6 Best VR Headsets For Gaming To Buy In 2022
Explore new worlds from the comfort of your living room with the help of immersive VR technology.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
There’s no denying the past couple of years have been tough, so it’s little surprise that escaping to another reality has recently become a popular pastime.
While virtual reality technology has been around since the mid-1980s, it’s only in recent years that it has attracted mainstream attention as companies like Meta (formerly Facebook) have revealed an interest in the space.
This increase in public interest, along with impressive advancements in the market, means VR is gaining traction, making 2022 a great time to try it out for yourself.
While the evolution of VR technology has led to many older headsets being phased out, the good news is that available models now offer great features and impressive resolution, giving shoppers a degree of choice when it comes to deciding which headset to buy.
To help you make a decision, we’ve rounded up some great VR headset options for Aussies below, based on customer ratings, level of availability and the quality of the experience they offer.
BEST VR GAMING HEADSETS: OUR PICKS
Oculus Quest 2, Amazon Australia, RRP $639
Not only is the Oculus Quest 2 considered one of the best stand-alone VR headsets around, it’s also the most readily available option on the Australian market.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset, the Quest 2 is a big step up from the original Quest model, offering an impressive 120Hz refresh rate and faster overall performance. With a 1832 x 1920 per-eye resolution too, the headset boasts the highest resolution display of any Oculus headset so far.
The headset arrives with 6GB RAM and is accompanied by two Touch controllers. While these are admittedly bigger and heavier than the Oculus Rift S controllers, they offer a longer battery life and improved haptics for that “rumble” feel like you find in the PS5 controller.
Given that the Quest 2 is a self-contained device, it doesn’t require a PC in order to operate. If you do want to link it up though, you can do so through either an Oculus Link cable or a Wi-Fi connection. Linking to a compatible PC will also gives users the opportunity to access SteamVR games, in addition to games available through the Oculus store.
On the downside, the Quest 2 headset is a little chunky and requires a Facebook sign-in i to use, which is likely to frustrate some users. Given its performance and reasonable price tag though, it’s still a top option for Aussies looking to try out the world of VR.
Pimax Vision 8K X, Amazon Australia, RRP $1,859
If price is no object, the Pimax Vision 8K X offers one of the best VR experiences you can get, according to customers. With dual screens sporting 4K resolution each, the headset offers a native 3840 x 2160 resolution per eye, making it the most immersive option we’ve come across.
Each panel wraps around the wearer’s nose, allowing for an ultra-wide diagonal field of view of 200 degrees. It also comes equipped with Pimax’s Comfort Kit face cushion, which includes an extended forehead cushion for added comfort. The cushion also helps to offset some of the weight, which is needed as the headset is on the heavier side.
Similar to other Pimax headsets, the Vision 8K X is compatible with any VR game, simulator and experience no matter which platform you choose — it just needs to be installed on your PC first. Both SteamVR and Oculus Home titles you have installed on your computer will automatically import to the Pimax Game Launcher located on the PiTool app.
The default refresh rate on the Pimax displays is 75Hz, although it can be bumped up to 90Hz with a RTX 3000-series or higher GPU. Overall, the headset is a pricey option which requires decent PC gear to operate at its full capacity, but its wide peripheral vision is ideal for racing and flight simulation.
HTC Vive Pro 2, MWave, RRP $1,299
Another premium-level choice is HTC’s Vive Pro 2, which is one of the highest resolution VR headsets available. While it does require a high-end gaming PC, reviewers say the Vive Pro 2 delivers impressive graphics, performance and comfort.
Arriving with features such as 5K graphics, hi-res sound and 2,448 x 2,448 pixels per eye, the headset is a huge improvement on the original Vive Pro. The Vive Pro 2 also offers a wide 120 degree horizontal field of view, effectively easing eye strain while delivering a more realistic gaming experience.
The headset can be used with both SteamVR and HTC’s very own VR software store, titled Viveport. Similar to Xbox, Viveport comes with its own subscription service, Viveport Infinity, that provides unlimited access to a wide selection of VR games and experiences.
Reviewers of the Vive Pro 2 have said the headset requires some calibration and can take a while to set up, but many have been quick to comment on the ‘stunning’ visual experience it offers. One commenter said of the Vive Pro 2, “If you can afford it, and if you can find enough games that you like, you’re investing in one of the best VR experiences available at the moment.”
HP Reverb G2 Virtual Reality Headset, MWave, RRP $959
With 2160 x 2160 LCD panels per eye and 114 degree field of view, HP’s Reverb G2 is a great mid-level VR headset option.
Sporting a new, adjustable face mask, the Reverb G2 allows you to customise your eye distance from the lenses to get an improved visual experience and ease eye strain. The headset itself is fairly lightweight and comfortable according to customers, and includes great drop-down speakers designed by Valve for a truly immersive audiovisual experience.
While it’s technically a Windows Mixed Reality headset, the Reverb G2 is also compatible with SteamVR, offering users a wide variety of games to choose from. According to one happy reviewer, “The HP Reverb G2 is a great headset for someone who is willing to pay a bit more for excellent visuals, comfort and decent ease of access as compared to Oculus.”
