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Best VR headsets in 2025 for gaming, work, and more


VR headsets had a rocky start. Being clunky and expensive, they did not get a lot of consumer attention. However, after many improvements, you can now enjoy highly realistic virtual reality (VR) environments for as little as a few hundred dollars. Pick the best VR headset, and you can completely transform how you game, learn, work, and connect online.

VR headsets improve gaming realism but are also used for training that simulates high-risk environments. They are also perfect to collaborate remotely with a more natural feel, or hang out with friends in virtual social spaces.

I worked closely with the Cybernews researchers to analyze today's top VR headsets. To help you find the best VR headset for your needs, you will find each model's features, comfort review, pricing, and customer satisfaction. Let’s dive in.

Top VR headset – shortlist

The best VR headsets compared

Below is a table that will help you compare key features of the best VR headsets. I’ve covered features such as resolution, motion detection, software, and pricing. Let’s take a look.

HeadsetTypeResolutionMotion detectionHardware platformSoftware platformBest forStandaloneRefresh rate
Pimax Crystal LightPC-powered VR2880 x 2800 per eye6DoFPC-poweredPimax Store, SteamVRHigh visual quality gamingPC-only headset60Hz, 72Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz
HTC VIVE XR Elite
Standalone and PCVR1920 x 19206DoFPC and built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2VIVE StreamingExtended gaming sessions, business presentationsStandalone and PCVR hybrid90Hz
Meta Quest 3S
Standalone VR1832 x 1920 per eye6DoFQualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2Meta Horizon OSFirst time VR gamers, social VR experiencePrimarily standalone90Hz, 120Hz
Sony PS VR2
Console VR2000 x 2040 per eye6DoFPlaystation OS (Linux-based core)PlayStation VR2Gaming with PlayStation 5 consolesPrimarily console-connected (supports PC connection)90Hz, 120Hz
Pico 4 Ultra
Standalone VR2160 x 2160 per eye6DoFQualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2Pico OS, SteamVRHigh visual quality VR experience with long-lasting hardwarePrimarily standalone90Hz
Valve Index
PC-powered VR1440 x 1600 per eye6DoFPC-poweredSteamVRVR gaming on powerful PCs with the best controllersPC-only headset80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz

*(only available in Asia and Europe)

The 6 best VR headsets – our detailed list

The following is an in-depth look into each of our top six VR headsets. For each headset, I’ve provided specifications, a general overview, and my personal research results and recommendations.

1. Pimax Crystal Light – best VR headset of 2025

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$719.99
-14%
$619.00
Type:PC-powered VR
Resolution:2880 x 2880 per eye
Motion detection:6DoF inside-out tracking
Hardware platform:PC-powered
Software platform:Pimax Store, SteamVR

General overview

With razor-sharp 2880 x 2880 pixels resolution and aspheric glass lenses, the Pimax Crystal Light PCVR headset is my number one pick. Considering the high specs and its reasonable price, it's one of the best cheap VR headset options with PC support.

It offers a highly immersive experience with a 130-degree diagonal field of view. It is one of the widest on this list, comparable to Valve Index. Plus, there’s local dimming technology for perfect contrast and visibility in dark scenes and four refresh rates (60Hz, 72Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz).

It delivers premium-grade audio via a 3.5mm headphone jack. There are two built-in microphones for voice communication. Users also highly recommend the DMAS speaker add-on.

This headset is PC-powered, unlike standalone options such as the Meta Quest 3S or Pico 4 Ultra. It offers built-in inside-out tracking, and you can add Valve’s Lighthouse tracking for even greater precision.

Keep in mind that choosing the lower upfront payment option means a mandatory membership commitment. It can cost you more in the long run.

Why I picked it

I prioritize quality, so Pimax Crystal Light simply outperforms others on this list. It is moderately priced, and the 130-degree diagonal field of view is larger than the Meta Quest 3S (~100 degrees) or HTC VIVE XR Elite (110 degrees.) I also find its local dimming feature, four refresh rates, and manual IDP adjustment efficient to enhance the visual experience in various games to your liking.

Who is it for?

The Pimax Crystal Light is ideal for anyone who wants detailed, compression-free visuals. It definitely lives up to its name with “crystal” clear graphics. I recommend it for sim racers and flight sim users as well as highly detailed AAA FPS, action, and open-world games.

User experience

As expected, user reviews point to superb Pimax Crystal Light visual quality. Also, adding DMAS to it significantly expands the sound quality, which is a great contribution to immersive sim games.

On a less positive note, many underline discomfort while wearing it. It weighs 815g, which is the second-heaviest VR headset on this list. Also, the Pimax PiTool software is rated as complex, but the resulting visual quality from customization makes it all worth it.

