VRChat is a social platform that allows users to interact with each other using 3D character models. If you want to get the most pleasant and convenient playing experience, you need some specific VR headset for VRChat that will be just right for this purpose.
There are three types of VR headsets that you can use for VRChat: smartphone VR, PC VR, and standalone VR headset. The first one is the cheapest option and is used along with a smartphone. The second one connects to your computer via HDMI cable, USB port, or Bluetooth. A standalone VR headset already includes all the necessary hardware inside and doesn’t require a phone or PC.
Luckily, for VRChat, you don’t need the most powerful or expensive model. Since this is a chat platform that implies visual and sound interaction with others, the best VR headset for VRChat must provide a high-quality image and have a decent mic. It’s also important to pay attention to the quality of such a feature as motion tracking: it must be of a high quality to accurately transmit your actions to other players.
In this article, we will reveal our top 9 VR headsets for VRChat. Check out their unique features and pros and cons to find the most suitable model for your budget. Scroll down to our buyer’s guide if you want to find out some more information about VR headsets, their features and construction.
VR Headset For VRchat Reviews
Oculus Quest 64GB
The Oculus Quest 64GB comes as an all-in-one unit, which means that you won’t need any additional accessories. It’s extremely easy to set up: just install the Oculus app, and your VRchat headset is ready for work.
The unit uses sensors with room-scale, so you can play in almost any place and in any position you like (standing, sitting, etc.).
This Oculus Quest VRChat headset uses an advanced tracking system, which tracks your movements with great precision. The device comes with two handheld controllers that allow you to naturally make such gestures in VRChat as “fist” and “victory”. Each controller incorporates two buttons and a joystick.
The device runs on Android. Having a resolution of 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye, it’s able to provide a high-quality, clear image. The refresh rate is also quite decent — 72 Hz. Nevertheless, the memory storage capacity of this model is quite average — 64 GB.
When fully charged, the Oculus Quest can deliver about 2 – 3 hours of gameplay. The built-in speakers provide stereo audio of good quality. This model also features two 3.5mm audio jacks for external headphones and a built-in mic.
In terms of design, the gadget is made of black matte plastic and has rounded edges. On the bottom of the unit, you see an IPD adjustment slider and volume control buttons. It weighs 1.25 lbs.
Pros
- The unit is equipped with cameras that allow viewing your surroundings with a headset on.
- It’s able to hold up to five places in its memory, so you can freely move from place to place without having to repeat the setup.
- It’s equipped with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor.
Cons
- It’s not recommended to use this model outdoors since the sun can cause damaging effect on the Oculus Quest lenses.
- The screen is a little bit grainy.
Video Oculus Quest 64GB
Oculus Quest 128GB
The Oculus Quest VRChat headset is a standalone, Android-based device. It provides everything so you can start playing right out of the box. The unit works with the help of the Oculus app and doesn’t need any additional hardware.
This model has an all-black design. Its tracking system works great in recreating the user’s movements. The control over the unit is provided by two Oculus Touch controllers which provide precise tracking even when you move your hands very fast. The tracking ring is located on top of each one.
Its room-scale system allows you to play in any environment. It also can offer an interpupillary distance adjustment (with the help of a specialized slider on the bottom of the headset).
It boasts an ample memory capacity of 128 GB. The unit works about 2 – 3 hours on one charge. Controllers work with the help of AA batteries (one battery for each controller).
The present model can ensure a truly high image quality thanks to an OLED display with a resolution of 1440 × 1600 pixels per eye.
Although this VR headset for VRChat has a built-in audio system, it’s also possible to connect external headphones via two 3.5mm jacks, located on either side of the headset. There is also a built-in mic.
The software of the Oculus Quest constantly updates. This means that it will be receiving new features regularly.
The unit is also spacious enough to be called potentially the best VR headset for people with glasses. It has quite an average weight of 1.25 lbs.
Pros
- The Passthrough system automatically turns on the room view when you exit the boundary area.
- You can use Oculus Link cable to connect the headset to a PC via a USB cable if you need it.
- This model can increase the sweet spot of the lenses.
Cons
- The unit feels heavy on cheekbones.
- The built-in speakers sound very quiet.
