10 of the Best Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

  With the time and expense required to travel being prohibitive to many, there are alternative ways of indulging your wanderlust – including via the burgeoning world of Virtual Reality.

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Cubicle Ninjas)

There are a huge number of VR companies all vying to create ever more unique experiences for consumers – and one of the biggest growth categories has been travel. And what better time to get a taste of exploration and adventure from the comfort of your living room, equipped only with a VR headset, than now, when travel is a luxury that many just can’t stretch to? We’ve picked out 10 of the best virtual reality travel experiences currently on the market.

So which VR headset should you go for? Our favourite is the Meta Quest 3, which launched onto the market in mid-2023 and is the successor to the Meta Quest 2. For immersive games and travel experiences, we believe the Meta Quest 3 is destined to become the leading VR headset over the coming years. It’s pretty affordable, too, and unlike other headsets, doesn’t require cords or a computer. You can purchase the Meta Quest 3 at Amazon.com.

Guided Meditation VR

Developed by Cubicle Ninjas, Guided Meditation VR is designed to bring peace, joy, and calm back into your daily life by teaching you ancient meditation practices in a cutting-edge way. It features over 40 lush environments to escape the everyday, 30-plus hours of guided meditations on anxiety, depression, maternity, resilience, sleep and zen, and hundreds of hours of calming musical audio tracks to help enhance your meditation experience. Users can also customise their sessions to their own specific preferences and needs, including the option to switch into Motion mode and gently float through beautiful vistas like you would on a lazy river, leaving the worries of your life behind before returning calmer and stronger.

PRICE £10.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

Be anywhere in the world with anyone, instantly, in this captivating game developed by Wooorld Inc. Visit hundreds of cities, architectural landmarks, natural wonders, and vacation spots in incredible 3D detail, and get tips about the best places to visit, the hidden gems, where to get the best food and all the tourist traps to avoid. You can also create your own 3D avatars with face and body tracking and test your worldly knowledge by guessing where you are after being teleported to 5 random locations, with only the landscape, flora, architecture, and road signs for clues. The game can played as collaboratively as you wish, with options to explore the world with friends and meet new people, or hop into a Solo World without any distractions.

PRICE Free HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Wooorld Inc.)

Blueplanet VR Explore

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Blueplanet VR Explore)

Highlighting sacred and fragile locations of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Blueplanet VR Explore  is a collection of remarkable places across the world. With freedom to move around and explore, the virtual reality experiences are captured in volumetric 3D with great detail and accuracy. The scenes look and feel like these places do in real life, and enable you to freely move around to enjoy and explore these remarkable, fragile, and priceless environments. Concern for the environment often comes from direct experience, and being as close as we can get to experiencing a sense of actually being there, Blueplanet can help encourage people to appreciate and protect these treasures.

PRICE £18.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

BRINK Traveler

Travel to some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders in fully immersive 3D and feel like you’re really there in this awe-inspiring game by Brink XR. Step into a scene akin to a postcard as you visit a total of 28 (with more on their way) of the most breathtaking places on Earth. In-game highlights include room-scale walkable areas in each destination, a virtual guide and assistant to learn about where you’re visiting, and the chance to shoot photos to share with friends. You can either play the game solo or with friends and family in multiplayer mode.

PRICE £11.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: BRINK XR)

National Geographic Explore VR

Created in partnership with National Geographic, a world-leading society in the fields of geography, cartography and exploration, this magical VR experience invites you to discover two of the most iconic locations on Planet Earth. Don your explorer hat and head to Antarctica for an exhilarating expedition. Navigate around icebergs in a kayak, climb a vast ice shelf and survive a snowstorm as you hunt for a lost emperor penguin colony. Visit the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru and get immersed in amazing digital reconstructions of the legendary site. Witness mummy worships, raise a cup of sacred chicha and encounter cute and furry alpacas as you match Hiram Bingham’s photographs from when he rediscovered the citadel. Be sure to take a camera as your best snaps may even make it into the prestigious National Geographic magazine.

PRICE £7.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Force Field Entertainment B.V)

The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners

Fans of the hugely popular TV blockbuster The Walking Dead can now join the world of zombies in this new VR adventure. Travel through the ruins of New Orleans as you fight, scavenge, and survive, each day unravelling another mystery lurking within the city’s historic quarters. Encounter desperate factions and lone survivors who could be friend or foe. Whether you help others or take what you want by force, every choice you make has consequences. What kind of survivor will you be for the people of NOLA? Scavenge for anything that you can; weapons, food, tools, and clues. Be wary of the living and the dead, with spatial audio drawing attention to any loud noise. Craft makeshift gear out of scrapped material; blades, guns, medicine, and more. Test your morals and make difficult choices for yourself and others. It’s all here, bringing the small screen to life in a big way.

PRICE £29.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Skydance Interactive)

Narrated by award-winning actress Anna Friel, this trail-blazing VR series opens the door to some of the planet’s wildest environments while redefining the limits of 3D-180 cameras. Meet the humans protecting our most precious wildlife, explore the great savannahs of Kenya, discover the ancient jungles of Borneo and dive into the rich coral reefs of Raja Ampat. Encounter elephants, orangutans, manta rays and some incredible humans, all in stunning cinematic footage filmed from the air and deep into the ocean. The series was produced in partnership with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF),

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: PHORIA)

The world is your oyster with this interactive, immersive VR experience that’s designed to be played by the whole family. There’s global travel and adventure in which your friends and family can join city tours, hot air balloon rides, back-country road trips, and plenty more. Or you can simply kick back and relax, practice meditation and get back to nature – all in the company of a guide or going solo, if you prefer. Other features include photo sharing, soundtracks, a range of fun games and media customisation.

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: AARP Innovation Labs)

Rome Reborn: The Pantheon

Created by Flyover Zone, an American company specialising in virtual travel applications that present the world’s most important cultural heritage sites and monuments, Rome Reborn is one of five applications that present different areas of ancient Rome. This particular one transports users over the entire ancient city, focussing on the Pantheon, perhaps the best-preserved building from antiquity. In the company of two virtual guides, you’ll get to explore the exterior forecourt and interior sanctuary of the reconstructed complex as you listen and learn about the Pantheon’s design and decoration, as well as the nature of the religious cult once housed within it.

PRICE £3.99 HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Rift

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Flyover Zone Productions)

Monte Fitzroy is Argentina’s most famous mountain landmark and is even used as the logo for outdoor retailer, Patagonia. It is a place that immediately evokes a sense of adventure. At the foot of the mountain is a beautiful and remote glacial lake known as Laguna Sucia. Most people who visit Monte Fitzroy view it from a location that is much easier to access. Laguna Sucia requires a much tougher hard-to-access trail that culminates in one of the most beautiful and remote glacial lakes in existence. You are rewarded with a sense of almost meditative stillness as you approach this untouched natural amphitheatre. This VR experience utilises Pterovision, a 3D technology that integrates computational photography, 360 Video, and gaming and allows you to take off like a bird, fly around the lake, visit the waterfalls along the edge, and fly over glacial formations beneath the mountain peaks. Numerous narrations will tell you about the challenges we faced when filming in this location, as well as educate you about the geology, culture, and history.

PRICE $2.99 HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Rift 

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Specterras Productions)

Gala360 – Travel & Relax

Taking you on awe-inspiring virtual adventures across the globe, Gala360 is the result of the magic touch of an array of exceptionally talented photographers who have captured their globe-trotting trips in all their glory before being rendered into VR form. In professional 6K resolution, more than 300 tours around the world are featured, with some also including narration which allows you to listen to the stories behind the trips. Most of the tours are free, but you can pay a small fee to unlock more.

PRICE Free HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Go (soon available on Quest 2)

best vr headset for travel videos

(Photo: Gala 360)

Latest Articles

  • Where to Book Transfer from Rome Airport to Your Hotel March 26, 2024
  • 3 of the Best Cycling Tours in the Loire Valley March 26, 2024
  • The 10 Coolest Flea Markets in Europe March 26, 2024
  • Editor Picks: Luxury and Boutique Hotels in Nantucket March 25, 2024
  • A Comparison of San Sebastian Hop on Hop Off Tours March 25, 2024
  • Electronics

The Best VR Headset

Two VR headsets and their controllers on a blue background.

Virtual reality can be an arresting way to step into engaging virtual worlds, even if it’s still a new technology that remains far from being a “most people” purchase. We think the Meta (formerly Oculus) Quest 3 is the best headset for most people because it’s the easiest to use and offers access to the widest range of games and experiences.

Everything we recommend

best vr headset for travel videos

Meta Quest 3

The best standalone vr headset.

The Quest 3 has a cord-free design and convincing hand tracking, with the added option to plug it in to a PC to access more-powerful games.

Buying Options

Upgrade pick.

best vr headset for travel videos

HTC Vive Pro 2 Headset

A powerful headset for pc users.

This headset’s screen handily beats the competition, but you’ll need a high-end computer to make the most of it.

best vr headset for travel videos

Valve Index Controllers

A crowd-favorite vr controller.

An upgrade to HTC’s stock controllers, we think the Valve Index Controllers are the best combo of comfort and accurate tracking.

best vr headset for travel videos

HTC SteamVR Base Station 2.0

A required vr accessory.

You’ll need two base stations to operate an HTC Vive Pro 2 Headset.

Budget pick

best vr headset for travel videos

Meta Quest 2

An older headset for less.

If you’re looking for the least expensive way to access the best VR games, this is it.

You save $56 (22%)

You can spend thousands of dollars chasing the best specs in a VR headset, but we think comfort and ease of use are more important elements for most people who want to explore VR. With that in mind, the Meta Quest 3 is the clear winner. It combines good-enough specs with the ability to use it cord free. Yet you can also plug it in to a computer, which opens up even more options for how and where you can use it. The controllers are intuitive and easy to hold. It can track you as you move around a room, and it comes with some of the best mixed reality abilities we’ve experienced. Additionally, the Quest 3 has a wide selection of compatible content, since you can play games, movies, and other experiences from the Meta Quest Store, SteamVR libraries, and, soon, Xbox Cloud Gaming.

For players searching for the latest and greatest VR headset for playing video games, we think the HTC Vive Pro 2  headset paired with Valve Index Controllers and two HTC SteamVR Base Station 2.0  units is the best combination. The Vive Pro 2 has the crispest screen we’ve tried (though you’ll need a powerful computer to max out its abilities), while the Valve Index Controllers combine comfort with the best hand tracking we’ve experienced. Together, they provide an especially immersive VR experience.

If you don’t mind a downgrade in specs and the lack of mixed reality experiences, the Meta Quest 2 is a bargain (currently $300). It’s just as easy to use as the Quest 3, and the two headsets share the same expansive library. However, the new generation of games is best played on the Quest 3.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, how we picked and tested, our pick: meta quest 3, flaws but not dealbreakers, upgrade pick: htc vive pro 2 headset with valve index controllers, budget pick: meta quest 2, what about apple vision pro, other headsets we like, the competition.

For more than a decade, editor Signe Brewster has chronicled the rise of virtual reality for publications such as Wirecutter, Wired, TechCrunch, MIT Technology Review, and GigaOm.

Virtual reality can make you feel like you’ve been transported to another world—or at the very least like you are experiencing a wonderfully novel piece of technology. Short films, puzzles, social networks, and other types of VR entertainment are available. But if you’re not into video games, the only VR-ready medium that can offer hours of immersive entertainment, you may grow bored fairly quickly.

Virtual reality games are different from games on traditional consoles like the Xbox and PlayStation. Motion-tracking controllers, which bring your hands into the virtual world, are more intuitive for beginners: Swinging a sword feels more like swinging a sword, and ducking for cover can require real ducking.

If you want to use a Quest or PC headset to its full potential, you need a powerful gaming computer and, ideally, an empty room to set everything up in. Both Meta and HTC have pages featuring compatible VR-ready PCs and bundles, and both have minimum and recommended PC specs (for details, see Meta’s list and HTC’s list ) for use with their systems. Both headset makers also offer tools that you can download to test whether your current PC is VR-ready.

We’ve concluded that the best VR headsets have the following features:

  • Room-scale tracking: Whether the sensors are built into the headset or meant to be mounted on a wall, the headset you buy should come with the ability to track you across an area the size of an average living room. It should make it easy to avoid bumping into obstacles.
  • Freedom of movement: The headset can switch between corded and cord-free experiences, which allows for maximum freedom of movement and portability.
  • Variety of content: Games and applications should be available across a variety of genres. There should also be evidence that developers are continuing to develop for the headset.
  • Comfort: The headset should sit snugly on a variety of face shapes without being painful. It shouldn’t feel too heavy or get too hot.
  • Industry-leading specs: The screen resolution, sensors, weight, and size should be in line with those of other top VR headsets. Good display specs in particular assist in creating a better VR experience because they help you forget that you are looking at a screen instead of something real.
  • Good controllers: The controllers should be comfortable to hold, and they shouldn’t have overly complicated button layouts.
  • Built-in sound: Although audiophiles who already own high-end headphones will appreciate a headphone jack, most people don’t already own headphones that are nice enough for VR (and good sound really does make VR more immersive). Headsets with high-quality built-in headphones or speakers eliminate an extra accessory to buy and still leave open the option of swapping in your own pair if you care to.

We evaluate each headset for its controllers, screen, and fit for comfort. We play a mix of action and puzzle games to evaluate performance.

Our top pick, the Meta Quest 3, and two controllers sitting on a blue surface.

The Meta Quest 3 makes it easier—and fun enough to be worth it—to give VR a try, compared with headsets that require cables and expensive PCs. It’s also the first mainstream VR headset to make mixed reality (also known as augmented reality) one of its core features. And compared with the previous-gen Quest 2, its screen quality and speed represent a significant step up that makes it even easier to feel like what you see on the screen is “real.”

The Quest 3 has two capable controllers and is compatible with our favorite games. It’s also small enough to toss into a tote bag or a backpack, so you can break it out at the office or a party. You can set it up and start playing in less than a minute; thanks to built-in sensors that track the two Touch Plus controllers and your other movements, you can navigate an entire room, and the headset won’t ever lose your location. As a result, we consistently reach for it over headsets that cost two or even five times as much.

The front of the Meta Quest 3, showing three sensors/cameras on the front of the device.

It’s cordless, which makes it easy to use. Sensors for tracking your head and hands are built into the headset and controllers, which means you can walk around the entirety of a room and your virtual body will do the same. Although a PC headset with more-precise tracking, such as the Valve Index or the HTC Vive Pro 2, can better replicate your movement and avoid reality-breaking glitches, like your hands floating away, we found the Quest 3 convincing enough to cross that initial threshold into “realness.” The ability to play without a cord also means you aren’t pulled out of a game when you inevitably trip on the cable tethering you to a PC.

You can wirelessly connect Quest headset to your PC to play Steam games with Steam Link or Air Link . However, games will look and play better with an  Oculus Link cable .

It has all the games we love to play. We welcomed the return of several of our favorite games, including the addictive Beat Saber , which on its own could be justification to buy the Quest 3. We also like the escape-room-style I Expect You to Die trilogy, the relaxing Walkabout Mini Golf , the battle royale–style Population: One , and the adventure-puzzle game Moss: Book II . If you have a PC, you can play the critically acclaimed first-person shooter Half-Life: Alyx .

Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR hit Meta headsets in November. You’ll also be able to play Xbox games like Halo Infinite on a virtual screen with Xbox Cloud Gaming come December. The Quest 3 is backward compatible with games that originally came out for the Quest 2.

It’s easy to set up boundaries. When you’re immersed in a virtual world, it’s easy to forget about walls, tables, and other obstacles. Like the PlayStation VR2 , the Quest 3 scans the room and builds virtual fences into your play space so you don’t accidentally punch the TV or run into the couch. Other headsets require you to draw these boundaries yourself.

It’s the easiest route into mixed reality. Mixed reality, which lays the virtual world over the real world, still feels like a gimmick—we’ll update this guide later this year with experiences from upcoming games that make use of mixed reality. But the Quest 3’s ability to map games onto the room around us worked well; when we played First Encounters , a virtual spaceship landed on my dining table. Then cracks appeared on the windows and aliens poured into the room, challenging me to race around the room shooting them with my virtual ray gun. It’s also a nice way to be able to still interact with the real world from inside the headset (no more stepping on the cat or worrying about falling through the window!). It’s a big step up from the experience on the Meta Quest Pro, and it’s leaps and bounds beyond the Quest 2, but it still feels like a novelty that didn’t draw us away from our favorite VR games.

Its LCD screen is good enough. It offers 2064×2208 pixels per eye, with deep blacks and vivid colors that do their best not to remind you you’re in a virtual world. It has a 110-degree field of view. The Quest 3 currently has a maximum refresh rate (think of this as the VR way of saying “frames per second”) of 120 Hz, matching the HTC Vive Pro 2 and beating the Quest Pro’s 90 Hz. Higher refresh rates are generally believed to reduce the likelihood that users might experience motion sickness while using a VR headset.

best vr headset for travel videos

It’s heavy but still comfortable. At a claimed 515 grams (1.1 pound), the Quest 3 is a hair heavier than we prefer our VR headsets to be (the experience is like hanging a half-liter bottle of water from your face). But due to cushy foam padding that rests on the face and adjustable straps that reach around to the back of the head, we found that the Quest 3 is fairly comfortable to wear for hour-long play sessions, though we had to fiddle with the fit to get it to sit correctly. If you care enough to want to change it, you have to shell out $50 extra for the halo-style Elite Strap . However, the Quest 3’s strap is the first we’ve found that accommodates a high ponytail.

best vr headset for travel videos

Its Touch Plus controllers rank among the best. The two controllers are molded to sit in your hand, with your pointer fingers resting on triggers and your middle fingers resting on “grip” buttons. Your thumbs can reach a small joystick, plus A, B, and home buttons. Sensors built into the headset track the location of the controllers, so moving your hands physically moves them in VR. The Quest 3’s controllers are intuitive to use and easy to hold for long periods.

Its audio is good enough for immersive VR. The Quest 3 has built-in speakers that direct 3D sound toward your ears. We like the open-ear setup in a social setting, where the speakers can clue onlookers in on what the person wearing the headset is seeing, but audiophiles are likely to want to plug in their own headphones.

The battery life is just okay. Meta says that the Quest 3’s battery lasts two to three hours, though we found that it fell closer to the two-hour mark. That’s plenty of time for solo play. However, when we’ve used cordless headsets with friends, we’ve always ended up running out of battery power.

No one has gotten the strap quite right on a VR headset. I have yet to use a strap that doesn’t slide around or bunch up my hair. The Quest 3’s strap lacks padding and doesn’t distribute weight on the back of the head as well as a halo-style strap, and we think many people will choose to upgrade to the Elite Strap . However, the Elite Strap is uncomfortable to wear with your hair up, whereas the included strap is the first we’ve found that wraps around a high ponytail.

The Meta Quest 3 with the Elite Strap.

The Touch controllers have a flaw. While they are the most comfortable controllers to hold and use, they lost sight of our hands more often than headsets with exterior sensors that you place around the room to track the location of your body and hands. The Quest 3 is built with inside-out tracking, which means the headset uses cameras to track lights that the controllers emit. Throw your hands behind your back, and you might find that your virtual hands no longer respond when you move the controllers.

The HTC Vive Pro 2 headset with Valve Index Controllers sitting on a blue background.

If you want a more powerful headset that pushes VR closer to its current bounds (or want to avoid a headset affiliated with Facebook), we recommend buying the HTC Vive Pro 2 Headset and pairing it with Valve Index Controllers and two HTC SteamVR Base Station 2.0 units. You’ll need a fast gaming computer—and be willing to spend many times more than it would cost to buy a Quest 2 or 3—but you’ll be rewarded with the crispest screen, detailed position and motion tracking in a whole room, and access to VR’s best games. This headset isn’t a level-up for the VR industry as a whole, but it does offer a step forward in specs at a price that would have been a dream just a decade ago.

It most convincingly brings your body into VR. Setup involves placing two HTC SteamVR Base Station 2.0 devices in elevated locations; you can either mount them on a wall or set them on a shelf. Then, they communicate with your headset and controllers to create a strong sense of presence within VR. When you move your hands or take three steps, so does your in-game body.

Using the Vive Pro 2 and the Base Station 2.0 devices, our hands never disappeared or floated away like they sometimes do while using a Quest headset. If you have four base stations, your VR play space can expand to as large as 33 by 33 feet. There’s also the option to add a wireless adapter to the headset for $350, though it limits the Vive Pro 2’s resolution and refresh rate.

A screenshot of scene from the Alyx VR game.

The VR game library is enormous. SteamVR, which you can access on your headset or computer to easily download games, has a huge library for the Vive Pro 2, including the adrenaline-pumping Half-Life: Alyx and the perennial favorite Beat Saber . For those already accustomed to using Steam, it’s an especially easy way to manage a library of VR games.

It has an especially high-resolution screen. Each of the two LCD screens that float in front of your eyes has a resolution of 2448×2448 pixels, making it a 5K headset. The Pro 2’s field of view is particularly wide at 120 degrees, and it can reach a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz (or 90 Hz if you’re using the headset wirelessly). In practice, that means you’ll still be aware that you’re staring at a screen; we sometimes noticed flares of light when we looked at high-contrast images like white text on a black background. But the colors and blacks look crisp, in-game action is smooth, and the experience is convincing enough that you can focus on what you’re doing instead of what you’re seeing.

It’s heavy, which makes it uncomfortable to wear for long periods. The Vive Pro 2 weighs 850 grams, and as a result, we noticed its bulk more than we did that of the 515-gram Quest 3. We’ve also seen complaints online that some face shapes don’t mesh well with Vive headsets, though we didn’t have a panel of testers with more physical variations try this one out because of pandemic restrictions at the time of our testing. However, we find halo-style headsets especially helpful for adjusting fit.

A person with a beard wearing a Vive Pro 2.

We recommend upgrading the controllers. The wand-style controllers included with the full Vive Pro 2 Full Kit are a bit awkward to use. We think it’s worthwhile to spend a bit more and buy Vive Pro 2 accessories à la carte so you can swap in a pair of Valve Index Controllers instead. The Valve Index Controllers can track each individual finger, have both a joystick and a trackpad (most controller sets have only a single trackpad), and are more comfortable to hold. They’re widely considered the best VR controllers made.

The headset comes with on-ear headphones. They’re good enough for an immersive VR experience, and we didn’t think twice about using them. But if you’re an audiophile, it’s possible to remove them and use USB-C headphones instead. Or, you could consider getting the cheaper Valve Index headset for its slightly superior audio quality.

The bright white Oculus Quest 2, our pick for best budget virtual reality headset, flanked by two white hand controllers.

The Meta Quest 2 lacks the Quest 3’s mixed reality abilities, and it comes with a downgrade in screen quality and speed. But we think at its current price of $300, it’s the best bargain in VR. You can still play all of the popular games (including Steam titles with Steam Link or Oculus Link) and take advantage of its light, cordless design to get into VR with as little friction as possible.

The specs are a step down but still playable. The Quest 2’s screen is 1832×1920 pixels per eye; that made it one of the first headsets that didn’t regularly give us the “screen door effect,” which is a light grid laid over your field of view. While that can’t match the resolution of the Quest 3 or Vive Pro 2, it’s enough that you’ll feel immersed in VR. The Quest 2’s refresh rate tops out at 120 Hz, matching the HTC Vive Pro 2 and Quest 3.

There are lots of great games, but you’ll miss some of the latest and greatest. Unlike the Quest 3, the Quest 2 won’t automatically scan your room to create boundaries around obstacles. It also lacks the Quest 3’s mixed reality features. That will neuter your experience in the new generation of Quest games, but you’ll still be able to play most of them. And while mixed reality can be fun for pretending your living room is being invaded by aliens or being able to see your friends still stuck in the real world, it’s far from the best of what’s available to do in VR; if you’ve never experienced it, we don’t think you’ll miss it much.

Apple’s long-awaited $3,500 Apple Vision Pro mixed-reality headset is available to buy as of February 2, and while it’s way too expensive for us to recommend for most people, the technology is impressive.

The Vision Pro looks like a pretty standard virtual reality headset, though with some Apple flair — its rounded glass visor and aluminum chassis take design cues from the Apple Watch, AirPods Pro, and the MacBook. The headset is powered by Apple’s M2 processor and augmented by the company’s new R1 chip to speed up the Vision Pro’s five sensors, 12 cameras and six mics. Apple created a new operating system, visionOS, to run on the Vision Pro, and if you’ve used a Mac or even an iPhone, the interface will feel familiar. Instead of using mouse clicks or taps to navigate, you use your eyes, hands, and voice. We found the eye tracking to be particularly impressive—you select an icon or menu item by simply looking at it, and then you tap your fingers together to open it. The process is quick, seamless, and becomes intuitive after just minutes with the device. You can also use Siri to navigate visionOS, which can be helpful as you’re learning how to use gestures and eye-tracking and aren’t sure where to find things.

You can use the Vision Pro to access apps and websites, just like you would on an iPhone or a Mac (but blown up to a screen that can feel 100 feet wide). This is the augmented reality part — using the Vision Pro as a display overlays open apps or browser windows on top of the real world around you, which you can see in a pass-through video feed, and you can use a virtual keyboard or pair a physical one to interact with the device. You can also use the headset for immersive virtual experiences like watching a movie on the moon. The two microLED displays (one for each eye), which are packed with 23 million pixels, are truly incredible, and the pass-through video feed that allows you to see your surroundings in real time is also very cool. But while having a workstation and a home movie theater in one portable device is very cool, we’re not convinced it’s $3,500 cool — especially when you can buy an excellent computer, 4K monitor, or high-end TV for less than the cost of an Apple Vision Pro. The headset is also isolating, because it’s difficult to share the experiences you have in virtual or augmented reality with other people in your life. And it feels heavy to wear on your face, despite the fact that the battery pack is an external one that connects to the headset via a cable.

We’re currently long-term testing the Apple Vision Pro and will update this piece once we see how the device and platform perform over time.

If you want to spend less on a PC-tethered headset: We think the Valve Index offers a great middle ground between price and performance. For $1,000, you get a headset, the widely beloved Valve Index Controllers , and two base stations, allowing for a more accurate and immersive room-scale VR experience than a Meta Quest 3 can provide. We also think the Index audio sounds a hair better than the HTC Vive Pro 2’s. However, the Vive Pro 2 has a better screen and added options like the ability to go wireless. There’s also some evidence that an Index 2 is on the way.

The PlayStation VR2 is comfortable and easy to set up, it looks great, and it comes closer than any other cabled headset to bringing console-level simplicity to VR. But at $550, it’s more expensive than the even easier-to-use Quest 3, which also has more games and better specs.

PC headsets

Windows Mixed Reality headsets, in our experience, have less reliable tracking and less content, and worse controllers than Meta and HTC headsets. However, the HP Reverb G2 is the best option currently available.

Pimax headsets have impressive features that match or beat the competition. But in our experience these headsets are bulky, suffer from screen flaws, and are among the most expensive VR options out there.

Standalone headsets

The Meta Quest Pro lags behind the Quest 3 when it comes to price, screen quality, field of view, weight, and the mixed reality experience. It does add eye and face tracking, which could be useful for developers or more realistic “face-to-face” interactions. But we think most people will be happier with the Quest 2 or 3.

If you can swallow spending $1,000 more to avoid a Meta-branded gadget, you could consider the HTC Vive Focus 3 , which has a higher resolution screen and wider field of view than the Quest 3. There’s also the $1,100 Vive XR Elite , which has some of the better passthrough we’ve seen and a smaller profile, but we found it uncomfortable and difficult to use compared to Meta headsets. For the price, the Quest 3 is still an easy pick.

Arthur Gies and Caitlin McGarry contributed additional reporting.

This article was edited by Arthur Gies and Caitlin McGarry.

Meet your guide

best vr headset for travel videos

Signe Brewster

Signe Brewster is an editor on Wirecutter's PC team. She also writes about virtual reality. She previously reported on emerging technology and science for publications like Wirecutter, MIT Technology Review, Wired, Science, and Symmetry Magazine. She spends her free time quilting and pursuing an MFA in creative writing.

Further reading

The PSVR 2 headset, next to its two controllers, in front of a teal background.

PlayStation’s New PS VR2 Is Great. Don’t Buy It (Yet).

by Arthur Gies

PlayStation’s latest VR headset is excellent, but the Meta Quest 2 offers more games for less.

A screenshot from the video game "Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden."

Video Games to Ride Out the End of Winter

by Wirecutter Staff

Winter isn’t done yet, but there’s good news: These video games are ready to hang out with you inside until it warms up out there.

best vr headset for travel videos

Choosing the Right PlayStation 5

by Arthur Gies and Haley Perry

The new PlayStation 5 launched on November 12, 2020. We break down the differences that matter and consider whether it’s worth the upgrade.

A playstation 5 PS5

If You Missed the PS5 Restock, Here’s How to Prepare for the Next One

by Alejandra Matos

If you missed the reappearance of the PlayStation 5 at Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon, here’s our advice for the next restock.