Bottom line

If you’re wondering what is the best VR headset you should look no further than the Pimax Crystal Light. While it isn’t the best VR headset for beginners due to complex software, the Pimax Crystal Light is a VR powerhouse with several unique features. If you’re after mesmerizing VR experiences and you have a powerful PC, don’t miss it.

2. HTC VIVE XR Elite – best standalone and mixed reality VR headset

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$895.99
Type:Standalone and PCVR
Resolution:1920 x 1920 per eye
Motion detection:6DoF inside-out tracking
Hardware platform:PC and built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
Software platform:VIVE Streaming

General overview

If you’re looking for a great standalone VR and PCVR headset, then you should consider the HTC VIVE XR Elite. This headset offers smooth performance due to its 110-degree diagonal field of view and 90Hz refresh rate. It also uses pancake lenses, like Pico 4 Ultra, which reduce visual artifacts and offer a wider sweet spot.

One of the things that sets it apart from competitors is its full-body tracking with an additional upgrade. You can track your legs, arms, and general body movement with the VIVE Ultimate Tracker. On top of this, the adjustable IPD makes the visuals crystal clear. The resolution is 1920 x 1920 on each eye and it has built-in diopter adjustment dials, which makes the HTC VIVE XR Elite one of the best choices for people with sight challenges.

HTC VIVE XR Elite headset also offers an incredible mixed reality experience with its full-color passthrough camera and depth sensor. Additionally, there are built-in ergonomic speakers that deliver immersive audio.

Why I picked it?

HTC VIVE XR Elite is one of the few standalone models that also offers mixed reality capabilities. While it doesn't provide full body tracking, it can be upgraded with Vive Ultimate Tracking to achieve that. The built-in dioptric adjustment dials are what I liked most, as they extend this model's use to many people who couldn't enjoy the VR experience to the fullest.

Who is it for?

After reviewing the HTC VIVE XR Elite headset and all of its features, I’d say that it’s the best for longer PC gaming. It's lightweight, you can use it as a standalone and mixed reality headset, and there are a few adjustment options to modify it to your eyesight.

User experience

Many users praise the HTC VIVE XR Elite standalone and mixed reality combination. People also recommend VIVE users as this headset will fit right in within its ecosystem and can benefit from various upgrades. However, feature variety also increases its pricing, which means you can get dedicated gaming or mixed-reality headsets for a more affordable price.

Bottom line

This VR headset got second place because of its advanced standalone and mixed reality mix and user-friendly additional features. It is somewhat pricey, but the VR experience with full body tracking capability compensates for it.

3. Meta Quest 3S – best budget VR headset for gaming

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$299.00
Type:Standalone VR
Resolution:1832 x 1920 per eye
Motion detection:6DoF inside-out tracking
Hardware platform:Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
Software platform:Meta Horizon OS, SteamVR

General overview

The Meta Quest 3S is one of the best wireless VR headsets at a very modest price. It is also Meta’s latest headset. It borrows components from the Quest 3 to improve performance and ensure a smoother 120Hz refresh rate. Due to its affordable price and easy setup, it is the best VR headset for beginners.

It doesn’t match the optics, tracking, or field of view (97 degrees horizontal) of more powerful PCVR headsets. However, it manages to balance performance and comfort, and provides access to Meta’s VR store with arguably most VR content.This mix of low price, very decent performance and wide VR content selection makes Meta Quest 3S the best cheap VR headset with PC support.

Its color passthrough cameras (allowing you to see your real-world surroundings) offer an immersive mixed-reality experience. Unfortunately, its resolution is lower than the Quest 3, because it uses fresnel lenses borrowed from Quest 2 to make this model more affordable. The headset includes built-in microphones and spatial speakers. It lacks a 3.5mm jack, but you can connect headphones via USB-C or Bluetooth.

Why I picked it?

Meta's decision to release a much more affordable Quest 3S model after the more powerful yet pricey Quest 3 paid off. It borrows improved hardware from the latter but uses some cheaper components from Quest 2 for a much better price. A slight reduction in visual quality is a good tradeoff and brings the Meta Quest 3S to many new VR users' homes.

Who is it for?

The Meta Quest 3S is for casual gamers and the best VR headset for beginners. I think it’s perfect for families who want to try VR for the first time. To compare Meta Quest 3S vs PSVR 2, it is much cheaper and has way more content. However, demanding gamers looking for dazzling visuals will find its resolution and processing power limiting.