Video Oculus Quest 64GB
Oculus Go
Even though the Oculus Go is quite a cheap VR headset for VRChat, it’s equipped with all the necessary features to provide a decent playing experience. The headset works on the base of an energy-efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, which lowers down the power consumption, so you can play VRChat for about 2.5 hours in a row.
The Oculus Go VRChat headset has a white matte design. The unit is portable and convenient to wear as it weighs only one lb.
There are two buttons on top of the device: volume control and a Power Sleep/Wake button. It also comes with one pistol-grip controller that has a power LED light, touchpad, Back and Home buttons. However, it may provide some inconvenience for people who are used to two controllers.
This VRchat headset also features a pair of built-in speakers with a pretty good 3D effect. They are located on the head straps. There is also a 3.5 mm audio jack for headphones and two mics.
It’s equipped with an LCD (with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels per eye), which looks particularly pleasing when reading a text. The refresh rate is standard — 60 Hz. In terms of memory, you can choose between 32 GB and 64 GB models.
Pros
- It’s equipped with very soft foam padding, which gently presses to your face.
- This model uses a foveated imaging to make games look better.
- There is a massive library with more than 1000 VR apps.
Cons
- It doesn’t have a room tracking feature. It means that it can be used only in sitting or standing position.
- It’s not recommended for kids as there is no kid-safe mode.
Video Oculus Go
Oculus Rift + Touch
This VRChat VR headset is a PC-tethered model, so it requires a PC and internet connection to function. The headset has a resolution of 1080 x 1200 pixels per eyy, providing an average image quality. However, the display refresh rate of 90 Hz is really impressive. As for audio reproduction, the device is equipped with a pair of built-in on-ear headphones that provide a spatial sound. It also features a built-in mic.
This model can lay up claim to be the best VR headset for VRChat in terms of control as it comes with two Oculus Touch controllers that feel very natural and provide extremely precise control. They are equipped with an analog stick, three control buttons, and a motion tracking function.
The headset has a rectangular shape with rounded edges, a black matte color design, and a completely flat front panel. There is also a small switch on the bottom of the unit that serves to adjust the lenses.
This VR headset weighs 1.2 lbs, so it’s really lightweight.
Pros
- The Oculus Rift uses a three-strap harness with hook-and-loop fasteners to firmly secure the unit on your head.
- You can pivot and flip the headphones up/down to fit them on your ears in the right position.
- In addition to standard controllers, it also comes with a small remote control, equipped with three control buttons and a navigation pad.
Cons
- It works only with PCs that have powerful video card (at least NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti).
- The Oculus Rift requires 4 USB ports for connection.
- The text sometimes looks blurry.
Video Oculus Rift + Touch
Oculus Rift S
The Oculus Rift S runs on Android. It’s remarkable for having a high resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels per eye, so you can be sure that all the textures in VRChat will be sharp. The display has vivid colors with a minimal screen door effect. It also has quite a decent refresh rate of 80 Hz.
To start using the Oculus Rift S, you only need to connect it to your computer via DisplayPort (the 16-foot cable is included in the kit). The Rift S requires Windows 10, 8 GB + RAM, and recommends using NVIDIA GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 480 graphics card.
The unit has a black matte design and weighs 1.1 lbs. On the lower part of the front panel, you will see a blue LED power light and two cameras that serve for environment recognition. The left and the right sides of the unit include two cameras as well. It also uses Halo headband, which securely keeps the headset on your head no matter how much you move.
The Oculus Rift S uses advanced speakers that are aimed right into your ears to project direct sound, allowing you to hear even the quietest sounds. You also can connect your own headphones via 3.5 mm audio jack, located on the side of the headset. The built-in mic is also included.
The Rift S kit includes two controllers that provide accurate control and track the moves of your hands. The advanced Oculus Insight tracking system is responsible for transmitting your head moves into VR and also provides a room-scale tracking function.
Pros
- There is a special button on the headset that allows moving the lenses closer or farther from your eyes, making the use more comfortable for the eyesight.
- A special Guardian system allows you to easily define virtual walls around your environment so you can play safely.
- The kit includes a DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort adapter.
Cons
- It can’t be connected via HDMI port.