The best VR headsets in 2024

The best VR headsets for your needs, tested by us

  • Best overall
  • Best premium
  • Best gaming
  • Best budget
  • Best for work
  • Best for budget gaming
  • How we choose
  • How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best premium headset 4. Best gaming headset 5. Best budget headset 6. Best headset for work 7. Best cheap gaming headset 8. How we choose the best headsets 9. How we test

The best VR headsets aren't just about transporting you to virtual worlds anymore. They give you the best mixed reality experience by also giving you the chance to interact with the real world in new and fascinating ways, such as Spatial computing and overlaying your environments with augmented reality holographs.

As this industry is exploding with popularity, we have handpicked a small selection that offer the best bang for your buck. All of them can play most of the best VR games , and some can even serve as home gym replacements, productivity tools for work or even giant immersive screens to watch the best TV shows and movies. 

Each of the below VR headsets on this list stands out for a particular reason, typically related to its features. That being said, we do have a clear winner when it comes to the best VR headset you can buy right now.

Jason England

Jason brings a decade of tech and gaming journalism experience to his role as a Managing Editor of Computing at Tom's Guide. He has previously written for Laptop Mag, Tom's Hardware, Kotaku, Stuff and BBC Science Focus. In his spare time, you'll find Jason looking for good dogs to pet or thinking about eating pizza (if he isn't already).

The quick list

Here's a quick overview of the best VR headsets you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews.

The best VR headset overall

The Meta Quest 3 is our pick for best overall VR headset for a lot of reasons. In its 3rd generation, Meta has fixed a lot of our common gripes with the hardware — offering impressive passthrough, accurate controllers with decent haptics, and a massive suite of apps and games to experience. And you can get all of this for an impressive price.

Read more below

The best premium VR headset

If that $3,500 price tag isn't a tough pill to swallow, the Apple Vision Pro offers the best mixed reality experience out of all the headsets on this list. That includes an incredibly sharp passthrough mode to enable spatial computing, immersive viewing experiences of 3D movies, full integration with Apple products like the MacBook, and super advanced hand and eye-tracking. 

The best gaming VR headset

For the best AAA gaming experience, the PSVR 2 is the headset to choose. With a wide viewing angle and vivid, sharp OLED display technology, to sensational controller haptics and impressively accurate tracking, it brings a new way to interact with a ton of PS first party titles like Gran Turismo 7.

The best budget VR headset

The Meta Quest 2 is still a fantastic choice for buyers who want to take their first step into the world of VR. It is missing some of the features from the Quest 3, such as full color passthrough and that powerful Snapdragon XR2 chipset. But this headset is still compatible with a ton of apps and games — making it a valuable purchase at just $299.

The best VR headset for work

The Meta Quest Pro can do it all, but it's aimed at the hard workers in a virtual space, such as scientists or engineers. If you fit into this niche, you really can't get anything better. But this is a small niche for sure. 

The best cheap gaming VR headset

As for gaming on the cheap, the original PSVR is a solid choice. The library is dense with games to pick up and play, using the controls and immersion in some rather exciting ways. And while the PSVR 2 is here and bringing some impressive experiences to the table, this is a low cost way into VR gaming.

The best VR headsets you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

1. Meta Quest 3

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

The Meta Quest 3 "is undoubtedly the best VR headset I've ever tested" is the first line of our review of Meta's latest VR headset. It improves on the Quest 2 in just about every way, including a brand-new Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and twin LCD lenses that offer 2K resolution in each eye for a combined 4K resolution.

That said, it's still not perfect. The battery life did not impress us — we managed to kill the battery in just under two hours. And while the full-color passthrough thanks to the two RGB cameras and depth projector is impressive, for a headset billed as a mixed reality headset, there isn't a lot to try out in mixed reality yet.

Despite these shortcomings though, the Quest 3 is still the top choice. Its improvements over the Quest 2 make choosing the older Quest headset a poor choice unless you're looking for something truly entry-level. And while the PSVR 2 is more powerful and has eye-tracking features, the resolution upgrade on the Quest 3 really bridges the gap. Plus, as with the Quest 2, you can still play PC VR games thanks to the Link cable or Air Bridge (sold separately), something the PSVR 2 cannot manage.

See our full Meta Quest 3 review .

2. Apple Vision Pro

Yes, the Apple Vision Pro is more mixed reality than truly VR, but that's the direction this whole category is heading in right now. And if you're looking out for the absolute best implementation of VR and AR technology (and cost is no obstacle), Cupertino's new headset is the best way to go.

Apple has tackled a lot of the common challenges for headsets with some truly great ingenuity in both hardware and software. For example, the microOLED displays with pixels smaller than red blood cells make for super sharp pass-through (with the lowest response time in the industry right now at just 12 milliseconds). On top of that, the futuristic eye and hand-tracking experience is head and shoulders above the tracking you can find in the competition.

And sure, there are some issues with it. Beyond that massive $3,500 asking price, the tethered battery can get in the way sometimes, personas during FaceTime calls are pretty weird to look at, and its missing some big apps like Netflix and YouTube (though the latter is coming soon ).

But you're looking at the most innovative product to come out of Apple since the iPhone. This is a revolution in the making, and it's certainly the technically superior VR/AR system of the bunch.

See our full Apple Vision Pro review .

3. PlayStation VR2

Sony 's new PSVR 2 is arguably the best wired VR headset, given it has a plethora of high-end specs, including a brilliant OLED display. But it sits behind the Quest 3 because it requires a PS5 to work and is limited to the PlayStation ecosystem. Plus the gap between the Quest 3 and PSVR 2 is much smaller than the gap between the Quest 2 and the PSVR 2 thanks to a new processor and display on the Quest 3.

Still, the PSVR 2 is excellent, especially for gaming. The headset is comfortable with just a relatively slim but sturdy cable that connects it to the PS5, the screen is excellent with impressive passthrough capabilities and 4K resolution. Plus, there's 3D audio support and easy buttons for adjustment. 

But the real ace-in-the-hole is the Sense controllers. These are not only rather comfortable and good at tracking, but they also have excellent haptic feedback; an area where other VR headsets are lacking. 

And thanks to being in the PlayStation ecosystem there are exclusive games like Horizon Call of the Mountain and the ability to play Gran Turismo 7 in VR. Combined with the VR tech, the PSVR 2 is one of the very best virtual reality systems you can buy today. 

See our full PlayStation VR2 review .

4. Meta Quest 2

The Meta Quest 2 is a masterclass in incremental improvements over its predecessor, the Oculus Quest. As reviewer Michael Andronico concluded: "The Meta Quest 2’s price, game library and overall ease of use make it the best entry point into virtual reality yet." 

The Quest 2 sports a slicker design, better display resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate in some games and apps, and faster overall performance than the original Oculus Quest. It also just feels like a well-made headset. There's a large market for Meta Quest 2 accessories too, from Logitech speakers that can be attached to the Quest 2's strap to provide a premium sound experience without taking you fully out of the real world to charging docks and more.

Plus, the Quest 2 does all this without any cables, which is one of the reasons why it still holds our top spot for the best VR headset. But you can still connect it to a PC via the Meta Quest Link cable to play the best PC VR games. One own Mike Prospero did just that with Microsoft Flight Simulator on the Quest 2 . 

Starting at $299, it's also the most affordable headset out there, making its quality and versatility all the more impressive. That's why remains our pick for the best way to get started with the world of virtual reality if you don't want to spend up for the Quest 3.

See our full Meta Quest 2 review .

5. Meta Quest Pro

The Meta Quest Pro is effectively the grown-up version of the Quest 2 . Though the Quest Pro can play games, it’s aimed at designers, engineers, scientists and creatives who frequently collaborate online. This is another step toward Meta’s goal of making the metaverse a reality and, questions about the metaverse’s viability aside , the Quest Pro is itself an impressive piece of tech.

The issue is that it may not be practical for most VR enthusiasts, let alone anyone looking to just get started experiencing mixed reality. Its features aren't aimed toward gaming, meaning that there are better — and certainly less expensive — options for VR gamers. 

At $999, you would be better off with a PS5 and PS VR or a gaming PC with a VR headset if all you want to do is play games. And the Quest 3 performs just as well when it comes to games but at half the price.

Given that the Quest 3 can probably do most things you'll need, most people will probably pass on the Quest Pro. But if money is no object, there's no denying that the Meta Quest Pro is a great VR headset.

See our full Meta Quest Pro review .

6. PlayStation VR

If you want to play VR games on a console then the PlayStation VR system is a decent option given its lower price point. As reviewer Sherri L. Smith noted: "PlayStation VR delivers compelling games in a comfortable, easy-to-use headset that won't break your budget." 

The semi-futuristic-looking headset is surprisingly comfortable, with a superb range of some of the best VR games . This includes games like Hitman 3, Stride and Star Wars : Squadrons among others.

If you have a PS4 or PS4 Pro, then PlayStation VR is definitely one of the more affordable ways to play VR games with decent-quality graphics since you don’t need an expensive gaming PC. Plus, even with the less-than-stellar Move controllers and graphics that fall a bit short of high-end PC graphics, you still get a relatively high-end VR experience.

One thing to also bear in mind is that the PlayStation 5 also has support for PlayStation VR but it has some issues. It doesn't play as nicely with the Move controllers as its PS4 counterparts. Additionally, with the release of the PSVR 2, there won't be new games coming to the PS VR headset. But if you want to just play VR games for the first time and you already have a PS4, the PS VR headset could be a perfect entry point.

See our full PlayStation VR review .

How to choose the best VR headset for you

Our picks for the best VR headsets are rather few, due to the fact that a lot of the top VR headsets of the past few years have been discontinued and replaced with one or two models. Yet, that's not to say the choice is a completely easy one. The first thing to consider is what type of VR experiences you want and what hardware you already have.

As it stands, if you want some virtual reality action on the PS5 or Xbox Series X you need to go with Sony. Only the PS5 supports VR in the form of the PS VR headset, and the PS VR2 is on its way, designed specifically for the PS5. Xbox Series X and Series S lack VR support entirely and there's no hint that VR support will come in the near future. We hope this will eventually change given Windows 10 has baked-in VR support, but right now things don't look too hopeful. 

For those with powerful PCs and a dedicated virtual reality space, then headsets like the Valve Index , which we have not reviewed, are worth considering. You can also do PC passthrough with the Quest headsets, but they won't be as powerful gaming rigs as a high-end gaming PC combined with an Index headset.

People with less space and less powerful hardware should go for the Meta Quest 3. It offers an all-in-one VR experience and can be connected to a PC using a cable or wirelessly, though that can be a pricey extra.

For owners of the PS4 or PS4 Pro, the choice is a lot easier as your best option is probably the PS VR headset, though at $499 the Quest 3's superior performance and platform are worth considering. If you have a PS5 you should probably still get the PSVR 2 if all you're concerned about is playing VR games. The gaming headsets utilize the console's power to provide graphics above what standalone headsets can manage with their mobile chipsets for a cheaper price than PC VR gaming rigs. Unless you want to experience mixed reality or prefer VR apps and experiences to VR games, the PlayStation VR ecosystem is a great way to experience VR using some of your existing hardware.

How we test VR headsets

Identifying the best VR headsets takes a suite of things to consider, from the hardware itself to the software the headsets will work with. We test and consider how easy it is to set up a VR headset and system, how well-designed and comfortable the headset is, how well its interface works, and take a look at the accessories the VR headset can use. 

We also take a look at how specific VR headsets work such and how easy the interface to use, as well as how head tracking performs and the quality of the controllers with the headsets. 

A major part of initial testing involves evaluating how much space is needed to set up one of our picks for the best VR headsets to get the most out of them.

A product can look great but still be uncomfortable to use. Aside from testing out all the various content, we spend at least 30 minutes wearing each headset. We test to make sure any embedded air vents are keeping things cool. And if it does get sweaty, we see how well the face guard wicks away moisture. We also weigh the headsets, because even the lightest gadget can feel heavy after long periods of use. Finally, we test how adjustable the head straps are and how secure they feel.

As the de facto face of your virtual experience, the interface is vitally important. We test how responsive and intuitive the home page and subsequent menus are, as well as test special features, like voice commands and gesture control.

Whether it's a traditional gamepad or something more elaborate, like Meta's controllers, we're checking to see if the input devices are ergonomically designed; after all, no one wants hand cramps. We also test tracking and responsiveness in a number of games.

Hardware without great software is just an expensive paperweight.  We not only examine the size of a device's library but also scour the listings and test out some of the higher-end apps and titles. At this point, a good library should feature a number of games, apps, movies and other experiences.

Get the BEST of Tom’s Guide daily right in your inbox: Sign up now!

Upgrade your life with the Tom’s Guide newsletter. Subscribe now for a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and hottest deals. Elevate your everyday with our curated analysis and be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets.

Jason brings a decade of tech and gaming journalism experience to his role as a Managing Editor of Computing at Tom's Guide. He has previously written for Laptop Mag, Tom's Hardware, Kotaku, Stuff and BBC Science Focus. In his spare time, you'll find Jason looking for good dogs to pet or thinking about eating pizza if he isn't already.

Cheaper Meta Quest 3 Lite just leaked — here’s your first look

I used the Apple Vision Pro for 1 month — here's the truth

Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, and Air Fryer review

Most Popular

By Emily Long January 23, 2024

By Sarah Chaney January 18, 2024

By Stephen Lambrechts January 11, 2024

By Dan Cavallari January 10, 2024

By Christian de Looper January 07, 2024

By Olivia Powell December 11, 2023

By Anthony Spadafora December 10, 2023

By Jane McGuire December 08, 2023

By Frances Daniels December 04, 2023

By Frances Daniels November 25, 2023

By Frances Daniels November 23, 2023

  • 2 I created my dream WFH desk for productivity and gaming — here’s how you can too
  • 3 7 ultimate spring cleaning hacks the experts swear by
  • 4 You don’t need barbells to sculpt leg muscle — 5 dumbbell exercises for beginners
  • 5 I never liked e-readers, but the Kindle app on my phone has converted me

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

The best VR headsets right now (and how Apple Vision Pro stacks up)

1549928918804.jpg

With the launch of Apple's Vision Pro headset , has the VR headset boom finally arrived? Because if there's anything true about the consumer electronics industry, it's that no matter what product category Apple invests in, many others will follow suit.

But not everyone will (and should) buy Apple's $3,500 headset. If anything, waiting for the second generation model, or one that Apple prices more accessibly, is the more sensible play. Until then, look to the handful of other great VR headset options available, including ones that can even beat Apple at its own game.

Also:   The best AR glasses

This guide features the most up-to-date suggestions, product reviews, and buying advice for VR headsets, based on all the models we've tested at ZDNET. Our current pick for the best VR headset overall goes to the Meta Quest 3 due to its portable form factor, ease of use, game and app library, and overall value. But for some users, our runner-ups from HTC and PlayStation may be just as worthy of consideration. 

The best VR headsets of 2024

Meta quest 3, best vr headset overall.

  • Sleek, rounded design
  • Notably sharp and vivid color reproduction
  • All-in-one design
  • Up to 512GB of onboard storage
  • $200 more than Quest 2
  • No more 256GB variant

Meta Quest 3 tech specs: Display type:  Dual LCD | Resolution: 2064 x 2208 | Refresh rate: 90Hz (up to 120Hz) | Battery life: 2 hours | Weight: 1.14 pounds | All-in-one: Yes 

The latest VR headset from Meta to hit the market is one that many users have been anticipating. Meta's Quest 3 succeeds its most popular VR headset ever, the Quest 2, with improvements in virtually all places. I spent an afternoon with the Quest 3 ahead of its Meta Connect release and was left very impressed, particularly by the sleeker and more form-fitting design and overall clarity -- especially in mixed reality experiences.

Quest 3 is priced $200 more than its predecessor, but the price bump is warranted with all the sensor and internal upgrades. For example, there are now six total cameras at the front of the headset, enabling more accurate and reliable mapping of your surroundings. 

The Quest 3 is also the first VR headset to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform, lending it twice the graphical performance of the Quest 2. That means gaming, streaming, and traveling across metaverses are more promising than ever. Ultimately, it was named ZDNET's Product of the Year .

Review: Meta Quest 3

HTC Vive XR Elite

Best convertible vr headset.

  • All-in-one and PC-powered
  • Goggles and headset mode
  • Very lightweight
  • Hot-swappable battery
  • Very expensive
  • PC gaming requires powerful components

HTC Vive XR Elite tech specs: Display type: LCD | Resolution: 1920 x 1920 | Refresh rate: 90Hz | Battery life: 2 hours | Weight: 1.3 pounds | All-in-one: Yes 

Can't decide between a full VR headset and a pair of AR/smart glasses ? The HTC Vive XR Elite is a convertible headset that can be used as a pair of lightweight goggles or a traditional, full VR headset. In full headset mode, it weighs 1.3 pounds. But in goggles mode, that weight is reduced to just over half a pound, so you don't have to sacrifice VR immersion for comfort.

The Vive XR Elite can also be used as an all-in-one, standalone headset for light gaming or virtual desktop work or plugged into a compatible laptop or desktop for more powerful PC-VR gaming. In fact, HTC's investment in the metaverse shows with its new Ultimate Tracker kit, a series of body motion trackers that, when paired with the Vive XR Elite, can simulate movement in the virtual world.

Each eye display uses a 1920 x 1920 LCD panel with a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother video playback and better image quality. On a full charge, you'll get about 2 hours of use. But the battery is hot-swappable so you can have a continuous power source for all-day gaming or work sessions.

Review:   HTC Vive XR Elite

Meta Quest 2

Best vr headset for most people.

  • Easy to use and setup
  • Rich library of games and apps
  • Affordable with a starting price of $299
  • Mixed reality experiences can be lacking
  • Can be front-heavy/uncomfortable to wear for some

Meta Quest 2 tech specs: Display type:  LCD | Resolution: 1680 x 1870 | Refresh rate:  90Hz (up to 120Hz) | Battery life: 2 hours | Weight:  1.1 pounds | All-in-one:  Yes 

Formerly known as Oculus Quest 2, the most successful VR headset in history is still available to buy today, even though Meta just launched a successor. That can be reasoned for the Quest 2's ease of use and affordability (starting price is $299), two factors that make for a stellar VR headset, especially if you're just getting started. The Quest 2 is easy to set up, thanks to small, handy controllers and the lack of any connection ports and external motion-tracking sensors.

The Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 is not as performant as the Gen 2 processor found in the Quest 3, but for VR games (and VR games only), it's plenty capable for popular titles like Beat Saber and Super Hot . In fact, the Quest 2 has the same battery rating as the newer Quest model, with an average of two hours per charge, enough time for you to burn a sweat in a fitness experience or immerse yourself in a virtual movie theatre.

Also:  Meta Quest 2 vs Quest 3: How to decide which one is right for you

Apple Vision Pro

Best premium vr headset.

  • Eye and hand-tracked controls
  • Interoperability with existing Apple devices
  • Next-gen hardware with crisp, lifelike immersion
  • Pricing starts at $3,500
  • Mere two-hour battery life when not tethered
  • First-generation product with the occasional glitch or bug

Apple Vision Pro tech specs: Display type: Micro-OLED | Resolution:  3000 x 3800 (approx.) | Refresh rate: 90Hz | Battery life:  2 hours (or tethered) | Weight:  1.3 pounds | All-in-one: Yes 

Apple doesn't market the Vision Pro as a VR headset, but it most definitely is, given its ability to transport users into virtual worlds with a press of a digital crown. While the $3,500 headset is not necessarily geared toward gaming, its work and entertainment use cases may be more than appealing for some, especially if you own one or two of Apple's other devices.

For example, the Vision Pro can be paired with a MacBook to extend its displays virtually, projecting a mirrored monitor alongside VisionOS' existing app and browser windows, letting you multitask with ease. Or, you can capture spatial videos with the Vision Pro (or an iPhone 15 Pro model) and watch them on the headset. Based on reviews and early impressions from industry experts, the ability to relive moments through spatial videos may just be the killer feature of the Vision Pro.

The headset is navigated entirely with your eyesight and fingers, which is as futuristic as VR headsets get. Thanks to a series of inward and downward-facing cameras and sensors, Vision Pro can track where you're staring to move its invisible cursor and when you're pinching your index and thumb fingers to register a click or long press. You can also pair a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to the headset, of course.

ZDNET's Editor in Chief, Jason Hiner, was among the first to demo the Vision Pro at WWDC last year and remarked that these gesture controls were the biggest breakthrough of the Vision Pro . Since then, Hiner's also noted that, given the high price of entry, most consumers are better off dipping their toes into mixed reality with Meta's $500 Quest 3 headset. Or, you can test the Vision Pro risk-free at a local Apple store.

Review:  Apple Vision Pro

PlayStation VR 2

Best vr headset for gaming.

  • OLED eye displays
  • 120Hz refresh rate
  • Great resolution and field of view
  • Requires PS5
  • Heavy at 5.33 pounds
  • Headband design could be better

PSVR 2 tech specs: Display type: OLED | Resolution: 2000 x 2040 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery life: N/A | Weight: 5.33 pounds | All-in-one: No

The original PSVR launched way back in October 2016, and the updated PSVR 2 builds on that foundation to give you an incredibly immersive console gaming experience. Each eye display provides 2000 x 2040 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Not only does that mean you'll get ultra-smooth gameplay, you'll also experience less motion sickness due to image lag. 

Each eye display also uses a small OLED panel for incredible color accuracy and detailing over IPS or LCD VR screens. The biggest drawbacks for the PSVR 2 are the fact that it requires a PS5 to work (which doubles the $550 headset price) and that it's on the heavy side at just under 5.5 pounds. And while the headband is designed for comfort during marathon gaming sessions, the overall design might put pressure on your eyes and face that can become painful after a while.

What is the best VR headset?

ZDNET's best VR headset pick goes to the Meta Quest 3 for its high performance, both in VR and MR applications, wealth of supported games and apps, ease of use, and relatively competitive price tag. At $499, the Meta Quest 3 is comparable to Sony's PlayStation VR 2, but keep in mind that the former does not require a separate console to power it; the Quest is an all-in-one system. That makes it flexible enough to be used both in and outside your home.

Which VR headset is right for you?

The most significant consideration is the use case. Will you be using a headset for gaming only? Do you already own a powerful PC and need a headset that interfaces seamlessly?

The gulf between commercial and consumer VR has always been small, with plenty of enterprises utilizing Oculus headsets and savvy consumers looking into enterprise headsets for powerful collaboration potential. The reality is it's still very much the Wild West for a technology class puffed up by years of hype but is still searching for a knockout case for adoption. 

The use cases remain niche: Gamers, designers, and enterprise applications like training. Within each utilizer pool are a few serviceable, quirky headsets, meaning budget tends to be the deciding factor after the use case. We've noticed that the technology hasn't advanced as much in the past few years as it might have, so don't shy away from older tech, which is cheaper and represents a great value in what's still the first blush of our mixed reality future.

How did we choose these VR headsets?

ZDNET staffers have done hands-on testing of all of the latest VR headset models. When putting together this list, we realized that VR headsets can vary significantly between brands and models. However, there are several common tech specs and features we used as a baseline while researching:

  • Resolution:  Resolution matters in VR if you want to avoid the screen door effect, which is a mesh-like appearance due to seeing the lines separating pixels on a screen. Think about an old computer with poor resolution -- you can probably see a grid of fine lines on the screen as you use it. Most VR headsets available today still have the screen door effect to some extent, but you can minimize the effect by purchasing a headset with a high resolution. 
  • Field of View:  How much of the virtual world do you want to see at once? Field of view is a degree measurement that shows how much of the virtual world you see at once. Human vision is limited to about 220 degrees, and the Pimax 8K/5K+ headsets come close to that field of view at 170 degrees.
  • Refresh Rate:  Refresh rate tells you how many images are generated per second. You want a high refresh rate to keep your VR experience lag-free and to see natural, realistic images. The refresh rate can affect how disoriented you feel with a VR headset; you want your eyes to keep up with the images, and you want the images to keep up with the action. If the refresh rate is below 90 frames per second, you might experience disorientation and nausea with a headset on.
  • Position Tracking:  Position tracking detects your position relative to your surroundings in a virtual environment. It's different from head tracking, which only looks at the rotation of the head because it registers forward/backward, up/down, left/right, and other total body movements.
  • Display:  A VR headset comprises a display screen, sound, sensors, and controllers. You'll want the highest resolution you can afford here to minimize the screen door effect.
  • Pixels Per Degree:  Pixels per degree, or pixel density, is calculated by taking the total number of pixels in a horizontal display line and dividing it by the horizontal field of view. For example, the HTC Vive has 1080 pixels per eye and a field of view of 100 degrees, giving it a pixel density of 11 pixels per degree. Keep in mind that the human eye sees about 60 pixels per degree.

Do VR headsets require a PC?

While many VR headsets require a capable desktop or laptop computer, there are a few standalone options like the Oculus Quest and HTC Vive Focus. A standalone headset has more limited motion parameters, usually only allowing for up/down, left/right, and forward/back movement of your head. The trade-off is that they have onboard memory storage for games and programs, freeing you from being tied to a PC just to pop into Minecraft or VRChat for an hour or so.

What VR headset works with PlayStation?

The Sony PlayStation VR and PlayStation VR 2 headsets are the most compatible with PlayStation 4 and PS5 consoles. Sony's VR game library is constantly expanding with updates to old favorites and alternative play modes to new titles for more immersive experiences. I highly recommend checking out the Resident Evil 7 Biohazard VR update as well as native VR experiences like Job Simulator and Moss .

Are there free VR games?

Yes! While many of the titles you'll find on Steam or the Epic Store will cost you at least a little money, there are tons of free software options out there like  Spider-Man: Far From Home VR  or the demo for the popular rhythm game,  Beat Saber . Just make sure that the game you want to download is compatible with your particular headset.

Are there alternative VR headsets worth considering?

Virtual reality is now entering its second or third generation, with more brands like Apple finally throwing their hat into the ring.

In addition to the top units listed above, we recommend the following headsets for those looking to expand their options and comparison shop:

I listened to over 100 hours of music last year. These headphones sounded the best

The best noise-canceling headphones: expert tested, the best bone conduction headphones you can buy: expert tested.

  • Order Status
  • Customer Service
  • My HP Rewards
  • Sign in/Register My Account

Before you go...

Check out today's top deals.

Plus, get free shipping and easy returns.

HP TECH TAKES /...

hp-reTop 10 Virtual Travel Experiences with the HP Reverb G2 VRverb-g2-travel.jpg

Top 10 Virtual Travel Experiences with the HP Reverb G2 VR

Introduction.

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness…Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.”

1. Virtually visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites

mehrangharh-Mehrangharh Fort and Jaswant Thada Mausoleum in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Indiafort-and-jaswant-thada-mausoleum-in-jodhpur,-rajasthan,-india.jpg

  • The remotely located island abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel and one of Normandy, France’s most iconic landmarks.
  • The Pompeii ruins of a city preserved in ash, resulting from the tragic eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24, 79 BCE.
  • The site of the first hominid fossil and an important place for understanding human evolution at the Sangiran Early Man Site in Java, Indonesia.
  • Petra, Jordan , the city of stone built more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans.
  • The Slovakia-based Domica Cave , shaped by limestone from the Middle Triassic era and an underground river (actually) named Styx.
  • The limestone statue of the half-lion, half-human mythical creature known as the Great Sphinx of Giza, Egypt .
  • The Genbaku Dome, otherwise known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and the only structure left standing after the August 6, 1945 explosion of the first atomic bomb during WWII -- preserved in the same state as it was immediately following the explosion.

2. Take in online exhibits

the-mThe Metropolitan Museum of Artetropolitan-museum-of-art.jpg

  • Peruse rooms and galleries of the rightfully world-famous Louvre in Paris, the world’s largest art museum, and even visit with the Mona Lisa from home in the Louvre’s first virtual reality project applying the latest scientific research on Leonardo da Vinci’s creative processes and painting techniques.
  • Virtually visit the iconic spaces of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art such as the Cloisters, the Temple of Dendur, the gilded sculpture of Diana in the Charles Engelhard Court, and more – all without the pressing crowds.
  • Explore Saint Petersburg, Russia’s State Hermitage Museum – second only to the Louvre in size -- through this truly comprehensive VR experience that includes many of the museum’s renowned works of art from Catherine the Great’s expansive collections as well as special exhibitions.
  • Experience the world’s first entirely virtual art museum (including the building itself), the Virtual Online Museum of Art (VOMA) , launched in September 2020, featuring galleries of works by dozens of artists such as Matisse, Manet, Li Wei, Bosch, and many more including newer and lesser-known artists from the around the world.

3. Partake in cross-cultural virtual experiences steeped in literary and art history

festiFestival of San Fermin Pamplonaval-of-san-fermin-pamplona.jpg

  • Virtually run with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain at the annual Festival of San Fermin and be like Hemingway, who immortalized this event in his acclaimed novel The Sun Also Rises .
  • Take an interactive, virtual tour of the J ane Austen House in Chawton, Hampshire, UK, to explore some of the rooms where she wrote her renowned novels.
  • Immerse yourself in the Immersive van Gogh Experience , which places you inside several of his paintings such as “The Starry Night.”
  • Join in on Dublin-based Bloomsday activities with other super-fans of James Joyce’s Ulysses , which celebrates the central character of Leopold Bloom on June 16, 1904, the specific day depicted in the novel.
  • Step into the Anne Frank House and rooms of the secret annex, where the brave 13-year-old diarist, her family, and friends hid for more than two years from the Nazis during WWII.

