Top Affordable VR Headsets Reviewed

The world of virtual reality doesn't have to be out of reach, even with premium options like the Apple Vision Pro commanding a hefty $3,500 price tag. Fortunately, there are budget-friendly VR headsets that allow you to dive into immersive virtual worlds 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 rebranded as Meta Quest – revolutionized VR accessibility by eliminating the need for a gaming PC. This, combined with its reasonable pricing, opened the doors to VR for a broader audience. Even today, beyond the Quest series, standalone VR options remain scarce, making it essential to consider other platforms when entering the VR space.

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 a simpler entry into VR, our experts have curated a list of five budget-friendly options. Some of these require a smartphone to operate, serving as an excellent starting point before investing in more expensive setups.

10 Images1. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset

Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S

38The Meta Quest 3S stands out as an exceptional entry-level VR headset, offering both standalone and PC VR capabilities. It boasts impressive performance, full-color passthrough, and is designed to deliver a robust VR experience at a more accessible price point. 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 lensesOur extensive review of the Meta Quest 3 highlighted its excellent standalone VR performance. However, its price increase from the Quest 2 was a notable downside. The Meta Quest 3S addresses this by merging the best features of its predecessors into a more affordable package.

The Quest 3S maintains the powerful internals of the Quest 3, including the CPU, GPU, and RAM, offering significant upgrades from the Quest 2. During our testing of the Meta Quest 3S, it effortlessly handled demanding games like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural, even slightly outperforming the Quest 3 due to its lower-resolution lenses.

However, the Quest 3S uses the older Fresnel lenses instead of the Quest 3's pancake lenses, with a resolution of 1832x1920 pixels per eye and 20ppd. While not as sharp as its higher-end counterpart, the 120Hz refresh rate and minimal screen door effect still ensure a satisfying VR experience. The full-color passthrough mode enhances mixed-reality gaming.

The Quest 3S's design closely resembles the Quest 3, featuring comfortable, lightweight controllers and a well-balanced 1.13lbs headset with a cloth strap for a secure fit. Battery life, while averaging about 2 hours, can be extended with a link cable to connect to a gaming PC.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images2. PlayStation VR2

Best VR Headset Under $600

### PlayStation VR2

13The PlayStation VR2 offers a premium VR experience designed for the PS5, featuring built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and innovative Sense controllers with 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 showcases its superior capabilities compared to the original PSVR, elevating PS5 gaming to new heights. Priced at $550, it's a bit steeper than other budget options but packed with features like built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, and advanced Sense controllers. Setup is straightforward, requiring just a single USB-C connection and calibration.

The VR2's 4K OLED panels deliver stunning visuals with HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view, offering PC-level VR performance. However, it's incompatible with original PSVR games. With a $59.99 adapter, it also supports PC gaming, although some features are lost in this mode.

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Best VR Headset Under $100

### Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04

8The Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 offers a unique VR experience with its DIY cardboard headset and plastic lenses, utilizing the Nintendo Switch’s screen. It's playful and engaging but lacks a strap, which might lead to 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 about a VR solution for the Nintendo Switch have circulated for years, but the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 was a delightful surprise upon its 2019 release. This kit lets users build various playful VR headsets, each tied to a unique experience, from blasters to elephants. It's an engaging Nintendo Switch accessory priced under $100, perfect for kids and creative adults.

Made from sturdy cardboard with plastic lenses, the Labo VR kit uses the Switch's screen, setting realistic expectations for resolution and refresh rate. Without a strap, holding the headset in place can cause fatigue during extended use.

Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit praised its creativity, a core aspect of all Labo products.

4. Atlasonix VR Headset

Best VR Headset Under $50

### Atlasonix VR Headset

13The Atlasonix VR Headset enhances smartphone VR with superior clarity, comfort, and field of view. It features breathable padding, an eye-protection system, and a Bluetooth remote for enhanced VR app interaction. 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 capabilities of the latest iPhones and Android phones, offering a more comfortable and clear VR experience than its cardboard counterparts. With ample padding, an adjustable strap, and an eye protection system, it ensures comfort and clarity, while sliders allow for focal and pupillary adjustments.

Setting up the Atlasonix is straightforward; most phones up to 6.3 inches fit easily into the padded slot. Its durable plastic construction and included Bluetooth controller enhance the VR experience.

5. Google Cardboard POP!

Best VR Headset Under $20

### Google Cardboard POP!

6Google Cardboard POP! provides an ultra-affordable VR experience with a simple cardboard frame, lenses, and a button for basic VR interaction. It's perfect for exploring VR content on your smartphone. 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! version offer an incredibly budget-friendly way to experience VR, using a cardboard frame to house your phone, lenses, and a button for interaction. The headset supports a range of VR apps and content, with Google providing open-source plans for customization or DIY projects.

The performance depends on your phone's capabilities, but the POP! version includes features like a photo cutout, eye cushioning, and a secure headband. At under $20, it's an accessible entry into VR.

What to Look for in a Budget VR Headset

When choosing a budget VR headset, consider the type of VR experience you're seeking. For deep VR gaming, the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2 are top choices. For movies and still-image exploration, smartphone-based VR headsets paired with a Bluetooth VR controller are more suitable.

Platform: The VR ecosystem is crucial, as it determines the available apps and experiences. Most budget headsets utilize smartphones (iOS or Android), while the Meta Quest 3S offers a standalone experience with its own app store and PC connectivity. The PS VR2 requires a PS5 for optimal use, and the Nintendo Labo VR is exclusive to the Switch. Choose based on the games and experiences you're interested in.

Some platforms, like Google Cardboard, offer curated content ecosystems for seamless app access.

Design and comfort: Comfort is key for prolonged VR use. Budget headsets often compromise on comfort, so look for adjustable straps and ample padding. For short sessions, holding the headset is manageable, but longer or interactive experiences benefit from hands-free designs and controller support.

Consider how the headset interacts with your phone. The best options protect your device with padding and feature vents to manage heat, preventing thermal throttling.

With these considerations, you can enjoy a compelling VR experience without a hefty investment. Even with a modest smartphone, there are numerous engaging VR experiences available.

Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ

What's the difference between VR and AR?

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are distinct technologies. AR overlays digital elements onto the real world, accessible via smartphones, as seen in Pokémon Go. The Apple Vision Pro also leverages AR innovatively. VR, on the other hand, fully immerses you in a computer-generated environment, with examples like Asgard's Wrath 2 on Meta Quest or Gran Turismo 7 on PSVR 2.

What are some standalone VR headset options?

Most VR headsets require additional devices, but standalone options like the Meta Quest series provide powerful, wireless VR experiences. The Meta Quest 3S is the best budget standalone headset. Alternatives include the Pico 4, HTC XR Elite, and the high-end Apple Vision Pro, which integrates seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem and best MacBooks.

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 major shopping events. Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday/Cyber Monday offer the best deals, particularly on Meta Quest headsets, though other brands may also be discounted.