Best VR headsets 2026: how to choose the right model

Metaverses, spatial computing, gaming and more – there's plenty to think about when it comes to the virtual world. Our guide to buying the best VR headset will help you decide which might suit your needs.

From fully immersing yourself in virtual landscapes to chatting with friends and family, virtual and mixed-reality headsets are often touted as the 'next big thing' in entertainment and productivity. 

Prices start at around £300, but can cost thousands - the Apple Vision Pro costs well over £3,000. Here's what you need to know when buying a VR headset.

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How do I choose a good VR headset?

VR headsets have come a long way since the first consumer model  – the Oculus Rift – was released in 2016. Most popular headsets are now all-in-ones, meaning you don't need a beefy PC to run games or apps.

When buying a VR headset, be clear what you want to use it for. We also recommend thinking about the following:

• All-in-one: Most new models like the Meta Quest 3S, 3 and the Apple Vision Pro won't need extra hardware such as a PC to run programs or games.
• No extra peripherals or accessories: This means you won't need extra cameras, sensors or trackers. While you can get a slew of extra accessories to further immerse yourself in virtual worlds, we'd recommend only picking those if you're really into VR gaming. If you want to play a few games casually, watch films, or use productivity features, you probably don't need to spend hundreds – or even thousands – on a haptic feedback vest or an omni-directional treadmill to use with your headset. Most modern mixed and virtual reality headsets have their tracking sensors built into the headset, but there are more expensive, enthusiast-level headsets like the HTC Vive Pro 2 or the Valve Steam Index that require setting up external 'lighthouses' or base stations that will more accurately track your movements in VR.
• Tethering capabilities: You should be looking for a headset that doesn't require a PC to run apps, but it's always a nice option to have if you want to experience a graphically demanding program. Meta's Quest 3 and 3S can all be plugged into a PC if you want to use specific apps that might not be on Meta's storefront.
• Consider price: There are cheaper headsets such as the £100 Zapbox. This is a mixed-reality headset that uses your phone as the display and a pair of Bluetooth controllers to interact with objects, but you might be a bit hard-pressed finding content such as games or apps. Meta's popular Quest 3 costs nearly triple that at £290, but you'll get access to a lot more apps and since it houses on-board hardware you won't need to use your phone as a display or your PC to power it. 

What can you use a VR headset for?

There are several ways you can use a VR headset, but they're most commonly used for entertainment and gaming, including watching films and exploring virtual worlds.

One of VR's growing uses is for productivity. Headsets can be used for professional tasks such as creating 3D models of prototype products, running simulations to practice trades such as welding or plumbing, making art, or holding immersive online meetings.

Most popular VR headset models

Meta Quest 3

Buy directly from Meta, or you can check prices on the 512GB headset below:

• Mixed reality and full VR headset
• Available with 128GB or 512GB of storage
• Does not need a separate PC or console to run

We like: Good for both MR and VR

Watch out for: More expensive than other models

Meta's flagship model, this headset is a real all-rounder when it comes to VR gaming or MR productivity.  We haven't tested the Quest 3, but with its wealth of features we'd say it's probably the headset with the most for your money if you're looking to use both productivity and gaming features.

The Quest 3 has a higher resolution per eye, which can make things inside your virtual world appear more detailed and sharp. 

It comes with controllers and has hand tracking. However, it doesn't have eye-tracking built-in.

Meta Quest 3S

Buy directly from Meta, or compare prices on the 128GB model below:

• Mixed-reality and full VR headset
• Available with 128GB or 256GB of storage
• Does not need a separate PC or console to run

We like: Budget-friendly VR

Watch out for: Not as high resolution per eye

If you're looking for a VR headset on a budget, the Quest 3S is a scaled-back version of Meta's Quest 3 headset. It offers VR and mixed reality at a lower price than many other headsets, but it's focused on entertainment and gaming rather than creative work.

The big differences between the Quest 3 and 3S are the screens inside each headset – the Quest 3S has a lower resolution per eye than the Quest 3, meaning things won't be as detailed while you're in VR. Other than that, the Quest 3S and 3 both share the same processor and have 8GB of Ram.

If you want more storage, you can pay extra for the 256GB model.

