The best VR headsets

polygon.com:

Picking a virtual reality headset is a bit like buying a console — that is, one that you wear on your face. Similar as they seem, they’re different in ways that may matter to you. The major players in VR gaming — it currently boils down to Sony, Valve, and Meta — each boast some games and features that are exclusive to their respective headsets.

There are other comfort, accessibility, and budgetary reasons you might choose one over the other as well. Do you need a headset with swappable straps, one that can be configured with prescription lenses, and one that’s less than $500? Do you eventually want to build your own VR cockpit for flight simulators? These are all things that might influence which one you buy.

For newcomers, deciding on a headset can seem confusing, but don’t lose hope. With our experience testing out all of the most popular models, plus some tips on how to buy the right one for your needs, we aim to make it easier so you can jump into a variety of fantastical worlds.

Note: With the Meta Quest 3 arriving in September and Apple’s wildly priced Vision Pro headset due to make a splash in 2024, it’s clear that tech giants are still betting on the virtual reality space, and some compelling technological leaps are on their way soon. We’ll revisit this post to make sure it includes all of the info you need to know about the newer hardware.

The major VR headset differences to know about

Some virtual reality headsets are wireless and allow what’s commonly referred to as “roomscale” VR experiences without the need for additional accessories. The headsets feature cameras that are useful for multiple reasons. For one, they track the headset’s movement in your space, letting you feel like your body is truly