4. Join in virtual castle tours in the UK

Edinburgh Castle Scotlandurgh-castle-scotland.jpg

  • Edinburgh Castle , one of Scotland’s most impressive landmarks built in 1103 on top of 350-million-year-old volcanic rock. It’s an ancient stronghold with a long and rich history as a fortress, prison, and military garrison, as well as the royal residence of several kings and queens.
  • Blair Castle , a 750-plus-year old Scottish castle in Perthshire in the central Scottish Highlands, ancestral home of the Clan Murray and historic seat of the Duke of Atholl.
  • Malahide Castle , one of Ireland’s oldest and most historic castles dating from 1185, in the picturesque seaside town of Malahide about 20 miles north of Dublin.

5. Take virtual tours of national parks

Yellowstone Park

  • Yellowstone Park , established in 1872 and America’s first national park, spans approximately 3,500 miles of breathtaking views across Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. It has numerous hiking trails, hot springs, and geysers like Old Faithful, which shoots water 100 feet into the air.
  • The Grand Canyon National Park , a true wonder of the world and one of this planet’s geological spectacles, was carved out by the Colorado River. It’s nearly one mile deep, and covers over 1.2 million acres.
  • National Mall and Memorial Parks Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC features almost 3,800 cherry trees, 3,020 of which were gifted by Japan in 1910, and represent 12 different varieties.
  • Redwood National Park is home to the world’s tallest trees, some of which are taller than the Statue of Liberty. With specimens up to 2,000 years old, this spectacular biosphere located in northern California contains almost half of the world’s old-growth redwoods.

6. Visit theme parks

Universal Studios

  • Dollywood VR roller coaster rides , some of the best and fastest roller coasters in the world, located in Dolly Parton’s eponymous Dollywood theme park in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
  • Universal Orlando in Florida, walk through and experience some of the rides of this theme park completely on your own in this truly immersive virtual experience, including Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

7. Take a virtual cooking class

8. share in a virtual wine tasting, 9. swim with the sharks on a deep-sea dive.

Sharks Underwater in Ocean

10. Visit out-of-this-world places with NASA

Bonus: experience the travel experience itself, experience virtual travel with the hp reverb g2 vr headset.

HP Reverb G2 Headset

  • Industry-leading, Valve-designed lenses, which can be adjusted for each user’s unique eye distances and face shape
  • Four cameras and internal sensors for detecting position to track more of your arm movement and jump right into VR without additional peripherals
  • Ultra-sharp visuals with 2160 x 2160 LCD panels per eye
  • An ergonomic design with controllers that are comfortable to hold onto

Popular articles

  • 10 Best Minecraft Seeds for 2024
  • How to Screenshot on HP Laptop or Desktop Computers
  • How to Enter BIOS Setup on Windows PCs
  • How Do I Fix a Laptop that Won’t Turn On?
  • 3 Different Ways to Charge a Laptop without a Charger
  • How to Boot from a USB Drive on Windows 10 PCs
  • 7 Ways to Improve Your Computer Performance
  • 10 Best Minecraft Shaders for 2024
  • How to Turn Keyboard Lighting On / Off
  • Lag! Top 5 Reasons your Ping is so High

Related tags

  • online exhibits
  • virtual reality
  • virtual tours

The HP Garage

Article archives

  • 2023 Articles
  • 2022 Articles
  • 2021 Articles
  • 2020 Articles
  • 2019 Articles
  • 2018 Articles

Recommended articles

best vr headset for travel videos

What is Mixed Reality?

best vr headset for travel videos

Why Virtual Reality is the Next Social Network

best vr headset for travel videos

The Best Sales Tool you Haven't Tried Yet

best vr headset for travel videos

How VR for PC Elevates Gaming

best vr headset for travel videos

Small Businesses Can See Big Benefits from Virtual Reality

best vr headset for travel videos

What's New (and Crazy) in Virtual Reality

best vr headset for travel videos

Which is the Best VR-Ready Laptop from HP?

best vr headset for travel videos

6 Ways Virtual Reality is Changing the World

best vr headset for travel videos

What is the Difference Between AR and VR?

best vr headset for travel videos

What is Virtual Reality (VR) and How Does It Work?

best vr headset for travel videos

Meet the New HP VR Backpack G2

best vr headset for travel videos

What are Virtual Reality Glasses?

best vr headset for travel videos

Best Virtual Reality Games for PC

best vr headset for travel videos

Top 7 Incredible Augmented Reality Experiences

best vr headset for travel videos

Top 10 Technology Trends in 2019

  • HP Fraud Alert
  • 17 Inch 2-in-1 Laptop
  • 17 Inch Ultrabook
  • 1 Terabyte Hard Drive Laptop
  • 2-in-1 Gaming Laptop
  • HP 2-in-1 Laptop i5
  • 2-in-1 Laptops With Pen
  • Best 2 in One Laptop Tablet
  • Laptop 2-in-1 HP
  • High Performance Workstation Laptop
  • 3D Capable Laptop
  • 3D Laptop Drawing
  • 4K Gaming Laptop
  • 4K Touch Screen Laptops
  • Affordable Gaming Laptops
  • Amd Ultrabooks
  • Architectural Rendering Laptop
  • Autocad Notebook

Disclosure: Our site may get a share of revenue from the sale of the products featured on this page.

best vr headset for travel videos

FREE shipping & Easy returns

best vr headset for travel videos

Order by Phone 877-203-4758

best vr headset for travel videos

Student discounts

best vr headset for travel videos

HP for Business

Offers subject to change, not combinable with all other offers, and exclusions may apply, while supplies last. HP may impose a purchase quantity limit (for example, 3 units per order). Taxes, shipping, and other fees may apply as applicable. HP reserves the right to cancel orders arising from pricing or other errors. Prices, specifications, availability, and terms of offers may change without notice. Price protection, price matching or price guarantees do not apply to Intra-day, Daily Deals or limited-time promotions. These terms apply only to products sold by HP.com; reseller offers may vary. Items sold by HP.com are not for immediate resale. Orders that do not comply with HP.com terms, conditions, and limitations may be cancelled. Contract and volume customers not eligible.

HP’s MSRP is subject to discount. HP’s MSRP price is shown as either a stand-alone price or as a strike-through price with a discounted or promotional price also listed. Discounted or promotional pricing is indicated by the presence of an additional higher MSRP strike-through price.

Microsoft and Windows are US registered of Microsoft Corporation. Ultrabook, Celeron, Celeron Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Intel Evo, Intel Optane, Iris, Itanium, MAX, Pentium, Pentium Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, Xeon Phi and Xeon Inside are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries.

Not all features are available in all editions or versions of Windows. Systems may require upgraded and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers, software or BIOS update to take full advantage of Windows functionality. Windows is automatically updated and enabled. High speed internet and Microsoft account required. ISP fees may apply and additional requirements may apply over time for updates. See http://www.windows.com.

Earn HP Rewards on select products from the following categories: Laptops, Desktops, Printers, Business PC’s, select Accessories, and select Ink, Toner & Paper. Exclusions apply, and program membership required. See details HP Rewards

The personal information you provide will be used according to the HP Privacy Statement

*America’s most trusted printer brand: Based on 2022 semi-annual internal brand surveys commissioned by HP.

*2 years of ink included with the best print quality every time: Based upon 150 and 200 pages per month of HP Smart Tank customers’ usage. Actual yield varies considerably based on content of printed pages and other factors. Average yield based on ISO/IEC 24711 or HP testing methodology and continuous printing. Some ink from included bottles is used to start up the printer. For details, see: www.hp.com/go/learnaboutsupplies. Print quality tested on everyday paper. Compared to the majority of in-class, 3:1 and 4:1 duplex, wireless A4 ink tank printers under $552 USD. Printers selected by market share as reported by IDC Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker – Final Historical CYQ2 2023. Claim based on publicly available information as of September 2023 and Keypoint Intelligence hands-on testing and study in September 2023 commissioned by HP. Details: www.keypointintelligence.com/hpbesteverydayprintquality.

6 Best VR Headsets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The most immersive games, entertainment and fitness you'll find.

vr headsets

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Need a break? You can escape from reality for a bit by slipping on a virtual reality headset and immersing yourself in a new environment, game or experience. From what we’re seeing, VR headsets are here to stay and are continuously being improved with higher resolution, crisper graphics and more comfortable designs.

Some VR headsets even use eye tracking and hand gestures to make navigating a virtual interface more intuitive than ever. Below you’ll find the best VR headsets you can buy right now, whether you’re looking for a more affordable option with loads of VR games or you’re seeking a premium headset for a new way to enjoy immersive content.

Our top picks:

Quest 3

Best Overall VR Headset

Meta quest 3.

Quest 2

Best Value VR Headset

Meta quest 2.

Vision Pro

Best Premium VR Headset

Apple vision pro.

PlayStation VR2

Best VR Headset for Gaming

Sony playstation vr2.

Vive XR Elite

Best Standalone VR Headset

Htc vive xr elite.

Valve Index

Best VR Headset for PC

Steam valve index.

According to our testing, these are the best VR headsets to invest in whether you're a VR newbie or fully accustomed to this booming technology. After our reviews, find out more about what to look for when shopping for a VR headset at the bottom of this guide.

The product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute are already fans of the Meta Quest 2, but we like the latest iteration of Meta’s popular VR headset even better.

The first difference we noticed with the Meta Quest 3 is the improved passthrough that makes it easier to see your surrounding space, as well as impressive mixed reality experiences that blend your physical space with a virtual one; this means you don’t have to be fully immersed at all times. But if you are, a quick double tap on the side of the headset will pull you out of full VR. Our pros also appreciate the Meta Quest 3's improved room tracking that automatically scans your space so you don't have to do so manually.

When testing the device, we found setup just as easy as the Meta Quest 2, but noticed immediately that the resolution is improved so you can expect to see sharper graphics and clearer visuals. Best of all, you’ll still have access to Meta’s vast library of immersive experiences, including games, fitness experiences, entertainment and more.

While the device may still feel heavy to some despite its slimmer profile, the strap is lighter and easier to adjust for a secure fit. We also like how the controllers no longer feature rings and straps so they’re more compact, though we do wish battery life was longer than the claimed 2.2 hours (or roughly the same amount as the previous generation).

Just because the Meta Quest 3 is now available doesn't mean the previous generation isn't worth considering. Formerly known as the Oculus Quest 2, this VR headset has excellent value and, as a standalone device, doesn’t require the purchase of an additional gaming console. All you need is the headset and its controllers to get started (no cellphone or PC required)!

Our pros found it extremely easy to set up once you create a Meta account or connect through Facebook — it only took our test engineer Alec Scherma around 30 minutes — and we were impressed by the intuitive controllers, excellent controller tracking and the wide variety of games and other immersive experiences available .

Though the Meta Quest 2 can start to feel heavy after prolonged use and doesn't always seal properly against the face (especially if wearing glasses), it remains relatively comfortable and is 10 percent lighter than the previous iteration, the Oculus Quest. In Lab tests, Scherma found the headset’s performance both fast and responsive, and described the graphics as what you would expect from a VR headset: “nothing exceptional, but decent.” For the best quality, he suggests finding games that are optimized for VR.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Is the Meta Quest 2 Worth It?

Apple’s latest innovation, the Apple Vision Pro, blew our tech experts away during a hands-on demo. Though this headset is by far the most expensive on this list, it has Apple’s high-quality design and intuitive interface to help justify the steep price tag. Not only does the Vision Pro look and feel premium, but the resolution is stunning whether you’re streaming shows from Apple TV+ or flipping through spatial photos you shot yourself.

Perhaps one of our favorite features is the headset’s super responsive and accurate eye tracking and hand gestures which enable you to navigate among apps by pointing your eyes in the right direction and using your fingers. Though the Vision Pro admittedly won’t be for everyone, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking immersive content from one of the coolest gadgets out there right now. Just keep in mind that while it’s mostly comfortable, it can feel heavy after a while like other VR headsets and needs to be plugged into a portable battery pack while in use.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: I Loved (Almost) Everything About the Apple Vision Pro

The Sony PlayStation VR2 Headset is a worthy investment for PlayStation fans who already own a console and are familiar with the PS ecosystem and popular gaming library . “If you already have a PS5 and you don’t want to purchase separate equipment, this is a quality enough headset for you to enjoy the variety of games available," Scherma says.

Though we wish a cable connection wasn’t required as this limits where you can use your headset, Scherma found it fairly easy to set up and points out that the controllers are not only intuitive and comfortable, but they’re a huge improvement over Sony’s first VR headset. “I like how easy it is to charge the controllers with the provided dock,” Scherma says. He does warn, however, that the headset is heavier than most.

Other testers like how the headset is able to scan the room automatically and create play boundaries, as opposed to having to draw them yourself. There's even a handy button you can press when you want to remove yourself from the VR world and see your space. And unlike other headsets on this list, this model comes with wired headphones that you can use alongside your headset, so you’re truly immersed in the game with surround 3D audio that doesn't bother anyone around you.

If you’re looking for a standalone VR headset that doesn’t need to connect to anything and gets rid of all pesky cables, this is the one.

You can use it at home or take it with you on the go, making it an excellent choice for VR enthusiasts. Scherma was impressed not only by how easy it was to charge, but how comfortable and lightweight it was to wear. “I didn’t need to wear glasses while using it because I could individually adjust each eye to match my prescription,” he says.

Our pros like that the headset includes controllers but can be used with your hands , which Scherma found “surprisingly accurate and useful.” Though the setup was initially a bit confusing, once you’re able to access the tutorial on how to operate the headset and controllers, it should be smooth sailing from there.

Head to the Viverse content library to browse among 1,600+ games that you can play with your headset.

Though the Valve Index requires a PC and several wire connections, what sets it apart from other VR headsets is that it connects to Steam’s vast gaming platform and community, which features more than 30,000 games and VR titles .

This headset is one of the more expensive on this list and a better choice for gaming enthusiasts versus novices, due in part to the more complex nature of set up. “You need a lot of space and a powerful PC to properly take advantage of all the headset’s features, and if you don’t have the correct ports on your PC you’ll need adapters,” Scherma says.

Our test engineers like the headset’s vast field of view plus the two included cameras that enable you to better map out the room you’re playing in for a more immersive experience and better tracking.

Speakers are integrated into the headset to offer surround sound, and the screen’s resolution is crisp. While the headset may feel heavier than others, it remains comfortable and well constructed. We also love the intuitive controllers, which strap onto your hands and feature finger-tracking that pulls you further into the game.

How we test the best VR headsets

linebreak

When testing VR headsets, our experts rely on years of gaming experience and industry knowledge to assess each pick . We start by removing each headset from its box and reviewing its materials and construction.

gh test engineer testing the oculus quest 2

Next, we set up each VR headset and take note of how easy it is to get up and running, whether it requires a connection to an external device like a console or PC or features multiple cables. We then use each VR headset and evaluate how comfortable it feels while on, including how intuitive the controllers are.

Once we start playing, we evaluate the screen's resolution, graphics, tracking, the zippiness of performance and we consider specs like the headset's battery life, refresh rate, field of view and more. We also take into account whether the headset provides access to a wide variety of games or content.

What to look for when shopping for a VR headset

linebreak

✔️ Wired vs. wireless: Do you want a standalone VR headset that doesn't require connection to an external device like a PC or gaming console, or do you not mind being tethered? Keep in mind that standalone devices are more portable and can be used in any space, whereas wired ones will be more of a hassle to move.

✔️ Comfort: Does the VR headset feel comfortable while on? Is it heavy? You'll likely be wearing your headset for a few hours, so make sure it feels lightweight. Also consider how comfortable the controllers are to grasp, and whether they feel intuitive to use.

✔️ Content: Before purchasing a VR headset, ask yourself what you want to use it for. Is there a particular game that you want to play in VR? Make sure that the headset you choose has access to the games, apps or entertainment that you want.

✔️ Resolution: You'll want to choose a VR headset with high screen resolution for the best gaming experience. Overall, the higher the resolution, the better picture quality you can expect.

✔️ Refresh rate: Refresh rate is measured in Hertz (Hz) and indicates how often the image on the screen refreshes. When gaming on your VR headset, you'll want the highest refresh rate possible to ensure zippy performance. Our pros recommend anything above 60 Hz, though at least 90 Hz is ideal.

✔️ Audio: Most VR headsets have speakers built in, while some have integrated headphones (or feature audio jacks so you can use them with your own wired speakers). If you want the most immersive experience, opt for a headset that features surround sound.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

linebreak

Olivia Lipski is a product analyst and writer at the GH Institute who covers everything from consumer electronics to fitness, tech, home and more. She stays on top of the industry's latest innovations by attending annual trade shows like CES and helps readers make better buying decisions by testing and reviewing the best products to hit the market. During her time at GH, she’s been familiarizing herself with some of the most sought-after VR headsets like the Apple Vision Pro and the Meta Quest 2 .

Testing for this story was overseen by Alec Scherma , the Good Housekeeping Institute ’s test engineer. He helps create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He has lifelong experience gaming, playing almost every console that has come out, as well as testing various video game consoles in the GH Media & Tech Lab.

Headshot of Olivia Lipski

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

Headshot of Alec Scherma

Alec Scherma (he/him) is the Good Housekeeping Institute ’s test engineer, where he helps to create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering.

preview for Featured Videos From Good Housekeeping US

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

best leaf vacuums

Everything That's Worth Buying from Quince

best luggage on amazon

The Best Luggage on Amazon

6 best air purifiers for allergies, tested by experts

The Best Air Purifiers for Allergies

best washable rugs

The Best Washable Rugs

best white sneakers for women

The Best White Sneakers for Women

10 best grills of 2023, according to expert testing

The Best Outdoor Grills

saatva classic mattress

Why Saatva's Classic Mattress Is Our Top Bed Pick

the 10 best airbrush makeup products for truly flawless skin

The Best Airbrush Makeup Products

the best swim trunks for men

The Best Swim Trunks for Men

best patio furniture sets

The Best Patio Furniture Sets

best soft mattress

The Best Soft Mattresses

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

sony playstation vr2

The 5 Best VR Headsets for Gaming, Streaming, and Total Immersion

Make virtual reality your reality.

Fast-forward to the 2020s and VR has become accessible and relatively affordable. From VR connectivity from your cell phone to robust systems like the Sony PlayStation VR2, many high-quality, affordable, intuitive VR headsets are worth the splurge today. Here's a breakdown of the best VR headsets of 2023.

Game on and check our picks for the best video game consoles , Nintendo Switch games , and gaming monitors .

The Best VR Headsets

  • Best Overall: Sony PlayStation VR2
  • Best Standalone: Meta Quest 2
  • Best Upgrade: Valve Index
  • Best Resolution : HTC Vive Pro 2
  • Best for Nintendo Switch: Labo VR Kit

What to Consider

Console or pc.

Not all VR headsets connect to the same devices. For example, our best overall pick, the Sony PlayStation VR2 , works exclusively with PlayStation. While some VR headsets are locked into gaming consoles, others are compatible with PCs, smartphones, or a combination of the two. Note what platforms you most commonly use, and check that your favorite VR headset is suitable.

You need processing power to get the best out of a premium VR headset for your PC. Before splurging on an expensive VR unit, check the device’s specs to see if your computer can handle it for the best performance. All VR brands list minimum specs for PC compatibility. Check them out if you’re considering a device from Meta , Valve , or HTC .

If you’re looking for a standalone VR unit with its own built-in software, and you have a Facebook account, consider the Meta Quest 2 . It’s our only VR pick that doesn’t require tethering to a powerful game console or PC—though you can, if you so desire—and your best bet at trying the tech to see if it’s for you.

Using a VR headset requires forfeiting your spatial awareness, so be mindful of the room you need when operating one. Meta suggests using its VR headset with a minimum 6.5 by 6.5 feet of space, while Valve and HTC recommend a play area of 5 by 6.5 feet. Make sure you’ve got plenty of room to move your arms and body while using VR or risk running into something, knocking over decor, falling, or, worse, having your fail go viral .

Connections and Controllers

Lastly, check what controllers and cable connections a VR headset requires. Some VR headsets track your motion via their included controllers for gaming purposes to relay in-game movement. This often means you’re plugging in a slew of cables. Ensure you’ve got the proper port to connect, plug in, and play with your device, whether it’s USB-C, USB 3.0, or a DisplayPort cable.

Not all VR headsets are sold with components you may deem essential. For example, the Meta Quest 2 is a standalone VR unit and doesn’t come packaged with a cable if you’d like to link it to your PC. Instead, the Meta sells its Quest 2 Link separately . The Vive Pro 2 offers additional tracking support with its standalone Tracker (3.0) , also sold separately, which captures your full-body motion for a more accurate read.

It’s not a bad idea to purchase additional peripherals like controllers and cables if you’d like to customize your VR experience. Be mindful of what a headset includes and what other proprietary peripherals are available for it. There may be a separate piece that you need.

How We Selected

To find the best VR headsets, we relied on hundreds of hours of in-house play between Popular Mechanics consumer tech editor Hunter Fenollol and gaming contributor Harry Rabinowitz . For the products we couldn’t test ourselves, we performed intensive research, scoured content from expert sources like PC Gamer , PC Mag , Wirecutter , The Verge, CNET , Tom’s Guide , and Digital Trends , and read thousands of consumer reviews at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. As for the products themselves, we evaluated them on performance, design, software library, quality, and price.

PlayStation PSVR2 VR Headset

PSVR2 VR Headset

Sony’s PlayStation VR2 is the most immersive VR experience, complete with a 4K HDR resolution, eye tracking, and haptic adaptive triggers that offer tactile feedback for digital actions like pulling the weighted trigger of a virtual firearm. The headset taps into the PlayStation 5’s mighty computing power, rendering photorealistic 3D environments.

Its premium performance is a fraction of the cost of comparable PC headset builds, plus it pulls ahead with feedback sensations within the headset itself. For example, you can feel rain pulsate over your face or the shot of a bullet bouncing off of your helmet in shooting games.

Its eye-tracking cameras are used for in-game controls and a process called Foveated Rendering, an advanced technique that displays graphics where your eyes are centered at the highest resolution while reducing the quality of your peripheral vision. It also frees up computing power so developers have more room to increase graphical textures or include more objects for much more realistic spaces that feel lived-in and jam-packed with object interactions. Not to mention Sony has a robust roster of exclusive games with titles like Gran Turismo , the Resident Evil 4 Remake VR mode, and Horizon Call of the Mountain that you won’t find on any other headset.

Meta Quest 2 VR Headset

Quest 2 VR Headset

The Meta Quest 2, formerly the Oculus Quest 2, is the best VR headset for beginners and the VR-curious. It’s one of the only VR headsets that runs as a standalone device without needing a PC or gaming console—though you could connect it to a PC or mobile device if you’d like. Its wireless freedom and affordable price make it an accessible entry point into VR.

The Meta Quest is simple, comfortable, and has great specs that provide a quality—though not stunning —VR experience. Unlike pricier headsets, the software in the Meta Quest is designed for simplicity. The Quest 2’s Guardian system guides users through its setup and creates a playspace wherever they are, no camera needed. Exiting the designated playspace turns on a passthrough, allowing you to see the real world and any potential obstacles you might be about to bump into.

The Meta Quest is compatible with many software, from gaming platforms like Meta and SteamVR to other apps like Google VR, Oculus TV, and more. It’s the most accessible VR headset for most people, so long as you have a Facebook account required for login.

Valve Index VR Headset

Index VR Headset

The Valve Index delivers superior audio, tracking, and controls but is best if you’re familiar with gaming and technical gear. The Valve Index controllers set the system apart from the competition. They strap onto your hands, allowing for a full range of hand and finger motion. Because the Valve Index can track individual finger movements, it leads to a much more immersive, detailed experience when playing supported games like Half-Life: Alyx . Connected to a powerful PC, this headset can handle some truly stunning games like Elite: Dangerous and No Man’s Sky .

All of that precision leads to a complicated setup, however. The Valve Index has two base station sensors that you have to place around your room to build the VR playspace, while other parts of the setup require a computer. But the complicated setup is worth it if you’re more technically minded.

HTC Vive Pro 2 VR Headset

Vive Pro 2 VR Headset

The Vive Pro 2 sets itself apart from the competition with sheer visual fidelity. It features a stunning display with a much higher resolution and field of view than any competition, including our best overall PSVR2. This makes the Vive Pro 2 especially suited to gaming, as most non-gaming VR software cannot effectively leverage such detailed resolutions.

As with the Valve Index, setup is rather complicated, with two base station sensors and plenty of PC steps. But once you’ve got everything set up, tracking and controls are excellent, and HTC offers tons of games and software through its VivePort Infinity platform.

Predictably, such a powerful VR headset is costly, and you have to pair it with a powerful PC. Anyone with one of the best graphics cards can feel confident connecting the HTC Vive Pro 2. Everyone else, however, is better off with one of our other recommendations.

Nintendo Labo VR Kit

Labo VR Kit

The Nintendo Labo VR kit isn’t exactly virtual reality, at least not in the same sense as every other headset on this list. It’s much more in the spirit of something like Google Cardboard, LEGO, or even arcade games.

For starters, half of the experience of the Labo VR kit is in the assembly. It includes tons of cardboard that you assemble yourself into six different VR controllers, headsets, and oddities to play games with. Each creation takes hours to craft, but thankfully the Labo software includes detailed, 3D instructions you can touch through on your Nintendo Switch.

Also unique are the games—every one is designed to be played with two people. From controlling a bird looking for food to battling aliens with an oversized blaster, these games are short, fun, and kid-friendly. Some of the available 64 games aren’t exactly VR, but do utilize the unique controllers of the Labo Kit.

While it may not have the long-lasting appeal of a traditional VR headset, the Nintendo Labo Kit is innovative. It’s also one of the only kid-centric VR options.

Headshot of Kevin Cortez

Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.

Headshot of Harry Rabinowitz

Harry Rabinowitz is a writer, editor, and columnist covering the latest and greatest products in the gaming industry. He also works to tell educational and entertaining stories about tech, entertainment, home goods, and more. When he’s not learning or writing something new, he’s probably heading to the library for a new graphic novel to read.

Headshot of Hunter Fenollol

Hunter Fenollol, our resident expert of all things consumer tech, from smart home to VR gaming headsets, has years of knowledge creating product explainers, in-depth reviews, and buying guides to help you get the most from the latest electronics. Throughout college, he covered and reviewed the latest gadget releases for sites like Tom’s Guide, Laptop Magazine, and CNN Underscored. If he’s not elbow-deep in the latest hardware, you can find Hunter at one of Long Island’s many beaches, in Manhattan, or gambling away his paycheck. 

preview for Popular Mechanics All Sections

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Best Product Reviews of 2024 .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

best lightweight hiking boots

The 8 Best Air Purifiers for Your Home

a person holding a device

Get Nearly 50% Off On Portable Generators On Amazo

car trash can

The 6 Best Car Trash Cans for Collecting Debris

wood fired pizza

Cooking Pizza in Breeo’s Live-Fire Oven

netgear modem router combo

The 8 Best Modem-Router Combos

a person holding a baseball bat

The Best Cordless Leaf Blowers for Quick Cleanups

a person standing next to a toy car

The Best Electric Mowers of 2024 for Any Yard

macbook air m1 chip

Get a Macbook Air from Walmart for Hundreds Off

aerator

The 5 Best Aerators for a Healthy and Robust Lawn

worx 40v cordless pressure washer

Our Best Cordless Pressure Washer Is 57% Off

jackery explorer 1000, on sale

Save 39% on This Solar Generator Ahead of Spring

  • Is a New iPad Pro Coming Soon?
  • Get It Now: Spring Tech Deals at Amazon

7 Great Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

Try VR travel to fulfill your bucket list without leaving the couch

best vr headset for travel videos

  • Auburn University

best vr headset for travel videos

  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
  • Electric Vehicles
  • Working From Home
  • Headphones & Ear Buds
  • Smart Watches & Wearables
  • Travel Tech
  • Connected Car Tech
  • iPods & MP3 Players

Who says you can't see the world if you stay home? Virtual reality (VR) tourism experiences let you see places all over the world without ever leaving your couch. These aren't games; they're experiences, so the pace may be slower than you expect, but they are worth your patience. Here are some of the best VR tourist destinations to help you decide on your next virtual adventure.

Make sure your computer is beefy enough to handle the demands of virtual reality technology.

The Grand Canyon VR Experience

Very relaxing experience.

Excellent visual and sound quality.

Impressive attention to detail.

Predefined with little control.

Requires powerful hardware.

Short experience.

In The Grand Canyon VR Experience ($2.99 by Immersive Entertainment), you sit in a virtual motorized kayak ride through the Grand Canyon. Tailor the tour to your preferences by selecting either a sunlit or moonlit experience and controlling the ride's speed.

While you cruise along, you'll enjoy the sights and sounds of procedurally generated, artificially intelligent wildlife. Attract and feed the virtual fish as you navigate the waterways.

The ride is on rails, so you can't steer the kayak. However, you can stop at various points and enjoy the scenery by using the throttle speed controls of your motorized kayak or by exiting at scenic rest stops.