User experience

The user reviews are overly positive. Many outline the Meta Quest 3S price-value ratio, which is its strongest point. Unlike HTC VIVE XR Elite, which lacks exclusive content, Meta runs one of the biggest VR stores around. The negative reviews outline now outdated Fresnel Lenses, which results in slightly less sharpness. There's also no 3.5mm headphone Jack, so you'll have to rely on a Bluetooth connection.

Bottom line

This is my favorite for affordable VR gaming within Meta’s ecosystem. Though it lacks the resolution and extra features of high-end devices, it’s powerful enough to suit most VR needs and offers a rich game library.

4. Sony PS VR2 – top second-gen console VR headset

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$399.99
Type:Console-powered VR (PS5)
Resolution:2000 x 2040 per eye
Motion detection:6DoF inside-out tracking with eye tracking
Hardware platform:Playstation OS (Linux-based core)
Software platform:PlayStation VR2

General overview

The Sony PS VR2 is a highly sophisticated console VR headset with a high-resolution OLED HDR-capable display. It uses eye-tracking to enable advanced foveated rendering technology, seldom found in other mainstream consumer VR headsets.

Its launch was not without challenges, placing it lower on my list. The limited amount of Sony-exclusive VR games and a steep price, even higher than the PS5 console itself, was a setback for many buyers. However, Sony launched VR2 PC compatibility in 2024, significantly expanding video game options.

The wide 110-degree diagonal field of view and the adaptive triggers and haptic feedback in the Sense controllers add immersion. When connected to a PlayStation 5, it can bring you AAA titles and compatibility with select PS5 flat-screen games in Cinematic Mode (virtual cinema screen).

Some users have reported issues with lens sweet spots, Mura effects, and occasional tracking jitters. Others added that any meaningful software updates are rare, bringing Sony's dedication to launching new titles for PS VR2 into question. However, it is still one of the most powerful contemporary VR headsets, with outstanding games like Resident Evil Village, Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge, and exclusive Gran Turismo 7.

Why I picked it?

The PS VR2 is a powerful VR headset with advanced OLED display use, foveated rendering, and PlayStation-exclusive DualSense controllers. It improves the PS VR1 in every significant way. Although it didn't live up to the hype, it can provide you with a unique experience. Now upgraded to PC support, it deserves a spot on the best VR headset list for its achievements.

Who is it for?

The PS VR2 is primarily for PlayStation 5 owners who will get the best experience using it within PlayStation's ecosystem. However, PC gamers can also use it from 2024.

User experience

The user experience is as colorful as it gets regarding the PS VR2 headset. Backward incompatibility with PS VR1 games was highly criticized, as well as the lack of upcoming titles. However, the OLED HDR displays and the immersion they provide in Games like Resident Evil Village were overwhelmingly praised, as well as the foveated rendering feature.

Bottom line

This unit is a revolution for VR console gamers that is technologically hard to compete with in the console realm. I think it’s ideal for PlayStation enthusiasts and cinematic VR lovers, and it also can be used with PCs. However, exclusive PS VR2 content selection is limited, and there’s a good chance it won’t get bigger.

5. Pico 4 Ultra – VR headset with future-proof hardware

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$1,385.99
Type:Standalone VR
Resolution:2160 x 2160 per eye
Motion detection:6DoF inside-out tracking
Hardware platform:Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
Software platform:Pico OS

General overview

The Pico 4 Ultra improves on the Pico 4 and adds notable performance and hardware upgrades like environment and depth-sensing cameras. Pico says GPU performance is now improved by 250%, and its 12GB of RAM is particularly impressive. It uses Wi-Fi 7 for the fastest wireless streaming and lowest latency.

This headset delivers sharp visuals for VR and mixed reality applications, easily competing with the Meta Quest 3. In fact, it's developed by ByteDance, well known for its TikTok app, so Pico is competing with Meta's Quest in more than one way. It's only available in East Asia and Europe, so VR fans from the US will, unfortunately, have to skip this one out.

Getting back to technicalities, there are dual stereo speakers and spatial recording capabilities. Similarly to Meta Quest 3, there’s no 3.5mm jack, so you’ll have to use Bluetooth and USB-C for headphone connections.

Though you can connect to a PC to access SteamVR games, users feel that this platform lags behind Meta in terms of exclusive titles. For example, exclusives like Assassin's Creed Nexus, Resident Evil 4 VR, and Batman: Arkham Shadow are lacking.

Why I picked it?

Pico 4 Ultra has long-lasting hardware, so its reasonable price will also result in more prolonged use. I also wanted to add an alternative to Meta's Quest, which is a major player in the market, but not everyone may enjoy its ecosystem. It also runs on the proprietary Pico operating system, which, although may use some polishing, is an interesting alternative to other brands.