HTC Vive Focus Vision

• Mixed-reality and full VR headset
• Comes with 128GB storage, but can be expanded with a microSD card
• Does not need a separate PC, but can be used with one

We like: Lots of bells and whistles

Watch out for: Pricier than other models

This is a gaming-focused VR headset, that you can either use on its own or plugged into a computer to run via Valve's SteamVR. It can also use mixed-reality programs.

It has a 5K display with 2448 x 2448 pixels per eye and a higher refresh rate at 90Hz, or an optional 120Hz when plugged into a PC. This is just higher than the Meta Quest 3, meaning that things will look sharper and more detailed while you're in VR. It also has more Ram than other models at 12GB.

With this headset, you'll get features such as built-in 3D spatial audio, plus eye, face, and hand tracking. There's also hot-swappable batteries, which allows you to change batteries without interrupting any VR sessions.

Apple Vision Pro

Buy directly from Apple.

• 'Spatial computing' headset
• Available with 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage
• Does not need a separate PC or console to run

We like: Packed with tech

Watch out for: Really, really, really expensive

The Vision Pro is a mixed-reality headset with a focus on what Apple calls 'spatial computing'. This headset isn't geared towards gaming but rather recreating your desktop in the virtual world. You can link it wirelessly to a MacBook or other Apple computer to access files or use your computer through the headset. Currently, there isn't an easy way to use the Vision Pro with a PC.

The headset uses sensors to track your eye movements. It doesn't have any controllers, instead you click on something by looking at it and tap your fingers to interact. It's mainly used for productivity and everyday tasks that you'd usually do on a computer. 

It's not cheap though – the headset starts at an eye-watering £3,199 for the 256GB model. The 1TB model costs from £3,599.

PlayStation VR2

Buy from PlayStation, or compare prices below:

• VR-only headset
• Must be used with a PlayStation 5
• Wired

We like: It's what we all wish we were – all play and no work

Watch out for: Cheaper than other models, but you'll need to factor in the cost of a PS5, too

The PSVR2 is Sony's VR headset exclusive to the PlayStation 5, and won't work without one. This may suit someone who already owns a PS5 or wants to play some of the exclusive VR titles.

While the headset has eye tracking, this is mainly so you can look at objects in games or menus and select them using a controller. You'll need to use either the included motion controllers or a regular PS5 controller. 

If you're after a PlayStation 5, we'd recommend checking out our guide on the best PS5 deals, or comparing prices on the console below:

Should you buy a PlayStation 5? Read our guide for everything you need to know when buying a PS5.

Best deals on VR headsets

Our pick: Meta Quest 3s (128GB)

Average price in the past six months: £279.34. Cheapest price in the past six months: £229 

Buy directly from Meta, or compare prices below:

We like: More affordable for a standalone

Watch out for: Lower resolution and less storage than Meta Quest 3

This mixed-reality VR headset has similar specs and features to Meta's flagship headset, the Meta Quest 3, but costs significantly less. 

The catch? There's less resolution per eye in the headset at 1,832x1,920 (compared to 2,064x2,208 on the regular Quest 3). This can make some things look a bit more blurry in VR, but we think the savings are worth it.

A VR headset makes a great gift, but if you're looking for something a bit less expensive why not look at the other best gifts for gamers?

Mixed reality vs virtual reality vs augmented reality

AR, VR, and now MR? Here's a quick overview of the differences:

• Augmented reality (AR) is a digital overlay on top of the physical world, which you can't interact with or 'touch' - unlike in mixed or virtual reality. You can, however, place objects such as animals and products and view them through your phone's camera. 
• Mixed reality (MR) is the middle ground between AR and VR, where you'll view the physical world with digital elements overlaid, but you can interact with objects using a controller or other peripheral. Examples of this include playing a digital game of pool or board game in your living room using a headset, or painting in 3D in an open space.
• Virtual reality (VR) is a fully digital world or environment. You won't be able to see the real world, which can trick our audio and visual senses into believing something is real, even if it isn't. This is the most common use for headsets, so we typically refer to them as VR headsets – even if they have MR and AR capabilities. In VR, you don't necessarily need to be able to interact with objects or elements for it to be virtual reality – although you often can.