Customers have mentioned that the controllers aren’t as comfortable to use as others on the market and the tracking can be touch and go if your room is too bright or you hold the controllers too close to the camera sensors. Overall though, many have called it an “excellent headset” with “fantastic resolution”.
OIVO 3D Labo, Amazon Australia, RRP $92
While the OIVO 3D Labo has received mixed reviews from customers, it is essentially the only VR headset currently available for the Nintendo Switch, making it worth a mention. A more popular Nintendo Labo VR Starter Kit was available for some time, but it is now incredibly difficult to find in Australia, making the OIVO the way to go.
The budget-friendly headset has scored points with reviewers for its lightweight design that offers a comfortable wearing experience for both kids and adults. It also arrives with an adjustable head strap, which is ideal when it comes to fitting it to children.
Given its relatively cheap price point, users have also been happily surprised when it comes to image clarity; with one claiming that the OIVO is a great entry-level VR device. However, it is let down by the fact that it’s only compatible with a limited number of games.
Modes offered in Super Mario Odyssey, Smash Bros Ultimate and Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild all work well, however there seems to be little else you can use the headset with at this point in time. Shoppers will ultimately need to weigh up whether they think the cost is justified for the limited game selection currently available.
Merge VR Headset, Amazon Australia, RRP $69.95
If you’re looking for a VR headset for kids that’s both fun and educational, the Merge VR Headset has proved a popular choice among shoppers. Made from flexible and durable foam, the headset is soft on little faces and includes an adjustable lens for a better visual experience.
Compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones, the Merge VR offers a range of STEM games and videos that allows kids to explore the solar system, walk with dinosaurs, take virtual field trips and more.
The Merge Headset also works with augmented reality experiences using the “Merge Cube”, which is an award-winning STEM tool that allows kids to hold virtual objects and learn in new and entertaining ways.
The one downside to the headset is the extremely limited Australian availability. Currently, you can shop it at Amazon Australia, but you should be prepared to pay more than its original RRP if you want to get your hands on one.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: OCULUS QUEST 2 HEADSET ACCESSORIES
Given the lack of VR availability across the Australian market, the Oculus Quest 2 is currently the nation’s most accessible headset. This also makes it easier to find a range of accessories for the device, such as:
Oculus Quest 2 Carrying Case, Amazon Australia, RRP $79
Whether you’re travelling or at home, investing in a case for your Quest 2 headset is a good idea. This lightweight option provides protection from dust and scratches, while providing extra room for the Elite Strap or Elite Strap with battery.
Oculus Quest 2 Elite Strap, Amazon Australia, RRP $79
Keep your headset in the correct position as you move around with the help of Oculus’ Elite Strap. The flexible brace is designed to cradle the back of the head, effectively distributing the weight for longer and more comfortable gameplay.
VR Power for Oculus Quest, Amazon Australia, RRP $159.99
If you’re looking to extend the battery life of your Quest 2, this battery pack should do the trick. Arriving with an extra USB-C charging port for additional accessories, the VR Power offers up to eight hours of gaming when you start playing with a fully charged Quest 2 headset.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A VR HEADSET
VR headsets can be a great investment but most are quite pricey, making it worth taking a few factors into consideration before making a purchase. Before you add to cart, you may want to think about:
- The type of PC you own. If you’re looking for a PC-compatible VR headset, you will need to ensure your computer is powerful enough to meet the headset’s requirements. Ideally, you’ll want your PC to overshoot the headset’s minimum requirements by a fair bit, especially if you’re after a top-tier model. If upgrading your PC is out of the question, you can also consider snapping up a stand-alone headset such as the Oculus Quest 2, which doesn’t require a PC connection.
- Game compatibility. While most of the VR headsets on our list are compatible with both the brand’s own software store and SteamVR, some headsets offer more game and app availability than others. It’s worth checking out what’s on offer before deciding which headset to go with.
- Display resolution and field of view. In order to get the most out of VR, you’ll want to feel truly immersed in your game or app. The higher the display resolution and the wider the field of view on a headset is, the more realistic your virtual world will seem, so we recommend paying attention to the specs on each one.
Looking to discover more great gadgets? Head to our Best Of electronics section to see all the latest product guides and reviews. You can also sign up to our Best Of shopping newsletter to be kept in the loop about popular products and upcoming sales.
If you’re looking for a tech bargain, you can meanwhile head to our news.com.au Coupons page to see a list of current deals and offers.
Lauren is news.com.au’s Best Of consumer technology writer. She previously worked at comparison site Finder as the senior shopping writer where she reported on everything from tech gadgets to the latest home products. Prior to cutting her teeth as a journalist, she completed a Bachelor of journalism at the University of South Australia and worked as a media advisor for JB Hi-Fi where she sold the very products she now writes about.
‘Value for money’ mechanical keyboards for your PC
Blending an attractive design and responsive typing experience, this mechanical keyboard outshines its price tag.
‘Big problem’ with new PlayStation device
The PlayStation Portal may be an impressive piece of hardware, but its usability hinges on this one thing.
Lamp that ‘works like a charm’ plus the gaming accessories you need
Saving on space while brightening your desk, this desk accessory is a “must have” for those working or gaming in dimmer lighting conditions.
‘Brilliant quality’: Best gaming mice for all budgets
Praised for its great features and huge battery life, this "excellent" mouse has been spotted on sale.