asked for most advanced PC-HMD, and since i have no experience with Pimax or the Aero, this is what i suggest.
I only recommend, what i know is good, if this is too much for OP, i´d go with the G2, since it´s imho the best ValueHMD on the market still.
And the Question had "most advanced" in it.. so..
If you want affordable I'd suggest you look into the Quest 3 which is due out in a few months. It has pancake lenses and should be good for pc connectivity (apparently).
HP Reverb G2
Any doubt...Quest 3
Quest 3 will be the most advanced headset with the latest tech and features available in October for $500. Pancake lens technology (like the Quest Pro), depth sensor with high resolution color pass through for better Augmented reality content in the future. The ability to connect wirelessly to your PC using Wifi (current Quests can do this too). Plus all the standalone features that make the headset useful even when not connected to a PC.
However you can get a pretty great experience with a Quest 2 right now for $300 brand new.
Hey peoples! I’m looking for a vr headset that’s cheap but has it’s own hardware rather than using a pc. I have a friend that used the Quest 2, but he said he didn’t really care for it. Any recommendations?
HTC Vive is selling for a cheap price given how vast it is.
But I didn't get mine alone; I bought it in a package with a holoride retrofit device and other safety devices that keep me immersed in gaming or edutainment whilst enroute.
check out pico 4
Pico 4 has a smaller store so I would not recommend it for standalone unless you really want to avoid Meta. For PC VR it's better though. I got both.
Literally the Quest 2. Used if it's too expensive new.
Alright. Thanks bro.
Quest 3 is the one ☝🏻 to get
You're looking for a standalone vr system. Theres nothing cheaper than quest2 in standalone. Quest3 will be better coming in oct but it's more expensive.
Dang. Thanks man.
I'm totally new to this and don't have much knowledge about VR but since I'm having a powerful high end gaming PC now (Finally) I'm considering to get proper VR stuff as well.
It's still the Quest 3 as the best all around VR headset. The more expensive VR devices are expensive because they're niche and full of compromises. Similar to how even billionaires use flagship Apple and Android phones. You can have all the money in the world, but there's nothing better you can buy. The quality and support actually depends on high volumes being sold.
Sorry but that’s just nonsense. It is certainly the best value VR headset but it is by no means the best.
And a more expensive one doesn’t mean more compromises. It means better quality, higher resolution and larger field of view.
Might be a controversial opinion but for me the Pimax 8K X is still the best. It has all the clarity you could need (significantly better than the Q3) and the largest field of view available (far far larger than the Q3) 170 degrees horizontal.
The new Pimax Crystal Superwide would be next best with even better clarity but considerably smaller field of view. Still much larger than Q3. Personally I couldn’t work with it though as I would really miss the FoV on the 8K X.
Of course the 8K X is more expensive and is no longer on sale, although you could pick one up second hand. But you get what you pay for.
A super heavy, bulky, wired headset? I thought you said I get what I pay for? Like I said, expensive niche VR is full of compromises. Quest 3 is cheaper while at the same time better in many ways. Especially form factor, if you intend to spend any significant time in VR that’s a high priority.
Pimax has a bad reputation. A new VR user should not choose that company for their first headset. Also did they fix the distortion issues for their high FOV headsets? Last I heard they had not.
I only have bad experience with Pimax.
I don’t want wires. Anything wired is a step down 🤷
I see
Is it worth it now or will they release a new Quest in the next couple of months?
Up to you. Rumors for the Quest 4 are next year at the earliest. There’s a good chance Valve will announce their new Frame VR in the next month or so. Unknown when it will be available and if it will be better than Quest 3 or have its own compromises.
There's a bunch of new headsets expected from all the major companies between now and next year. Meta will not release Quest 4 next year last I heard, but they are expected to release the ultralight headset codenamed "puffin".
The other companies with expected headset releases include: Valve, Apple, Asus and Samsung/Google.
Bigscreen beyond 2e for form factor, native steam VR, e2e clarity,and style That works best for social, competitive, and content creators.
Play for dream if u need wireless, ultimate high resolution .
Avoid pimax at all cost
If money doesn't matter then I'd get several different headsets because there isn't one that is best all use cases.
U mean Bigscreen beyond 2e
Tried most of them, and while you have the high end stuff like Pimax and Index offering great experiences at a price to match, the Quest 3, which is possibly the cheapest, is also one of the best. Great visuals, immersion, comfy for a few hours, and a massive library, especially with a PC and Steam. If you’re new to VR, you won’t go wrong with a Q3 to start. If you really take to it, that’ll be the time to consider a better headset.
Budget is about 300-400 dollars.
quest 3
>300-400 dollars
Reading is hard, huh?
This link goes to a 512 gb model Quest 3 that costs just $50 more than the maximum of that range. I honestly think OP can afford to wait a little bit longer to get a decent headset.
PSVR2 if you have a PS5 or Quest 3 if you don't.
I hear psvr2 is great for PC also
Pico 4 is 300 USD used.
A kaleidoscope
Quest 3 but ONLY if you also buy a halo head strap. Bobo vr with the battery is the best I’ve found.
Best affordable VR headset
Key Considerations for Affordable VR Headsets
Price Range: Look for headsets under $300 for budget-friendly options.
Compatibility: Ensure the headset is compatible with your gaming system or PC. Some headsets work with consoles, while others are designed for PC or standalone use.
Resolution and Refresh Rate: Higher resolution (at least 1080p per eye) and refresh rates (90Hz or higher) provide a better visual experience and reduce motion sickness.
Comfort and Fit: A comfortable headset with adjustable straps and padding is essential for longer gaming sessions.
Content Library: Check the availability of games and experiences for the headset. A wider library means more options for entertainment.
Recommendations:
Meta Quest 2: This standalone headset is often considered the best affordable option. It offers a resolution of 1832 x 1920 per eye, a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, and a large library of games and experiences. Plus, it doesn't require a PC or console to operate.
PlayStation VR: If you own a PlayStation console, the PS VR is a solid choice. It has a good selection of games and is often available at a lower price, especially with bundles.
Oculus Go: While it's more limited in capabilities compared to the Quest 2, the Oculus Go is a budget-friendly option for casual VR experiences and is very easy to use.
Takeaway: The Meta Quest 2 is highly recommended for its versatility and performance, making it a great entry point into VR without breaking the bank.
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