One of the easiest ways to understand the difference is to consider it a spectrum of how much you're being immersed in a digital world.

The best VR headsets will be able to cross this entire spectrum.

Which VR headset is best? 

We can't say for sure since we haven't put any VR headsets through our lab testing. 

But which one you buy will depend on what you want to use it for: gaming or productivity. 

The headsets with the most games available are the Meta Quest 3S and 3. You can game on other, more 'professionally-focused' models but the headset has been designed with working rather than gaming in mind, so we can't say you'll have the best experience playing graphically intense games.

If you want to create art, edit videos, or join meetings, the Apple Vision Pro is likely your best bet – although it's an extremely expensive headset.

If you're looking to save money, the Meta Quest 3 has many premium MR features for a fraction of the price. We can't guarantee it'll be a seamless experience, but it could be a good option if you're after an all-in-one package for gaming and productivity.

If you already have a PlayStation 5, the PSVR2 is probably the most solid option for you. You'll also be able to play exclusive games such as Horizon: Call of the Mountain and use it to replace a TV or monitor when gaming.

Did you know you can pilot a drone with some VR headsets? Read our guide on how to buy the best drone and pilot it safely.

What games can you play on a VR headset?

There are lots of games and virtual experiences you can try out on headsets like the Meta Quest 3 or 3S, or the PlayStation VR2 – like slaying colourful boxes in the rhythm game Beat Saber, living the action film sequences of your dreams in Superhot, figuring out immersive spy puzzles in I Expect You to Die, or adventuring in role-playing games like Skyrim VR. If you're interested in looking at which games are available, you can view them on the Meta Store.

With the PSVR2, you will find several VR games that are exclusive to PlayStation, such as Horizon: Call of the Mountain, Gran Turismo 7, or The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR. You can check out the games available on the PlayStation Store.

Are VR headsets safe for kids to use? 

Meta advises children under 13 not to use Meta VR headsets, while the minimum age for the PSVR2 is 12. 

This is mainly because most VR headsets aren't designed for people under 13. Headsets may be too big or heavy, which can strain younger children's necks. Since kids' eyesight may still be developing, having screens so close to their eyes may strain them. 

Kids and adults alike are also prone to motion sickness in VR, too.

Do VR headsets have parental controls?

As most of the activity happens within the headset, it can sometimes be difficult to see what your children may be up to while they're using one. 

While a lot of popular VR games are fairly family-friendly, apps such as free digital chat room VRChat allow users as young as 13 but features adult content in some of its servers. It's not all bad, but it's difficult to moderate users' voice communications which could leave your kids exposed to bad actors online.

There are a lot of parental controls on Meta's Quest 3 and 3S, and on the PlayStation 5.

On Meta's headsets, you can connect to your teen's account, set spending limits, set up notifications whenever they get something from the Meta Store, set time limits, block specific apps and inappropriate content, and limit who can communicate with them. You can learn more about Meta's parental controls from its website, or read how to block specific apps.

For PlayStation VR headsets, you can set age restrictions, block age-inappropriate content, set time limits, control communication, restrict access to apps and websites, and set spending limits. You can find out more about how to set these up through PlayStation's website.

On top of parental controls, we'd also recommend encouraging your child to only use the headsets in family spaces like a living room, and consider using the headset's casting features to display what your kids are doing on a nearby TV or screen.