The tour is short, and there's no historical background information for history buffs. Still, it is a fun ride perfect for someone new to VR.

This tour requires one of the following virtual reality headsets: HTC Vive, Oculus Rift , or Valve Index .

Explore amazing places.

Impressively detailed.

More locations are added to the library regularly.

Not updated recently.

Realities (free from Realities.io ) is a VR travel app that allows you to explore scanned and modeled real-world environments. The environments aren't just 360-degree photos; these locations were captured with specialized scanning equipment, allowing for immersive rendering in virtual reality.

The user interface is a giant globe you rotate with your VR controllers. Once you decide on the place you want to visit, tap the area on the virtual globe, and you are instantly whisked away to the exotic locale.

One interesting destination is a cell in the infamous Alcatraz prison. When you arrive, you're greeted by an unseen narrator, presumably a former prisoner in the cell next to you, who recalls their experiences. It's museum-like and an educational adventure worth having.

There are other destinations of varying size and complexity, and the experience is updated with new realities regularly.

This experience is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Valve Index, and Windows Mixed Reality .

Titans of Space PLUS

Great soundtrack.

Detailed 3D visuals.

Impressive sense of scale.

Flying through space makes some users feel nauseated.

No improvements since late 2019.

Do you like planetariums? Have you always wished they were more realistic? If you've ever dreamed of riding in a spaceship and exploring the solar system and beyond, Titans of Space PLUS ($9.99 by DrashVR LLC) helps make this a reality—at least a virtual one).

The original Titans of Space was one of the first polished virtual reality experiences available; it created a lot of buzz about all the potential VR had to offer.

This app provides a theme park-style ride through the solar system and beyond, allowing you to control the pace of the experience. Factoids about the planets and moons are provided throughout your journey, as are distances and other measurements of interest.

The sense of scale of the planets and moons is truly awe-inspiring and gives a unique perspective only astronauts usually get to have.

This title runs in both standard and VR modes. It does not require a VR headset. It is compatible with HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Valve Index, and Windows Mixed Reality.

Impressive rendering technology.

Auto-tunes for your GPU.

Stunning visuals.

Can feel slow.

Mostly narration with little hands-on time.

Everest VR ($9.99 from Sólfar Studios ) is an interactive Mount Everest VR tourism experience.

You'll experience Mount Everest in five iconic scenes. Prepare for your expedition at Basecamp, traverse the terrifying Khumbu Icefalls, spend the night at Camp 4, ascend the perilous Hillary Step, and finally conquer the summit of Everest.

After completing your first summit attempt, unlock God Mode to reach a unique vantage point of the Himalayas that's only possible in VR. Towering over the mountain range, this is a stunning VR diorama.

EVEREST VR is a must if you're into mountain climbing but don't like its possible death and frostbite aspects.

Requires one of the following virtual reality headsets: HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, or Valve Index.

The VR Museum of Fine Art

Lots of content.

Educational experience.

Hasn't been updated since its initial release.

No voice narration.

Only takes about 20 minutes to experience.

If you've ever wanted to peruse a museum at your own pace with no limits on how close you can get to the artwork, then The VR Museum of Fine Art (free from Finn Sinclair) is for you.

This free app holds amazing educational value with incredibly detailed scans of some of the world's most famous paintings and sculptures. Look at the brushstrokes of Monet's Water Lilies or take a 360-degree tour of Michelangelo's David. This is an art lover's delight.  

The experience makes you feel as if you're visiting a museum, complete with a pamphlet map to help you navigate your way around the exhibits.

Great VR experience.

Incredibly realistic.

Contains three episodes.

theBlu ($9.99 from Wevr INC .) is a collection of virtual reality-based underwater experiences that make you feel as if you're literally in the tank of a huge aquarium exhibit.

Stand on the deck of a sunken ship while a gargantuan whale swims by and looks you straight in the eye or swim in a sea of bioluminescent jellyfish. There's no need for expensive scuba equipment or diving classes, or even to leave your living room, for that matter.

The level of detail in this app is amazing, and the sense of scale (especially during the whale encounter in the first episode) is jaw-dropping.

Compatible with HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Valve Index, and Windows Mixed Reality.

Google Earth VR

Amazing street view VR.

Travel the world virtually.

Impressive, vast experience.

Can be slow to load.

Lacks a search feature.

May cause motion sickness.

When Google Earth was released many years ago, everyone marveled at the novelty of finding and viewing their house from satellite imagery. Now, Google Earth VR (free from Google) lets you see your house from space and virtually fly to it and stand in your front yard or on your rooftop.

Change the sun's position, scale objects to any size you like, and fly around the world. The detail levels depend on what you're trying to view. For example, tourist destinations are likely to have more detailed geospatial imagery than rural areas. There is so much to see, and Google offers virtual tours to help you get started.

Google has even added several comfort features to prevent virtual travel sickness in this must-see virtual reality app.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

  • The 8 Best Free VR Games of 2024
  • The 15 Best Minecraft Mods
  • The 10 Best Scary Virtual Reality Games
  • The Best VR Apps for the iPhone in 2024
  • The 19 Best Free Virtual Field Trips of 2024
  • How to Check If Your PC Is VR Ready
  • The 10 Best VR Puzzle and Escape Room Games
  • The 9 Best VR Workout Games
  • The 10 Best Virtual Reality Games For Kids
  • Valve Index Review
  • 5 Things to Consider Before Buying a VR Headset
  • What Is Mixed Reality?
  • The 6 Best Virtual Reality Movies to Watch (2024)
  • Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Reality on iPhone
  • What Is an Immersive Experience?
  • The 13 Best Staycation Tech Tips

CNET logo

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Best VR Headset of 2024

Our top picks for VR headsets this year, including the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 2, Sony PSVR 2 and thoughts on the Apple Vision Pro, all tested by CNET.

best vr headset for travel videos

  • Nearly 20 years writing about tech, and over a decade reviewing wearable tech, VR, and AR products and apps

meta-quest-3-front

What's the best VR headset overall?

VR is transforming, and that’s only partially because of Apple. The terms “VR” and “AR” are being folded together into mixed reality thanks to a wave of VR headsets that also have passthrough cameras to blend the virtual and real. The most affordable mixed reality headset you can buy right now is the Meta Quest 3 : at $500, it’s $250 more expensive than the Quest 2 , but $3,000 less expensive than the Apple Vision Pro .

The Quest 3 has a newer, faster Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor that has better graphics and a higher-res display than the Quest 2, better lenses and redesigned controllers, and it can also blend the virtual and real world with passthrough color cameras, but Apple's headset beats it on display and camera fidelity. The Quest platform has plenty of side benefits: it has hundreds of games and creative/productivity apps, has several great fitness programs for effective cardio workouts, can connect to PCs and can even double as a work device if you have some patience. It also has hand tracking that works without controllers, but controllers are included to give you two options for input. The Quest 3 can even play iPhone 15 Pro-shot “spatial” 3D videos, too.

The Apple Vision Pro is an amazing piece of tech and a bleeding-edge high-end mixed reality headset that also runs iOS and thousands of iPad apps, works without controllers using eye and hand tracking and can run multiple apps at the same time, along with being a virtual MacBook monitor. The 4K micro-OLED displays are stunning, and videos and photos look fantastic. Apple’s device requires a tethered battery pack, is only made to work within Apple’s ecosystem and doesn’t have many unique apps yet at launch that do more than act as floating 2D screens. The Vision Pro could very well be the start of a whole new chapter in headsets, and may turn into the best product in this whole category over time, but not right now for most people. At its current price and software limits, you’re better off waiting and trying a free demo instead. The Quest 3 is a far cheaper ticket to explore similar ideas in the meantime at a huge discount.

At CNET, we've been testing and reviewing VR/AR headsets since the arrival of the original Oculus Rift prototypes. We've covered nearly every big moment in the industry for well over a decade and have demoed every headset we could get our hands on, as well as reviewed all the biggest products in the marketplace. Our comparative understanding of the landscape, and also what's coming, lets us value the present in terms of the future.

Best VR headsets of 2024

best vr headset for travel videos

Meta Quest 3

Best mixed reality vr headset for $500.

  • Crisp high-res displays
  • Improved new processor
  • Mixed reality with better color cameras
  • Smaller controllers with better haptics

Don't like

  • More expensive than Quest 2
  • Few unique apps and games at launch
  • Straps and comfort still aren't great
  • Still only 2-3 hours battery life

Meta's upgraded VR sequel to the Quest 2 feels like a notable revamp, with improvements across the board: a slightly smaller design, better, clearer lenses, a higher-res display, smaller controllers with better haptics and higher-res color cameras that can mix the real world and the virtual together. This "mixed reality" is similar in spirit to what Apple's Vision Pro will do but in a lower-res form for a lot less money. 

Even though the Quest 3 has great upgrades, it doesn't really change the equation much on the general way the headset and software function. Quest apps and the OS are largely the same, and mixed reality is mostly a gimmick for the moment that's only featured in a handful of new games and apps, although seeing your surroundings with the headset on (and even checking messages on your phone) is a lot easier now. The headset's comfort level isn't any better, and hand tracking still is fine but not perfect.

The Quest 3 is likely to be the best VR headset in its price class for the next few years, but the software still hasn't caught up. For that reason, the Quest 2 is still probably good enough for most. Its excellent display quality and improved wireless connectivity could make it a good choice for PC VR gamers: it works as a connected PC headset just like other Quest models do.

  • Display: LCD, 2,064x2,208 pixels per eye
  • Eye tracking: No
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
  • Works with glasses: Yes

best vr headset for travel videos

Meta Quest 2

Best affordable vr headset.

  • High-res display
  • Great self-contained gaming experience
  • Doubles as PC VR headset
  • Works well with a handful of fitness apps
  • Only 2 to 3 hours of battery life
  • Not designed for younger kids

The Quest 2 is still the most affordable and versatile VR headset of the moment. It doesn't require a gaming console or PC (although you need to pair it with a phone to set it up). The newly announced Quest 3 looks like the better product, although it costs more ($500), and we haven't reviewed it yet.

Meta will support the Quest 2 with future software right now, but the Quest 3's more advanced processor will make it more future-proof. For that reason alone, the Quest 3 looks to be worth the extra money. But for those who want an affordable option for families, the Quest 2 remains an excellent pick.

The base model's 128GB of storage is plenty for storing dozens of games and apps, although keep in mind there's no way to add more storage after purchase. Meta also now allows accounts to bypass Facebook logins, although a new Meta account is still required. Meta has also added better parental controls for younger players.

The Quest 2 reminds me of the Nintendo Switch for its versatility and fun, and it has a growing library of surprisingly effective fitness apps. The Quest 2 can also connect with a PC to run more advanced apps from Steam or Meta's own app library, using a single USB-C cable  or wirelessly.

  • Display: LCD, 1,842x1,920 pixels per eye
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2

Read our Meta Quest 2 review .

best vr headset for travel videos

PlayStation VR 2

Best high-end console gaming vr headset.

  • Vivid, high-res OLED display
  • Comfortable fit
  • Excellent controllers
  • Realistic vibrations
  • Powerful graphics potential
  • Needs to be cabled to PS5
  • Included earbuds are just OK
  • Doesn't work with old PSVR games
  • Game library needs more exclusives

The PSVR 2 is expensive ($550), and needs a PlayStation 5 to even work. It's tethered, not wireless. Its HDR OLED display, graphics quality, built-in eye tracking and fantastic advanced controllers -- which have the same vibrations and adaptive force-feedback triggers as the PS5 DualSense controllers -- give this headset a premium feel that makes its best games perform at a different level. It could be a landing spot for top PC VR games, but right now it already has some exclusives like Gran Turismo 7, Resident Evil Village and Horizon: Call of the Mountain.

The PSVR 2 lacks any social metaverse-type software so far and feels more like a headset designed to just launch and play VR games. Many of the games for this headset are ports of titles you could get on devices like the Quest 2 instead. As more games roll out that are optimized for this hardware, the PSVR 2 could quickly stand out from the standalone VR pack. You might want to wait and see what happens unless you're ready to jump in and trust Sony now.

  • Display: OLED, 2,000x2,040 pixels per eye
  • Eye tracking: Yes
  • Requires tethering to PS5 to work

Read our PlayStation VR 2 review .

best vr headset for travel videos

The Apple Vision Pro

Best standalone vr/ar computer.

  • Amazing micro-OLED display
  • A mostly fluid hand-eye control interface
  • Blends the real and virtual worlds impressively
  • iOS support folds in tons of familiar apps for work
  • Playing back personal 3D memories feels transporting
  • Extremely expensive
  • Hand-eye interface isn't always perfect
  • Not many VisionOS optimized apps yet
  • External battery and cord required for use
  • Doesn't work over glasses

Apple stands alone in the category of "standalone mixed reality computer headset" because, really, nothing else out there does exactly what the Vision Pro does. Most VR headsets to date have focused on games and individual immersive creative and work apps to explore ideas in mixed reality. Apple’s Vision Pro takes a very different path by folding in almost all of iOS. Having familiar Apple services and thousands of iOS apps floating in virtual workspaces feels like a future where our existing devices and VR/AR finally dovetail.

The Vision Pro also has a phenomenal micro-OLED display that plays movies incredibly well. The hand/eye tracking feels futuristic too and, at its best, it’s far more of a mouse/trackpad replacement than Meta’s hand tracking on Quest. Its mixed reality capabilities are the best we’ve ever seen, with passthrough cameras that are the best quality of any standalone device.

The Vision Pro needs more apps to make the most of its potential and lacks many of the games and fitness experiences that Quest offers. As a work device, once some of the early software quirks are ironed out, it’s got incredible promise -- it can act as a surprisingly great virtual monitor for Macs, too. As a fancy travel home theater for someone with $3,499 to spend, it’s also fascinating. At this price, no matter how stunning the experience can be, it’s a product most people should wait on or simply try a demo of first. Keep in mind that the Vision Pro doesn’t work with glasses (you’ll need Zeiss prescription lens inserts, a separate $100-$150 purchase), and the headset has its own tethered battery pack that has to be used along with the device, making it feel less self-contained than the Quest.

  • Display: Micro-OLED, unknown specific resolution (Apple states 4K per eye)
  • Processor: Apple M2
  • Works with glasses: No

Read our Apple Vision Pro review .

best vr headset for travel videos

HP Reverb G2

Best pc vr headset for higher-res gaming.

  • Higher-res display
  • Wider field of view
  • Great audio
  • Controllers feel cheap
  • No headphone jack

If your idea of the best VR headset is to have the best image quality in consumer VR, HP's Reverb G2 wins. For serious gamers (or VR racing sim fans ), it's probably your best choice. The 2,160x2,160-per-eye resolution and 114-degree field of view are the best at this price range, and the lightweight, comfy headset also has fantastic dropdown speakers designed by Valve. It's technically a Microsoft Windows mixed reality headset that prefers to launch into Microsoft's native Windows 10 VR ecosystem, but it bridges with Steam VR and works with those games and apps, too. Built-in camera-based room tracking is easier to set up than the Valve Index's external base stations but is more prone to tracking errors. The included controllers, based on Microsoft's VR controller design, feel clunkier than either the Quest 2 controllers or the Valve Index controllers. Also, the over-ear speakers are your only audio choice; there's no headphone jack.

It lists for $599, but it's often on sale for less.

  • Display: LCD, 2,160x2,160 pixels per eye
  • Requires connection to PC to work

Read our HP Reverb G2 review .

best vr headset for travel videos

Valve Index

Still one of the best steam vr hardware platforms.

  • Excellent SteamVR compatibility
  • Innovative controllers
  • Requires external room sensors for tracking
  • Display resolution lags behind current headsets

Valve's headset isn't as cutting-edge as it was when it debuted in 2020, but its Steam VR and Vive hardware compatibility, excellent audio and  fancy controllers  still make it hardware worth considering. Valve's "knuckle" controllers are pressure-sensitive and can track all five fingers, making them almost like gloves. Not all apps make the most of them, but Valve's hardware is mix-and-match compatible with the HTC Vive, which also is built on the Steam VR platform. The Index headset has excellent audio, but its display resolution is no longer as good as competitors'. 

The Index also needs external "lighthouse" boxes similar to the HTC Vive for tracking, meaning you need to set those up in a room first. It's not as self-contained as the Quest 2 or HP Reverb G2, which can track the room with in-headset cameras. It's also definitely not wireless, but if you already have some older HTC Vive hardware, you could add on parts of the Index to mix and match. It feels like this hardware could be due for an upgrade sooner than later.

  • Display: LCD, 1,440x1,600 pixels per eye
  • Requires connection with PC to work, and external room sensors

Read our Valve Index review .

Other VR headsets we've tested

Meta Quest Pro : Last year's expensive, eye-tracking-equipped Quest headset can track facial expressions and has a crisp display, but the less expensive Quest 3 already makes it obsolete with its better graphics, cameras and display resolution.

HTC Vive XR Elite : The glasses-like design of the XR Elite is a sign of the future, but the software and performance of this headset don't justify its price.

PlayStation VR : The original PSVR still works on the PlayStation 4 and 5, but it's not compatible with PSVR 2 games and hardware. It still has some great games to discover, but its lack of dedicated controllers and awkward setup feels ancient.

How we test VR headsets

Even though mainstream VR headsets have been around for nearly a decade, the apps they run and the computers, phones and game consoles they work with keep changing. We run key apps and software on the headsets, using them mainly in standalone mode if they're designed to be self-contained, or with a PC, game console or phone if they're primarily meant as connected peripherals.

We use the headsets for a mix of work, gaming, fitness and creative uses, and stay attentive to where the headsets have pain points (moments of discomfort, feelings of disconnect or sensations of nausea or distortion). Using technology like VR can often be a highly subjective experience, but by being attentive to details we find we can discover where each product is uniquely useful.

Comparison is also key: I've looked at pretty much every wearable AR and VR device of the last 15 years and also covered a lot of the wearable tech, phone and computer landscape. How these devices work as game consoles, fitness devices, work accessories and social tools are all key areas. We also think about displays, audio, controllers and accommodations for eyeglasses.

Factors to consider when buying a VR headset

VR and AR sometimes feel like product categories that never quite seem to become mainstream, but change is coming fast to the headset landscape.

Apple's $3,499 Vision Pro headset -- a self-contained, standalone VR/AR device that Apple is positioning as a full spatial computer -- is the highest-price device on the consumer market, with a very different pitch than games-focused devices like the Meta Quest. Its ability to run all sorts of iOS apps and have multiple apps open at once make it a unique option, and its possibilities as an iOS mixed reality computer, paired with its fantastic display quality and unique input method of hand-eye tracking, might make it a promising device for creators, researchers and anyone with a large enough wallet to pay for a high-end personal cinema on their face. It also emphasizes things like computing and video quality instead of what are still the Quest's greatest strengths: gaming and fitness.

The Vision Pro isn't the only mixed reality VR headset out there: Expect more in this category, which blends VR with video of your surroundings using color passthrough cameras that feels almost like augmented reality. The Quest 3 is the most affordable mainstream mixed reality VR headset, and Apple's is the most expensive. Upcoming expected devices by Samsung and others should be on their way. Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset , which enables mixed reality, more AI functions, and better graphics, made its debut on the Quest 3 but will roll out to other headsets in 2024 and beyond. A variant on this chip, the XR2 Gen 2 Plus , will be on Samsung and Google's higher-end headset.

Samsung, Google and Qualcomm have announced a partnership for future products, suggesting a mixed-reality headset could be arriving as soon as next year. If you want a phone-connected device, you probably should wait and see how Samsung and Google's future products shake out. Qualcomm's future plans for VR and AR lean on phones as a way to power smaller glasses, but so far there aren't any of these types of smaller devices that we'd recommend.

Sony's $550  PlayStation VR 2 delivers a great console gaming VR experience for PlayStation 5 owners and includes eye tracking like Apple's  Vision Pro , but isn't wireless and is still a relatively expensive accessory (it costs more than the PS5 itself). It's more expensive than both the Quest 2 and Quest 3, and still needs a PS5 to work, but costs far less than a Vision Pro (although it serves a completely different purpose and relies on a limited set of PlayStation VR games to even function). Its more limited library and functions make it less versatile than a Quest, but a fun Quest alternative for anyone deep into Sony's PlayStation 5 ecosystem.

For PC owners, there are several options. You could use a Quest 2, Quest 3 or Quest Pro, or consider several existing devices. The biggest previous players in the PC VR gaming scene (Microsoft, Valve, and HTC) have been quiet on that front, especially now that Microsoft has discontinued most of its mixed reality efforts. That could change again soon. A PC-connected VR headset can offer the most versatile collection of software for an immersive VR experience, and it also lets you use that headset for creative and business tools.

The cost of a new VR headset is going up these days. If price is your biggest concern, the Quest 2 still offers the best value in VR: a completely wireless experience, with access to a great library of fantastic games . 

VR headset FAQs

Should i wait to buy a vr headset.

Right now, the Quest 3 and Quest 2 are great devices to try without spending a lot. The Apple Vision Pro, on the other hand, is an extremely expensive new product you definitely should wait on (but try a demo of). With a Samsung mixed reality device expected to be announced this year that could be a Google-enabled alternative to Vision Pro, plus possible entries from HTC and maybe even Valve on the horizon, there could be many headsets on the way that are better than what's here at the moment. VR is a technology that's still in flux. That being said, the Meta Quest is a safe buy right now (although a more affordable Quest 3 Lite could be coming this year, too).

What should I look for in a VR headset?

It really depends on whether you're connecting to a PC or not, and whether you plan to do work with it. There are plenty of Windows-compatible headsets, but they vary in display resolution. Higher is better, and so is a larger field of view. Headsets can refresh at up to 120Hz now, and the faster they refresh, the more natural and smooth VR movement feels. Do you want a headset that works as an Apple services-connected computer, like Apple's Vision Pro? For fitness, remember that the Quest is the best option with its various accessories, apps, and fitness app hook-ins.

For gamers with a PlayStation 5, the PSVR 2 is the best option. Also, consider the app libraries: The Quest has a lot of exclusive games, and Windows-connected headsets have lots of compatibility with work apps and experimental tools. The PSVR 2 has its own library of games that aren't backward-compatible with original PSVR games.

Do any of these headsets work with phones?

The old world of phone-based VR headsets -- like the Samsung Gear VR and Google Daydream -- are basically dead. A good number of the current iPhone, Android and VR app options don't even work with the old mobile VR goggles. The Quest does have a phone app for streaming content for a parent to monitor and can receive phone notifications and sync some health data for workouts, but it's still not fully integrated with phones. If smartphone-based VR comes back, it will more likely be in the form of small headsets that plug into phones via USB-C for VR content, VR gaming and other uses.

How do I care for my VR headset?

VR headsets can get dusty and grimy. Take extra care with the lenses, which should be cleaned gently with microfiber cloths the same way you'd treat glasses (but don't use liquid cleaners). A slightly damp paper towel (just wet with a bit of water) can help clean off exteriors. It's a good idea to invest in a case or bag to protect the headset from dust and keep your headset covered when not in use. 

Take extra care not to expose your VR headset to bright sunlight: The sun can damage VR displays if beams hit the lenses of the headset. To be safe, I keep mine in cases, turn the lenses away from windows, and cover them with an old t-shirt or towel if I don't have a case.

5 Best VR Headsets For Travel Apps

5 Best VR Headsets For Travel Apps

Sourcing your next trip these vr headsets will give you the best view of your upcoming vacation..

Virtual travel and tourism are the most popular reasons consumers turn to virtual reality today. Nearly three-quarters, or 74 percent, of mainstream U.S. buyers are either "interested" or "very interested" in virtual travel, tourism and adventure, according to Greenlight VR's consumer research . For comparison just 61 percent buy VR headsets to play games.

If you happen to be among those 74 percent, you're in luck.

While the best virtual reality games require high-end, expensive headsets most travel apps out there today work on low-cost mobile-based headsets.

Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on an Oculus Rift or an HTC Vive— plus another $1,000 on a computer powerful enough to run them—you can spend less than $100 and still get a great experience.

These low-cost headsets use your smartphone to power them, so you not only dodge upgrading your computer, but you also get to enjoy VR without dealing with cables or complex installation procedures.

Most travel apps are built around either 360-degree, panoramic photos or 360-degree videos. Photos and videos? Two things smartphones do really well.

For example, there are already more than 150,000 360-degree videos on YouTube, many of them featuring interesting travel destinations. Google's Street View can also, instantly, transport you to almost any place on Earth, including many popular undersea destinations.

Using them couldn't be simpler. Just load the video, photo or travel app onto your smartphone, switch to virtual reality mode, and drop the smartphone into your virtual reality headset. Then check out our round up of the best virtual reality travel apps .

But before you scroll down to see our recommended headsets, a note of warning. Google's new Daydream platform is coming out later this year, part of Android Nougat, the next Android release. This OS promises better performance, better graphics, and a new hand-held motion controller.

Any headset you buy today will be obsolete very quickly, so don't spent too much money. Fortunately, mobile-based headsets start at around $10, so there's a viewer for any budget.

Leji VR Mini

This is the headset that I reach for most often. It's cute, small, light, has adjustable lenses and a headstrap, comes in five different colors and is super easy to use -- just pull up your favorite travel app and drop your smartphone into the holder.

The main disadvantage of this headset is that it doesn't have a built-in button, and you can't touch the screen itself without taking the phone out of it. However, most travel apps are look-to-activate, so a button isn't usually needed.

If you want to use this headset with interactive games, however, you'll probably want to get it bundled with a remote controller.

Get it on Amazon for $25 with a controller or less than $14 without one.

best vr headset for travel videos

This is the best mobile headset that's not a Gear VR. It works with any late-model iPhone or Android phone with screens between 4 and 6 inches in size, has built-in headphones and a control button, and is very easy to use. Get it for $39 on Amazon.

The field of view is a very impressive 120 degrees, more than the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, or the Gear VR. This means that you get the widest view possible on your smartphone, though for the best experience you want a phone with the largest, highest-resolution screen that you can afford.

The lenses are adjustable, it fits over glasses, and it is very easy to use -- just open the front cover, drop in your phone, and snap the cover closed. It weighs 15 ounces. That's a little bit more than the Gear VR, which weighs 12, or the Leji Mini VR, which comes in at just 7 ounces. But a lot of that is due to the headphones. You can also buy a version of this headset without headphones, which weighs 11 ounces.

best vr headset for travel videos

Samsung Gear VR

The all-around best mobile virtual reality headset -- if you happen to own a Samsung phone, and don't mind being limited to the small selection of apps in the Oculus Gear VR app store .

The Gear VR has extra built-in sensors to make the virtual reality experience a little bit more immersive, a built-in trackpad, and while its app store might be small, it offers some premium apps that you can't get for the other headsets on this list, including Samsung VR, its proprietary video platform.

Use it with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, Note5, Galaxy S6, and Galaxy S6 edge smartphones. And if you want to get the Cardboard-compatible VR apps in the Google Play store, you can always pick up one of the other headsets on this list. There are work-arounds to get your Cardboard apps to run on Gear VR, but I've personally had problems using them, and the hassle just doesn't seem worth it.

The Gear VR also sets itself apart with its proprietary interface. You don't have to take off the headset to switch apps, and the built-in trackpad and buttons make it easy to navigate the virtual menus and interact with applications. On the downside, it heats up quickly and drains the phone's battery.

Buy it from the company, on Amazon , or at your nearest Best Buy for $99.

best vr headset for travel videos

Mattel View-Master VR

A great, fun headset that your kids with play with, too. It won't fit over your glasses, it doesn't have adjustable lenses or built-in headphones, and it doesn't have straps to hold it on your head, but it is very cute and very easy to use. The touch button is nice and big, so you'll have no problems finding it, and the headset's design makes it a pleasure to hold.

Mattel will try to convince you to buy the expensive "Experience Reels" but you can just ignore them -- the View Master VR will happily run any of the VR apps in the Google Play or Apple app stores.

Buy it for just $13 on Amazon or pick it up at your neighborhood Target or Walmart .

best vr headset for travel videos

Goggle Tech C-1 Glasses

Finally, maybe you are interested in a headset that you can use to watch virtual reality travel videos while actually traveling. This little item folds up flat, weighs just one ounce, and comes with a nice little carrying case. It works with any late-model Android phone or iPhone. It's also available in a couple of different colors, if you don't like the standard black. Get it for $25 on Amazon.

If you don't like this one, there are plenty of other folding, open-sided headsets to choose from, some of them starting at under $10.

One major benefit of open-sided headsets is that they allow full access to the phone's screen, so you don't have to carry a separate Bluetooth controller to interact with apps, or to switch between applications. Plus, they don't block your peripheral vision, so won't miss your train stop.

The downside is that these headsets are too small to have headstraps, and you have to hold them up with your hands. So these aren't for watching a two-hour movie. On the plus side, since they're not tightly strapped to your head, you can use them with your glasses.

Still not sure which vr headsets to buy, check out GearBrain's 11 Best VR Headsets or 11 Questions About Virtual Reality Headsets Before You Buy . Either of these articles will help you find the right vr glasses or headset that meets your virtual reality viewing needs today.

best vr headset for travel videos

  • 7 Best VR Field Trips for Students, Teachers and Parents - Gearbrain ›
  • GearBrain's List of the 11 Best VR Headsets and Why - Gearbrain ›
  • How Oculus and Cardboard Are Going to Rock the Travel Industry ... ›
  • How virtual reality is changing travel - CNN.com ›
  • Get set for virtual-reality travel - Telegraph ›
  • We'll take you there: How travel brands are using virtual reality ... ›

GearBrain Compatibility Find Engine

A pioneering recommendation platform where you can research, discover, buy, and learn how to connect and optimize smart devices.

