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The Best Budget VR Headsets

by Nora Mar 15,2025

High-end VR headsets can be incredibly expensive—the Apple Vision Pro, for instance, commands a hefty $3,500 price tag. However, you don't need to break the bank to experience the wonders of virtual reality. Immersive virtual worlds are now more accessible than ever, with budget-friendly options available.

TL;DR – Best Budget VR Headsets:

Meta Quest 3S

PlayStation VR2

Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04

Atlasonix VR Headset

Google Cardboard POP!

The Meta Quest (now owned by Meta) revolutionized VR accessibility with its standalone design and reasonable price, eliminating the need for a gaming PC. While standalone options remain relatively scarce, this article explores five budget-friendly alternatives, catering to both those seeking advanced features and those just starting their VR journey.

How much are you willing to spend on a quality VR headset experience?Over $1,000Between $1,000 to $500$500 or less

AnswerSee Results

1. Meta Quest 3S – Photos

Meta Quest 3S 10 Images

Meta Quest 3S – Best Budget VR Headset

Meta Quest 3S An outstanding entry-level standalone/PC VR headset boasting impressive performance, convenient full-color passthrough, and more.

Product Specifications:

Platform: Standalone, PC
Resolution (per-eye): 1832x1920
Refresh Rate: 90-120Hz
Field of View: 90°
Tracking: 6DoF
Weight: 1.13 pounds

PROS: Standalone device; Performance similar to the Meta Quest 3. CONS: Fresnel lenses.

2. PlayStation VR2 – Photos

PlayStation VR2 11 Images

PlayStation VR2 – Best VR Headset Under $600

PlayStation VR2 Features built-in tracking cameras, eye tracking, 4K OLED panels, and two tactile Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Designed for the PS5.

Product Specifications:

Platform: PS5, PC (with adapter)
Resolution (per-eye): 2,000 x 2,040
Refresh Rate: 90-120Hz
Field of View: 110°
Tracking: 6DoF
Weight: 1.24 pounds

PROS: 4K OLED displays with HDR and a 120Hz refresh rate; Tactile Sense controllers. CONS: Can’t play original PSVR games.

Best Gaming PC Deals

Lenovo Legion Tower 5 AMD Ryzen 7 7700 RTX 4070 Ti Super Gaming PC with 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD (Use Code: EXTRAFIVE)- $1,527.49
Acer Predator Orion RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Gaming Desktop- $1,749.99
HP OMEN 35L RTX 4060 Ti Gaming Desktop- $1,219.99
Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PC- $1,349.99
Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Gaming PC- $1,099.99

3. Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 – Best VR Headset Under $100

Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04 A simple cardboard headset with plastic lenses using the Switch's screen for a unique VR experience (no strap included).

Product Specifications:

Platform: Nintendo Switch
Resolution (per-eye): 1,280 x 720
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Field of View: Not listed
Tracking: 3DoF
Weight: 3.14 pounds

PROS: Playful, build-it-yourself headsets; Sturdy cardboard. CONS: No strap.

4. Atlasonix VR Headset – Best VR Headset Under $50

Atlasonix VR Headset A smartphone-based VR headset with ample padding, eye protection, and a Bluetooth remote.

Product Specifications:

Platform: Android, iOS
Resolution (per-eye): Depends on device
Refresh Rate: Depends on device
Field of View: 105°
Tracking: 3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)
Weight: 0.5 pounds

PROS: Easy setup; Comfortable. CONS: Limited to your phone’s abilities.

5. Google Cardboard POP! – Best VR Headset Under $20

Google Cardboard POP! An ultra-cheap cardboard frame holding your phone, lenses, and a button for limited interaction.

Product Specifications:

Platform: Android, iOS
Resolution (per-eye): Depends on device
Refresh Rate: Depends on device
Field of View: 95°
Tracking: 3DoF/6DoF (app-dependent)
Weight: 0.31 pounds

PROS: Extremely inexpensive; Eye cushioning. CONS: Limited interactions.

What to Look for in a Budget VR Headset

Consider the desired VR experience (gaming vs. media consumption), platform compatibility (smartphone, PC, console), design and comfort (adjustable straps, padding), and how the headset handles your phone (scratch protection, ventilation).