5 safety tips for VR

1. Create more space than you think you'll need: while Meta's headsets include its 'guardian' features which show you the boundaries of your selected play area, we'd still recommend giving yourself an extra foot or so of space from any walls, shelves and furniture.
2. When playing VR, make sure your play area stays clear: while you're using your headset, you won't be able to see your real-life surroundings. At the time of writing, headsets don't have sensors or features that let you know when something else enters your play area – like a child or pet. To avoid tripping or falling, we'd urge you to keep pets in another room or in an enclosed area, and make sure any spectators stay out of the play area. The best failsafe is to have someone else present to ensure your play area is clear – although we'd urge you to let them have a go, too.
3. Take breaks: doing activities in virtual reality can be surprisingly strenuous. Depending on the app, experience or game you'll be using your body to be part of the controller – meaning you'll be crouching, standing, and moving your arms a lot. Expect to get a bit sweaty, and remember to take breaks every once in a while. Meta recommends taking breaks every 30 minutes when you're first starting out.
4. Watch out for 'cybersickness': a form of motion sickness, you may experience cybersickness while using VR. This happens when your senses report conflicting signals to your brain, leaving you disoriented, lightheaded, or nauseous. You can typically get over cybersickness by taking screen breaks, slowing your movements on screens, or periodically focusing your eyes on something more stable.
5. Pay attention to comfort ratings: most apps and games from digital storefronts like the Quest Store will have a comfort rating ranging from 'comfortable' to 'intense'. This will give you a sense of how much movement you'll be doing in a program or game and warn you of potentially disorienting effects and content that could leave you cybersick.

Common VR questions

Can I wear my glasses?

You can, but depending on the size of your glasses, it might be a bit cramped inside the headset. 

Meta headsets come with a glasses spacer, which says you can use glasses up to 142mm x 50mm (W X H) or smaller within Quest 3 and 3S headsets.

Sony says its PSVR2 headset can accommodate players with glasses but offers no guidance on maximum frame sizes.

You can't wear glasses with Apple's Vision Pro.

If your glasses don't fit or are too big, you might risk scratching or scuffing the lenses on both your VR headset and glasses. 

If your glasses are too big, you can wear contacts (if possible) or – if you use your VR headset often – you can also order custom prescription lenses to install on your headset. They'll cost extra, though, typically between £40 and £80, depending on the headset.

Will VR hurt my eyes?

There isn't any evidence that VR can damage your eyesight, but your eyes can experience strain and discomfort if you use it for too long. If you're prone to eye fatigue from screens, a VR headset isn't going to make things better.

To prevent eye fatigue and strain, we'd recommend making sure you take breaks every half hour or so. 

Can my VR headset be hacked? 

Like any tech or computer, yes, it can. However, it's more likely that the Meta, Apple, or PlayStation account associated with your headset will be hacked to get personal or payment details.

Scammers can put spyware on your headset to track your inputs to get passwords or other sensitive information. Your headset could get infected with malware, although VR software development isn't the easiest, so it's more likely that scammers looking for a quick buck will resort to phishing attacks. Remember not to click any suspicious links and to verify identities if you're talking to someone. You can read more on how to spot social media scams to keep yourself safe online.

Most headsets get software support from Meta, Apple or PlayStation, so it's likely that user security is a priority. Companies such as Meta offer to pay out bounties in the tens of thousands of dollars to ethical hackers who can find vulnerabilities in Quest headsets so Meta can fix any security flaws.

If you're worried, you can put antivirus software on your headset. Just be sure to read our guide on the best antivirus before subscribing or buying.

Read up on our latest scam alerts to avoid getting ripped off.

Can a VR headset replace a monitor?

The short answer is 'kind of'.

Meta's Quest headsets can connect to a computer, and from there, you can use your PC's desktop with the headset and controllers. That said, it's not super intuitive since you'll need to use your controllers as a mouse, and unless you've memorised your keyboard, typing isn't easy either.

With the PSVR2, you'll likely have an easier time using the headset as a display since it has integrated software that allows you to play regular PS5 games, watch shows, and use the console as normal. 

This won't turn standard PS5 games into VR. Instead, you'll face a 2D 'screen' in VR and be surrounded by a dark void. You'll be able to use the console as normal from there.

Apple's Vision Pro uses sensors to track your eyes and hands to control your tabs and windows. Since it's designed to be a standalone 'spatial' computer, it's likely the most viable (and expensive) option. You can connect it to a separate computer to use the Vision Pro as a display for it. This works best with Mac computers, and while there is a workaround to get it working with PCs, it requires separate hardware and software that aren't supported by either Apple or Microsoft. 

How long should I use a VR headset for?

While it can depend on the person, we'd recommend following Meta's guidelines of using VR for around 30 minutes at a time, followed by a 10 to 15-minute break. For younger children and teens, we'd recommend reducing that slightly to 15 or 20-minute playtimes followed by a short break.