So, despite rummaging through the internet, are you still not able to figure out which VR headset is worth your hard-earned money?
Well, we’ll be honest– choosing a virtual reality headset that offers a truly immersive experience is no less than a challenge. And the numerous brands on the market claiming to sell high-performance VR headsets make the decision-making process all the more challenging.
On top of that, not every device lives up to its claims, so you need to be very careful when choosing VR headsets.
Some high-end devices feature both built-in microphones and built-in speakers, while entry-level offerings come with only built-in speakers. No doubt, a VR headset with a built-in microphone and speaker is more versatile than one without.
To help you choose the right option, we’ve put together this guide on the best VR headsets with sound and mic that are worth considering. Without further ado, let’s get straight to the deets!
3 Best Product Reviews
1. Meta Quest 2
Boasting a white profile, the Meta Quest 2 features a high-resolution display and a super-fast processor to provide users with a smooth and seamless VR experience.
The Meta Quest 2, formerly known as Oculus Quest 2, is a wireless headset that can be used without connecting to a PC or gaming console. Hence, it allows you to move freely in and around a space and transports you to the world of virtual reality without losing touch with the real world.
This solidly built device comes with a hand-tracking feature that makes it easy for users to interact with the virtual world without using controllers. Adding to that is its haptic feedback that stimulates the user’s senses using a combination of motions and vibrations to make the virtual world feel real.
What’s more, its spatial audio creates a 3D sound bubble, meaning that the speaker and headphones alter the sound such that it appears to be coming from everywhere. Even then, you can pair Bluetooth headphones if you wish to enjoy crisp and clear audio on the Quest 2.
Unlike other VR headsets, you get to explore more than 350 games, entertainment, fitness, and social/multiplayer titles on the Meta Quest 2, which is ever-growing. Apart from entertainment, you can use the VR headset to collaborate with coworkers in virtual workspaces.
What’s more, people of all age groups can use this device, thanks to the intuitive controls. You can even set up a designated play space via the Guardian boundary and allow your children to play without any worries. So, whenever they step out of the boundary, the device will notify them and save them from bumping into the wall or tumbling down the stairs.
Not to forget, the Quest 2 is available in four styles, so you can pick the one that suits your requirements. Lastly, we’d like to mention that the model is available in 128GB and 256GB storage options, which are expandable further.
Drawback
One minor inconvenience that accompanies the Quest 2 is that its battery runs out fast, requiring repeated charges.
Verdict
Lightweight and portable, the Meta Quest 2 boasts a slicker design than its predecessor, but it’s sturdier as well and can withstand accidental drops. What’s more, this easy to setup device is compatible with Bluetooth headphones, so you can pair it with a pair to improve the overall audio quality.
2. Valve Index Full VR Kit
Don’t mind spending a tad more on a VR headset with built-in speakers and a microphone for a premium gaming experience? Then the Valve Index Full VR Kit is an option worth considering because of its comfortable design and crisp, smooth graphics.
The Valve Index VR Headset offers a wide field of view (FoV) of 130 degrees, so you can rest assured that you won’t experience the screen door effect. Adding to that is its high refresh rate of 120Hz, which delivers smooth motion. What’s lesser known is that the refresh rate of this device is adjustable up to 144Hz depending on the processing power of your computer.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the Valve Index VR headset comes with a pressure-sensitive controller. That means it can track individual finger movements– anyone who loves playing games on VR headsets can give it a go.
Coming to its audio quality, its integrated speakers sitting above the rotating arms deliver crisp and clear audio, immersing you into the virtual world completely. And since the Valve Index is compatible with regular headphones, you can connect it via the headphone jack.
Better yet, there are two cameras at the bottom of the front plate of the headset to provide a clear, vivid view.
When a user is immersed in the virtual world, the two cameras bring nearby objects in 2D or 3D outlines to their attention to prevent them from tripping. Even if you’re within the SteamVR Chaperone boundary, the cameras will highlight all objects that may cause accidents.
Towards the bottom of the headset is a sliding switch that allows users to adjust the pupillary distance, meaning the distance between the two eyes. Other than two large plastic bands, the VR headset is padded with memory foam encased within an anti-microbial fabric, so wearing it for long hours won’t be problematic.
Drawback
Since the Valve Index isn’t a standalone VR headset, you will have to undertake the painstaking task of setting up external lighthouse boxes.
Verdict
The Valve Index VR Kit contains all that you need to enjoy an immersive VR experience– base stations, controllers, and headset, so you won’t have to spend extra dollars on buying them. Dual-noise-canceling microphones paired with integrated speakers further enhance the user experience, making it a dependable option for beginners and gaming enthusiasts.
3. HTC Vive Cosmos
Engineered to deliver an immersive experience, the HTC Vive Cosmos is compatible with a wide range of laptops and PCs. Therefore, you won’t have to bring home a brand-new device for this VR headset.
Unlike most other VR headsets, it features six tracking cameras to track the positions of the controllers while offering expansive coverage without setting up base stations. Hence, you can immerse yourself in the VR world without the fear of getting injured.
Displaying 1440 x 1700 pixels per eye, the Vive Cosmos boasts a reasonably higher resolution than most others in its price range. This high-resolution display is coupled with a 90Hz refresh rate for a smooth VR experience.
This VR headset offers a 110-degree field of view, enhancing the immersive experience. Thanks to the interpupillary distance dial, it allows you to adjust the distance between your eyes for maximum comfort.
With the Vive Cosmos VR headset, you can access unlimited VR games and apps for two months, after which you’ll have to pay a small subscription fee. Not only Viveport, but you also get to access the large library of Steam, so there’s no shortage of VR content in this headset.
What’s more, this VR headset comes with on-ear headphones that sit on short arms, which can slide vertically and be flipped up and down to adjust it to the user’s preference. This set of on-ear headphones isolates sound, so you won’t be disturbed while playing games or watching videos.
Along with the headphones, it comes with an integrated microphone that makes it a versatile option.
Its upgraded controllers feature curved triggers with rounded grips that conform to the middle and index fingers, so you don’t experience even the slightest discomfort while using them. Lastly, this lightweight device has a ventilated faceplate that promotes better airflow.
Drawback
As it’s a PC-powered tethered VR headset, it comes with a snag– it isn’t portable, meaning you can use it only around your PC.
Verdict
With improved motion controls, a sharp display, a wide field of view, and noise-isolation headphones, the HTC Vive Cosmos is a dependable VR headset. We also like the fact that this VR headset comes with removable headphones, which means you can connect it with Bluetooth headphones to improve your VR experience.
Verdict
No doubt, the Meta Quest 2, also known as the Oculus Quest 2, is our top pick because of its super-fast processor and high-resolution display. What’s more, you won’t have to deal with clunky cables while using the Oculus Quest 2 because it’s wireless and can be used without connecting it to a PC.
Meanwhile, if you’re a gaming enthusiast willing to purchase VR headsets for a premium gaming experience, the Valve Index Full VR Kit is a dependable option. That’s because it offers a wide field of view, delivers crisp and smooth graphics, and comes with an intuitive controller.
With that said, it’s time to call it a day. When choosing a headset for yourself, make sure it features Bluetooth, so you can connect it with wireless earbuds.
That’s all we had to say. See you later!