Join our community! Ask and answer questions about smart devices and save yours in My Gear.

best vr headset for travel videos

Top Stories

6 apps that help find the perfect shade of paint for your home, how to control philips hue lights remotely when away from home, dreo unveils revolutionary air comfort innovations for 2024, how to reconnect amazon echo and alexa to your wi-fi network, what the amazon echo yellow light means, and how to switch it off.

  • Doodle for Google
  • What is Bixby
  • Smart Home System
  • Tesla Model 3 Interior
  • Google Home Games
  • Wireless Doorbell
  • Ring Chime Pro

Weekly Deals

Belkin spring deal:  save up to 70% on select items with code: ss24 until april 1st., best tech deals for springtime smart home devices, soundcore's member celebration week: enter the lucky draw to win an extra 5% discount between 3/22 to 3/29, amazon deal:  ecovacs deebot t20 omni robot vacuum only $699, 36% off list price of $1,099.99.

Connect With Us

best vr headset for travel videos

Best VR experiences 2023: Explore, learn, and be entertained in virtual reality

Toy with planets, explore the ocean, or step into the past with the best VR experiences.

Best VR experiences - National Geographic Explore VR Machu Picchu_National Geographic

Space Explorers: The ISS Experience

Brink traveller, star chart vr, national geographic explore vr, all kinds of limbo xr, universe sandbox, perspectives: paradise, the book of distance, within - cinematic vr.

With virtual reality well and truly in the mainstream, there’s no time like the present to dive into the best VR experiences on offer. And we do mean experiences, not games. Yes, there’s fun to be had soaring through space in an X-Wing or gunning down bad-guys from behind a dumpster but VR has so much more to offer besides.

There are a whole range of VR applications that, from the comfort of your own home, let you visit places, times and even whole worlds that would otherwise be out of your reach. Sometimes you’re just you, while some titles put you in someone else’s shoes, offering a perspective you might never have considered. VR fitness apps are becoming more popular, and you can even work in VR .

Without the need to fend off murderous bandits or face-eating xenomorphs, you can take your time to immerse yourself in the experience of your choosing. And if you haven’t already picked up a VR headset (they’re surprisingly affordable) check out our list of the best VR headsets here.  

The only snag is there are so many VR experiences out there that it can be hard to know where to start, even if you’ve a specific area of interest in mind. For example, put “dinosaurs” and “VR” into the Steam Store and you’re greeted by 80+ results.

That’s why we’ve rounded up the ten of the best VR experiences available. Some are free, others sport a reasonable price tag but all offer the chance to expand your horizons without even leaving your living room. And if you want to pick up a VR headset to check out these experiences, head to our VR headset deals page to get the best price. 

Space Explorers: The ISS Experience VR

  • Platforms: Oculus
  • Price: $2.99 for each of the 4 episodes (via Oculus Store) 

If anyone is looking to experience the wonders of space, this VR experience may be close to what you’ll get to seeing what its like aboard a space station. Shot over two years, the VR experience was filmed at the International Space Station. It’s a gorgeous look at life aboard the station, told through four parts as you follow eight astronauts on a journey through some missions. It’ll give viewers an intimate look at living the life on orbit. 

There won’t be much interaction, but the experience does dive deep into space exploration through the eyes of these astronauts. With these extreme close-ups of these workers in space together, you’ll feel like you are with them during the joys and dangers of their profession.

  • Check out Space Explorers on the Oculus Store .

BRINK Traveller VR experience

  • Platforms: Steam VR, Meta (including Meta Quest)
  • Price: $9.99 / £7.99 (via Steam Store, Meta Quest Store)

BRINK Traveller takes you on a tour of twenty stunning natural spots, across thirteen locations. That may not sound like a lot when you can run Google Earth on most headsets, but BRINK Traveller’s locales are more than just 360° videos or shots.

Instead, you get to roam around each lookout spot, gazing down into the Grand Canyon, for example, watching the odd bird soar overhead. Should you be so inclined you can pick up a rock and pitch it into the water or take photographs. Or why not pull up a chair and just relax? It’s not 100% photorealistic but it’s convincing enough that it’s almost as good as being there. 

The locations are, mostly, American but the developers are slowly adding more international locations. Besides which, (virtually) taking in California’s Death Valley, Arizona’s The Wave rock formation and more, you’re bound to come away impressed.

  • Buy BRINK Traveller on Steam .
  • Buy BRINK Traveller on Meta Quest Store .

Star Chart VR

  • Platforms: Oculus, Steam, Google Play
  • Price: $9.99 

Speaking of space, this VR experience is also out of this world as it allows you to explore the solar system in a beautiful rendering of a real-time space simulation. You can take a closer look at all the planets in our galaxy whether its Saturn’s rings or the moons that orbit it. This is a great way to educate yourself in what the solar system has to offer and see how these constellations are formed in the night sky. Choose from different Star Chart modes to give you some choices in your star gazing activity. 

There’s also tons of experiences like Moments in Time that take you throughout history in space expedition like the moon landing and the rover’s exploration in Mars. No matter what you choose, you’ll enjoy what our solar system has to offer thanks to this one-of-kind VR experience.

  • Buy Star Chart VR on Steam.
  • Buy Star Chart VR on Oculus .
  • Buy Star Chart VR on Google Play Store .

National Geographic Explore VR_National Geographic

  • Price: $9.99

There are plenty of discoveries to be made in this world, and National Geographic help make this possible with their app called Explore VR. There are countless experiences to uncover and it’s a nice educational tool to see what this world has to offer regarding culture and exploration. 

Users can explore the old ruins of Machu Picchu or even scale the icebergs in the far-off region of Antarctica. It’s perfect for the whole family to travel the world without ever leaving the house. The main goal is to capture photos on these exhibitions, so the National Geographic Explore VR experience is a nice way to discover these vast locations to get to know the landscape and learn its history.

  • Buy National Geographic Explore VR for $9.99 at Oculus store .

Ocean Rift VR experience

  • Platforms: Steam VR, Meta (including Meta Quest 2)

It’s estimated that 80% of the ocean’s depths remain unexplored and while Ocean Rift is based on what we do know, it still offers some amazing encounters. Swimming around one of several sub-aquatic areas, you’ll get to gawp at humpback whales, play with dolphins and, should you so choose, swim with a handful of prehistoric animals. 

Ocean Rift isn’t the only application to offer a similarly watery experience, but what’s impressive is the freedom it grants you. You can roam to your heart’s content, assuming you’ve not chosen the shark cage area, and, occasionally, stumble on some unsettling aquatic items. Ocean Rift doesn’t set out to kill you, but we still got the chills when we stumbled across an abandoned submersible.

  • Buy Ocean Rift on Steam .
  • Buy Ocean Rift on Meta Quest Store .

All Kinds of Limbo_National Theatre

  • Platforms: All
  • Price: £6/$8

Live theater still draws in a big crowd with the likes of Broadway shows, concerts, and other types of entertainment. If you would rather see live entertainment from your own home, look no further than the performers behind All Kinds of Limbo. The musical performance is developed by artists Raffy Bushman and Nubiya Brandon alongside the NuShape Orchestra in the U.K. 

Using just a VR headset on a mobile device or PC, audiences can take part in this immersive experience that brings the Caribbean culture to life in a story of a life in limbo across different genres of music. Called All Kinds of Limbo XR, this special production from the National Theater utilizes VR technology to create a place for audiences to watch these musicians perform with the tunes of the Caribbean.

  • See upcoming All Kinds of Limbo events here.

Universe Sandbox

  • Platforms: Steam VR
  • Price: $29.99 (via Steam Store, also includes non-VR version)

Universe Sandbox happily caters to those who just want to watch the planets leisurely orbit the sun or, with the click of a button or two, watch days pass in seconds. Even without touching the extensive and sometimes silly Steam Workshop items (space whale included), just poring over solar systems (ours and a handful of others) will keep stargazers happy. 

However, it’s the option to experiment that really elevates Universe Sandbox. You can move planets, alter their size, their composition, blow them up – the Solar System is your oyster. Yes, there’s nothing to stop you swapping the Sun out for a black hole and the resultant planetary chaos is really something. But you can have just as much fun making little tweaks and observing the knock-on effects.

  • Buy Universe Sandbox VR on Steam (Early Access) 

Perspectives: Paradise VR experience

  • Price: Free (via Steam Store)

Perspectives: Paradise starts with a bang and ends with a whimper which, given the subject matter is entirely appropriate. It’s a virtual reality dive into the 1952 test detonation of the first hydrogen bomb and the effect it had at Enewetak/Bikini Atoll, both upon the environment and the original inhabitants. 

Aside from a spectacular VR recreation of the detonation of the bomb, you get to delve into the unsettling aftermath, standing atop the sealed mound where radioactive materials were buried. On top of that, there are 360° views of the island, interviews (including with the people who live there now) and more. 

The subject is treated with an appropriate level of dignity – it’s not a fist-pumping celebration of America’s might, thanks in part to the involvement of some Finnish journalists. And it’s absolutely going to leave you with food for thought. 

  • Get Perspectives: Paradise on Steam .

The Book of Distance VR experiences

  • Platforms: Steam VR, Meta
  • Price: Free (via Steam Store, Meta Quest Store)

Aside from visiting remote locations, VR allows you to experience other people’s stories. The Book of Distance tells just one such story, about a Japanese man who emigrated to America. That might be an interesting tale in its own right, but what makes his story so significant is that he was one of the many, many Japanese American citizens who spent some or all of WWII in American internment camps . 

What makes this such an impactful experience is that it has such a narrow, personal focus. It was produced with the involvement of Randall Okita, the man’s grandson, and it lets you delve into various aspects of his life. It’s presented as sort of a play, one that will absolutely hold your attention, and it’s the perfect way to illuminate an important but often glossed over chapter of America’s history. 

  • Get The Book of Distance on Steam .
  • Get The Book of Distance on Meta Quest Store .

Within VR - cinematic VR experiences

  • Platforms: Oculus, Steam, Google Play, Apple
  • Price: Free

For those in need of a cinematic experience at home, Within VR can make that happen. Get immersed in some amazing stories in different genres like documentaries, horror, music videos, animation, and so much more. What’s great is that these are viewed at no charge at all. 

You can catch the best from indie filmmakers and studios from around the world. These videos are also available to download in high-resolution, so you can take it anywhere you go if you don’t have an internet connection to stream it. If you’re up for some video content, then you’ll find plenty of that through Within.

Best of all, there are no platform limitations, as the Within website proudly states that it's "available everywhere fine VR is served".

  • Check out Within VR on Steam ,  Oculus, Google Play , or Apple .

Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now

Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.

Chris is a freelance journalist who, aside from covering games and gaming-related tech, has a taste for horror, sci-fi and the post-apocalyptic. As well as Live Science, you can find his work at Space.com, The Escapist, GameSpew (where he’s the morning news writer) and more. You can follow him on Twitter @MarmaladeBus .

  • Mufsin Mahbub

Watch scientists control a robot with their hands while wearing the Apple Vision Pro

Please don't wear the Apple Vision Pro while driving, study urges, but buying coffee with VR is an 'exciting novelty'

Hair-straightening cream tied to woman's repeated kidney damage

Most Popular

By Anna Gora December 27, 2023

By Anna Gora December 26, 2023

By Anna Gora December 25, 2023

By Emily Cooke December 23, 2023

By Victoria Atkinson December 22, 2023

By Anna Gora December 16, 2023

By Anna Gora December 15, 2023

By Anna Gora November 09, 2023

By Donavyn Coffey November 06, 2023

By Anna Gora October 31, 2023

By Anna Gora October 26, 2023

  • 2 Mass grave of plague victims may be largest ever found in Europe, archaeologists say
  • 3 India's evolutionary past tied to huge migration 50,000 years ago and to now-extinct human relatives
  • 4 1,900-year-old coins from Jewish revolt against the Romans discovered in the Judaen desert
  • 5 Dying SpaceX rocket creates glowing, galaxy-like spiral in the middle of the Northern Lights
  • 2 Watch bizarre video of termites trapped in 'death spiral'
  • 3 'Potentially hazardous' asteroid Bennu contains the building blocks of life and minerals unseen on Earth, scientists reveal in 1st comprehensive analysis
  • 4 Speck of light spotted by Hubble is one of the most enormous galaxies in the early universe, James Webb telescope reveals
  • 5 8-hour intermittent fasting tied to 90% higher risk of cardiovascular death, early data hint

The Best VR Headsets for 2024

Work or play in another dimension by donning one of these top-rated standalone or tethered virtual reality headsets..

Will Greenwald

Apple Vision Pro

Meta Quest 3

Meta Quest 3

Meta Quest Pro

Meta Quest Pro

Meta Quest 2

Meta Quest 2

PlayStation VR2

PlayStation VR2

Valve Index VR Kit

Valve Index VR Kit

HTC Vive Pro 2

HTC Vive Pro 2

Virtual reality is a fascinating way to travel using nothing more than the power of technology. With a headset and motion-tracking technology, VR lets you look around a virtual space as if you're actually there, or play a game as though you're in it. These are the top headsets you can buy right now. Read on for our picks, followed by everything you need to know about VR to make a wise purchase.

You Can Trust Our Reviews

Deeper dive: our top tested picks, why we picked it.

The Vision Pro is Apple's first foray into AR and VR, though the company is careful to describe it as a "spatial computer" rather than a headset. Whatever you call it (we consider it an AR/VR/mixed reality headset), the Vision Pro is an incredibly ambitious device. The headset relies entirely on eye and hand tracking for controls that enable a far more intuitive and natural control system than any we've tested. As a first-generation device on a newly launched platform, VisionOS, it's surprisingly full-featured, with some of the best hardware ever put into a consumer-available, head-mounted display.

Who It's For

People with deep pockets. The Vision Pro costs $3,500, several times more than any other headset we've tested. That's expensive, even for early adopters. If you're willing to spend that much money on a new AR/VR experience, go for it. Just recognize that Apple will probably make even better and/or cheaper versions in the next few years. In addition, the Vision Pro has a few software omissions and stability issues that can be fixed with patches, but the headset's front-heavy balance can't.

  • Best AR/VR interface we've seen
  • Class-leading eye and hand tracking
  • No physical controllers needed
  • Sharp, colorful display
  • Outstanding video passthrough
  • Plenty of visionOS apps and features
  • Short battery life
  • Front-heavy design gets uncomfortable
  • Gaps in iPad app compatibility

The Meta Quest 3 is $200 more than the Quest 2, but it adds color pass-through cameras that make augmented reality experiences feasible, along with a higher resolution and a faster processor—a processor that packs more power than even the Quest Pro. In fact, the only thing the Pro has over this headset is its awesome eye-tracking technology.

Want to experience VR without cables? This is the standalone headset for you. The Quest 3 is wireless, powerful, sharp, and you can see through it in color. The Quest 2 is a good starting point if you're looking to spend less, but the Quest 3 is enough of a step forward that it's worth the extra cash.

  • Color pass-through cameras allow you to clearly see your surroundings
  • High-resolution picture
  • Powerful processor
  • Comfortable design
  • Lacks eye-tracking tech

The Meta Quest Pro is an impressive headset that features cool eye-tracking and face-tracking tech. It costs significantly more than the Quest 2 and Quest 3, however, so you really need to be sold on the eye tracking before you buy in.

The Meta Quest Pro is for professionals who need a capable VR headset for collaboration purposes, and for enthusiasts who want to play with the excellent eye-tracking and face-tracking tech.

  • Improved design with a more comfortable fit than the Quest 2
  • Cool eye- and face-tracking tech
  • Color pass-through camera
  • Rechargeable headset and controllers
  • Doesn't require a PC to operate
  • Meta Horizon's metaverse is often empty and sometimes buggy

The Quest 2 (formerly the Oculus Quest 2) is Meta's $300 standalone VR headset. It's affordable for a VR platform, and you don't need cables or additional hardware. It's powered by mobile components, specifically the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset, and that's enough to run entertaining VR experiences. It has an incredibly robust library of those experiences, so you'll find something entertaining. You can also use it as a PC-powered headset with the $79 Link Cable.

This is a top VR headset, but its follow-up, the Meta Quest 3, is more compelling in every way (including a faster processor, a higher-resolution display, and color pass-through cameras). The Quest 3 also costs $200 more, which means the Quest 2 is the best budget-friendly VR headset you can buy. If you want to explore VR without spending a lot of money, this is a terrific starting point.

  • Doesn't require any cables
  • Sharp display
  • Accurate motion tracking
  • Optional PC tethering via accessory cable

The PlayStation VR 2 is a significant upgrade over the original that combines the PlayStation 5 's power with new eye-tracking and motion-control tech that makes VR games even more immersive. Plus, the lightweight headset has impressive specs, including a sharp OLED display that delivers a 2,000-by-2,040-pixel picture to each eye.

The PS VR2 is for gamers willing to go all-in on Sony's next-generation vision of virtual reality. After all, the headset's not inexpensive at nearly $600 and it lacks backward compatibility with original PlayStation VR games (which is why that model is still on this list). However, this comfortable and impressive hardware has a strong launch library that includes Horizon: Call of the Mountain and the Jurassic World Aftermath Collection.

  • Excellent graphics and sound
  • Strong launch library
  • Useful eye-tracking tech
  • Lightweight build
  • Easy to set up
  • Not compatible with PlayStation VR games

Valve's PC-tethered VR headset is pricey, and on paper it doesn't stand out much from the competition. The headset is just one part of the VR experience, though, and the Valve Index really impresses because of the other major component: the controllers. They're revolutionary, able to rack individual finger movements and make games (that take advantage of the feature) much more immersive than the standard trigger grips on other controllers. It's amazing to see your fingers wiggle in Half-Life: Alyx.

The headset itself, while not outstanding, still offers crisp, smooth graphics with a high refresh rate, too. The system integrates with Valve's Steam store through SteamVR, so there's an incredibly large library of VR games, even if only a tiny fraction might bother with the finger support.

This is the go-to VR headset for use with PCs, thanks to its strong performance and revolutionary controllers. If you're just starting with VR on PC, go with this one. If you already have a SteamVR-compatible headset, though, such as the HTC Vive, the Vive Cosmos Elite (not the regular Cosmos), or the Vive Pro 2 along with their base stations, you can buy the controllers for $280 to breathe new life into your VR experience without investing in the full Valve Index system.

  • Immersive, finger-tracking controllers
  • High, 120Hz refresh rate delivers smooth motion
  • Lots of VR software available on PC via SteamVR
  • Occasionally frustrating tethered design

This advanced, semi-consumer VR headset targets both enthusiasts and professionals with the sharpest picture available at 2,448 by 2,448 pixels per eye. It easily offers the best visuals we've seen in VR so far, though at a hefty price: The headset alone is $799, and that doesn't factor in the base stations and controllers (but on the bright side, you can use the Valve Index controllers with it).

It works with SteamVR just like the Index, and has its own VR software store in the form of Viveport. The store offers the subscription-based  Viveport Infinity  service that provides unlimited access to VR experiences, instead of a la carte software purchases. That's a nice bonus outside of SteamVR.

If you want the best VR experience available without diving into pro-level extremes, the Vive Pro 2 combined with Valve Index controllers is the combination to go with. It'll cost you at least $1,300 before factoring in a PC with the specs to take advantage of the headset's power, but you'll enjoy amazing visuals and controls.

  • The best resolution for VR gaming
  • Smooth motion tracking
  • Works with Valve Index controllers
  • Doesn't include necessary base stations or controllers

Buying Guide: The Best VR Headsets for 2024

Which vr headset is the best.

Modern VR headsets now fit under one of two categories: tethered or standalone. Tethered headsets, such as the HTC Vive Pro 2, PlayStation VR, and Valve Index are physically connected to PCs (or in the case of the PS VR 2, a  PlayStation 5 ). Their cables makes them a bit unwieldy, but putting all of the video processing in a box that you don't need to directly strap to your face means your VR experience can be a lot more complex. Either external sensors or outward-facing cameras provide full 6DOF (six degrees of freedom) movement tracking for both your head and your hands, thanks to motion-sensing controllers.

The least expensive tethered options are currently around $400, and that's before you address the processing issue; the HP Reverb G2, Valve Index, and Vive Pro 2 need  powerful PCs  to run, while the PS VR requires a PlayStation 4 and the PS VR2 requires a PlayStation 5.

Standalone headsets offer the greatest physical freedom by completely removing the cables and not requiring an external device to handle processing. The Meta Quest 2, Quest Pro, and Quest 3 use similar outward-facing cameras to the now-discontinued Oculus Rift S to provide 6DOF motion tracking, and similar 6DOF motion controls. They lack a dedicated gaming PC's processing power on their own, but their high-end mobile processors (especially the Quest Pro's Snapdragon XR2+) push detailed, smooth graphics. They also support PC-tethered VR with an optional cable.

best vr headset for travel videos

The Apple Vision Pro is the most advanced of the standalone headsets by far, and the most advanced headset in general. Apple doesn't call it a VR headset but rather a "spatial computer," but as a device it's very similar to the Quest Pro. It relies entirely on eye and hand tracking for control and has the most intuitive interface we've seen by far. It's also $3,500, which is a huge ask compared with any other headset in this list. It's also a first-generation device on a new platform, even if the platform (VisionOS) is built on iOS, iPadOS, and MacOS.

best vr headset for travel videos

Sony's "spatial reality" headset announced at CES 2024 is the other model to keep an eye on. Details are scant, but Sony says it will run on a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ chip, indicating it could be standalone headset like the Meta Quest. More interesting are its controllers: a ring and a wand that are designed for "intuitive interaction with 3D objects and precise pointing." Aimed at content creators, it could be a major release for VTubers and other streamers.

Which VR Headset Is Best for the Metaverse?

Meta emphasizes that the Quest 2, Quest 3, and Quest Pro are all devices for its "metaverse," which is still fairly ill-defined apart from a few specific apps under the Meta Horizon name. It remains a vague concept, but the Quest headsets are the best jumping-off points for exploring the company's vision. Our metaverse guide will help you understand what's happening, based on the few hard details.

Meta's vision of the metaverse hasn't really panned out, and the aforementioned Horizon Worlds app is a ghost town. On the other hand, platforms and games that don't call themselves metaverse like Roblox and VRChat have effectively become popular multimedia experiences crafted and curated by users. You can also use them outside of VR.

The Best Augmented Reality (AR) Headsets

You might have seen other headsets pop up over the last few years, including the  Microsoft HoloLens  and the  Magic Leap One . They aren't on this list for a few reasons, but the biggest one is that they're augmented reality (AR) headsets, not virtual reality headsets. And yes,  there's a difference .

Basically, these AR headsets have transparent lenses that let you look at your surroundings instead of completely replacing your vision with a computer-generated image. They project images over whatever you're looking at, but those images are designed to complement and interact with the area around you. You can make a web browser pop up in the middle of a room, for instance, or watch animals run around your coffee table. It's fascinating technology that could  hint at the future of computing .

The emphasis here is on the future, as in several years away. That brings us to the second biggest reason the HoloLens and Magic Leap One aren't in this list: They aren't consumer products. Both devices are purely intended as development hardware, so AR software can be made for their platforms. Considering each headset costs several thousand dollars, you shouldn't expect a large library of AR experiences for a while. Outside of specific enterprise and education uses, AR headsets are an early adopter playground at best, and not for most people.

The Apple Vision Pro is the closest to a comprehensive AR headset we've seen, and the Meta Quest Pro isn't too far behind it. They use passthrough cameras instead of transparent lenses, so your view of your surroundings won't be as clear as transparent displays, but they still show everything around you, in color, and scan those surroundings to properly place virtual objects in that space.

If you can't wait for the technology to mature or become more affordable, we've found several consumer-available smart glasses that are very useful, though don't deliver on actual augmented reality. They project large images in front of your eyes and can have limited head tracking to keep that virtual screen fixed in place before you, and make great privacy-minded external monitors if you want to watch movies, play games, or work on the go.

With that in mind, we'll continue to track the best new VR headsets as they are released, so make sure to check back soon for updates. And after you find the right headset, check out our list of the best VR games .

More Inside PCMag.com

  • The Best Smart Glasses for 2024
  • The Best Graphics Cards for VR in 2024
  • The Best Laptops for VR in 2024
  • The Best VR Games for 2024

About Will Greenwald

I’ve been PCMag’s home entertainment expert for over 10 years, covering both TVs and everything you might want to connect to them. I’ve reviewed more than a thousand different consumer electronics products including headphones, speakers, TVs, and every major game system and VR headset of the last decade. I’m an ISF-certified TV calibrator and a THX-certified home theater professional, and I’m here to help you understand 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and even 8K (and to reassure you that you don’t need to worry about 8K at all for at least a few more years).

More From Will Greenwald

  • The Best TVs for 2024
  • The Best 75-Inch (and up) TVs for 2024
  • The Best Gaming Headsets for 2024
  • The Best Cheap TVs for 2024
  • The Best 65-Inch TVs for 2024

best vr headset for travel videos

Screen Rant

10 virtual travel apps for oculus/meta quest 2.

VR gives people the chance to travel the world from the comfort of their own house, and these ten apps are the best for the Oculus/Meta Quest 2.

Travel is a major goal for many people, but it can be inaccessible even in the best of times because of financial and mobility-related barriers. As unfortunate as it is, some people may never have the chance to visit all the places they want to. But VR allows its users to not only explore virtual worlds but also get a better understanding of their own.

Between 360-degree breakdowns of the world, guided tour videos, and documentaries, VR allows people to get closer to the places of their dreams than was previously possible. Many travel apps even include interactive features, so the users can feel like they're actually able to connect with different cultures and topography. As systems like the Oculus/ Meta Quest 2 become more widely available, and as programmers and cinematographers put more effort into advancing the technologies, travel will truly be possible without having to leave home.

Traveling While Black

Traveling While Black is an Emmy-nominated VR experience that talks about the process of traveling, specifically focusing on the barriers that have been put in place for Black populations, in history and in the present. The experience takes advantage of every benefit VR offers, which helps its message connect with the audience.

While this is not a documentary that focuses on the freedom of VR, it does try to get its users to think outside their own bodies and life experiences to see how other people can be limited in their own freedom. It tells an incredibly important story, which deserves to be heard by those who have now gained a deeper level of freedom through the digital realm.

For those looking for a way to walk around the world, Wander is the app to download. The app's primary function is to allow users to navigate the world similarly to Google Maps' StreetView, allowing them to enter an address and be transported to that spot. This can be a great way to explore new areas or look back on places you used to live.

In addition to immersive imagery, users can use the historical jumping feature to see what different areas looked like over the years. Many famous landmarks even have the ability to be explored from the inside, giving users the feeling that they're really there.

BRINK Traveler

BRINK Traveler gives users the ability to see some of the most amazing places on Earth from the comfort of their own homes. While there are currently only 17 locations for users to visit, the additional features make each one a true travel experience that may push them to travel in real life as well .

Virtual guides can explain the features and history of each spot, and an in-app camera allows users to take all the pictures they would want if they were to visit in person. Another great feature is the ability to travel in multiplayer mode, which lets users meet up with friends from anywhere while getting a remarkable view at the same time.

OtherSight is one of the most interactive travel apps out there because it specifically focused on including usable objects in every location. Currently, users only have the option of going to four different locations, but there's a lot that they can do at each one.

Users can visit churches, streets, and museums and really get a sense of how it feels to be there. The scale, texture, and movement qualities of interactive features are especially well done. While this is a fairly limited app at the moment, the developers are working on new locations, which can provide future explorations.

The Ocean might not be the first place people think of when they try to imagine their travel plans, but it is one of the great untapped resources on Earth. There is far more to be seen and discovered in the Ocean than there is on land, and Ocean Rift gives users the chance to explore that realm.

There are 14 different habitats to explore, which can be used as an educational program or one for relaxation, depending on the settings. The sea creatures are extremely detailed, and users can actually interact with many of them, giving the perspective of a true underwater safari. However, those with a fear of the ocean and its creatures may find some modes a little too realistic for their comfort level.

Blueplanet VR Explore

Blueplanet VR Explore is one of the most expensive travel apps, but that's in part because it is so extensive. The app allows its users to travel to 40 different cultural sites, with some offering the ability to interact with the landscape or even hang glide over it.

One of the best qualities of this app is the spacial breakdown, where users can truly explore the location. It is a physically navigable terrain, which creates a greater level of immersion than standard point-and-click systems. The one downside to the app, beyond its price, is that it takes up a lot of space, requiring a lot of memory and a strong internet signal while downloading.

Alcove is not technically a travel app, but it does offer a number of virtual tour experiences for free. The app itself is a virtual home, where users can download different in-app features depending on their interests. The travel features do include a number of tours on the ground, under the sea, and even in the sky, narrated by some of the most thorough guides available in VR.

The limitation of the app is that each experience is entirely pre-determined. There are no interactive features that would make it more immersive. However, given that it is free and has such incredible visual quality, that might be a sacrifice worth making.

