The Oculus Quest 2 is easily the best value in VR and may be one of the best values in gaming. Despite a price hike last year, the headset is still significantly cheaper than anything else on the market. However what really convinces people to buy the Oculus Quest 2 is the fact that the headset has a built-in processor. Meaning it doesn’t require any other devices like computers or game consoles to work.
While the Quest 2 isn’t the absolute best VR headset, it does serve as a fantastic entry-level option. More importantly, it provides access to a wide library of games and entertainment apps. However, what may solidify the purchase for PC gamers is that you can use the Quest 2 on a gaming PC. Of course, the Quest 2 also offers a fair bit of customizability, so you can overcome many of the device’s complaints.
All-in-One Solution
- Self-contained, no PC required
- 360-degree field of view
- 3D positional audio
- Hand tracking with haptic feedback
- 128GB
The number one reason to buy an Oculus Quest 2 is that it is an all-in-one VR headset. The vast majority of VR headsets on the market require another device, such as a PC or game console. However, the Oculus Quest 2 packs everything you need in a compact headset. Keep in mind that it does come with some limitations of its own.
The Oculus Quest 2 not only holds the necessary sensors and screens, but also a full computer processor. It runs on a Qualcomm processor, and its circuitry is essentially a mobile phone. This design is what allows everything to fit in such a small package. What may be the most impressive aspect of the Oculus Quest 2 is that the battery is even included, so it is entirely wireless.
Of course, the controllers are separate, but it is otherwise a standalone device. Meaning it has its own store and operating system that is not reliant on any other software or app stores. The downside is that the headset is a little heavy because of all the extra hardware. Similarly, the processing power and the battery also feel a little undersized, but they don’t hinder the overall experience that much.
Decent Game Selection
It’s no secret that VR doesn’t have the biggest selection of games. But because the Oculus Quest 2 is one of the most widely adopted headsets, it has widespread support. All of the games on the Quest 2 are available through the Quest Store. Once purchased, you can add the games to the console at any time. There are even some free games and apps that are also worth checking out.
However, the big titles on the Quest 2 are BeatSaber, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners, and Among Us VR, to name a few. But there are plenty of other titles from major publishers and indie developers alike. But keep in mind that the Quest 2 provides plenty of other entertainment beyond just games, and you can always play PC VR games.
Value
The Quest 2 is easily the best value in VR gaming. In fact, the reason that you are probably considering the Quest 2 is that it’s a great value. The headset did get a price hike in 2022, which increased both the 128GB and 256GB models by $100. The good news is that Meta recently dropped the prices of both headsets again. Unfortunately, they are still more expensive than their original MSRP.
But despite the price hikes, the Quest 2 is still the cheapest VR headset, considering what it has to offer. The only cheaper device was the PSVR, but that has since been replaced with a much more expensive second generation. In addition, you needed a PlayStation 4 console.
Nearly all of the other headsets on the market require a computer. For instance, the HTC Vive and Valve Index are VR headsets. However, they are more than double the price of a Quest 2 and also require a high-end gaming PC in order to use. Even cheap VR options like Google Cardboard rely on a mobile phone for the image, and the usability is terrible.
While some people complain about the Quest 2’s displays, they are still very high resolution. At the Quest 2’s low price, it provides a resolution that nearly removes the screendoor effect. Meaning the lines between pixels are barely recognizable. But most impressive is that the headset is able to run these displays off of a mobile phone processor.
Access More than VR Content
When most people think of VR, the first thing that comes to mind is video games. While that may be one of the main uses and biggest selling points, it is only a small fraction of the device’s ultimate potential. There are options for watching movies in a theater-like atmosphere, 3D videos on sites like YouTube, and even educational tools.
With Meta being a social media company, they put a heavy emphasis on the social aspects of the Quest 2 headset. Many of the headset’s apps allow you to invite friends and even interact with strangers. There are even fitness apps that let you exercise. Some apps even let you use the headset as a virtual workspace, displaying a desk and monitors around you.
PC VR
One of the Quest 2’s best-kept secrets is that it also works on PCs. While this really isn’t a secret, it is something that few users take into consideration when making a purchase. If you’ve looked at PC VR headsets, then you know just how expensive they can get. But with a Quest 2, you get the benefits of a standalone device but also have the option to connect to a PC.
Of course, there are some limitations to using a PC. For instance, you typically need to use a special USB-C cable that Meta sells. Fortunately, there are cheaper options available through third parties. There are also ways to use it wirelessly with a computer, but that is a little more complex. The biggest drawback is that you need a powerful gaming PC with an even more powerful GPU.
- Compatible with official Meta Quest hardware and accessories
- Speeds up to 5Gbps
- Extra long 16-foot cable
- USB-C cable charges your headset’s built-in battery while you play
Customizable
- Stabilizing straps to give additional support
- Lifts weight of headset away from your face for more comfort
- Personalize your fit with adjustable fit wheel
- Set up by removing your original strap and snapping the Elite Strap into place
The Quest 2 offers a fair bit of customizability. Everything from the head strap to the batteries and even the cushion on it can be swapped out. The head strap easily pops off, allowing you to use the Elite Strap or even a third-party one. You can even get a head strap that has additional battery packs for longer runtime.
- Extend your gaming time while increasing your comfort
- Built-in second battery
- Re-charge your Elite Strap battery and your Quest 2 headset battery simultaneously
- Adjustable fit wheel lets you find the correct fit
While you technically can’t replace the headset’s batteries, it is possible to connect additional battery packs to it. These are generally added in a head strap. The cushion that goes around your face is another major upgrade, especially if you wear glasses or the material is bothersome. The biggest downside is that you can’t upgrade the memory, so it’s a good idea to buy the 256GB Oculus Quest 2 if you think you may need the space.
- $79.00Buy on Amazon
- Compatible with official Meta Quest hardware and accessories
- Speeds up to 5Gbps
- Extra long 16-foot cable
- USB-C cable charges your headset’s built-in battery while you play
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11/30/2023 05:35 pm GMT - $59.00Buy on Amazon
- Stabilizing straps to give additional support
- Lifts weight of headset away from your face for more comfort
- Personalize your fit with adjustable fit wheel
- Set up by removing your original strap and snapping the Elite Strap into place
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/30/2023 05:35 pm GMT - $119.00Buy on Amazon
- Extend your gaming time while increasing your comfort
- Built-in second battery
- Re-charge your Elite Strap battery and your Quest 2 headset battery simultaneously
- Adjustable fit wheel lets you find the correct fit
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/30/2023 07:20 pm GMT
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