Choosing the right VR headset in 2024: A buying guide

The purpose: Why do you need a VR headset?

While there are only a handful of VR headsets, these can be primarily categorised into two types. A standalone VR headset and a tethered VR headset. As the name suggests, a standalone VR headset will work independently, without requiring an external computing device, this also means, it will be easy to use, and in most cases, these types of VR headsets also include an integrated battery.

If you are looking for a VR headset primarily for gaming, then it is best to get a tethered device like the PlayStation VR2, and most of these will also be lighter than a standalone VR headset. As they depend on an external device for computing, they will also offer much better performance, especially while doing tasks like gaming. However, this also means, they need to be hooked to a device with a wire. This means they won’t offer as much freedom as a wireless VR headset.

The Sony PlayStation VR 2 is priced at 9.99 (about Rs 45,566) in the US, but regional prices could differ. (Image Source: Sony)

The next big thing to keep in mind while buying a VR headset is the resolution. A VR headset with a higher resolution display will offer an enhanced content-consumption experience. Again, a budget VR headset is likely to include a low-resolution screen, and as the price goes up, you are likely to get a much better deal. Refresh rate is another thing you need to consider while buying a VR headset, a headset with a higher refresh will render a better overall experience, especially for gamers. On top of that, field of view (FoV) is an additional parameter to keep in mind, primarily for gamers, a headset with a wider field of view will offer a more engaging virtual reality experience, and some headsets also allow users to adjust the FoV.

Comfort plays an important role in long-term

Always look for a headset which is comfortable to wear. This depends on the design of the headset, head straps, and weight. If you wear eyeglasses, then consider those which are compatible with glasses. Some also allow you to buy special eye inserts for the same. A headset which is lighter and includes a headband which distributes the weight uniformly will offer a more pleasant experience, especially if you tend to use it for an extended period.

Based on these parameters, here are some of the best VR headsets to consider in 2024. Do note that some of these headsets are not officially available in India, however, they can be easily sourced on popular e-commerce platforms.

The Apple Vision Pro starts from $3,500. (Image Source: Apple)

Apple Vision Pro

Apple calls its Vision Pro a “spatial computer”, and it is currently one of the best consumer-grade VR headsets that money can buy, however, it is on the expensive side when compared to the competition. While it is not officially available in India, one can grab the same for Rs 4,24,900 from the e-commerce platforms like Amazon.

While it is a standalone device, it does come with an external battery pack, which offers around two and a half hours of battery life. And, it includes two high-resolution displays (one for each eye) and is powered by the M2 chip, the same processor that powers previous-generation MacBooks. This is also one of the first VR headsets that supports 3D video recording and playback. It runs on the new VisionOS, and for those, who already have an Apple ecosystem of devices, this is the one to consider.

A person uses a Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headset at Meta stand during a conference in this 2022 file photo. (Image via Reuters)

Meta Quest 2

If you are looking for an affordable VR headset that offers a fully immersive virtual experience, then, get the Meta Quest 2, which currently sells for Rs 27,500. This 2nd gen VR headset from Meta, despite being a couple of years old, delivers a stellar VR experience, and this can be used for gaming and content consumption. The Meta Quest Store currently has the highest number of apps and games designed for virtual reality experience.

Sony PlayStation VR 2

Buy this VR headset if you already have a PS5 or planning to buy one, as this is a tethered device, and it is currently compatible only with the PS5. However, Sony has confirmed that it is currently testing the headset to make it compatible with the PC. This is currently touted as one of the best VR headsets for gaming, with support for AAA-grade games. This currently retails for Rs 56,900, and it is equipped with a 4K HDR display with support for 120fps gaming.

Meta Quest 3

If you are looking for something more than a basic VR headset that offers an immersive experience with support for features like direct touch, this headset can also be paired with a PC to play games. This headset currently retails for Rs 50,000, and it also comes with two physical controllers. This VR headset, despite its lower price compared to the Vision Pro, is touted to deliver a similar user experience for most users.