National Geographic Explore VR

National Geographic Explore VR is a highly-interactive app that allows users to take on the role of a National Geographic photographer. They have the ability to travel to Machu Pichu or Antarctica, where they can navigate the landscape and take pictures of the many sights to see.

Users feel the strain of rowing boats and climbing cliffs, which makes for a more immersive experience . However, the quest is fairly pre-programmed, which means that individual decision-making is only possible in the pictures a user takes rather than in the experience as a whole. Coupled with another, more interactive app, this could be a great way to feel the travel in a way that images themselves cannot achieve.

Nature Treks VR

Nature Treks VR isn't overly concerned with realism, instead focusing on making a relaxing experience. Users have the ability to go on a walk on a variety of virtual paths, with exotic animals meandering by and control of the weather allowing the user to fit the experience to their preferences.

Because it isn't definitively located in any real-world locations , users have the ability to mold the world as they see fit, interacting with the trees to summon animals and controlling the sound levels to be more immersive or more relaxing. The detail work and spontaneity make it an engaging experience, though users should be aware that it is not intended to be a completely realistic one.

ecosphere is a photo-realistic breakdown of the Earth's most beautiful locations and the people that are working to protect them. Intended as a way to help the average person connect with the environmental crises of our time , these immersive documentaries show the importance of caring for the Earth before the damage is irreversible.

This is distinct from other user-directed travel apps but also provides a sense of depth and significance far beyond what other apps can offer. There are only a handful of experiences, but they go beyond visuals to explain what really matters about the different locations they portray. As an added bonus, the app is free, making these videos some of the most accessible ways for Oculus users to travel in VR.

NEXT: The 10 Coolest Games To Play On Oculus Quest 2

Watch CBS News

The best virtual reality headsets in 2024 are here to blow your mind

By Brittany Vincent

Updated on: March 25, 2024 / 2:07 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Best VR Headsets

Ready to escape real life for some virtual reality playtime? The innovative  tech  is more affordable than ever. You can get lost in your favorite TV shows, practically bathe in a terrific game , and even get some work done in the virtual world. 

Maybe you've had your eye on a new game console and want to immerse yourself even further. Or maybe you've heard of the AR that the  Apple Vision Pro  delivers, but want something friendlier toward Steam games. No matter your reason for jumping into virtual reality, there are a variety of headsets, from great wireless options suitable for a general consumer base, like the affordable  Meta Quest 2 to the only console-based virtual reality headset on the market, the PlayStation VR 2 . 

Which one should you buy? We've got a can't-miss list of the best virtual reality headsets of 2024 across different categories and budgets. Read on to see our picks for the best VR headsets of 2024. 

Best VR headsets of 2024

  • Best VR headset: Meta Quest 3
  • Best VR headset for beginners: Meta Quest 2
  • Best VR headset for console gamers: PlayStation VR 2
  • Best VR headset for PC gamers: Valve Index
  • Best premium VR headset: HTC Vive Pro 2

Best VR headset: Meta Quest 3: $480

Meta Quest 3

Take your VR adventures to new heights with the powerhouse Meta Quest 3. As the mightiest Quest to date, it delivers stunning graphics via double the processing power and crisper resolution over its predecessor. 

Ultra-realistic 3D audio and improved Touch Plus controllers help take your gaming experience to the next level with better gesture recognition and navigation. Fully wireless and controller-free, you can move around the room without being tethered to wires -- something so many prior VR headsets did not allow for. 

This bundle sweetens the deal with an exclusive edition of the epic "Asgard's Wrath 2." A $60 value all its own, it's like getting that game for free with your purchase, so even though this new headset is a bit pricey, you do get a game to start you off on the right foot. 

Best VR headset for beginners: Meta Quest 2: $199 (20% off)

Meta Quest 2

The reasonably-priced Meta Quest 2 is the best VR headset for most consumers, and it's also the most versatile.

It's not only cordless, but also compatible with a vast library of games and apps that you can jump into without the need of a powerful PC. It features a resolution of 1832 x 1920 per eye, with a 90Hz refresh rate. 

It's also quite comfortable, with a lengthy battery life and fantastic motion controllers to help you immerse yourself in your favorite games.

If you're curious or only want to spend a few hundred to try out VR, this is your best bet. It's been discounted once more to just $199, making it cheaper than buying a current-gen console like the Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5, so if VR is in your future, this headset is going to be the best entry point that you'll find right now. 

Best VR headset for console gamers: PlayStation VR 2: $550

PlayStation VR 2

The PlayStation VR 2 is the only virtual reality headset for consoles right now, but it's so great there doesn't really need to be another. 

This is the newly-refined version of Sony's original PlayStation VR, and it's an improvement in just about every way. It has two impressive 2K OLED HDR screens with 4K resolution, headset haptics, and eye tracking -- goodies that not every headset has.

Granted, you will need a PlayStation 5 to use the headset. And the PlayStation VR 2 is more expensive than the actual console. But barring the standalone experience that the Meta Quest 2 offers, it's the simplest way for PlayStation fans to experience VR. 

It's also the home of familiar PlayStation brands like "Gran Turismo 7," which offer VR content you won't find elsewhere. If you want to enjoy new games and spin-offs from popular PlayStation titles, you'll want to get a PlayStation VR. 

Best VR headset for PC gamers: Valve Index: $999

valve-index-vr-headset.jpg

The Valve Index is anything but affordable, but it's a high-end VR option for PC gamers looking for the utmost quality, especially in terms of controllers. 

It doesn't excel when it comes to resolution, hovering at 1440 x 1600 pixels, but it has a ridiculous refresh rate of 144Hz and a 130-degree field of view, which put it leagues beyond other headsets on the market. Of course, you'll pay for the luxury, as the Index is quite pricey.

It also requires the installation of two sensors ahead of use, and it must remain connected to your PC, which means you should already have a PC that can handle the latest and greatest games if you want to use the Index. 

Still, that's not a bad tradeoff for controllers with excellent finger tracking and a super high refresh rate that can turn your favorite games into seriously amazing immersive sessions.

Best premium VR headset: HTC Vive Pro 2: $1,200 

HTC Vive Pro 2

If price isn't an object and you're mostly concerned with performance and quality, the HTC Vive Pro 2 is your best bet. It's the most premium VR experience you'll get right now, but you need a computer that's up to snuff to power it. 

It boasts a 5K screen with an eye-popping 120Hz refresh rate. But you will be paying for the boost in graphical prowess. Just about everything in this package feels premium, from the comfortable headset itself to the controllers, which are comparable in size and function to the  Meta Quest 2 . This is the best-looking VR headset you'll see on the market right now, and that's no exaggeration.

The complete Vive Pro 2 kit comes with a headset, two SteamVR sensors and controllers. You can buy the headset separately for a hefty discount, but it's still a hefty price here at the time of writing. 

Also, keep in mind that if you want to go wireless, you'll have to buy the separate  Vive wireless adapter .

y-dp7sn-400x400.jpg

Brittany Vincent has been covering gaming, tech, and all things entertainment for 16 years for a variety of online and print publications. She's been covering the commerce space for nearly a decade. Follow her on Twitter at @MolotovCupcake.

More Essentials

71rzmfvkf3l-ac-sl1500.jpg

The best bookcases under $500 include one that's 50% off right now

All of our picks from Wayfair, Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond are on sale.

the-five-best-hearing-aids-in-2024.png

The five best hearing aids in 2024

Check in on the best hearing aids of 2024 from brands like Jabra, Phonak, and Sony.

five-budget-hearing-aid-brands-we-love.png

Five affordable hearing-aid brands we love

Save money on a new hearing aid with the top budget-friendly hearing aids of 2024.

oled-header-vizio.png

The best OLED TVs for 2024 are eye-popping spectacles for your living room

Peruse the best OLED TVs of 2024, from brands like LG, Sony, and more.

cbsn-fusion-stalkers-use-apple-airtags-to-track-victims-lawsuit-claims-thumbnail-1528817-640x360.jpg

Snag a 4-pack of Apple AirTags for the lowest price we've seen at Walmart

Grab four Apple AirTags for just $80 to track your luggage, find your lost keys, and keep an eye on your wallet.

The best computer speakers for 2024

The best computer speakers for 2024 deliver crisp sound with booming bass

Upgrade your home computer setup with speakers that complement your music, games, and even video meetings.

blh.jpg

Best spring bedding deals: Save up to 50% on Brooklinen, Casper, Plufl, more

New season, new bedding: Upgrade your bedroom for spring with fresh new sheets at a big discount.

0326-cmo-cbsdeals-2787891-640x360.jpg

CBS Mornings Deals: Save 25% on a digital picture frame

These deals won't last long.

The 6 best places to buy prescription sunglasses online (and save money)

The 6 best places to buy prescription sunglasses online (and save money)

If you already have a valid eyeglass prescription, you can save money by shopping for prescription sunglasses online.

Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches Over 1 Billion Dollars

Mega Millions estimated $1.13 billion jackpot has one winning ticket

There was one winning ticket sold for Tuesday night's estimated $1.13 billion Mega Millions jackpot, in New Jersey, officials said. It was the fifth largest in the game's history.

RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel

NBC News drops former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel

NBC News has dropped former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel from her role as a paid contributor, following on-air objections from NBC and MSNBC journalists.

BlackRock To Buy Global Infrastructure Partners For $12.5 Billion In Infrastructure Bid

America's retirement age of 65 is "crazy," BlackRock CEO says

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink said that longer life expectancies are "putting the U.S. retirement system under immense strain."

Female Sales Assistant tuning up skis for customer.

Ski town can't fill 6-figure job because candidates can't afford housing

High housing costs make it near impossible for towns, companies in upscale resort areas that cater to recruit workers.

Nicole Shanahan waves from the podium during a campaign event for presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Oakland, California.

Who is Nicole Shanahan, RFK Jr.'s new running mate?

An unconventional choice, Nicole Shanahan brings youth and considerable wealth to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s long-shot campaign but is little known outside Silicon Valley.

stripper-union.jpg

Adult dancers in this state win job protections under "Strippers' Bill of Rights"

New state law requires training for employees in clubs to prevent sexual harassment, among other safeguards.

US-BUSINESS-KRISPY KREME

McDonald's to start selling Krispy Kreme donuts in national rollout

Krispy Kreme shares soared after the announcement of the deal, which will significantly broaden its U.S. footprint.

TOPSHOT-CORRECTION / US-TRANSPORT-INCIDENT

Who owns the ship that struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore?

The Port of Baltimore is the ninth busiest port in the U.S. and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Trans pride flags flutter in the wind

Sacramento is now a sanctuary city for transgender people

The city of Sacramento is now a transgender sanctuary city, believed to be the first in California to vote for this designation.

  • updated 43M ago

Former President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at 40 Wall Street on March 25, 2024, in New York City.

Judge imposes gag order on Trump in New York "hush money" case

A judge imposed a gag order restricting what former President Donald Trump can say about those involved in his upcoming criminal trial in New York.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday March 26, 2024, after a support column was struck by a vessel.

Francis Scott Key Bridge reconstruction should be paid for by feds, Biden says

The FBI earlier said there was no "there is no specific or credible information to suggest there are ties to terrorism."

HealthWatch

0325-cmo-kate-lapook-2784730-640x360.jpg

Doctor explains Princess Kate's treatment

Dr. Jon LaPook joins “CBS Mornings” to discuss what preventative chemotherapy means and what Princess Kate's recovery could look like.

0325-cmo-kate-brown-2784772-640x360.jpg

Royal expert on reaction to Kate's diagnosis

CBS News royal contributor Tina Brown joins “CBS Mornings” to talk about Princess Kate's cancer announcement and what it means for the royal family.

0325-cmo-kate-williams-2784742-640x360.jpg

Questions following royal cancer diagnosis

Princess Kate's announcement that she has cancer has led to a reckoning about how the royal family is covered in the press, while also raising questions about what's in store as she requests privacy for her family.

GERMANY-EU-LIFESTYLE-TATTOO-PIGMENT

What's in tattoo ink? Expert says some additives aren't on the packaging

Chemistry researchers found as much as 90% of tattoo inks in the U.S. might be mislabled, with some containing substances that could cause allergic reactions.

lapook.jpg

Examining Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis

Catherine, Princess of Wales, revealed Friday that she was diagnosed with cancer. CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook takes a look at what her treatment could entail.

LGBTQ Couples Register For Marriage On Valentine's Day

Thailand lawmakers pass landmark LGBTQ marriage equality bill

The amendment to Thailand's civil laws would make the country the first in Southeast Asia to grant equal marriage rights to people of all genders.

cairo-mega-iftar-2024.jpg

Thousands pack narrow alleys in Cairo for Egypt's mega-Iftar

For a decade, one Cairo neighborhood has drawn thousands to gather around Egypt's longest Ramadan Iftar table. This year was the biggest ever.

Rafah Targeted By Israeli Forces

U.N. envoy accuses Israel of genocide as Gaza war rages after cease-fire vote

A U.N. envoy says there are "reasonable grounds" to believe Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, as the war rages despite a cease-fire demand.

TOPSHOT-KENYA-CULT-CRIME

Kenya starts to return 429 bodies of cult victims to families

Exhumed bodies from a vast rural area in coastal Kenya have shown signs of starvation and strangulation.

APTOPIX Spain Vinicius

Soccer star breaks down in tears talking about racist insults

Vinícius Júnior said he is losing his desire to keep playing because of the racist taunts he has endured.

Entertainment

0326-cmo-nicholasgalitzine-2787886-640x360.jpg

Nicholas Galitzine explores historical dramas, modern romances in new projects

Actor Nicholas Galitzine is known for being versitile in his roles, from starring in historical dramas to modern day romances.

Actor Nicholas Galitzine on new series

Actor Nicholas Galitzine talks about the new series he stars in, “Mary and George,” which is based on the book “The King’s Assassin.” It premieres April 5 on Starz.

screenshot-2023-06-27-at-5-11-27-pm.png

Sean "Diddy" Combs' LA, Miami homes raided by law enforcement, officials say

Combs' homes in Los Angeles and Miami were raided by federal law enforcement officers, U.S. officials confirmed Monday.

camerondiaz.jpg

Cameron Diaz, Benji Madden welcome 2nd child

Cameron Diaz, 51, and husband Benji Madden, 45, have welcomed their second child, a baby boy named Cardinal: "We are feeling so blessed and grateful."

kate-william-kids-1883303263.jpg

Kate's cancer diagnosis and the royals' evolving battle for privacy

Is Princess Kate owed an apology? Did Kensington Palace get it wrong? How much privacy can Britain's senior royals really expect?

donald-trump-1920-1080.jpg

Trump's Truth Social soars in first day of trading

Former President Donald Trump's Truth Social began trading under the ticker "DJT" on Tuesday, putting the real estate tycoon — and his initials — at the helm of a publicly traded company once again. CBS News' Lilia Luciano has more.

chip.jpg

How U.S. is faring against China in chip race

The global competition to secure access to semiconductors is perhaps the most vital competition of all the battles for resources on the planet. Economic historian Chris Miller joins CBS News to discuss how lawmakers are addressing the challenge and where the U.S. stands in relation to China.

0322-cmo-dojapple-kent-2779642-640x360.jpg

DOJ targets Apple in antitrust lawsuit

The U.S. Justice Department has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple that accuses the company of monopolizing the smartphone market. This landmark case could have significant implications for both iPhone and Android users.

Election-2024 Trump Insurrection Amendment

Trump could get $3.5 billion in Truth Social merger. Here's what to know.

Shareholders in Digital World Acquisition Corp. on Friday approved a merger with former President Donald Trump's media group.

kent-38106307-1920x1080-2779947-640x360.jpg

DOJ files antitrust lawsuit against Apple

The Justice Department Thursday filed a massive antitrust lawsuit against Apple, alleging the tech giant unfairly tries to keep users hooked on iPhones, and charges high fees to app developers which ultimately cost consumers money. Jo Ling Kent has details.

solar-eclipse-1920-1080.jpg

NASA gives warning ahead of total solar eclipse

NASA has a warning for people who want to take a peek at next month's total solar eclipse. CBS News' Lilia Luciano has more.

cbsn-fusion-breaking-down-the-us-spring-weather-outlook-thumbnail-2777553-640x360.jpg

The U.S. spring weather outlook

Warmer than normal temperatures across the U.S., and concerns of floods and droughts in different parts of the country are expected during this year's spring season, say Ed Clark and Jon Gottschalck of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, who joined CBS News with more on NOAA's spring weather outlook.

cbsn-fusion-bengaluru-india-is-running-out-of-water-heres-why-thumbnail-2774387-640x360.jpg

India's Bengaluru is running out of water

The city of Bengaluru in southern India is facing a water crisis as levels run dangerously low. Some families there are being limited to five gallons of water per week. Sibi Arasu, a climate change reporter for the Associated Press, joins CBS News with a look at the shortage.

cbsn-fusion-epa-announces-new-tailpipe-emissions-rules-thumbnail-2774344-640x360.jpg

EPA announces tailpipe emissions rules

The Biden administration announced new tailpipe emission standards for new passenger cars that aim to cut over 7 billion tons of carbon emissions, as well as other harmful air pollutants. CBS News national correspondent Dave Malkoff has more on the tactic to reduce carbon emissions and other harmful air pollutants.

Where Biden and Trump stand on climate change

2024 could be the hottest year ever, according to a new prediction from the U.N.'s weather agency. Leah Stokes, associate professor of environmental politics at the University of California, Santa Barbara, joins CBS News to discuss how the new report raises the stakes on the 2024 presidential election.

MEXICO-CRIME-VIOLENCE-MISSING

Smoking pit leads to bones and "burnt human flesh" in Mexico

About two dozen bags containing human remains were found in a clandestine cemetery, the Guerreros Buscadores collective said.

Britain Assange

U.K. court grants Assange chance to appeal against U.S. extradition

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will not be extradited immediately to the U.S. as a U.K. court demands further assurances from U.S. officials.

mechelle-will.jpg

Man sentenced 11 years after girlfriend found dead in forest

Meshell Will's badly decomposed body was found along a road in the Black Hills National Forest.

mayor-yqpchxca-400x400.jpg

Ecuador's youngest mayor and her adviser found shot to death

Brigitte Garcia, the 27-year-old mayor of coastal San Vicente, was found dead along with the municipality's communications director, Jairo Loor.

032524-ms25-docked.jpg

Soyuz crew docks at space station after 2-day rendezvous

NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson is replacing Loral O'Hara, who's wrapping up a six-month stay aboard the space station.

Sun Close-up Showing Solar Surface Activity and Corona

Earth was just slammed with a "severe" geomagnetic storm

NOAA said people as far south as Alabama may have seen the northern lights and that the sun could expel the strongest type of solar flares over the next few days.

March's full moon

How to see the penumbral lunar eclipse, March's full moon

As March's full Worm Moon rises late Sunday into early Monday, it will travel through the Earth's penumbra — the faint outer part of its shadow — creating a penumbral eclipse.

032324-crew-ladder.jpg

Russia launches one-man, two-woman crew to space station

NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, making her third flight, will spend six months aboard the station, replacing astronaut Loral O'Hara.

032124-abort-padview.jpg

Russia's Soyuz launch to space station aborted at last minute in rare delay

Three crew members of the Russian Soyuz rocket, including NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, were not in danger, NASA says.

Latest Galleries

Portraits of Richard Lewis

Notable Deaths in 2024

A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.

TOPSHOT-US-TRANSPORT-INCIDENT

PHOTOS: Baltimore bridge collapses after cargo ship rams into overpass

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early Tuesday, March 26 after a column was struck by a container ship that reportedly lost power, sending vehicles and people into the Patapsco River.

Crawford revolver

Could an Alabama woman have shot herself twice?

When Tiffiney Crawford was found dead inside her van, authorities believed she might have taken her own life. But could she shoot herself twice in the head with her non-dominant hand?

charles-osgood-100505-00047.jpg

CBS newsman Charles Osgood (1933-2024)

We look back at the life and career of the longtime host of "Sunday Morning," and "one of the most enduring and most endearing" people in broadcasting.

mandadi-1.jpg

Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death

Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.

Latest CBS News Videos

cropped-copy.jpg

Video shows moment Baltimore bridge collapses

Video caught by bystanders shows the moment a cargo ship hit Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge – before quickly falling apart into the Patapsco River.

cbsn-fusion-making-case-for-fan-owned-major-league-baseball-teams-thumbnail-2789676-640x360.jpg

Making the case for fan-owned major league baseball teams

Major League Baseball is scheduled to open the 2024 regular season on Thursday, and a new column in The Washington Post suggests one team should be owned by fans. Author Dan Pink joins CBS News to explain.

cbsn-fusion-missing-baltimore-bridge-workers-presumed-dead-coast-guard-thumbnail-2789521-640x360.jpg

Coast Guard: Key Bridge workers presumed dead

The U.S. Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening that the six missing workers in the Baltimore bridge collapse are presumed dead and it is suspending search and rescue efforts. Lynda Tran, former senior adviser to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, joins CBS News to examine the investigation.

cbsn-fusion-supreme-court-abortion-pill-arguments-key-takeaways-thumbnail-2789658-640x360.jpg

Takeaways from SCOTUS abortion pill arguments

Almost two years after overturning Roe v. Wade, Supreme Court justices heard arguments on access to the widely-used abortion pill mifepristone. CBS News chief legal correspondent Jan Crawford reports. Then, legal contributor Jessica Levinson joins with analysis.

truth-2789725-640x360.jpg

What to know about Trump Media's Nasdaq debut

Trading began Tuesday for the Trump Media & Technology Group, parent to former President Donald Trump's Truth Social media platform. The firm ended the day at nearly $58 per share with a total valuation of $7.9 billion. Amrith Ramkumar, finance reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins CBS News to assess the stock's debut performance.

  • GTA 5 Cheats
  • What is Discord?
  • Find a Lost Phone
  • Upcoming Movies
  • Nintendo Switch 2
  • Best YouTube TV Alternatives
  • How to Recall an Email in Outlook

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

The best VR headsets for PC you can buy right now

Alan Truly

Standalone VR headsets are all the rage these days. Options like the Meta Quest Pro, Quest 3 , or Apple Vision Pro deliver exceptional experiences, all without requiring a connection to a PC to function.

And yet, the category of PC-driven VR headsets remains. So long as you have a powerful PC, you’ll be able to drive video output at more than double the resolution of some of these lower-powered VR headsets for the most immersive VR as possible. Here are the best options you can buy today.

Pimax Crystal

The highest-resolution PC VR headset made for consumers is the Pimax Crystal. It features displays with 2880 x 2880 pixels per eye, mini-LED backlighting, inside-out tracking of controllers and the headset, and eye-tracking with foveated rendering.

  • Best Meta Quest 2 deals: Save big on the VR headset today
  • Best stylus for tablets and computers: 11 you can buy right now
  • The best DDR5 RAM you can buy right now

At $1,599, the Crystal comes complete, so you only need a Windows computer with a fast graphics card. If that sounds expensive, it might be because PC VR headsets like the Valve Index cost around $1,000. However, those systems require two controllers and at least two base stations for tracking, adding $679 to the bill.

I tested the Pimax Crystal and found it to be a reliable PC VR headset that offers crisp imagery, a wider-than-usual field of view, and overall great visual fidelity. The only downside is the weight and bulk.

Weighing just under 2 pounds, the Crystal is the heaviest headset on this list. The battery situated in the back for balance, plush facial interface, and deluxe head strap help reduce the pressure. Still, it’s a big, bulky headset. There’s even a standalone mode when needed, though the app library is quite limited currently.

HTC Vive XR Elite

HTC’s Vive XR Elite is a standalone VR headset with a unique feature that makes it particularly interesting when connected to a PC — the back comes off so you can wear it like glasses. Since the headset is powered by the PC tether, there’s no need to worry about battery life when connected.

I got a chance to try this headset briefly and was surprised by how light it is in this configuration. Normally weighing 1 pound, 6 ounces, the Vive XR Elite drops 8.5 ounces with the rear battery removed , making it one of the lightest options available. You can also connect to a PC wirelessly.

The display resolution is 1920 x 1920 pixels per eye, not as sharp as the Pimax Crystal’s, but the pancake lenses with built-in diopter adjustment provides good clarity. Like the Crystal, the HTC Vive XR Elite has inside-out tracking and comes with controllers. With a $1,099 price tag, this is a compelling PC VR headset in its own right, but there’s even more to like about the Vive XR Elite. When using the standalone configuration, you get two hours of battery life to move around untethered and experience color-mixed reality gaming.

The Viveport library is large compared to Pimax, but smaller than that of the most popular VR platform, Meta’s Quest.

Meta Quest Pro

The Meta Quest Pro didn’t have a great debut at the surprisingly expensive launch price of $1,500. Meta realized its mistake and dropped the price to $1,000, making it a more attractive option.

You can connect your Quest Pro to a Windows or Mac laptop for spatial computing, but you’ll want to make sure you have a powerful PC for gaming. Meta has a reliable wireless option, but you can also use a high-speed USB-C cable to keep the battery charged.

The 1800 x 1920 display resolution is good for gaming and acceptable for productivity. Contrast and vibrancy are good thanks to mini-LED backlighting. The Quest Pro has a faster Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 1 chip , which is a bit speedier than the XR2 Gen 1 used in the Pimax Crystal and HTC Vive XR Elite.

The Quest Pro also has eye-tracking, foveated rendering, and a robust hand-tracking solution that works well with a growing number of apps and games.

I still prefer my Quest Pro over the Quest 3 since it’s the only mass-produced VR headset designed to float above my face, instead of pressing into it. It also comes with the best controllers on this list and a nice charging dock.

Meta Quest 3

No modern VR headset list is complete without mentioning the amazingly affordable Meta Quest 3 . While its standalone mode is more commonly used, you can connect the Quest 3 to your PC and enjoy the same Windows apps and SteamVR library available to other PC VR headsets.

The 2064 x 2208 display resolution beats the Meta Quest Pro and HTC Vive XR Elite, though the Quest Pro has an edge in dynamic range with its mini-LED backlighting.

I was amazed by the Quest 3’s incredible value. It handles everything you’d ever want from a VR headset: standalone VR, PC VR, mixed reality gaming, and spatial computing . While the Quest 3 doesn’t have the highest-resolution displays, it’s not far behind. It’s not the smallest or lightest headset, but the slim profile makes it comfortable, and there are plenty of accessories to customize the fit.

The $500 price isn’t the only reason the Meta Quest 3 is our top pick for overall best VR headset available  — it’s just that good.

Bigscreen Beyond

Bigscreen Beyond represents a clash of old and new technology. It’s the world’s smallest and lightest PC VR headset that boasts vibrant micro-OLED displays with a resolution of 2560 x 2560 pixels per eye, yet it requires external base stations for tracking.

The $999 price doesn’t include audio, base stations, or controllers. That puts your total cost at about $1,700. If you already own a Valve Index or older PC VR system that uses base stations, you might be able to keep the cost down.

The Beyond should be among the most comfortable VR headsets thanks to the remarkable five-ounce weight and custom facial interface. You need to get a scan with an iPhone with Face ID to place an order.

Despite being one of the most expensive headsets, the feature set is limited. The Bigscreen Beyond contains no battery, so plugging in is a requirement. It also lacks a mixed reality option and there’s no standalone or wireless mode.

Which PC VR headset is best for you?

With so many choices, it can be hard to decide between these great PC VR headsets. The Quest 3 is a great place to start from both a versatility and price standpoint. If you’re unsure of what to do, you can’t go wrong with the Quest 3.

However, if you don’t mind a bulky headset with limited standalone ability and no mixed reality, the Pimax Crystal has the best specifications for PC VR while costing less than a complete Bigscreen Beyond system.

There’s good reason to consider the Bigscreen Beyond, though. For example, if you already own an older VR system like the Valve Index, Pimax 8K , or HTC Vive headset , your base stations and controllers will work with the Bigscreen Beyond. That makes the price more attractive, on top of the fact that it’s tiny and lightweight.

And lastly, if you like the sleek styling of the Bigscreen Beyond, but want more versatility, the HTC Vive XR Elite has a glasses mode for PC VR, as well as a good quality standalone mode and mixed reality capabilities.

Editors' Recommendations

  • The 6 best VR headsets for PC in 2024
  • The best gaming chairs you can buy right now
  • The best budget routers you can buy right now
  • Best Products
  • Virtual Reality

Alan Truly

Who can resist laptop deals on the latest models? We know we can’t and that’s the thinking behind this awesome offer on a Dell XPS 16 at Dell right now. Currently, you can buy the latest model for $2,099 so you save $300 off the regular price of $2,399. The laptop is sure to be perfect for content creators and even for some light gaming. We’re here to tell you all about it or you can simply tap the buy button to go straight to making a purchase.

Why you should buy the Dell XPS 16 As one of the best laptop brands, Dell likes to upgrade its models regularly to keep ahead of the crowd. The Dell XPS 16 is better than ever and sure to be one of the best laptops for a while to come. It has the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor teamed up with 16GB of memory and 1TB of SSD storage. It also has an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card so it can handle some light gaming if you feel like it. Alongside that is a 16.3-inch full HD+ screen with 1920 x 1200 resolution, 500 nits of brightness, and anti-glare properties. Underneath that screen is a backlit keyboard with a fingerprint reader so you’re more secure than relying on passwords.

