After hearing the price tage, many VR lovers are looking for cheap Vision Pro alternatives. What do we have in hand? Let’s check them out together.
Best cheap Vision Pro alternatives
The much-anticipated headset from Apple, the Vision Pro, might not be available until next year, but its startling price tag of $3,499 has left many potential users disheartened. However, do not let this dissuade you from exploring the fascinating worlds of virtual and mixed reality.
As it turns out, there are several cheap Vision Pro alternatives that provide comparable experiences.
Ideal for PlayStation enthusiasts
Sony PlayStation VR2
The PlayStation VR2 has succeeded the original PlayStation VR with more advanced features, providing an outstanding VR experience for PlayStation 5 owners. Apart from the Meta Quest Pro and the Cheap Vision Pro, it is the only headset on our list that comes with eye tracking. Despite the downside of being incompatible with original PS VR games, the VR2 stands as an impressive Vision Pro alternative.
On a budget? Here’s the best pick
Meta Quest 2
Unlike the expensive Vision Pro, Meta offers an affordable VR headset that caters to the lower end of the price spectrum. The Meta Quest 2, priced at just $300, is considered one of the best value-for-money VR headsets currently on the market. It runs on the same software platform as the Meta Quest Pro, albeit with less advanced hardware and no eye tracking. Even then, it’s a lot of VR bang for your buck, making it a substantial Cheap Vision Pro contender.
Optimal for PC aficionados
Valve Index
The Valve Index, a tethered VR headset, is the go-to Vision Pro alternative for PC gamers. Despite requiring a fairly powerful PC and tracking stations for operation, this VR headset offers exceptional graphics and performance. Its advanced motion controllers even rival those of the Apple Vision Pro.
Closest to the Apple Vision Pro
Meta Quest Pro
Priced at $1,500, the Meta Quest Pro is the priciest alternative to the Vision Pro, but there’s a good reason for it. This standalone VR headset boasts technical advancements akin to the Apple Vision Pro. It comes with features such as eye tracking and color cameras that deliver a mixed reality experience similar to what Apple promises. Moreover, it supports the well-developed Meta software ecosystem packed with various apps and games. With an optional cable, it can also serve as a tethered VR headset.
The anticipated contender
Meta Quest 3
As the Apple Vision Pro was unveiled, Meta too made an announcement regarding its latest headset, the Meta Quest 3. It’s an upgraded version of the Meta Quest 2 and includes color cameras similar to the Meta Quest Pro. Moreover, it’s 40% thinner than its predecessor and comes with new motion controllers. More details are yet to be disclosed, but this headset will retail for $499 this fall, making it an exciting Cheap Vision Pro alternative.
Conclusion
The Apple Vision Pro may be highly anticipated, but its exorbitant price of $3,499 has left potential users disheartened. However, this should not deter you from delving into the captivating realms of virtual and mixed reality. The good news is that there are several cheap Vision Pro alternatives available that can offer comparable experiences at a fraction of the cost.
One standout option is the Sony PlayStation VR2, ideal for PlayStation enthusiasts. With advanced features and eye tracking, it provides an outstanding VR experience for PlayStation 5 owners, making it a compelling choice alongside the Cheap Vision Pro alternatives.
