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Virtual reality has moved from sci-fi technology to one that is actually possible in recent years, and there has never been a better time to try it out.
Video game consoles – especially new ones like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 – offer incredible graphics, but can’t touch VR for really awesome games. Instead of seeing a flat picture on a big screen, you can actually become a part of the world you play in. Virtual reality headsets are also much more advanced, offering HD graphics and uncompromising fidelity without getting bigger or heavier.
Virtual reality still takes up a fair amount of space (around eight square feet) if you want the best experience, but that’s the biggest obstacle to VR gaming right now. If you’ve been curious about this technology, this guide explains everything you need to get started.
1. The Oculus Quest 2
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If you’re just starting your VR journey, you’ll need a headset. There are a lot of great options out there, but the best for most people is the Oculus Quest 2. Its biggest strength is that it is a standalone VR headset, which means that all the technology is built inside. You don’t need a powerful PC, cameras or additional controllers. Everything you need to get started with VR gaming is included.
The Quest 2 was designed with comfort in mind: the adjustable head strap accommodates most people and offers enough padding for long gaming sessions. I’ve tried the Oculus Quest 2 myself and found it comfortable to wear, although it still takes a while to get used to wearing something strapped to your face.
The Quest 2 comes with two wireless, motion-sensitive controllers that have an ergonomic, curved body for added comfort. The headset guides you through the use of all of its features, including setting up a virtual play area in your room so you don’t bump into objects in the real world.
The Oculus Quest 2 is the first VR headset that is suitable for everyone, not just enthusiasts who want to be on the cutting edge of technology.
2. High quality earphones
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With virtual reality headsets, speakers are usually built into the headband. However, you should plug in a pair of earbuds for an even more immersive experience. We recommend the Triple Driver Earphones from 1More because they are slim, have a “bass-driven” sound and are designed for high-resolution sound (better than CD quality).
The buds come with eight pairs of earbuds so you can find the ones that best fit your ears. The aluminum frame looks and feels premium, and the microphone built into the cable has volume controls too. If you want a full VR experience, you can get there by upgrading to 1More’s pair of earbuds.
3. A carrying case
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The Oculus Quest 2’s most compelling feature is its portability, and you want a suitcase to remain pristine for whatever you are on the go. This was developed by Oculus itself and can combine the Quest 2, its controllers, the power supply and the charging cable in a single, neat package.
The hard case closes tightly to fully secure the Quest 2, and its custom molded interior fits perfectly with any accessory. The nicest touch of this case is the wrist strap that makes it easier to carry your headset around. This is an essential accessory when you want to take your Quest 2 out of the house.
4. A replacement power supply
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Oculus bundles a power supply with the Quest 2, but it’s important to have a spare part just in case. This one from AUKEY is small enough to fit in your pocket but powerful enough to charge most modern laptops at full speed.
The AUKEY adapter has two USB-C ports. With this accessory you can also charge both Quest 2 controllers at the same time. This is one of the most versatile accessories in this guide and can be used with Quest 2 or any of your other devices.
5. A charging VR stand
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Asterion’s Virtual Reality Headset Stand is a two-in-one accessory that you can use to protect your device and add shine to your gaming setup.
The stand holds your headset at an angle to make it easier to grip and lifts it up to avoid scratches. It also has a USB-A port that you can use to charge your headset.
This stand has a built-in LED light that you can turn on by pressing a button on the base. You can switch between red, gold, green, cyan, blue, lavender and white or switch between these colors. You can use this stand with any current generation headset.
Just make sure you have a charging cable too, as Asterion doesn’t come with one.
6. An adjustable head strap
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The Oculus Quest 2 comes with an adjustable head strap. However, if it doesn’t quite suit you, we recommend this third-party solution.
It is available in two sizes: large and small and can be adjusted by turning a small knob on the back of the strap. This head strap has a hat shape that covers the back of the head and can reduce the strength of the headset when moving the head. This allows the headset to be focused so that you don’t have to move it for a clear picture.
If you want a comfort upgrade to a VR headset that is already comfortable to wear, consider this head strap.
7. A USB-C cable
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You can use Anker’s USB-C cable to charge a VR headset or wireless controller, but it also unlocks the most impressive feature of the Oculus Quest 2.
If you connect the Quest 2 to your computer with this cable, you can play VR games for high-end headsets. Basically, it turns the Oculus Quest 2 into a two-in-one VR headset.
Oculus has its own first-party cable for this use, but has identified it as a third-party best choice by Anker. We have had a lot of success with Anker’s charging accessories in the past, which is why we recommend it here.
We recommend that you purchase the 10-foot charging cable if you want to connect the Oculus Quest 2 to your PC, as it gives you enough space to move comfortably around the room while playing.
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