Whether you’re a gamer, a tech enthusiast, or someone simply fascinated by virtual worlds, the right VR headset can transform your experience. From immersive gaming adventures and interactive educational experiences to virtual meetups and beyond, VR technology offers a huge range of possibilities.
We’ve tested all of the latest VR headsets to find the best options in 2024. Our selection includes devices with excellent display quality, field of view, battery life, and unique technological advancements. Whether you’re looking for the most cutting-edge graphics, the convenience of a wireless setup, or the ability to multitask in virtual spaces, we’ve got you covered.
Meta Quest 3
The Meta Quest 3 is a great pick for gamers that works well without a high-end gaming PC, but if you’ve got one, it only gets better. The headset isn’t bulky and it’s very comfortable for using it for longer periods.
We really like the full-color passthrough mode that’s sharp enough to read things in the world around you. The 4K+ Infinite Display offers dazzling visuals, while rich 3D audio enhances sound clarity and bass performance.
Touch Plus controllers provide fine-tuned precision and realistic sensations, with the option for intuitive interactions using just your hands. You also get access to a library of 500+ immersive apps across different categories.
Sony PlayStation VR2
The Sony PlayStation VR2 comes with a lot of perks if you’re looking for a VR that doesn’t need a PC. Our favorite feature is the smart eye tracking that lets you breeze through menus with just a look, making it super intuitive.
We like that it has 4K HDR visuals across a 110º field of view, providing a rich and expansive visual experience. The advanced graphical rendering brings game worlds to life with clarity and depth. Plus, the dual 2000×2040 OLED displays ensure that every detail, no matter how minor, is crisp and clear, enhancing the realism of virtual environments.
The 3D audio immersion is so precise that you’ll be able to sense the presence of teammates, adding a strategic layer to gameplay. You’ll also appreciate the headset feedback that offers tactile sensations such as the whoosh of an arrow flying past.
HTC Vive XR
The HTC Vive XR is the perfect pick for an immersive experience on the go. Its sleek design and lightweight construction make it ideal for portable use without compromising visual quality.
The adjustable IPD and diopter dials ensure a natural and clear viewing experience tailored to your preferences. What we really like is the high-resolution XR passthrough, which seamlessly blends realities for an amplified sense of fun and imagination. Plus, with connectivity to VR-ready PCs, you don’t have to worry about high-latency gaming.
The headset boasts top graphics with a combined resolution of 3840×1920 and a 90Hz refresh rate. It also has intuitive navigation and interaction options, including 6DoF controllers or advanced skeletal-level hand tracking.
Meta Quest Pro
The Meta Quest Pro is great for VR enthusiasts who enjoy multitasking as it’s capable of managing multiple resizable screens, which simplifies productivity in virtual environments.
The headset’s ergonomic design allows for comfortable extended wear, while the high-resolution mixed reality pass-through seamlessly integrates physical and virtual worlds. Our favorite part is the real-time natural avatar expressions that add a personal touch to meetings and social interactions.
We’re also fans of the Meta Quest Touch Pro Controllers. They are equipped with self-tracking cameras and precision controls, making every movement and selection in the virtual world feel more natural and immersive.
Oculus Quest
The Oculus Quest offers an all-in-one VR experience for users who want to skip the hassle of external hardware. Setting it up through the Oculus mobile app is super easy, which means you can dive into VR with minimal effort. But you will need to log into your Facebook account, so you can connect with friends and other communities in the VR world.
We’re big fans of Oculus Insight tracking, which reflects user’s movements in VR and eliminates the need for external sensors. You’ll appreciate how the Oculus Touch controllers accurately mirror the user’s hands and gestures, allowing for a more interactive and intuitive gaming experience. What makes it even better is its ability to accommodate both standing and seated play in different room sizes.
Comparison of the Best Virtual Reality Headsets in 2024
Bottom Line
Finding the right VR headset boils down to what matters most to you: immersive visuals, seamless integration, or cutting-edge interactivity. The Meta Quest 3 balances performance and accessibility for the best high-quality VR gaming and experiences on the market. The PlayStation VR2 has great eye-tracking and high-quality visuals for console gamers and the HTC Vive XR offers portability and high-res passthrough for mixed reality fans. Finally, the Meta Quest Pro is excellent for multitasking and immersive work environments, whereas the original Oculus Quest is great for VR beginners.