- Despite having high resolution, it uses a simple LCD instead of OLED, which is quite weird.
Video Oculus Rift S
HTC VIVE Pro
The HTC VIVE Pro is a pro-grade VR system that requires connection to your PC (via HDMI 1.4, USB 3.0, or DisplayPort 1.2). The PC requirements aren’t high: it requires at least 4 GB RAM and works with Windows 7 or newer models.
It features a high-tech VR 2.0 tracking system with room-scaling and superior tracking accuracy, which is perfect for such a multi-user platform as VRChat. It also allows the users to play in any position.
The HTC VIVE tech specs are quite impressive, for example, high 90 Hz refresh rate. This model also uses an AMOLED display with a resolution of 2880 x 1600 pixels per eye, so all textures and graphics look very detailed.
When it comes to sound, the VIVE Pro can offer something impressive as well. The built-in headphones provide a high-resolution surround sound. This way, this model can be considered as the best headset for VRChat in terms of audio reproduction. There is also a 3.5 mm audio jack for headphones and a built-in microphone.
The HTC VIVE Pro goes in a blue-colored case and weighs 1.1 lbs.
This VR headset comes with two controllers and a pair of motion-tracking base stations that should be installed in your room. These controllers are equipped with a multi-functional trackpad and a trigger.
The most unique feature of this model is, probably, the Vive Tracker Ecosystem. It allows bringing objects from the real world into virtual reality.
Pros
- The inbuilt headphones have an active noise cancellation function, which contributes to a more immersive sound.
- There are rubber nose guards that prevent slippages.
- The unit has a very even weight distribution, so you can barely feel it on your head.
Cons
- The adjustment system is a bit of a pain. It took a lot of time to place the headset just right on my head.
- The face pad heats up pretty fast, making you sweat.
Video HTC VIVE Pro
HTC Vive Pro Eye
If you aren’t on a budget and want to get the most realistic and impressive experience with VRChat, the HTC Vive Pro Eye can possibly be your perfect option. It’s remarkable for having a super-accurate eye movement tracking system. It’s also able to provide an extensive VR experience as it features the room-scale function.
This model has a 90 Hz refresh rate and display resolution of 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye, which can provide graphic fidelity, rich colors, and sharp contrast. It also provides a wide field of view (110°). The integrated headphones give out almost professional-grade sound. They are also Hi-Res certified.
This VR headset is equipped with dual integrated mics and 3.5 mm audio jack.
This model has a blue body with rounded edges and weighs 1.2 lbs. There are two cameras in the center of the front panel. It’s adjustable to different head sizes, so anyone can comfortably wear this VR gear.
The Vive Pro Eye provides broad connectivity options. You can connect it to your PC or laptop via USB-C 3.0, DP 1.2, or Bluetooth.
This VR headset comes with two base stations and two regulators, equipped with multi-functional trackpads.
Pros
- This model provides various types of interactions, such as heatmapping, gaze tracking, etc.
- This gadget uses foveated rendering, which reduces the peripheral vision, so your eyes get tired less.
- This model is highly adjustable to various vision types.
Cons
- You can use this VR headset only with at least a GTX 1060 video card for convenient and lag-free playing.
- The front-facing cameras fail to turn on sometimes.
HTC Vive
This model offers a wide playing area thanks to room-scale function. You also can use it in any position that works for you. It can sync with your PC wirelessly via Bluetooth (or via HDMI or USB 2.0). This model weighs only one lb and goes in a black case with one front-mounted camera.
This VR headset boasts a great OLED display with a resolution of 2160 × 1200 pixels, which can provide an immersive and realistic picture. It also has a refresh rate of 90 Hz. The built-in headphones provide directional audio. There is also a built-in mic and 3 mm audio jack.
There is a spin button on the right side of the headset, which serves to adjust focus. The HTC Vive also has adjustable straps and eye relief adjustment. It’s even able to accommodate glasses.
It comes with two controllers with tracking function and two base stations. The controllers are equipped with 24 sensors, designed to catch signals from base stations, providing accurate tracking.
Pros
- This model uses a Lighthouse tracking system that is capable of creating a 360° virtual space.