Who is it for?

The Pico 4 Ultra is for those who want a high-performance standalone headset for both VR gaming and mixed-reality applications. Its audio recording capabilities are great for content creators using immersive audio in mixed reality and VR settings.

Note: This unit is only available in Europe and Asia.

User experience

Pico 4 receives primarily good reviews from genuine users and expert review sites. Its robust hardware is consistently praised, and users enjoy the 2160 x 2160 pixels per eye resolution displayed by pancake lenses for a very high image quality. On the downside, it offers significantly limited content. Some users report light leakage around the nose, and it's also not available in the US.

Bottom line

Pico 4 Ultra future-proof hardware with 12GB RAM and a Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset is impressive. It also offers astounding video quality that outperforms Meta Quest 2. However, look elsewhere if you want exclusive titles. Also, not serving US customers is not the best side of the market competitiveness.

6. Valve Index – VR headset with the best controllers

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$1,799.00
Type:PC-powered VR
Resolution:1440 x 1600 per eye
Motion detection:6DoF marker-based
Hardware platform: PC-powered
Software platform:SteamVR

General overview

My final pick comes from Valve, the biggest video game distribution company. The Valve Index headset is its successful expanse into hardware development, which was released in 2019. It was quite some time ago, so the last spot is due to competitors with newer and better features, but not because Valve Index lacks any VR power.

Two things separate Valve Index from other VR headsets. Firstly, it uses the unique Index Controllers, which look like something from a sci-fi movie. They use grip force sensors and individual finger tracking, which is an incredibly efficient way to grab objects in VR games and non-verbal VR communication.

Another thing is that Valve Index supports a 144Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother visual experience and supposedly helping with VR sicknesses. For me, another one of the highlights is the off-ear speakers, which take away the discomfort of traditional over-ear headphones. Though it’s a heavy unit (809g), it comes with unique customizable comfort settings for eye relief.

However, this headset has been around since 2019, and its age is starting to show. It doesn’t offer the same modern features as newer devices like Pimax and HTC. There’s no 5K+ resolution or advanced sensors. It is still very expensive and requires a powerful PC to connect to. Valve Index also does not have mixed reality capabilities.

Then again, since it’s Steam’s headset, it has many benefits too. It integrates perfectly with SteamVR, supporting 3,000+ titles. Plus, many games are discounted, including Half-Life: Alyx, Boneworks, and Beat Saber.

Why I picked it?

Even though a grandpa of VR headsets, Valve put its expertise and heart into Valve Index headset. Its unique controllers are still among the best in the industry, and it is one of a few VR headsets to support 144Hz. Valve Index integrates with the Steam platform very well, and you can use the SteamVR tracking station with Non-Valve devices.

Who is it for?

It’s perfect for gaming enthusiasts with a powerful PC who play fast-paced games like FPS shooters, simulations, and multiplayer VR games.

User experience

Although Valve Index is becoming a more niche VR headset due to old age, it still has a very loyal user base. Its controllers hold strong up to today, and the external VR tracking system is highly accurate, helping to aim in action games. High-quality off-ear speakers are also often mentioned. On the negative side, its steep price is a deal breaker for many. Valve Index 1440 x 1600 resolution cannot keep up with the competition, and the setup is said to be complex.

Bottom line

If you’re a serious gamer with a high-end PC, the Index is hard to beat. However, if cutting-edge resolution and hardware are important to you, maybe the Pimax Crystal Light (released just last year) is a better investment.

How we picked the best VR headsets

Our methodology for creating this list of the best VR headsets for 2025 involved a lot of research. Alongside Cybernews research, I thoroughly analyzed VR headset specifications, real user feedback, expert reviews, and product development news. We focused on real-world user experiences, trusted benchmarks, and official data to bring you our top six contenders.

Firstly, I based my decision on VR headset technical specifications. Its per-eye resolution is essential to ensure smooth visuals, and OLED displays are highly advantageous. Weight is crucial for comfortable use, while motion detection, like Valve's Lighthouse, expands use-case possibilities. Lastly, the pricing should match quality, and previously named genuine user reviews must verify my findings.

What is a VR headset?

A Virtual Reality headset, or VR headset, is a wearable device that lets you experience digital content in 3 dimensions or 3D. It brings you closer to the way we experience visual environments in real life, dramatically changing video game experience. It is also used in simulations and training.

VR headsets use two lenses to transmit visuals. It is also coupled with movement-tracking technology. Full body tracking allows users to interact with the virtual environment, closely resembling movement in reality. You can also add haptic vests to supplement VR with physical sensations.

