While top-of-the-line VR headsets like the Apple Vision Pro can cost a staggering $3,500, there are plenty of budget-friendly options 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

38Experience an outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset with impressive performance, full-color passthrough, and more. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### PlayStation VR2

13Enjoy built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and tactile Sense controllers designed for the PS5. See it at AmazonSee it at PlayStationSee it at Target### Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04

8Discover a unique VR experience using the Nintendo Switch with playful, cardboard-crafted headsets. See it at Amazon### Atlasonix VR Headset

13Immerse yourself in VR using your smartphone with a comfortable, padded headset and a Bluetooth remote. See it at Amazon### Google Cardboard POP!

6Get started with VR at an ultra-low cost with this simple cardboard frame that holds your phone and includes a button for interaction. See it at AmazonThe Meta Quest series revolutionized VR by offering a standalone headset that doesn't require a gaming PC, making it more accessible to a wider audience. Even years later, standalone options remain limited, so you often need another platform to fully enjoy VR.

Whether you're seeking a full-fledged 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 you just want to get a taste of VR, our experts have handpicked five budget-friendly VR headsets. Some of these options are basic and require a smartphone, but they can serve as an affordable entry point before upgrading to a pricier model.

10 Images1. Meta Quest 3S

Best Budget VR Headset

Our Top Pick### Meta Quest 3S

38Experience an outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset with impressive performance, full-color passthrough, and more. 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 hands-on review of the Meta Quest 3, we found it delivered an absolutely brilliant standalone VR experience. However, the price hike from the Quest 2 was a downside. Thankfully, Meta introduced the Meta Quest 3S, which combines the strengths of its predecessors into an affordable yet capable VR headset.

The Quest 3S boasts robust performance, thanks to its CPU, GPU, and RAM, matching the Quest 3 and surpassing the Quest 2. Our testing of the Meta Quest 3S showed it smoothly running games like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Supernatural, with a slight performance edge over the Quest 3, likely due to its lower-resolution lenses.

Unfortunately, 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 might not match the pricier model, the 120Hz refresh rate and minimal screen door effect ensure a pleasant VR experience. The full-color passthrough mode enhances mixed-reality gaming.

The design mirrors the Quest 3, featuring comfortable, lightweight controllers and a headset weighing 1.13lbs, which is well-balanced on the head. A cloth strap ensures a secure fit, though battery life averages about 2 hours. For extended use, a link cable allows connection to a gaming PC.

PlayStation VR2 – Photos

11 Images2. PlayStation VR2

Best VR Headset Under $600

### PlayStation VR2

13Enjoy built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and tactile Sense controllers 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 controllersCONSCan’t play original PSVR gamesIf you want to elevate your PS5 gaming experience, our hands-on review of the PlayStation VR2 shows how it outperforms the original headset. Priced at $550, it's not the cheapest, but it's packed with features like built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, and tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Setup is straightforward, requiring just a USB-C connection and some calibration.

The visuals are stunning, thanks to the 4K OLED panels with HDR, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 110-degree field of view. The performance rivals that of pricier PC VR headsets, although it can't play original PSVR games. With a $59.99 adapter, it supports PC, and our hands-on testing of the PS VR2 PC adapter confirmed its added value, despite some feature limitations.

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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

8Explore a unique VR experience using the Nintendo Switch with playful, cardboard-crafted headsets. 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, was a delightful surprise. This kit lets you build various playful VR headsets, including a blaster, camera, bird, and elephant, each linked to unique VR experiences. It's a fun and affordable Nintendo Switch accessory under $100.

Made of sturdy cardboard with plastic lenses, the Labo VR kit uses the Switch's screen, so the resolution and refresh rate are modest, and individual pixels may be visible. The lack of a strap means you need to hold the headset, which can cause fatigue during extended sessions.

Our initial review of the Nintendo Labo Variety Kit praised its ability to spark creativity, a core aspect of any Labo product from Nintendo.

4. Atlasonix VR Headset

Best VR Headset Under $50

### Atlasonix VR Headset

13Immerse yourself in VR using your smartphone with a comfortable, padded headset 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 the best iPhones and Android phones to deliver a VR experience with enhanced clarity, comfort, and a wider field of view. Unlike cardboard alternatives, this headset features breathable padding around the eyes and nose, with an adjustable strap for even weight distribution. An eye protection system and adjustable focal and pupillary distance sliders ensure a clear, comfortable experience.

Setting up the Atlasonix is straightforward; most phones up to 6.3 inches fit easily into the padded slot. The durable plastic build and included Bluetooth controller enhance navigation and interaction with VR apps.

5. Google Cardboard POP!

Best VR Headset Under $20

### Google Cardboard POP!

6Get started with VR at an ultra-low cost with this simple cardboard frame that holds your phone and includes a button for 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 creations like the POP! version are incredibly affordable due to their simple cardboard construction, which holds your phone, lenses, and a button for basic VR interactions. Download a Cardboard app and explore various VR content. Google's open-source design has led to numerous versions from different companies, or you can even make your own.

The performance of Google Cardboard depends on your smartphone. The POP! version includes a camera cutout for in-VR photography and features like eye cushioning, a velcro strap, and a headband, all 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 deep VR gaming, opt for the Meta Quest 3S or PlayStation VR2. For movies and static image exploration, phone-based VR is a cost-effective choice. For smartphone-based VR, consider a Bluetooth VR controller for better control.

Platform: VR headsets are part of larger ecosystems. Most budget options work with smartphones (iOS or Android), while the Meta Quest 3S is standalone with a rich app store and PC connectivity. The PlayStation VR2 requires a PS5 for the best experience, and the Nintendo Labo VR is exclusive to the Switch. Choose based on the games and experiences you're interested in.

Some headsets, like Google Cardboard, offer curated content ecosystems for easy access to compatible apps.

Design and Comfort: Comfort is key for prolonged VR use. Budget headsets may compromise on comfort, but look for adjustable straps and ample padding around the eyes. For short sessions, holding the headset is fine, but for longer, interactive experiences, hands-free use and a controller are essential.

Consider how the headset handles your phone. The best options have edge padding to protect your device and vents to manage heat, preventing thermal throttling.

With these considerations, you can enjoy a great virtual reality experience without breaking the bank. Even with a moderately powerful smartphone, you can access exciting VR content. Use these tips to find the perfect budget VR headset and explore the wonders of virtual worlds.

Budget VR Gaming Headset FAQ

What's the difference between VR and AR?

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) differ significantly. AR is more accessible, using smartphones to overlay virtual elements onto the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go. The Apple Vision Pro also uses AR innovatively. VR, on the other hand, creates a fully immersive, computer-generated environment, as experienced in games 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 need additional devices like a gaming PC, smartphone, or console. The Meta Quest series, including the budget-friendly Meta Quest 3S, offers standalone VR with powerful processors. Other standalone options include the Pico 4, HTC XR Elite, and the high-end Apple Vision Pro, which integrates seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem and can be used with the best MacBooks for innovative work.

When is the best time to buy VR headsets on a budget?

High-end VR headsets rarely go on sale, but budget models often see discounts during major sales events. Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are prime times for VR deals, especially for Meta Quest headsets.