PC VR

PC VR refers to VR games and apps that run on a computer rather than on the headset itself. The PC's graphics card renders the images and sends them to the headset, either through a cable or wirelessly. Because a desktop GPU is far more powerful than a mobile chip, PC VR can offer more detailed worlds, higher resolutions and effects that standalone headsets cannot handle.

Ways to play PC VR

• Dedicated PC VR headsets plug straight into the computer, such as the Valve Index and the Bigscreen Beyond 2.
• Standalone headsets in PC mode: Meta Quest headsets can connect with a USB cable through Meta Horizon Link, or over Wi-Fi with Air Link, Steam Link or Virtual Desktop. This is called wireless PC streaming.
• Console headsets with an adapter: the PlayStation VR2 works with SteamVR games through Sony's official PC adapter.

What you need

A Windows PC with a capable dedicated graphics card is the key requirement; each headset maker publishes minimum and recommended specs. Most PC VR games are sold through SteamVR, and many PC VR simulators, such as flight and racing titles, are only available this way.

Downsides

PC VR costs more once you include the computer, and setup is more involved. Wired headsets also tie you to a cable, which is one reason snap turning is popular among PC VR players.