There are different types of VR headsets, such as:

  • Standalone VR headsets: These don’t require hooking up to a PC or console. They may have lower resolution and processing power than PCVR units. A standalone VR headset isgreat for families playing fitness games or trying social VR experiences.
  • Console VR headsets: These VR headsets are optimized for use with consoles. For example, the PS VR2 headset seamlessly integrates with the PlayStation ecosystem, provides cinematic experience, and offers an easy plug-and-play setup.
  • Mixed reality (MR) headsets: These combine VR with augmented reality (AR). You can interact with both virtual objects and your real-world surroundings, thanks to cameras in the headset. These are often used for design, training, and simulations.
  • PCVR headsets: These connect to your PC with cables, using your PC as the power source. To game with these or enjoy high-end immersive experiences, a powerful PC is required.
vr headsets differences

What is the difference between an AR and a VR headset?

The difference between an AR and a VR headset is the distinct experiences they provide. However, they both create artificial realities.

VR is a completely computer-generated environment. When you put on a Virtual Reality headset, you cannot see your surroundings. You look through the lenses and are transported into a world controlled and created by the software.

AR is not a completely computer-generated environment. It overlays digital elements onto the real world you see. Therefore, your real-world view is not visually blocked off. For instance, Sophisticated AR systems with sensors can make it look like you are holding a digital brush and painting your room’s wall with it.

The difference is that VR creates an artificial world and blocks off your sight, while AR overlays digital elements into your real-world environment.

How to choose the best VR headset

Choosing the best VR headset completely depends on what you want. Here are some of the key features of VR systems I took into account when choosing the virtual reality headset on my list above.

Use case

Different VR headsets cater to specific use cases with specialized features. Knowing what you want from a VR headset helps ensure you get the most appropriate device.

Pick a headset with high refresh rates and low latency if you're a gamer. For professional use, like training or virtual meetings, prioritize devices such as the Pimax Crystal Light with high resolution and precise tracking. Or focus on a lightweight and breathable model when you need VR for fitness.

Compatibility

Some headsets like the Meta Quest 3 or PS VR2 are not compatible with PCs. The Meta Quest 3 is a standalone unit, while the PS VR2 connects directly to the PlayStation 5.

PC VR headsets, on the other hand, hook up to your PC and use its resources to generate immersive visuals. Ask yourself if you want a wireless standalone headset to play games on the Meta platform, one that connects to your PS5, or a wired unit for high-resolution PC gaming.

Display and performance

For the best immersion, look for a high-resolution screen of at least 1440 x 1600 per eye. There are vast differences between low-tier and high-tier headsets, so aim for the highest resolution possible. Top-tier performers include the Pimax Crystal Light and HTC Vive Pro 2 with 5K and 5K+ resolutions.

Performance matters for standalone headsets. Look for at least 8GB of RAM and a Snapdragon chipset. This will reduce lag and enhance your overall experience for both gaming and VR experiences.

Comfort and ergonomics

If your headset isn’t comfortable, it will ruin your VR experience even if it uses top-performing tech. Pick a device with adjustable headstraps, breathable material, and well-balanced weight distribution.

Most of the VR headsets on my list focus on comfort in lengthy sessions. For example, the Meta Quest 3 is light and comes with customizable straps. There is also the Valve Index, which balances weight and features plush padding.

Budget and value

Fully-featured headsets vary widely in price, especially when considering additional components like base stations and accessories. The more you can stretch your budget, the more realistic your VR/AR experience will be.

I recommend you test out headsets. This way, you will find out what you enjoyed most.


Other VR headsets you might be interested in:


Final word on the best VR headset

The current VR headset market is highly competitive and offers products with significantly different features. If you are looking for second-to-none visual quality, I recommend our first spot, Pimax Crystal Light. Its 2880 x 2880 resolution and wide 130-degree diagonal field view will take your gaming to the next level.

But your choice also depends on the current setup. Consider PS VR2 if you own PlayStation 5, and Valve's Index is still one of the best choices for PC power players. However, VR is not only about games. HTC VIVE XR Elite headset supports mixed reality, so it can also be used for training or business development, such as displaying demos to clients in VR.

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Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
$719.99
-14%
$619.00

However, I also thoroughly recommend the Meta Quest 3S for casual, lightweight VR gaming without the need for a PC. When considering console VR gaming, the PS VR2 stood out for its precise, immersive experience and sleek design. Furthermore, the Pico 4 Ultra stood out for its impressive hardware. How about a classic? Look no further than the Valve Index.

Ultimately, think about what you specifically need. Is it a PC or console-based system? Are you used to the Meta ecosystem, or want SteamVR games? There’s a VR headset out there for every niche.

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