While many of the best VR headsets can be quite expensive—with the Apple Vision Pro priced at a staggering $3,500—not all virtual reality experiences need to break the bank. You can dive into immersive virtual worlds with budget-friendly options that still offer a compelling experience.
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 advent of the Oculus Quest, now under Meta's umbrella, revolutionized VR by eliminating the need for a gaming PC. This, combined with its reasonable pricing, made VR more accessible to the general public. Even today, standalone VR options are scarce, meaning that experiencing VR often requires additional platforms.
Whether you're seeking a high-end VR experience with advanced tracking, six degrees of freedom (6DoF), and high resolutions offered by devices like the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2, or a more entry-level introduction to VR, our experts have handpicked five budget-friendly VR headsets. Some of our selections are basic and require a smartphone to operate, but they serve as an excellent starting point before investing in more expensive models.
AnswerSee Results### Meta Quest 3S – Photos
10 Images
1. Meta Quest 3S
Best Budget VR Headset
Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S
38This outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset delivers major performance, full-color passthrough, and more, making it an excellent choice for VR enthusiasts on a budget.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 comprehensive review of the Meta Quest 3, we found it provided an exceptional standalone VR experience. The downside? Its significant price increase over the Quest 2. Fortunately, Meta introduced the Meta Quest 3S, which combines the best of its predecessors into one affordable, yet powerful VR headset.
The Quest 3S boasts impressive performance, thanks to its CPU, GPU, and RAM, which match those of the Quest 3 and significantly outperform the Quest 2. During our testing of the Meta Quest 3S, it effortlessly ran games like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural. It even showed a slight performance edge over the Quest 3, likely due to its lower-resolution lenses.
However, the Quest 3S uses the older Fresnel lenses from the Quest 2, with a resolution of 1832x1920 pixels per eye and 20ppd. While clarity and immersion may not match the more expensive model, it still offers a 120Hz refresh rate and minimal screen door effect, ensuring a pleasant VR experience. The full-color passthrough mode is a valuable addition for mixed-reality gaming.
The design of the Quest 3S closely resembles the Quest 3, featuring the same comfortable, lightweight controllers. The headset itself weighs 1.13lbs and is well-balanced. A cloth strap ensures a secure fit, though battery life is limited to about 2 hours. For extended play, you can use a link cable to connect the Quest 3S to a gaming PC.
PlayStation VR2 – Photos
11 Images
2. PlayStation VR2
Best VR Headset Under $600
### PlayStation VR2
13This VR headset for the PS5 comes with built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and two tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, offering a premium experience at a budget-friendly price.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 gamesIf you're looking to enhance your PS5 gaming with VR, our hands-on review of the PlayStation VR2 reveals a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Priced at $550, it may not be the cheapest option, but it's packed with features like built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, and two tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Setup is straightforward, requiring just a single USB-C connection and some calibration.
The visual quality is outstanding, thanks to the 4K OLED panels that deliver HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view. It brings PC-level VR performance to a console headset with superior specs than many pricier alternatives. The downside is that it can't play original PSVR games. However, with a $59.99 adapter, it supports PC VR, adding significant value. Our testing of the PS VR2 PC adapter confirmed that while some features are lost on PC, the overall functionality enhances the device's 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
8This simple cardboard headset with plastic lenses uses the Switch’s screen to provide a unique VR experience. It lacks a strap, which might cause fatigue during extended use.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 circulated since before the console's launch, but the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04, released in 2019, came as a delightful surprise. Depending on the kit, this cardboard headset allows users to build various playful headsets, including a blaster, camera, bird, and an elephant with a trunk for reaching into VR. Each headset is tied to a specific experience, enhancing immersion and appealing to both kids and adults. It's a fun Nintendo Switch accessory available for under $100.
Constructed from sturdy cardboard and equipped with plastic lenses, the Nintendo Labo VR kit leverages the Switch's screen. The resolution and refresh rate are limited to the Switch's capabilities, resulting in visible pixels and less smooth action. It also lacks a strap, requiring one hand to hold it in place, which may cause fatigue during longer sessions.
Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit highlighted its ability to spark creativity, a core feature of any Labo product from Nintendo.
Atlasonix VR Headset
Best VR Headset Under $50
### Atlasonix VR Headset
13This VR headset accommodates smartphones up to 6.3 inches, featuring ample padding, an eye-protection system, and a Bluetooth remote for seamless 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 maximizes the potential of top-tier iPhones and Android phones to deliver a VR experience with superior clarity, comfort, and field of view. Unlike its cardboard counterparts, this headset boasts breathable padding around the eyes and nose, ensuring comfort during use. An adjustable strap evenly distributes weight, while an eye protection system and sliders for focal and pupillary distance adjustments enhance clarity and prevent strain.
Setting up the Atlasonix is straightforward, accommodating most phones up to 6.3 inches. Its durable plastic build and the included Bluetooth controller make it easy to navigate and interact with VR apps.
Google Cardboard POP!
Best VR Headset Under $20
### Google Cardboard POP!
6This ultra-affordable cardboard frame holds your phone, a pair of lenses, and a button for basic VR interaction, offering an entry-level VR experience at a minimal cost.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, exemplified by the POP! version, offers an incredibly budget-friendly VR experience due to its simple cardboard frame, lenses, and a button for basic VR interaction. You can download the Cardboard app and access a variety of VR content online. Google has made the plans for the headset publicly available, allowing various companies to produce their versions or enabling you to make your own if you're feeling creative.
The performance of Google Cardboard depends on your smartphone's capabilities. The POP! version includes a cutout for taking photos during use, along with comfort features like eye cushioning, a velcro strap for easy phone access, and a secure headband. All this is available for less than $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 VR gaming, opt for the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2. For more casual use like watching movies or exploring still images, smartphone-based VR is a cost-effective choice. We also recommend pairing smartphone-based headsets with a Bluetooth VR controller for intuitive control.
Platform: The VR ecosystem plays a crucial role. Most budget headsets use your smartphone, supporting iOS and Android. The Meta Quest 3S is fully standalone with its own app store and can connect to a PC for additional experiences. The PS VR2 requires a PS5 for optimal use but also supports PC VR with an adapter. 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 that ensure compatibility with various apps.
Design and comfort: Comfort is key for prolonged VR use. Budget headsets often compromise on comfort to keep costs down, with very cheap options like Google Cardboard being less comfortable. Look for headsets with adjustable straps and ample padding. For longer sessions, a hands-free design with a controller is preferable.
Consider how the headset handles your phone. Good options include padding to protect your device and vents to prevent overheating.
With these considerations, you can enjoy a great VR experience without spending a fortune. Even with a moderately powerful smartphone, there are plenty of immersive experiences to explore. Use these tips to find the budget VR headset that suits your needs and begin your journey into virtual reality.
Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ
What's the difference between VR and AR?
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are distinct technologies. AR, accessible via smartphones, overlays virtual elements onto the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go and Apple's Vision Pro. VR, on the other hand, creates a fully immersive digital environment, blocking out the real world. Examples include Asgard's Wrath 2 on Meta Quest and the PSVR 2 version of Gran Turismo 7.
What are some standalone VR headset options?
Most VR headsets require an external device like a gaming PC, smartphone, or console. Standalone options include the Meta Quest series, with the Meta Quest 3S being the best budget choice. Other standalone options are the Pico 4, the HTC XR Elite, and the powerful Apple Vision Pro, which integrates well 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 have price reductions during key sales events. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are prime times for VR deals, particularly for Meta Quest products, though other headsets may also be discounted.
