The world of virtual reality can seem out of reach with high-end models like the Apple Vision Pro priced at a steep $3,500. However, diving into immersive virtual worlds doesn't have to break the bank. There are budget-friendly VR headsets that offer a fantastic experience without the hefty price tag.

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 part of the Meta lineup, revolutionized VR accessibility. It offered a standalone experience without the need for a gaming PC, making VR more affordable and accessible. Even today, the Quest series remains one of the few standalone options available, meaning most other VR experiences require integration with another platform.

Whether you're seeking an advanced VR experience with features like six degrees of freedom (6DoF) and high-resolution displays, as seen in the Meta Quest 3S and PlayStation VR2, or just looking to explore VR on a budget, our experts have curated a selection of five budget-friendly VR headsets. Some of these options are more basic and depend on your smartphone, serving as an excellent introduction to VR before you invest in a more expensive model.

10 Images1. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset

Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S

38This outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset offers significant performance capabilities, including full-color passthrough, making it a versatile choice for VR enthusiasts. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsPlatformStandalone, PCResolution (per-eye)1832x1920Refresh Rate90-120HzField of View90°Tracking6DoFWeight1.13 poundsPROSStandalone functionalityPerformance comparable to the Meta Quest 3CONSFresnel lensesThe Meta Quest 3S is an affordable yet powerful VR headset that combines the best features of its predecessors. Our hands-on review of the Meta Quest 3 praised its standalone VR experience, but noted the price increase from the Quest 2. The Quest 3S addresses this issue, offering similar internals to the Quest 3, including the CPU, GPU, and RAM, which significantly outperform the Quest 2.

During our testing of the Meta Quest 3S, it effortlessly ran demanding games like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural. The slight performance boost over the Quest 3 can be attributed to its lower-resolution lenses. However, the Quest 3S uses the Quest 2's Fresnel lenses with a resolution of 1832x1920 pixels per eye and 20ppd, which, while not as clear as the Quest 3's pancake lenses, still provides a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and minimal screen door effect. The full-color passthrough mode enhances mixed-reality gaming experiences.

The design of the Quest 3S closely mirrors that of the Quest 3, with comfortable, lightweight controllers and a well-balanced headset weighing 1.13lbs. A cloth strap ensures a secure fit, though battery life averages about 2 hours. For those willing to use a link cable, the Quest 3S can connect to a gaming PC, enhancing its versatility.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images2. PlayStation VR2

Best VR Headset Under $600

### PlayStation VR2

13Featuring built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, this VR headset is designed for the PS5. 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 controllersCONSCannot play original PSVR gamesThe PlayStation VR2 elevates PS5 gaming into a new dimension. Our hands-on review highlighted its superior capabilities over the original PSVR, starting at $550. It offers a host of advanced features, including built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, and tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Setup is straightforward, requiring only a single USB-C connection and a brief calibration.

The VR2's 4K OLED panels deliver stunningly crisp visuals with HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view. Its performance rivals that of many pricier PC VR headsets. However, it cannot play original PSVR games. Fortunately, with a $59.99 adapter, the PS VR2 can also support PC gaming, although some features are lost. Our hands-on testing of the PS VR2 PC adapter confirmed its added value, despite the minor trade-offs.

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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 innovative cardboard headset, paired with plastic lenses, uses the Nintendo Switch’s screen for a unique VR experience. However, it lacks a strap, which may lead to fatigue. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformNintendo SwitchResolution (per-eye)1,280 x 720Refresh Rate60HzField of ViewNot listedTracking 3DoFWeight3.14 poundsPROSPlayful, user-assembled headsetsSturdy cardboard constructionCONSNo strapThe Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04, released in 2019, surprised many with its creative approach to VR. This kit allows users to build various playful headsets, including a blaster, camera, bird, and an elephant, each tied to specific immersive experiences. It's an engaging Nintendo Switch accessory that costs less than $100, perfect for kids and creative adults alike.