If you want to upgrade to a laptop with a bigger screen from 13 inches or 14 inches, then you should think about taking advantage of Best Buy's ongoing offer for the Asus Vivobook 16X. From its original price of $750, it's down to nearly half at just $400 following a $350 discount. There's not a lot of time remaining on the bargain though as it expires tonight, but with laptop deals like this, there's a chance that stocks run out before then. If you want to get the device for this cheap, you need to complete your purchase right now.

Why you should buy the Asus Vivobook 16X The Asus Vivobook 16X features a 16-inch screen with Full HD resolution for bright colors and sharp details. The laptop is still thin at just 0.78 of an inch, but it sacrifices a bit of portability to make room for this relatively large display, but the extra screen real estate more than makes up for it, as it will come in handy for tasks like managing spreadsheets and making presentations, and for recreational activities such as playing PC games and watching streaming shows.

Microsoft is boosting Teams with some more artificial intelligence-powered capabilities. The company's Copilot AI assistant is coming to more places inside the Teams app, and the new integrations should help make your meetings smarter and more convenient.

Three big Copilot features are coming to Microsoft Teams for your calls, chats, and call recaps. With the first, Copilot will be able to grab the insights from your meeting chat and meeting transcript, giving you a better view of what's happened, whether it was spoken aloud and written in the chat.

VR lowdown logo

25 Best VR 360 Videos That Will Blow Your Mind

Best VR 360 Videos

One of the coolest aspects of VR is being able to enjoy incredible 360-degree videos that allow you to enjoy immersive experiences that defy reality and let you step into a world of boundless possibilities. With a VR headset, you’ll be transported to places beyond your wildest dreams, whether you’re soaring through the sky, wandering the enchanting streets of Europe, or gazing in awe at the cosmic wonders of the universe.

No matter your interests, there’s a VR adventure tailored for you, with breathtaking visuals that bridge the gap between education and entertainment. Plan your next vacation by exploring your destination’s highlights, or delve into the captivating realms of space and nature to satisfy your curiosity.

With a virtually limitless array of options, you’ll never run out of thrilling experiences to dive into. To help you embark on this extraordinary journey, I’ve curated a selection of the most enthralling travel, science, nature, sport, music, and movie 360-degree VR videos. Prepare to be swept away into a world of awe and wonder!

You can enjoy these VR 360 videos on most VR headsets, including standalone headsets such as Quest 2, PCVR headsets, and even PSVR 2. All you will need is a headset and an internet connection to enjoy these truly awesome VR videos.

360 Degree VR Travel Videos

From across the globe, here are some of the very best VR travel videos that give you breath-taking insights into historic cities, stunning locations, and vibrant metropolises. Remember that this is only a starting point and after you’ve tried these out, you should check out places you’d like to visit or simply enjoy the sights of your favorite areas.

One Day In Italy

Embark on an exhilarating journey across Italy’s enchanting landscape in just under four captivating minutes with “One Day in Italy.” This immersive 360-degree VR video, accompanied by the invigorating melodies of Italian music, is an absolute delight for both wanderlust-filled travelers and history aficionados.

Begin your adventure in Rome, where you’ll marvel at the city’s rich history and awe-inspiring architecture. Explore the legendary Colosseum, both inside and out, and behold the iconic Trevi Fountain and Pantheon. Soak in the stunning panoramas of Rome and immerse yourself in the energy of its bustling streets.

Whisk yourself away to Venice and board a gondola to navigate the city’s enchanting web of canals. Pause to admire the architectural splendor of the Rialto Bridge before continuing your journey. Revel in the breathtaking vistas of Florence from various vantage points and stand in the presence of the majestic David statue. And of course, don’t miss a visit to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Your Italian odyssey moves on to Milan, a city that dazzles with its striking buildings and luxurious shopping destinations. The final stop is the romantic city of Verona, where you’ll visit the storied Juliet’s House. “One Day in Italy” will transport you to the heart of this enthralling country, leaving you longing for more.

Trip To Winter Lapland, Finland

Emerge into the snowy white world of southern Lapland as a guide provides an interesting commentary on each area you visit. Enjoy the fantastic natural scenery of snow-dusted trees and the white roads that snake across the landscape.

Experience some of the activities available here such as sledding, driving a snowmobile up the mountain, or exploring the hundreds of kilometers of ski runs. Jump onto a sled as a team of dogs propels you through the snow-covered spruce forest. You obviously cannot forget about reindeer, and this video has plenty of them. Enjoy feeding these beautiful animals and be treated to one pulling a sled who is very inquisitive of the camera!

Visit the home of Santa Claus and his beautiful village of wooden chalets dusted with fluffy snow. You will explore some of the most iconic places in Lapland over eight minutes and gain an insightful snapshot of the diverse range of stunning landscapes that the country has to offer.

One Day In Sydney

Step into the sun-kissed world of Australia as a guide takes you across some of the most famous locations whilst providing you with interesting and relevant facts about each place. Start at the Sydney Opera House, admiring the architecture and the surrounding port before being taken inside to experience the main hall and the fantastic views the balconies provide.

Explore two of Sydney’s most famous and iconic beaches before checking out Circular Quay to explore the architecture and beautiful blue waters. You will also visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and Hyde Park to enjoy the tranquility of nature within this wonderful city.

Discover historic buildings and cobbled streets, mixed with a shopper’s dream of retail on Pitt Street. At just under four minutes long, this is a great snapshot of a wide variety of the best that Sydney has to offer, and the high-quality video makes it an enjoyable and fully immersive experience.

New York City – VR 360 Drive

If you are looking for something longer and a bit more slow-paced then this is the perfect VR 360 video for you. Take in all the iconic sites from the Big Apple as a car drives across the city. With the natural sounds of day-to-day life in the background, it really adds to its realistic feel with the beeping of cars and chatting of people everywhere.

The natural traffic flow is a helpful tool as you’ll slow down and be able to truly appreciate some of the very best sites on the tour. Iconic yellow cabs are everywhere to be seen as you travel the whole way across the city. At around fourteen minutes long, it is lengthier than some of the other videos but perfect if you want to soak up the city at a slower pace or get a feel for it if you are planning on visiting.

Milford Sound Day Tour

Compounding changing scenery and excellent graphics, this video allows you to explore the wonders of Milford Sound in New Zealand. Prepare to be mesmerized by the dramatic scenery as you embark on a tour that sends you through forests thick with vegetation and cruising across a lake in a boat .

You’ll see everything from native wildlife, impressive hanging waterfalls, and the stunning landscape left behind by the glacier’s retreat through the river valley. The rich vibrancy of the greenery and changing colors across the different places provides a true sense of awe and wonder.

Despite its short duration, this journey around Milford Sound leaves you with quite the impression and I particularly enjoyed the relaxing backing music which made it feel like you really were floating on the waters of Milford Sound and gazing in awe at the amazing landscape. This is a wonderful example of how 360-degree VR video can help you experience a location without leaving your home.

VR provides a multitude of learning opportunities, but nothing stays with you quite the same way as diving into a to-scale rendering of the universe or watching fascinating experiments unfold. Check out some of the VR 360 videos I have found to be particularly breathtaking.

VR 360 Space Journey

Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring vastness of the cosmos in this spectacular VR 360 space journey. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or simply curious about the universe, this breathtaking seven-minute odyssey will leave you utterly spellbound. Accompanied by a celestial soundtrack, you’ll embark on a voyage that transcends the speed of light, soaring toward the heart of the Milky Way.

Glide above Earth, marveling at the continents sprawling beneath you, and become humbled by the realization of our planet’s insignificance in the grand scheme of the cosmos. As you accelerate, witness the stars whizzing past you at astonishing speeds, surrounded by the shimmering glow of celestial bodies in every direction.

The journey continues as you leave the confines of our galaxy, venturing further into the cosmic expanse. Your sense of wonder will only heighten as you witness entire galaxies streaking past you in a dazzling display of lights and colors. The dynamic and ever-changing nature of this 360-degree VR experience makes it a thrilling, action-packed, and utterly captivating adventure through the infinite marvels of space.

Intercellular – An Interbody VR Experience

If medicine or the wonders of the human body is your area of interest, then you will not be disappointed by intercellular, a fascinating journey through the human body. Discover a variety of cells performing different functions, from neurons in the brain to bacteria within the gut and everywhere in between.

Travel alongside a cell and explore the nucleus to reveal DNA, the code that makes us who we are. Not only are the graphics superb but the helpful commentary provides facts that tell you about each section of the body as you pass through it and how they work together in order to function.

It almost feels like you are traveling through an alien world as you squeeze through gaps and soar along blood vessels. It was such an interesting way to think about the human body and gives you an even stronger sense of appreciation of just how complicated all of the systems are.

Miracle Of Life

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring moment of conception as you join the valiant expedition of countless sperm cells on their quest to reach the egg. Delve into the inner workings of these cellular marvels as they navigate their almost otherworldly environment, weaving through serpentine connections that showcase the intricate complexity of our cells.

This VR 360 video is a fantastic journey through the process of conception, showing how our first cells grow and we begin the miraculous journey of life. Witness the egg cell growing and beginning to divide into more cells as it starts its steady voyage down into the ovary.

Watch as the beginnings of a new human being begin to slowly take shape, from tiny fingers, kicking feet, and the slowly developing facial features that will make them totally unique to anyone else when they are born. This video is a feast for all the senses and the calming background music and no commentary really just allow you to soak up the fantastic graphics and complicated process of the beginning of life.

Explore Our Solar System In VR

Admire the beauty of distant planets and learn interesting facts about each of them as you are propelled through space. This video has it all, managing to be highly educational but also extremely fun, as you step into a high-speed spacecraft to explore each amazing planet and its moons.

Learn about each planet’s rotation, atmosphere, and unique features. As you hyperjump between the planets, it’s hard not to imagine yourself being in your favorite sci-fi film with the orb-like spaceship the perfect vessel for your adventures.

One of the most helpful things in this VR video is that all planets and moons are labeled, allowing you to easily get to grips with your surroundings. Also, there is a size comparison of the earth to each planet which is absolutely fascinating. The commentator is wonderful and provides concise facts on each planet that are really interesting but not too difficult to understand, making it suitable for children too.

Expedition Everest – National Geographic

Embark on this virtual reality experience with an international group of biologists, glaciologists, meteorologists, and geographers as they study the effects of climate change in one of the most extreme environments on Earth. This breathtaking expedition begins at 17,300 feet at Base Camp and ends above 27,00 feet, near the summit of Mount Everest.

Join the teams as they collect ice cores, place the world’s highest weather station, and gather hundreds of samples along the way. Much like a documentary, you’ll hear fascinating information about their search for evidence of climate change and how to monitor it, as they travel through this amazing environment.

If you are even at all interested in conservation or studying the natural world, then this 360-degree VR video will give insights into the research and exploration of scientists. Spectacularly rendered 3D terrain maps allow you to envisage their plans for monitoring the area and the vastness of the mountain ranges.

The wonders of nature have been increasingly accessible in our everyday lives thanks to the work of photographers and filmmakers producing photos and documentaries that put us closer to the natural world than ever before. VR takes this a step further, allowing you to feel as though you really are there, swimming in the waters of Egypt or sitting amongst a pride of lions.

Underwater Life

Egypt is an interesting destination in many ways, particularly for those interested in history and culture, who can enjoy exploring its ancient civilization. What some people miss is Marsa Alam which is widely considered to be the best place in the country for snorkeling and Scuba Diving.

For over ten minutes, explore these turquoise waters teeming with a huge variety of marine life. Helpful commentary will guide you through the waters, with gentle music adding to the sense of underwater serenity. Swim alongside a green turtle as you discover interesting facts about their lives.

The exceptionally high quality of this VR 360 video makes it as close to the real thing as possible, without having to get wet! After following the turtle on its journey, you’ll return to the beauty of the corals and watch as tiny fish dart in and out of the cracks. Check out the incredible camouflage of the blue-spotted stingray as it swims along the light sand. Learn the names of different fish and discover species that are found only in this area.

Angel Falls

This is the first 360-degree VR video of the highest waterfall on Earth – Angel Falls, in the jungles of the Canaima National Park in Venezuela. Not ideal if you are afraid of heights, the fantastic cinematography of this VR video makes this an incredibly realistic journey as you soar up the waterfall through clouds to the top of the mountain.

As you travel, a guide will provide fascinating information about the surrounding area and ecosystem as well as the history of the waterfall. Once you survive the ascent to the top of the mountain, you will be able to admire the green blanket of jungles that surrounds you for miles on end.

You really get a sense of the scale when you come back down and it is simply breathtaking. Exploring the mountains surrounding the waterfall provides information on the climate of the area and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hear the fascinating story of its discovery and the plane that was left on the top for over 30 years.

Underwater National Park – National Geographic

Plunge into a Caribbean gem with a National Geographic photographer as you explore Buck Island – America’s first protected marine monument. Starting out on a boat cruising across the blue ocean, experience the plunge into the ocean to the bottommost depths.

This spectacular coral reef barely feels real with a diversity of species which means there is always something to see. This VR video is actually incredibly moving as the narrator discusses the need to protect this unique ecosystem and how his photographs can wake people up to try and move the agenda forward.

Watch as he helps sea turtles to hatch and complete their perilous journey into the ocean. Aboard a sea plane, you’ll fly overhead to admire the blend of colours from deep greens to every shade of blue.

Lions 360 – National Geographic

Come face to face with a young lion called Gibson and his mother, as they struggle with their pride’s alpha male. In a documentary style but with greater immersion, you will follow their story and get super close to some of the world’s top predators. Meet other members of the pride, including boisterous young cubs as it moves through different environments.

It is moving to see the group of lions’ hardship as they are forced from the pride for their own safety and how they struggle to survive without the safety in numbers. The gentle background music and storytelling style of narration make this an incredibly relaxing VR 360 video to enjoy and an amazing insight into the workings of lions’ social hierarchies and lives.

Swimming With Dolphins On The Great Barrier Reef

Although they usually hunt in groups, solitary dolphins can also be seen hunting and this 360-degree VR video lets us witness this rare moment. Prepare to be mesmerized by the dolphin’s hunting behaviors and watch out – a fish even tries to eat the camera!

You cannot get any closer to the action than this and it is incredibly soothing to watch the dolphin swim effortlessly through the water and huge shoals of fish in search of its next meal. Even the scuba divers are in awe during this unique experience.

If sports are your area of interest then VR has you covered. From watching sports events in full immersion to experiencing the thrill of rock climbing or jumping out of helicopters, there’s something for everyone, to suit every mood.

If you are an American football fan like me, you have to check out the range of 360-degree VR videos available on Youtube. Although you can’t watch full matches, there are some excellent videos that allow you to watch highlights from the pitchside, and give you a behind-the-scenes tour on matchday. Simply looking up ‘360 NFL videos’ will provide you with a whole host of options to choose from, mostly from a few years ago but there are some recent ones too.

It doesn’t even matter about the match, it is just super fun to get up close and personal with the players and experience all the different aspects of a game day.

Whilst there are currently only clips available, I can’t wait for the day when we will be able to watch live games in 360-degree VR. The technology to allow this is slowly becoming available and I’m sure it won’t be too long before we can virtually sit in the stadium, enjoying the game live, almost as if you are there.

360 VR Skydiving Experience

Enjoy this five-minute walkthrough of the entire skydiving experience right from getting all of the kit on and rolling the plane out of the hangar to jumping out with excitement from a crazy height.

The upbeat music adds to the excitement of this VR video as you travel above the clouds and descend from a dizzying height, linking hands as you watch the ocean and land beneath you in a patchwork of colors. Once the parachute is out, make sure to have a good look around you as you slowly come back down to Earth. On the ground, you will get to see the other people landing too.

Red Bull F1 VR

Jump into the driver’s seat during the Gamma Racing Day in front of 82,000 spectators as Sebastien Buemi takes the mighty RB8 for a couple of runs on the TT Circuit Assen.

Start out in the cockpit and drive out past cameras and thousands of fans before hitting the racetrack and hurtling around at astonishing speeds that you can almost feel in VR with the roar of the engine filling the air.

You almost feel like leaning yourself as he speeds around tight corners with expert ease. By the end, the race car is kicking up smoke as it completes a perfect circle of wheelies to finish. This is an awesome, adrenaline-pumping VR 360 video that shows off just how much more exhilarating it can be to view sports content in VR.

Free Solo Rock Climbing – National Geographic

Immerse yourself in the experience of free solo climbing Yosemite’s famous El Capitan alongside Alex Honnold in this breath-taking video. His journey is truly inspiring and the commentary he gives makes you consider your own life. The dramatic scenery as a backdrop to his climbing is impressive to watch and there is just so much to see.

It is hard not to be totally perplexed by this man climbing a sheer face of rock with no rope or anything, knowing that if something goes wrong, he will die. Being so close to this impressive feat is such a privilege, and you feel so much more connected and involved in the action than you would when watching a 2D video.

Even his discussion of the preparation required to train for such a challenge mentally and physically is simply fascinating. You will finish this VR 360 video being inspired, maybe not to free climb as it is utterly terrifying, but to change your perception of challenges, fear, and how we can overcome these.

Tahiti Surf

Jump on a surfboard with Anthony Walsh and Matahi Drollet in Tahiti as they take you into a fully immersive surfing experience. Enjoy the serenity of the underwater blue as waves break above you and fish dart around the corals. Music sets the tone as you wait for a big wave and ride it as one side curves the whole way down to encase you in the water.

Not only do you get the exhilaration of surfing, but you get to admire the beautiful natural landscape of the beaches that surround the area. Watch a surfer from underneath and then as they cruise over a wave in front of you. It really makes you want to go out and try it for yourself and is a super cool thing to experience in VR.

Music And Movies

Step into your favorite movie scenes or experience musical artists live at concerts in these 360-degree VR videos. Designed to impress, they will leave your heart pumping with excitement as you are transported across the world and even to different worlds!

Ultra Music Festival In Miami

If you have ever wanted to get an authentic view of the Ultra Music Festival in Bayfront Park, Miami, this is the video you will want to check out with a 360-degree VR video and live audio from this event in Florida. Be blown away by performances from artists such as Dash Berlin, Resistance Stage, Live Stage, Afrojack, David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia, and many more.

Enjoy walking through crowds of raving people who are living life to the full with different songs and artists. Set against the blue Miami sky, the atmosphere is just perfect and if you are really feeling into it, you can join in the dancing with the crowds of hundreds of people. Watch the sky transform to night and the rave lights come on to give a totally new atmosphere.

Tomorrowland Immersive VR Experience

Check out all 20 stages live in 360 degrees at Tomorrowland 2019 in this fantastic VR 360 video that includes some iconic songs and artists. Prepare to be blown away by the smoke and light shows not to mention the swarms of happy people bouncing around. There is a mixture of stages during the day and night so you get all the good points of the different types of lighting.

You can even just be impressed by the sheer number of people across the different areas and how cool and well-designed each of the stages is. It gives you a really good sense of what a concert is like if you have never been to one before and want to check out what goes on.

Avatar Movie Scenes In VR

If you are a fan of the Avatar movies then I would definitely recommend this VR 360 video. Painstakingly developed for VR, this video has highly impressive graphics over a range of breathtaking locations. Fly over Hallelujah Mountains in Pandora before descending and coming across Neytiri hiding in the forest.

Climb the vines of the Adjacent Floating Mountain and fly through the Tree of Sound, beautifully lit in deep purples and blues. Dive into the underwater world of Pandora all whilst enjoying a soundtrack that truly makes you feel as though you are in the movie.

The Jungle Book: King Louie’s Lair In 360 Degree

If you are a Disney fan, then prepare to step into King Louie’s Lair in this 360-degree VR video from the live-action movie ‘The Jungle Book.’ Through Mowgli’s eyes, watch as swarms of monkeys emerge from the depths of the temple. Prepare to be intimidated by King Louie’s huge size and chattering subjects and be relieved when Baloo the bear interrupts.

Despite being very short, the great thing about this VR video that makes it worth having a look at is the incredible quality. It truly feels like you are within the movie and is a really cool experience.

The Meg: Submersive VR Experience

This submersive VR experience puts you head-to-head with the largest prehistoric shark ever to exist. Diving in open water, you’ll get a visceral view of the ocean depths and an encounter with the Megalodon is inevitable as you see her lurking in the waters nearby.

Not for the faint-hearted, this VR 360 video has the potential to scare the living daylights out of you, especially when you realize that what you thought was the threat, wasn’t even half of it. Make sure you don’t panic as you will get rescued. Hopefully.

Alex Atkinson

Alex Atkinson is a regular writer for VR Lowdown and she has a keen interest in everything related to VR and AR.

Recent Posts

Meta Quest 3 Vs Pico 4: Which Is Best? (Hands-On Review)

Virtual reality has come a long way in recent years, and standalone headsets are becoming increasingly impressive and capable. Two of the most popular standalone VR headsets on the market right now...

DPVR Refines E4 Headset With New DPVR E4 Black Edition

DPVR, a leading hardware manufacturer in the virtual reality (VR) industry, announces a comprehensive hardware update for its E4 PCVR headset. This refinement comes in response to valuable consumer...

Best VR headset in 2024

Immerse yourself in stunning game worlds with the best VR headset.

  • 1. Best overall
  • 2. Best budget
  • 3. Most immersive
  • 4. Best alternate

Also tested

Two VR headsets on a white gradient background with a PC Gamer Recommended badge in the top right

👀 The list in brief 1. Best overall 2. Best budget 3. Most immersive 4. Best alternate 5. Also tested 6. VR headset Q&A 7. Jargon buster

The best VR headsets can make you forget, even if just for a moment, you're wearing a big chunk of plastic and foam on your face. It will make you feel like you're a part of a game's world, if only until you walk into your sofa. We've tested dozens of models, from the most popular to the most obscure, and the best VR headset is the Meta Quest 3 . It's not just that it's relatively affordable, it's one of few truly new-feeling VR headsets right now. It's older sibling, however, is the best budget VR headset, the Meta Quest 2 .

If money is no object and you're just looking for the most high-end, best resolution VR headset out there, the Valve Index is the closest thing to having a holodeck in your office. While we'd love to see an upgraded model out of Valve, the Index still holds up really well. If you can get it at a good discount, even better.

Once you've secured one of the best VR headsets, the next step is figuring out what games are worth playing on it. Half-Life: Alyx shows what VR is capable of, but it'll push your PC to the limits. There are plenty of other sci-fi titles to enjoy that aren't as intense, such as No Man's Sky . I recommend checking out the best VR games on PC if you want to build out your library in anticipation.

Jacob Ridley headshot on colour background

Jacob's been on a quest to find the perfect VR headset for an age, and despite both Meta and Valve releasing excellent goggles for PC gaming, there's still maybe some way to go before we find VR nirvana. But he's had his bonce strapped into as many headsets as anyone around and is best placed to explain the pros and cons of each set we're recommending here today.

The quick list

Meta Quest 3 headset and controllers on a blue background.

The best overall

The Meta Quest 3 is a massive upgrade over its predecessor with new pancake lenses helping it sit closer to the face and display a gorgeous picture.

Read more below

The Oculus Quest 2 on a red background

The best budget

The Meta Quest 2 hits a perfect medium between functionality and price, which puts it in pole position as far as we're concerned. We'll see how long that lasts when the Quest 3 comes out.

The valve Index on a green background

The most immersive

Impeccable hardware rolled into a super comfy VR headset package. The Valve Index might not be the easiest to set up but with hardly an iota of screendoor effect, there's little to complain about.

Pico 4 VR headset on a yellow background.

The best alternate

The ByteDance Pico 4 really impressed us with its slim design and quality image. As it's often pretty inexpensive, it's worth a look to see if it's going especially cheap in your region.

Recent updates

This page was updated on February 29, 2024 to make it even easier to find the right VR headset for your needs and budget.

The best VR headset

1. meta quest 3.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You just want to jump into great VR gaming: For sheer ease of access and all-round quality, there's nothing to touch the Quest 3 for the money.

❌ You don't have a Wi-Fi 6E router: If you want to enjoy VR gaming on your PC wirelessly, then your Wi-Fi needs to be top-notch. Otherwise, it will be a total lag fest.

The best overall VR headset is the Meta Quest 3, the follow-up to the hugely successful Quest 2. It has new lenses, a more compact design, higher resolution panels, and more processing power. 

Meta's latest headset uses slimmer pancake lenses, instead of the chunkier Fresnel ones, which help slim down the whole unit. It doesn't stick out from your face as much, so it's comfier to wear, though the included fabric strap is still poor and we recommend that you replace it for something better.

For tapping into your Steam library, you'll probably want to hook the Quest 3 up to your gaming PC via a high-quality USB Type-C cable but you can use it tether-free. That option works best over a good Wi-Fi connection, preferably Wi-Fi 6E or better, using Meta's Air Link. The built-in processor, Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, is decent enough for many of the VR games in the headset's own store but it's nowhere near as good as a dedicated graphics card.

Each eye is treated to a 2064 x 2208 resolution LCD panel and along with the better passthrough cameras, virtual images and mixed reality are both clearer and higher quality than in the Quest 2. A double tap on the side of the headset quickly provides a detailed view of your surroundings.

The Quest 3 also comes with a set of improved Touch Plus controllers, which no longer have the prominent ring around the hand like the older Quest 2 ones did. Controller tracking is as good as you'd expect it to be, despite the simpler design.

One of the greatest strengths of Meta's VR headset is how simple it is to set up, as there's no need to fiddle with base stations, and it only takes a couple of steps on the headset and app to get it up and running. You won't be using it all day long, though, as the Quest 3 only runs for around two hours, in wireless gaming and streaming video content. It takes roughly the same amount of time to fully recharge, but you can use the headset while it's charging via a USB cable.

While we don't have much faith in Mark Zuckerberg's dream of the metaverse, we really like the Quest 3 for PC VR gaming. It is a lot more expensive than its predecessor (even the cheapest 128 GB version will set you back $500/£480/AU$700) but it's ultimately well worth the money.

Read our full Meta Quest 3 review .

The best budget VR headset

2. meta quest 2.

✅ This is your first step into the world of VR: As immersive as it is, VR gaming is a niche hobby so you may want to keep the cost down for your first taste. The Quest 2 is superb value for money.

❌ You don't want a bulky headset: The Quest 2's lenses make the headset quite large and the standard strap does a poor job of distributing that mass over your head.

If you're after the best budget VR headset, then look no further than the Meta Quest 2. While it has been surpassed by the newer Quest 3 in terms of comfort and quality of life, you really can't beat this for the money. Not only is it a great way to try out VR for the first time, the Quest 2 offers a super virtual reality experience full stop.

Part of this is down to the 1832 x 1920 resolution LCD panels, which are exceptionally good for a budget headset, though you do need to spend time adjusting the Quest 2 so that your eyes line up with the dead center of the Fresnel lenses. These are a little on the chunky side, so the headset isn't as svelte as the Quest 3.

You can either play games purpose-built for the standalone headset, rendered by the onboard Snapdragon XR2 chip, or beamed from your PC using the official Oculus Link, a compatible USB Type-C cable, or a good Wi-Fi connection. The Oculus Link cable is very expensive but at least you know you'll get the best performance in your VR games.

There are two storage options to choose from, 128GB and 256GB, with the former priced at $250/£250/AU$440. The 256GB model is $50/£50/AU$60 more but if you're just using the headset to play games from your Steam library, then there's no need for the additional storage.

Just as with the Quest 3, the Meta Quest 2 is very quick to get up and running. All of the tracking is built-in and preconfigured, so it only takes a few steps and a couple of minutes to set it all up. That said, it is a little fiddly having to take the headset on and off, while you're using the app for the first time. Once done though, the Quest 2 is good for roughly two hours of gaming before its battery runs out, though you can still use it while it charges via a USB cable.

The standalone experience is somewhat hampered by the low-power silicon but there's nothing you can do about that, other than spend double the amount of money to get the Quest 3. But as an all-round, budget VR headset, the Quest 2 is simply unparalleled for the price.

Read our full Meta Quest 2 review.

The most immersive VR headset

3. valve index.

✅ You want the best VR experience: Valve's Index system is peerless when it comes to visual and audio quality, and the finger tracking is superb.

❌ You don't have room for the base stations: The Index isn't wireless and uses fixed stations for tracking, which makes it a real hassle if you need to move your VR gaming set up into a different room.

The Valve Index is the granddaddy of virtual reality PC gaming and is still the most immersive VR headset. It boasts some of the best visuals of any mainstream system and its unparalleled comfort, audio, and controllers all combine to make the Index stand out in the market.

A lot of this is down to the RGB LCD screens Valve is using. The subpixel layout makes for a stunningly crisp picture, and while it's gradually being pushed down the ladder for resolution by newer headsets, it's deceivingly better in use than it looks on paper. Then there's the Index's 130° field of view, which is not only the best-in-class, but it also has almost no screen door effect inside the headset.

Those panels can run up to 144 Hz in an experimental mode, but you will need a seriously powerful gaming PC to use it in the latest games. Most users will be more than happy with the standard 120 Hz, though.

