Best VR headets of 2024
Best VR Headset of 2024
Catalysts top picks for VR headsets this year, including thoughts on the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 2, Sony PSVR 2 and more!
1. Meta Quest 3: Best Mixed Reality VR Headset for £300
Likes:
Crisp high-res displays
Improved new processor
Mixed reality with enhanced color cameras
Smaller controllers with improved haptics
Dislikes:
Higher price compared to Quest 2
Limited unique apps and games at launch
Straps and comfort still subpar
2-3 hours battery life
The Meta Quest 3 emerges as a significant upgrade, featuring a more compact design, clearer lenses, and a higher-resolution display. With enhanced color cameras facilitating mixed reality experiences, this headset is a glimpse into the future of affordable VR. While it retains the familiar Quest functionality, mixed reality is a novel addition, albeit with limited software support. Despite minor drawbacks, the Quest 3 positions itself as a leading VR headset in its price class.
Specifications:
Display: LCD, 2,064 x 2,208 pixels per eye
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
Compatibility: Works with glasses
2. Meta Quest 2: Best Affordable VR Headset
Likes:
High-res display
Self-contained gaming experience
Doubles as a PC VR headset
Compatible with fitness apps
Dislikes:
Limited battery life (2-3 hours)
Not designed for younger kids
Remaining the most affordable and versatile VR headset, the Quest 2 continues to impress. Offering a self-contained gaming experience without the need for additional hardware, it stands out for its versatility. While the Quest 3 promises advancements, the Quest 2 remains an excellent choice, especially for budget-conscious consumers. Boasting a growing library of fitness apps and PC connectivity, it combines fun and functionality.
Specifications:
Display: LCD, 1,842 x 1,920 pixels per eye
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2
Compatibility: Works with glasses
3. PlayStation VR 2: Best High-end Console Gaming VR Headset
Likes:
Vivid, high-res OLED display
Comfortable fit
Excellent controllers with realistic vibrations
Powerful graphics potential
Dislikes:
Expensive (£050)
Requires tethering to PS5
Limited game library exclusives
The PlayStation VR 2 caters to high-end gaming enthusiasts with its premium features, including a vibrant OLED display and advanced controllers. Despite being tethered to a PS5, it offers a top-tier gaming experience. While the high price and exclusive game limitations may be deterrents, the potential for top-notch VR gaming on this platform is undeniable.
Specifications:
Display: OLED, 2,000 x 2,040 pixels per eye
Eye tracking: Yes
Compatibility: Works with glasses
4. HP Reverb G2: Best PC VR Headset for Higher-res Gaming
Likes:
Higher-res display
Wider field of view
Great audio quality
Dislikes:
Controllers feel cheap
No headphone jack
For those prioritizing image quality, the HP Reverb G2 stands out with its high resolution and wide field of view. Ideal for serious gamers, it provides an immersive experience. However, the controller design and lack of a headphone jack are drawbacks. Despite these minor issues, it remains a top choice for PC VR enthusiasts seeking superior visual fidelity.
Specifications:
Display: LCD, 2,160 x 2,160 pixels per eye
Eye tracking: No
Compatibility: Requires connection to PC
5. Valve Index: Still a Strong Contender in Steam VR
Likes:
Excellent Steam VR compatibility
Good audio quality
Innovative controllers
Dislikes:
Requires external room sensors for tracking
Display resolution lags behind competitors
While not as cutting-edge as its debut, the Valve Index remains a strong choice for Steam VR enthusiasts. Boasting excellent compatibility and innovative controllers, it offers a unique VR experience. However, external room sensors and lower display resolution compared to rivals are notable considerations. With Valve's commitment to compatibility, it remains a contender for those invested in the Steam VR platform.
Specifications:
Display: LCD, 1,440 x 1,600 pixels per eye
Eye tracking: No
Compatibility: Requires connection with PC and external room sensors
Other VR headsets tested:
Meta Quest Pro: Last year's eye-tracking-equipped Quest headset is overshadowed by the Quest 3's advancements.
HTC Vive XR Elite: Innovative design, but performance doesn't justify the price.
PlayStation VR: Original PSVR still works on PS4 and PS5 but lacks compatibility with PSVR 2 games and hardware.
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 doesn'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.