Constructed from sturdy cardboard and featuring plastic lenses, the Labo VR kit leverages the Switch's screen. While it lacks advanced technology, offering only the Switch's resolution and refresh rate, it provides a fun and educational experience. The absence of a strap means one hand must hold the headset, which can cause fatigue during extended use.

Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit celebrated its ability to foster creativity, a core element of Nintendo's Labo series.

4. Atlasonix VR Headset

Best VR Headset Under $50

### Atlasonix VR Headset

13This VR headset utilizes your smartphone, offering comfort, clarity, and a wide field of view, along with 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 designCONSLimited by smartphone capabilitiesThe Atlasonix VR Headset stands out among smartphone-based VR options with its focus on comfort and clarity. Featuring breathable padding around the eyes and nose, an adjustable strap for weight distribution, and an eye protection system, it ensures a comfortable fit. The headset's sliders allow for focal and pupillary distance adjustments, enhancing clarity and reducing eye strain.

Setting up the Atlasonix is straightforward, accommodating phones up to 6.3 inches. Its durable plastic construction and included Bluetooth controller enhance the VR experience, making it easy to navigate and interact with apps.

5. Google Cardboard POP!

Best VR Headset Under $20

### Google Cardboard POP!

6This ultra-affordable cardboard frame holds your phone and a pair of lenses, offering limited interaction within VR through a simple button. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsPlatformAndroid, iOSResolution (per-eye)Depends on deviceRefresh RateDepends on deviceField of View95°Tracking3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)Weight0.31 poundsPROSExtremely budget-friendlyEye cushioningCONSLimited VR interactionsGoogle Cardboard POP! exemplifies affordable VR with its simple cardboard design that houses your phone, lenses, and a button for basic VR interactions. Compatible with Cardboard apps and a variety of online VR content, its design is publicly available, allowing for numerous versions or even DIY projects.

The capabilities of Google Cardboard depend on your smartphone's power. The POP! version includes a cutout for photography during use, along with eye cushioning, a velcro strap for easy phone access, and a secure headband. Remarkably, this headset is available for under $20.

What to Look for in a Budget VR Headset

When choosing a budget VR headset, consider the type of experience you want. For in-depth VR gaming, opt for the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2. For movies or still-image exploration, smartphone-based VR is a cost-effective option. A Bluetooth VR controller can enhance control in smartphone-based setups.

Platform: The VR ecosystem is crucial, as it determines the available apps and experiences. Most budget headsets use smartphones, running on iOS or Android. The Meta Quest 3S is a standalone device with its own app store and PC connectivity for expanded content. The PlayStation VR2 requires a PS5 but also offers PC compatibility with an adapter. The Nintendo Labo VR is exclusive to the Switch. Consider the games and experiences you're interested in and choose a headset that supports them. Some platforms, like Google Cardboard, have curated content ecosystems for easy access to compatible apps.

Design and comfort: Comfort is key for prolonged use. Budget headsets may compromise on comfort, and the cheapest options, like Google Cardboard, may be less comfortable. Look for adjustable straps and ample padding around the eyes for long-wear enjoyment. For shorter sessions, holding the headset is manageable, but for extended or interactive use, hands-free operation with a controller is ideal.

Consider how the headset handles your phone. The best models have protective padding and vents to prevent overheating and thermal throttling, ensuring smooth gameplay.

You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy VR. While the most immersive experiences are on pricier headsets, budget-friendly options provide a gateway to virtual worlds, especially with a capable smartphone.

Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ

What's the difference between VR and AR?

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) serve different purposes in gaming. AR is more accessible, overlaying virtual elements onto the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go or the innovative use in Apple's Vision Pro. VR, on the other hand, immerses you in a computer-generated environment, offering experiences like Asgard's Wrath 2 on the 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, including the budget-friendly Meta Quest 3S, offer independent gaming. Other standalone choices include the Pico 4, HTC XR Elite, and the powerful Apple Vision Pro, which also 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 key shopping events. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday offer some of the best deals, particularly for Meta Quest headsets, though other models may also be discounted.