Top Affordable VR Headsets Reviewed

The world of virtual reality doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. While top-tier VR headsets like the Apple Vision Pro come with a hefty price tag of $3,500, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that still deliver an immersive 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 owned by Meta, revolutionized VR by offering a standalone headset that doesn't require a gaming PC. Its affordability broke down barriers, making VR more accessible to a broader audience. Even years later, the Meta Quest lineup remains one of the few standalone options available. If you're looking to dive into VR, you'll need to consider whether you want a complete standalone experience or one that integrates with other platforms.

Whether you're seeking a high-end VR experience with advanced tracking, six degrees of freedom (6DoF), and high resolutions like those offered by the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2, or a simpler entry into the VR world, we've got you covered. Our experts have selected five budget-friendly VR headsets, some of which require a smartphone to operate, serving as an excellent starting point before you consider a more expensive model.

10 Images1. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset

Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S

38The Meta Quest 3S is an outstanding entry-level VR headset that delivers impressive performance. It offers a standalone experience with the option to connect to a PC, featuring full-color passthrough and robust specs. 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 hands-on review of the Meta Quest 3 revealed its brilliant standalone VR capabilities, though its price increase was a downside. The Meta Quest 3S addresses this by offering a more affordable alternative while maintaining much of the performance of its predecessor. Its CPU, GPU, and RAM match those of the Quest 3, significantly upgrading from the Quest 2.

In our testing of the Meta Quest 3S, it handled games like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural smoothly, even outperforming the Quest 3 slightly due to its lower-resolution lenses. However, the Quest 3S uses the Quest 2's Fresnel lenses, which are less advanced than the pancake lenses in the Quest 3. Despite this, the 1832x1920 pixels per eye resolution and 120Hz refresh rate ensure a pleasant VR experience, with minimal screen door effect. The full-color passthrough mode enhances mixed-reality gaming.

The design of the Quest 3S closely mirrors the Quest 3, with comfortable, lightweight controllers and a well-balanced 1.13lbs headset. A cloth strap provides a secure fit, though battery life lasts about 2 hours. For extended play, a link cable can connect the Quest 3S to a gaming PC.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images2. PlayStation VR2

Best VR Headset Under $600

### PlayStation VR2

13The PlayStation VR2 elevates PS5 gaming with built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and tactile 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 highlights its superior capabilities over the original, despite starting at $550. It's not the most budget-friendly option, but it offers everything you need, including built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, and tactile Sense controllers. Setup is straightforward, requiring just a USB-C connection and some calibration.

The visuals from its 4K OLED panels are stunning, 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 can't play original PSVR games. With a $59.99 adapter, the PS VR2 also supports PC, adding significant value. Our testing of the PS VR2 PC adapter showed that while some features are lost, the functionality greatly enhances the device's versatility.

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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 using the Switch’s screen, featuring playful cardboard headsets you construct yourself. 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 around since before its release, but the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 surprised many when it launched in 2019. This cardboard-crafted headset allows users to build various playful headsets, including a blaster, camera, bird, and elephant, each tied to a specific VR experience. It's an engaging Nintendo Switch accessory priced under $100, perfect for kids and creative enthusiasts.

The VR kit uses the Switch's screen and a pair of plastic lenses, so the experience is limited by the console's capabilities. The resolution and refresh rate are not the smoothest, and there's no strap, which can lead to fatigue during extended play. Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit praised its ability to foster creativity, a core element of any Labo product.

4. Atlasonix VR Headset

Best VR Headset Under $50

### Atlasonix VR Headset

13The Atlasonix VR Headset enhances your smartphone VR experience with ample padding, an eye-protection system, and a Bluetooth remote. 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 your smartphone to deliver a VR experience, excelling in clarity, comfort, and field-of-view. It's not made of cardboard, offering a more durable build. The headset features breathable padding around the eyes and nose, an adjustable strap for weight distribution, and an eye protection system. Sliders on the headset allow for adjusting focal and pupillary distances, enhancing clarity and reducing strain.

Setting up the Atlasonix is straightforward, accommodating phones up to 6.3 inches. The plastic build is durable, and it comes with a Bluetooth controller for easy navigation within VR apps.

5. Google Cardboard POP!

Best VR Headset Under $20

### Google Cardboard POP!

6The Google Cardboard POP! provides an ultra-cheap VR experience with a simple cardboard frame, lenses, and a button for basic interaction. 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 options like POP!'s version are extremely affordable due to their simple cardboard construction, which holds your phone and includes lenses and a button for limited VR interaction. You can download Cardboard apps and explore various online VR content. Google's plans for the headset are publicly available, allowing for multiple versions or even making your own if you're crafty.

The capabilities of Google Cardboard depend on your phone's power. POP!'s version includes a cutout for taking photos during gameplay and features like eye cushioning, a velcro strap, and a securing band. All this 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're after. For in-depth gaming, opt for the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2. For movies and static image exploration, a smartphone-based headset might suffice. Consider adding a Bluetooth VR controller for better control with phone-based VR.

Platform: VR headsets are part of an ecosystem of apps and experiences. Most budget options use your smartphone, running on iOS or Android. The Meta Quest 3S is fully standalone with its own app store and can connect to a PC for more content. The PS VR2 is designed for the PS5 but also supports PC with an adapter. The Nintendo Labo VR works exclusively with the Switch. Choose based on the games and experiences you're interested in.

Some platforms, like Google Cardboard, offer curated content ecosystems for quick access to compatible apps.

Design and comfort: Comfort is key for prolonged VR use. Budget headsets often compromise on comfort, with the cheapest like Google Cardboard being less comfortable. Look for headsets with adjustable straps and ample padding for long sessions. For short sessions, hand-held options may suffice, but for interactive experiences, hands-free and controller support are essential.

Consider how the headset handles your phone, with padding to prevent scratches and vents to manage heat during VR app use.

With these considerations, you can enjoy a great VR experience without breaking the bank. Even with a moderately powerful smartphone, there are plenty of immersive experiences to explore.

Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ

What's the difference between VR and AR?

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) differ significantly. AR, accessible via smartphones, overlays virtual elements onto the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go. The Apple Vision Pro also leverages AR. VR, on the other hand, fully immerses you in a computer-generated environment, with examples like Asgard's Wrath 2 for the Meta Quest or 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. Other options include the Pico 4, HTC XR Elite, and the powerful 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?

High-end VR headsets rarely see discounts, but budget models often do during key sales events. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday offer the best deals, with Meta Quest deals being most common, though other headsets may also be discounted.