Virtual reality technology has exploded in popularity and availability in recent years, with devices like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive leading the way. One of the biggest names to enter the VR space is Facebook with their Oculus brand. So how much does the Oculus VR headset from Facebook cost?
The Cost of the Oculus VR Headset
Facebook currently offers two main Oculus VR headset models for consumers: the Oculus Rift S and the Oculus Quest. Here is a breakdown of the pricing for each model:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Oculus Rift S | $399 |
| Oculus Quest 2 (64GB) | $299 |
| Oculus Quest 2 (256GB) | $399 |
So the Oculus VR headset models range in price from $299 to $399 brand new. The Oculus Rift S was released in 2019 priced at $399. The Oculus Quest 2 was released in 2020 as the successor to the original Oculus Quest, with the starting 64GB model priced at $299 and a 256GB model for $399.
Oculus Rift S
The Oculus Rift S is a PC-powered VR headset with access to the full Oculus Rift game and app library. It uses Oculus Insight tracking technology with five built-in sensors for accurate positional tracking without external sensors. The Rift S features a 2560 x 1440 resolution fast-switch LCD display with an 80Hz refresh rate. It connects to a gaming PC using a DisplayPort cable and does not require external sensors.
Oculus Quest 2
The Oculus Quest 2 is Facebook’s latest standalone wireless VR headset. It has high-resolution displays with 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye, 50% more than the original Quest. The faster processor and higher resolution allows the Quest 2 to display VR environments with more detail and clarity. The Quest 2 uses the same Oculus Insight tracking system as the Rift S for full positional tracking without external sensors. Everything is contained in the headset with an onboard Snapdragon XR2 processor and 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage options. The Quest 2 has access to all games and apps in the Oculus Quest store.
Cost Considerations
When considering the cost of an Oculus VR headset, keep the following factors in mind:
- You need a compatible PC for the Rift S, which adds to the overall cost.
- The Quest 2 doesn’t require a PC, but has less powerful graphics and processing.
- Higher storage capacity versions of the Quest 2 cost more.
- Optional accessories like carrying cases and elite headstraps add to the price.
- You’ll need to buy any VR games or apps separately.
While the Oculus headsets themselves start at $299, you’ll want to factor in the cost of a VR ready PC and any additional accessories or games you may want. This can raise the total investment to $1000 or more.
How Does Oculus Compare to Other Brands?
Here is a comparison of the Oculus VR headset pricing to some other popular VR brands:
| Brand | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Oculus | Rift S | $399 |
| Oculus | Quest 2 (64GB) | $299 |
| HTC | Vive Cosmos | $699 |
| Valve | Index | $999 |
| HP | Reverb G2 | $599 |
Oculus headsets are some of the most affordable premium VR devices available. The Quest 2 starts at just $299, while other brands range from $599 to $999 for their latest models. The trade-off is that the more expensive headsets may offer better graphics, processing, tracking, and overall performance.
Used and Refurbished Oculus Models
Beyond brand new Oculus headsets, there are some other options for potentially lower prices:
- Used Oculus Headsets – There are used Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest models available from places like eBay and Craigslist. These can sometimes be found for under $200.
- Refurbished Units – Oculus has sold refurbished units directly on its website in the past and may do so again in the future. Refurbished units are thoroughly inspected and tested.
- Retailer Sales – Oculus headsets will occasionally go on sale either directly from Oculus.com or retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, usually around the holidays.
Checking for used, refurbished, open-box, or sale pricing could potentially save $50 to $100 or more on select Oculus models. Just be sure to research the specific unit’s condition before purchasing.
Conclusion
The Oculus Rift S and Oculus Quest 2 are the current consumer VR headset offerings from Facebook, ranging in price from $299 to $399 brand new. The Rift S requires a gaming PC while the Quest 2 is a standalone device. Additional costs like a VR ready computer, accessories, and games can add to the total investment.
Compared to other premium VR brands like HTC and Valve, Oculus headsets are some of the most affordable high-end options. Used, refurbished, and sale-priced Oculus units may provide additional opportunities for savings. When shopping for an Oculus VR headset, consider the models, features, and total budget to choose the best option.