The best VR headsets for 2019

The Oculus Rift S is an improvement over the 2016 Rift PC headset, adding overdue features like a higher-resolution display (1,280x1,440 per eye) and self-contained room tracking via five cameras studded in the Rift S headset. No more external cameras or sensors are needed, making Rift S a lot easier to use casually.Oculus' collection of games and apps is excellent, and the Oculus Store is easy to browse for games for first-time Rift users (a little easier than the sometimes confusing Steam VR layout). In-headset tracking for the Rift S isn't always as seamless or as large-scale as the holodeck-like room tracking on HTC Vive and Valve Index, but not needing to install any extra hardware (just like Microsoft's VR headsets) is a huge help. The Rift S still uses a cable tethered to your PC, but at least that one cable is pretty compact.
Good: Reasonable all-in price; crisp display; in-headset room tracking; really good controllers.
Bad: Bulky headset isn't very portable; can't flip up like some Microsoft Windows VR headsets. .

HTC's Steam VR-compatible Vive works with the same app library as Valve Index, and can deliver full-room holodeck-like experiences, if you're interested in creating or exploring them. Professionals tend to use Vive hardware for its flexibility and ability to track motion in larger areas.HTC introduced the $799  virtual reality headset in 2018 with a 78% bump-up in display resolution (2,800x1,600; or 1,400x1,600 per eye), and there's a , and an even more expensive version .This still makes sense as a best VR headset pick for any PC VR user looking for a lot of hardware options, or who is looking to create location-based experiences -- but consider the Valve Index and Vive Pro, too. .

The Go is essentially like using a phone headset, but without using your phone. This mobile VR headset is relatively inexpensive at $200 considering everything's built in, and it includes a controller. The display inside looks sharp and the built-in speakers have convincing spatial audio. You can't move around like the Oculus Quest, but for videos and simple experiences, the mobile VR Go still works fine.  .

The biggest drawback to the Gear VR is that it only works with Samsung phones. If you've got one of those, this is the best VR headset to get. Like Daydream View, the Gear VR comes with a controller for navigation and gaming. Oculus powers the software and apps of Gear VR, bringing a large selection of compatible apps.  .