Although it's a little on the heavy side, the Valve Index feels great to wear, thanks to the head strap distributing that weight around your head. It's built from high-quality materials and feels very comfortable, even during extended play sessions. 

A hallmark feature of the Index is its controllers, which double as both typical motion controllers and hand/finger trackers. The Index controllers strap to your hands—meaning you can release your grip entirely without worrying about dropping them. Proper finger tracking is one of the distinguishing features and where previous touch controllers could only articulate grip, the Index controllers let you give a thumbs-up, point with finger guns, or even offer a Vulcan salute.

But perhaps most importantly, it's the audio that stands out. Built-in near-field speakers hover just next to your ears, powered by speaker drivers instead of the ones usually found in headphones. What this means is the Index offers outstanding three-dimensional surround sound, along with a level of aural isolation that doesn't completely shut you off from external noises. 

The Valve Index is a room-scale VR experience, which means it requires two base station sensors positioned around your play area. If you've already grown accustomed to the streamlined experience offered by the likes of the Quest 2, setting up sensors for the Index is a little frustrating, though it does deliver a more responsive experience.

All those premium features come at a price, though. At nearly a thousand dollars for the complete Index package, it costs as much as three Quest 2s. But if you want the best visual, aural, and haptic experience, for the ultimate level of immersion, then Valve's VR headset is second to none

Read our full Valve Index review .

Best gaming keyboard | Best gaming chairs | Best mechanical keyboard | Best wireless gaming mouse | Best wireless gaming keyboard  

The best alternate VR headset

4. bytedance pico 4.

✅ You want great features without the high price: The Quest 2 might be cheaper but this headset is better all round, and it costs less than the Quest 3.

❌ You live in the US: It's not a question of don't buy it but rather if you can buy it, as you'll struggle to find the Pico 4 at any main US retailer.

If the Meta Quest 2 is too basic and the Quest 3 and Valve Index are too expensive, then the best alternate VR headset is the ByteDance Pico 4.

Like the Quest 3, it uses pancake lenses, which means it has a small form factor, for greater comfort. Coupled with the 2160 x 2160 LCD panels, you get high-fidelity images, though the field of view and refresh rate aren't quite as good as Meta's latest headset.

The Pico 4 comes with a full-colour passthrough, offers plenty of adjustability, and it's pretty comfy for users who wear glasses. Although it doesn't use base stations, it offers smooth tracking, especially for the controllers, and the overall setup process is very straightforward.

This all matters because, if you're lucky, you can find the Pico 4 going for less than the Quest 3, and in those instances where Meta's latest is just a little bit too expensive for your budget, the Pico 4 makes for a great stand-in. The Quest 2 still has it beat on price most of the time, however, though it's not quite as impressive as the Pico in terms of hardware.

Its biggest drawback is availability in the US. It's more widely sold elsewhere around the world and ByteDance, owners of TikTok, doesn't have much interest in pursuing the US market like it has elsewhere. There's no sign that this is going to change any time soon, either. 

Read our full Pico 4 review .

VR headset on a table.

The Pimax Crystal is the VR headset that a lot of people have been waiting for. The good news is you can buy one right now. The bad news is it's still a work in progress—some key features are only just operational or not working at all. Best to give this one a little more time in the oven before investing.

PC Gamer score: 58%

 Sony PS VR2 pictured on a desk

Of course, we can't recommend Sony's PS VR2 for PC gamers in good conscience when we know all their games are on Steam and unreachable with this headset. But Sony is looking to bring its excellent VR headset to the PC in the near future.

PC Gamer score: 88%

HTC Vive Pro 2

The HTC Vive Pro 2 stormed onto the market with stunning visuals that were unrivalled. Issue is, that was a long time ago, and this pricey headset just doesn't have what it takes to appeal in 2024. Though, as ever, if you find one cheap enough it could still be a solid buy.

PC Gamer score: 82%

The HP Reverb G2 VR headset

While HP isn't much of a name in VR right now, you can still buy one of its better headsets for relatively little cash these days. It's still not a headset we'd recommend to most, as it's been surpassed by a few others now, but a great deal on this device wouldn't be an instant no.

PC Gamer score: 75%

VR headset Q&A

What are vr lighthouses.

To keep track of your movements, your VR headset needs to use some method of sensing both the headset itself as well as the controllers in your hands. The first VR headsets used base stations that are known as lighthouses, individually placed sensors, or positional trackers, which are plugged into your PC.

This is the most accurate method of tracking but is cumbersome, and unless they're permanently installed in a room, you'll need to set them up each time you want to play, and that includes calibrating them anew every time.

What is inside-out tracking in VR?

Inside-out tracking means you don't need external sensors as the headset can keep track of both itself and the controllers around it. Originally this method wasn't as effective, wasn't quite as responsive, and broke immersion in-game.

But with the best VR headset, the Meta Quest 3, the tech is almost on par with the lighthouse in terms of responsiveness now. And is certainly far more convenient.

Are there wireless PC VR headsets?

Yes! Meta's Quest 2 and 3 are wireless headsets. Previously, you had to plug it into your gaming PC via a USB Type-C cable to enjoy the best VR headset experience with your rig.

But there are now easily accessible ways to do that wirelessly. However, you do need to have a Wi-Fi 6E router to deliver the level of throughput you require to not spend the entire time vomiting your guts up due to incessant lag.

The old HTC Vive did have a wireless module you could add to the system, which was almost effective. However, in our experience, the connection dropouts were not something we would put up with in the long term.

Valve's Index system could be due to get its own wireless module as some patents have emerged, indicating a wireless head strap has at least been considered for the company's stellar goggles.

Jargon buster

Field of view (FOV)

The field of view refers to the amount of an environment that's visible to an observer; in VR, it's the extent of the game world that's visible in the displays. A broader FOV in a headset is integral to a feeling of immersion. 

Head-mounted display (HMD)

Broadly any wearable mounted on the head with graphical capabilities but often used to refer to VR headsets specifically.

Inside-out tracking

Systems used to track a user's movements in VR that originate in the headset, as opposed to outside-in tracking, where external sensors are used to track movement. Tracking, and the method used, is crucial to enable either three degrees of freedom (being able to look around in any direction in VR) or six degrees of freedom (being able to look around and move your body in any direction in VR). 

The delay between an input and a response, in VR, the delay between user input through a controller, moving your head, or other methods, and the response on the headset displays. Low latency is vital to reducing nausea in VR, which is most intense when there's a delay or stuttering between moving or looking and the display reacting.

Resolution is the measurement in pixels, horizontal and vertical, of an image or display. Higher resolution in VR is essential because the displays are so close to the user's eyes, which emphasizes jagged lines, pixelation, and the screen door effect. 

Refresh rate

The number of images a display is capable of displaying per second, measured in hertz. The high refresh rate is essential for VR similarly to latency, as a low refresh rate can cause stuttering (or even the appearance of freezing), which can cause nausea.

Screen door effect (SDE)

The fine mesh-like effect of viewing an image rendered in pixels at close range, where the grid between pixels is visible. Higher resolutions (or proprietary solutions like that built into the Odyssey+) mitigate this effect. 

PC Gamer Newsletter

Sign up to get the best content of the week, and great gaming deals, as picked by the editors.

Jacob Ridley

Jacob earned his first byline writing for his own tech blog. From there, he graduated to professionally breaking things as hardware writer at PCGamesN, and would go on to run the team as hardware editor. Since then he's joined PC Gamer's top staff as senior hardware editor, where he spends his days reporting on the latest developments in the technology and gaming industries and testing the newest PC components.

  • Katie Wickens Hardware Writer
  • Jorge Jimenez Hardware writer, Human Pop-Tart

Sony's reportedly stopped making any more PS VR2 headsets until it can figure out a way of shifting a pile of unsold VR goggles

Some Apple Vision Pro headsets are cracking up and Reddit's already awash with theories about this costly 'crack-gate'

Dragon's Dogma 2 players have found a way to cooperatively print money with pawns—it's just impossible to explain without making it sound like a pyramid scheme

Most Popular

By Ted Litchfield 24 March 2024

By Harvey Randall 22 March 2024

By Andy Edser 22 March 2024

By Nick Evanson 22 March 2024

By Tyler Colp 21 March 2024

By Christopher Livingston 21 March 2024

By Dominic Tarason 21 March 2024

By Robin Valentine 21 March 2024

By Jacob Ridley 21 March 2024

By Morgan Park 20 March 2024

By Fraser Brown 20 March 2024

  • 2 Best wireless gaming keyboard in 2024
  • 3 Best gaming laptops in 2024: I've had my pick of portable powerhouses and these are the best
  • 4 Best gaming chairs in 2024: the seats I'd suggest for any gamer
  • 5 Best graphics cards in 2024: the GPUs I recommend for every budget
  • 2 The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind review
  • 3 The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall review
  • 4 The Elder Scrolls: Arena review
  • 5 Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM review

The Best Meta Quest 2 Deal: Get the 128GB Model with Active Pack for Only $218.57

The best headset for newcomers to vr gaming.

The Best Meta Quest 2 Deal: Get the 128GB Model with Active Pack for Only $218.57 - IGN Image

Amazon currently has the best deal on a Meta Quest 2 VR headset. You can get the 128GB model right now with an Active Pack accessory kit for only $218.57 (the Meta Quest 2 alone retails for $300). The Active Pack includes a wipeable facial interface, wrist straps, and adjustable knuckle straps. This is easily the least expensive and most practical way to dip your feet into the world of true VR gaming. An alternative deal is available at Walmart . You can get the Meta Quest 2 VR headset with $50 in Meta credit for $249. With that credit you can pick up must-have games like Beat Saber or accessories like the Elite Strap.

Quest 2 VR Headset with Active Pack for $218.57

Meta Quest 2 128GB VR Headset

Even with the release of the Quest 3 , the Quest 2 VR headset is still far and away the best value when it comes to VR gaming. For a price that beats every other comparable VR headset out there, it offers a completely tether-free experience, phenomenal inside-out tracking, and a huge library of games.

The Quest 2 features a fast-switch LCD display with a resolution of 1832x1920 per eye and a maximum 90Hz refresh rate along with built-in speakers so no headphones are required. Gone are the days where you'd have to install clunky sensors for tracking; the Quest 2 uses sensors in the headset and controllers themselves to give you 6DOF inside-out tracking without any need for external base stations. The Touch controllers are very precise and are one of the lightest VR controllers on the market, perfect for playing Expert+ levels on Beat Saber for long periods of time without tiring out your arms.

The Quest 2's real claim to fame is the ability to play completely standalone. The built-in Snapdragon XR2 processor means that you can load all of your games right onto the Quest 2 itself. You don't need to buy an expensive PC or tether yourself to an ungainly wire to play immersive VR games.

In This Article

Meta Quest 2

IGN Recommends

X-Men '97: Season 1, Episode 3 Review

best vr headset for travel videos

Apple's Vision Pro Headset Is the Best to Date, but for Watching Movies? Not Yet

I nches before my face are two young rhinos, some of the last of their kind, close enough for me pet them as they eat from the hands of an animal trainer. But what I'm actually seeing is the footage from what looks like an IMAX screen , shrunk to the size of a 23 million-pixel postage stamp.

The Vision Pro is Apple's month-old "spatial computing" device, a $3,500 VR headset that lets you whip around windows and apps like you're Tom Cruise in "Minority Report." As VR headsets go, it's the most impressive one we've tried.

Still: It's $3,500, and tech responses are mixed . It could replace your iPhone, but no one seems inspired to do so. However, most reviews agree that Vision Pro excels when it comes to moving images. Now, Apple seems to be trying a different tactic: Can it appeal to cinema buffs?

Last week, Apple invited IndieWire to watch movies on the Vision Pro at its Culver City offices. It was the first time Apple's slate of what it calls Immersive Video - 180-degree wraparound short films - received a full demo for entertainment press.

These included clips of an Alicia Keys studio performance; a documentary short about rhinos; another about a tightrope walker in the fjords; a VR version of Jon Favreau's dinosaur series "Prehistoric Planet"; and a preview of a documentary about the MLS Cup playoff final that feels like you're watching from the sidelines. All except the MLS doc are now available for streaming on a Vision Pro.

It was easy to leave feeling wowed. VR and 180 or 360 videos are nothing new, and I've done my fair share of demos, but the Vision Pro picture quality is next level. It can supposedly support a 16K resolution and I believe it. As I looked around or turned my head, the image didn't warp or distort. Filmmakers positioned the camera to fill the frame, whether I was inside Alicia Keys' recording studio or floating thousands of feet in the air off a Norwegian cliffside. I'd be amazed to see what a true auteur could do with the technology.

But as my eyesight adjusted, I had to ask: Is anyone going to spend $3,500 to watch a 7-minute film about rhinos? Would I be comfortable watching any movie longer than a half hour? (I never spent more than 20 continuous minutes in the headset.) And when would there be enough immersive content that I'd still care about it a month from now?

An Apple rep said it is developing a slate of Immersive Videos, but offered no details around what's in the works. The "Rhinos," "Highlining," and "Prehistoric Planet" shorts are the first episodes in series intended for the Vision Pro, and more music docs like the Alicia Keys video seem like a given.

Of course, the Vision Pro also supports all the movies or shows available on Apple TV+ and the Apple store as well as major streamers like Disney+, Max, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video. Netflix isn't available and no word if that's coming, but a rep says more apps are coming soon. However, you could watch " Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour " on Vision Pro now - only without immersification.

It's certainly an improvement from watching on your phone or tablet. A clip from "Avatar: The Way of Water" looked great, 3D and all (the Vision Pro supports 150 3D movies at launch all available for download). While the image isn't stretched to surround you, it feels like watching something projected on a big screen. It also darkens your peripheral vision to give the illusion of being in a theater. It's a big win if you prefer watching your movies distraction-free; less so, if you're a New York Times reporter trying to watch "The Holdovers" while eating steak.

Other practical benefits make it a better and more comfortable viewing experience than other VR headsets. The Vision Pro has no controllers; it's operated by glancing and tapping together your thumb and index finger, and I found pausing a movie or switching between titles simple and intuitive. You can also lie down and the picture will move with you. Apple offers two styles of headbands, one of which caused pressure on my temples and the other I barely noticed.

Still: Watching a movie through the headset is different than watching a short. The four Immersive Video originals now available range between 4 minutes and 20 minutes. I'm hard pressed to say that I'd prefer to watch Apple's own 206-minute "Killers of the Flower Moon" on a Vision Pro - especially since the headset has a 2.5 hour battery life - but if Apple could convince Martin Scorsese to make full use of the immersive capabilities, I'd try it.

But how serious is Apple about developing more immersive content - and how many filmmakers want to work in this medium? Like 3D, the techniques that take full advantage of immersive video may not be the same ones that filmmakers want to use for their storytelling. Apple also declined to comment on any budget comparisons between immersive filmmaking and more established processes.

As the MLS doc clip suggested, it's easy to imagine sports content becoming a big driver for Vision Pro. With Apple investing heavily in sports, it's why I might choose to buy a Vision Pro over another VR headset if I'm a sports fan or already a subscriber to MLS Season Pass .

But for the movies? Not today. We've heard for a long time that every new tech innovation is going to disrupt filmmaking, and (some) people still go to the movies, so I can hear that for a while longer. But if anyone is going to get VR right, our money is on Apple.

More from IndieWire

  • Sex and Car Crashes Collide in AI Short from a Filmmaker Who Feared AI
  • 'Problemista' Channeled 'Aladdin' to Build Craigslist a Trash Cave of Wonders

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Apple's Vision Pro Headset Is the Best to Date, but for Watching Movies? Not Yet

How-To Geek

You can load movies directly onto your meta quest, here's how.

Your VR headset can be a portable offline movie theater.

Key Takeaways

  • You can transfer movies, TV episodes, and other videos you own to Meta Quest headsets.
  • Copying files to your Quest headset is easy, except on Mac, where you need to install Android File Transfer.
  • While the built-in Files app and Quest TV offer video playback options, third-party apps like Skybox VR Player provide additional features for a better viewing experience.

Virtual reality headsets can be a great way to watch movies, TV shows, and other videos on a large screen from anywhere. Meta Quest headsets can store and play video files from local storage, but there are a few different playback options, and the copy process can be tedious.

It's worth noting that you aren't entirely limited to your own media collection. There are official apps for YouTube , Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , Peacock , and Pluto TV . However, the YouTube app can't play purchased content at a high resolution, and the other apps have infrequent bugs. They also require an internet connection for streaming, so they won't work for watching movies in planes, cars, or other places without Wi-Fi. You can also use most streaming services in the web browser, but the lack of DRM support in the Meta Quest browser will limit the resolution for most paid content.

Supported File Types on the Meta Quest

Meta's documentation says that M4V, MOV, MP4, and MPG video files are supported on Quest headsets, but those files are just containers for any number of different video and audio codecs. That list is also incomplete, as we were also able to open MKV and WebM container files on a Quest 3 headset.

The below list is based on Meta's documentation and our own testing on a Meta Quest 3 headset with Quest system software v63. The test files were encoded using HandBrake on a 24 FPS movie trailer in MP4 and MKV containers.

Supported file formats: M4V, MOV, MP4, MPG, WebM, MKV

Supported video codecs: MPEG-4, H.265, VP9, VP8

Supported audio codecs: AAC, AAC (10-bit), AC3, MP3, Opus, Vorbis

There might be more uncommon video and audio codecs that are supported, but that covers most video formats in use today. The compatibility list with third-party video players like Skybox VR can also be different. For example, we tested a file with the older MPEG-2 video codec, and it worked in Skybox but not in the Quest's own player. Meta also recently added support for spatial videos captured from an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max.

How to Copy Files to Your Quest Headset

Quest headsets use the same MTP file transfer technology as modern Android phones and tablets, so it works out-of-the-box with Windows PCs and most desktop Linux distributions. Mac computers need to install Google's Android File Transfer tool, because macOS does not have built-in MTP support.

First, connect your Quest headset to your computer with a USB cable. You should see a notification on your Quest about a connected USB device—if not, your USB cable might not support data transfer, and you need to find another cable.

Click the notification to allow the USB connection, and then you can copy files as if it was any other folder on your computer. The Quest appears as a connected device under "This PC" in Windows Explorer, and on Linux systems, it should be listed alongside drives and other connected hardware.

You can copy your movie files to any folder you want on the Quest, but it's probably best to use the default "Movies" folder to keep everything organized. You can also move any other files around. For example, you can copy screenshots and videos to your computer by copying them from the "Oculus" folder.

Unfortunately, macOS doesn't support MTP, so you need to use Google's Android File Transfer application to copy files. First, download Android File Transfer from the Android website. Then, open the downloaded DMG file, and drag the app to your Applications folder as prompted.

Finally, open the app from the Applications folder (or Spotlight search, or the Launchpad) with your Quest connected, and the files window should open. If it doesn't work, it's probably not your fault—the Android File Transfer app on Mac is notoriously buggy. You can try reconnecting the USB cable, or rebooting your Quest headset and Mac.

The Android File Transfer application shows you a list of files and folders, and you can drag files between Finder and the File Transfer app as needed. When you're done, just disconnect the Quest headset, as there's no eject command like typical external drives. The app should also automatically open when you connect the Quest again in the future.

Pick a Video Player

Finally, with your movies or other video files ready, it's time to watch them. There are two ways to open a local video file on Meta Quest headsets. The first open is with the Files app , which allows you to browse all files on your headset. The videos will open in a new media player window with basic media controls, and a button to switch between different 3D viewing options.

You can resize the window by switching to the larger window view (click the "Switch distance" button in the main Meta toolbar) and dragging the corners of the window outward. When you're done watching the video, just click the close button at the top.

The other built-in option is Meta Quest TV , which is primarily made to watch online videos, but works well for local playback as well. Find the Quest TV app in your app list, open it, and click the "Your Media" tab at the bottom. You'll see a list of all your local video files, and you can tap one to start playing.

The Quest TV app remembers your position when playing a file, so it's better for playing longer movies than the Files app. It also has a large screen view, which places the video in a hovering projection in your home environment. In the large screen view, clicking the Meta button on your controller will show and hide the main window, leaving only the video visible. You can click the minimize/maximize button at the top-right of the TV window to switch modes.

There are also a few third-party video player applications that can provide a better experience. Skybox VR Player is one of the best options, with different theater environments, support for USB devices and UPnP/DLNA servers, and other playback options.

Skybox VR is a paid application ($9.99 as of the time of writing), but it's probably worth the money if you end up watching videos on your Quest on a regular basis.

IMAGES

  1. 9 Best Vr Headsets For An Immersive Virtual Reality Experience

    best vr headset for travel videos

  2. 10 Best Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets of 2024: Best VR Reviews

    best vr headset for travel videos

  3. The Best VR Headset in 2021: The Ultimate Guide

    best vr headset for travel videos

  4. Best VR Headsets (Updated 2022)

    best vr headset for travel videos

  5. Die besten VR-Headsets im Test (2023) (2024)

    best vr headset for travel videos

  6. The best VR headset in 2021

    best vr headset for travel videos

VIDEO

  1. Unboxing the cheapest VR Headset!

  2. The best VR headsets for 2023

  3. TOP 10 BEST VR HEADSETS!

  4. 😱 Cheapest ₹400 VR Headset

  5. Best VR Headsets 2024

  6. Most interesting VR Headset of 🌍 😱#explore #shortsfeed

COMMENTS

  1. 10 of the Best Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

    We've picked out 10 of the best virtual reality travel experiences currently on the market. So which VR headset should you go for? Our favourite is the Meta Quest 3, which launched onto the market in mid-2023 and is the successor to the Meta Quest 2. For immersive games and travel experiences, we believe the Meta Quest 3 is destined to become ...

  2. Virtual Vacation: 11 VR Apps and Films That Let You Travel the ...

    Virtual Vacation: 11 VR Apps and Films That Let You Travel the World From Home | Meta Quest Blog. With Oculus Quest, you can travel pretty much anywhere you'd like without ever leaving home. Inside, you'll find 11 VR experiences for the adventurous at heart.

  3. The Best VR Headsets for 2024

    The Best VR Headset Deals This Week*. Meta Quest 3 128GB VR Headset With Asgard's Wrath 2 Game — $485.35. Meta Quest 2 128GB VR Headset — $199.00 (List Price $249.99) Meta Quest 2 128GB VR ...

  4. The 3 Best VR Headsets for 2024

    The Quest 3 has a cord-free design and convincing hand tracking, with the added option to plug it in to a PC to access more-powerful games. $500 from Amazon. $500 from Best Buy. The Meta Quest 3 ...

  5. The best VR headsets in 2024

    The best premium VR headset. If that $3,500 price tag isn't a tough pill to swallow, the Apple Vision Pro offers the best mixed reality experience out of all the headsets on this list.

  6. The best VR headsets of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

    Best VR headset overall. Meta Quest 3 tech specs: Display type: Dual LCD | Resolution: 2064 x 2208 | Refresh rate: 90Hz (up to 120Hz) | Battery life: 2 hours | Weight: 1.14 pounds | All-in-one ...

  7. Top 10 Virtual Travel Experiences With a VR Headset

    10. Visit out-of-this-world places with NASA. Explore our solar system and beyond with these virtual tours and experiences from NASA. Take a virtual tour of the Moon, explore Earth-sized exoplanets, view spacecraft, and walk through the laboratories, mission and operations control centers themselves, and more.

  8. 6 Best VR Headsets of 2024, Tested by Experts

    The GH Institute engineers and tech experts reveal the best VR headsets of 2024, including top-tested picks from Apple, Meta and PlayStation. Search. ... video games and much more. Over the past ...

  9. Best VR Headset 2024

    Meta Quest 3. Meta Quest 2. Apple Vision Pro. PlayStation VR2. HTC Vive XR Elite. Valve Index. HTC Vive Pro 2. The best VR headsets offer advanced tracking, six degrees of freedom (6DoF), and high ...

  10. The 5 Best VR Headsets in 2023

    Connections. USB-C, 3.5mm audio. The Meta Quest 2, formerly the Oculus Quest 2, is the best VR headset for beginners and the VR-curious. It's one of the only VR headsets that runs as a ...

  11. 7 Great Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

    Requires powerful hardware. Short experience. In The Grand Canyon VR Experience ($2.99 by Immersive Entertainment), you sit in a virtual motorized kayak ride through the Grand Canyon. Tailor the tour to your preferences by selecting either a sunlit or moonlit experience and controlling the ride's speed.

  12. Best VR Headset of 2024

    For that reason, the Quest 2 is still probably good enough for most. Its excellent display quality and improved wireless connectivity could make it a good choice for PC VR gamers: it works as a ...

  13. 5 Best VR Headsets For Travel Apps

    New From: $9.99in Stock. BoboVR Z4. (Image courtesy BoboVR.) BoboVR Z4. This is the best mobile headset that's not a Gear VR. It works with any late-model iPhone or Android phone with screens between 4 and 6 inches in size, has built-in headphones and a control button, and is very easy to use. Get it for $39 on Amazon.

  14. The best VR headsets for 2023

    The display resolution and refresh rate are in line with many VR headsets. Other manufacturers simply can't compete with Meta Quest 2's quality and features at such a low price. Meta's Quest 2 ...

  15. Best VR experiences 2023: Explore, learn, and be entertained in virtual

    Star Chart VR. National Geographic Explore VR. Ocean Rift. All Kinds of Limbo XR. Universe Sandbox. Perspectives: Paradise. The Book of Distance. Within - Cinematic VR. With virtual reality well ...

  16. The best VR apps for travel

    Littlstar is a VR "cinema network" hosting a variety of 360-degree photos and videos, available on the web or via its app for Android or iOS. Its aerial and travel categories contain numerous ...

  17. The Best VR Headsets for 2024

    The Quest 2 (formerly the Oculus Quest 2) is Meta's $300 standalone VR headset. It's affordable for a VR platform, and you don't need cables or additional hardware. It's powered by mobile ...

  18. 10 Virtual Travel Apps For Oculus/Meta Quest 2

    Blueplanet VR Explore. Blueplanet VR Explore is one of the most expensive travel apps, but that's in part because it is so extensive. The app allows its users to travel to 40 different cultural sites, with some offering the ability to interact with the landscape or even hang glide over it. One of the best qualities of this app is the spacial ...

  19. The best virtual reality headsets in 2024 are here to blow your mind

    Best VR headsets of 2024. Best VR headset: Meta Quest 3. Best VR headset for beginners: Meta Quest 2. Best VR headset for console gamers: PlayStation VR 2. Best VR headset for PC gamers: Valve ...

  20. The best VR headsets for PC

    The highest-resolution PC VR headset made for consumers is the Pimax Crystal. It features displays with 2880 x 2880 pixels per eye, mini-LED backlighting, inside-out tracking of controllers and ...

  21. These Virtual Reality Apps Let You Travel The World Without Ever

    Virtual Reality apps for Travel are becoming more realistic, as VR hardware and software gets more advanced. If you like the idea of travel and exploration, ...

  22. 25 Best VR 360 Videos That Will Blow Your Mind

    All you will need is a headset and an internet connection to enjoy these truly awesome VR videos. 360 Degree VR Travel Videos. From across the globe, here are some of the very best VR travel videos that give you breath-taking insights into historic cities, stunning locations, and vibrant metropolises.

  23. Best VR headset in 2024

    Most immersive 4. Best alternate 5. Also tested 6. VR headset Q&A 7. Jargon buster. The best VR headsets can make you forget, even if just for a moment, you're wearing a big chunk of plastic and ...

  24. THE BEST VR180 ON YOUTUBE VR

    ohh HEY! Welcome to the most epic VR travel experience on the internet! My channel takes you on a wild ride around the world, without the jetlag or airport h...

  25. Travel Without Leaving Home

    Enjoy our selection of the most beautiful places around the world in 360 VR and 4K quality. Use the mouse cursor to grab the screen and move it around! Trave...

  26. The Best Meta Quest 2 Deal: Get the 128GB Model with Active Pack ...

    The best headset for newcomers to VR gaming. Amazon currently has the best deal on a Meta Quest 2 VR headset. You can get the 128GB model right now with an Active Pack accessory kit for only $218. ...

  27. Best VR deal: Get the Meta Quest 2 for just $199 during the Amazon Big

    As of March 22, get the Meta Quest 2 for just $199.99 at Amazon. That's $50.99 off its regular price of $249.99 and a discount of 20%. It's the lowest price we've seen the headset drop to yet ...

  28. The best virtual reality headsets in 2024 are here to blow your mind

    Best VR headsets of 2024. Best VR headset: Meta Quest 3. Best VR headset for beginners: Meta Quest 2. Best VR headset for console gamers: PlayStation VR 2. Best VR headset for PC gamers: Valve ...

  29. Apple's Vision Pro Headset Is the Best to Date, but for Watching ...

    The Vision Pro is Apple's month-old "spatial computing" device, a $3,500 VR headset that lets you whip around windows and apps like you're Tom Cruise in "Minority Report." As VR headsets go, it's ...

  30. You Can Load Movies Directly onto Your Meta Quest, Here's How

    First, connect your Quest headset to your computer with a USB cable. You should see a notification on your Quest about a connected USB device—if not, your USB cable might not support data transfer, and you need to find another cable. Click the notification to allow the USB connection, and then you can copy files as if it was any other folder ...