- In the box, you will find a code that will give you two months to VIVEPORT for free.
- The Chaperone system provides safety as it warns you when you are about to exit your playing area and activate the view from the camera.
Cons
- The cushions aren’t moisture-proof.
- The sound is somewhat distorted at high volume levels, which is quite disappointing as for the price.
Samsung Odyssey
This unit runs on Windows operating system. The AMOLED display has a resolution of 1600 x 1440 pixels per eye with a 110° field of view and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. The image is detailed, with not very noticeable “God Rays”.
The unit is equipped with a built-in mic and AKG headphones that provide high-quality spatial audio reproduction. It also provides surround sound.
The oval-shaped front panel has a glossy black finish. Two cameras are located on the bottom part of the front panel. The headband can be adjusted to your head size. In comparison with other VRChat compatible headsets, this one is somewhat heavy, weighing 1.42 lbs.
This model supports 6 DOF, providing full freedom of movement. It also means that you won’t need any external sensors.
For the Samsung Odyssey setup, you are going to need HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.2, and one USB 3.0 port. Samsung recommends connecting the headset to a PC with such specs: GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 470 video card and at least 8 GB of RAM. And don’t forget to make sure that your computer is updated to Windows 10.
The Samsung Odyssey comes with two controllers. Each one is equipped with a trigger, a touchpad, a thumbstick, Menu and Windows buttons.
Pros
- The unit has an anti-SDE display.
- Thanks to direct full-array backlight, the screen provides fine contrast and deep colors. It can be especially handy when it comes to dark scenes reproduction as you can see them in every detail.
- The padding of this headset stays cool even during hours of wear.
Cons
- The build quality of the unit gives some cheap feel; the case seems to be made of low quality plastic.
- It feels heavy on the forehead.
Video Samsung Odyssey
Buyer’s Guide
How To Choose The Best VR Headset For VRChat?
VRChat is a great platform for VR headset, which allows you to meet people from different parts of the world. However, can you play VRChat without a headset? Yes, but it definitely won’t provide you with the ultimate playing experience. That is why you need to buy a VR headset of good quality to fully enjoy this platform. Thus, to choose the right device, you have to pay attention to such things:
- It should have extensive storage memory to provide a lag-free, convenient playing.
- Since it’s a chat platform, the sound is also important to carry out a decent quality of your conversations, so pay attention to audio specs as well. Check if the VR headset supports 3D audio.
- In terms of refresh rate, the indicator of 60 Hz will be enough, but, of course, the higher the better.
- It should have a good resolution of at least 1080 x 1200 pixels per eye so you can see the surroundings and the avatars of your interlocutors in high definition.
- Motion tracking is also important to perfectly replicate your movements. The best VR set for VRChat must support all 6 types of movements.
- You also have to make sure that the headset is lightweight but made of a durable material. This way, it will be both convenient to wear and long-lasting.
VR Headset Features
It provides separate images for each eye and has stereo sound. This device is also equipped with numerous sensors (a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, etc.). Thanks to that, a VR headset can track six types of your movement:
- surging (back and forth movements);
- rolling (tilting head from side to side);
- strafing (moving in one direction or another);
- pitching (head tilt back and forth);
- elevating (up and down movements);
- yawing (turning left or right).
The VR headset also comes with special devices that track hand movements.
Main VR Headset Parts
The main part of all VRChat-compatible headsets is a viewing box. It must provide enough space so you won’t feel any discomfort. Smartphone VR headset must be even more spacious to hold the phone inside. If it’s not roomy enough, you will start feeling nauseous and dizzy. The distance between lenses is also important: if the lenses aren’t perfectly wide apart, it will be harmful for your vision. Also, enough room between your eyes and the lenses prevents you from heating.
In the case if you wear eyeglasses, it will be better to look for specific models that are designed to be worn along with eyeglasses or at least check the dimensions of the headset before buying.
The vast majority of VRChat headsets are made of plastic. Some models can be made of other synthetic materials. The simplest models are made of cardboard.
Lenses are another substantial part of the VR headset. They map the up-close display to a wide field of view and provide a more convenient distant focus point. Most VR headsets use Fresnel lenses because they are compact and lightweight.