Are you wondering why Xbox doesn’t have VR?
Let’s find out.
Why Doesn’t Xbox Have VR?
According to VideoGamesChronicle, an Xbox VR system wasn’t on Microsoft’s radar at the time. Instead, the company focused on developing software.
Which VR Headset for Xbox Is Best?
While Microsoft hasn’t unveiled any plans for VR support for the Xbox One, gamers can still use some VR headsets as displays for the console.
You won’t be able to play any games in VR, but you’re still able to immerse yourself more fully by using a VR headset – so long as you know what to do.
Most people think the Sony PlayStation VR Head Set is the best VR headset for Xbox because it works with both consoles’ HDMI outputs.
What to Know Before You Buy a VR Headset for Xbox?
Xbox One Doesn’t Support VR
You don’t need an Xbox One X to experience virtual reality or VR games. You can use some VR headsets to view content in a more immersive way, even if you don’t own an Xbox One X.
Despite the fact that some VR headsets can be used as displays for the Xbox One, they come with their own set of drawbacks including a non-optimized display and lower functionality, along with sometimes needing to resort to weird workarounds to get them working properly.
VR Headsets for Xbox Can Be Used as a TV
Any VR headset that has an HDMI port or cable can simply be connected to the television set to receive the video feed from the game system or media player.
It’s not quite an authentic VR environment, but it can be fun for brief moments of extra immersive media consumption and gaming.
Not Every VR Headset Will Work
Since the Xbox One doesn’t support VR headsets, there’s no way to know if any VR headset will actually function.
Some people have found ways to use their Oculus Rift headsets as displays for their Xbox One consoles, but they aren’t quite the same as using an actual Xbox One console or PC that has support for VR.
What to Look For in a Quality VR Headset for Xbox?
Display from an HDMI output
Theoretically, every VR device that connects to a computer via an HDMI port can be used as a monitor instead of a television, so this becomes the main deciding factor when choosing between different VR headsets for Xbox.
Use with other devices
Because Xbox isn’t meant to be used with VR devices, many people find it useful to buy a VR device that works independently from an Xbox console.
If you want to be able to play VR games later, then buying the PlayStation VR is a good choice because it works with both the PS4 and PS5.
It can also add peace of mind for people who only intend to use these headsets with their Xbox console as a secondary, not truly VR, a form of gaming.
Other Workarounds
Users have reported discovering other potential workarounds by using capture cards, apps like BigScreen, or remote play apps such as Xbox One.
Some of these aren’t fully vetted and may not be reliable if you’re making a large purchase and are concerned they won’t work.
How Much You Can Expect to Spend on a VR Headset for Xbox?
Most people who buy VR headsets usually spend between $400 and $1,000. However, since there isn’t an official VR headgear for Xbox, some people choose to get cheaper VR goggles that use smartphones or Nintendo Switch displays instead, which can often be less than $100.
Why Doesn’t Xbox Have VR?
Best VR Headsets
Sony Playstation VR Headset
What You Need to Know
With its basic design, this PlayStation VR Head Mounted Display (HMD) is easy to use even if you don’t own a PS4 or PS5. It works well with the Xbox One, so you can play any game using this HMD.
What You’ll Love
With its simple design, this PlayStation 4 headset features an HDMI input port that can be connected directly to one of the Xbox One’s HDMI outputs. One of these outputs is labeled “TV” while the other is labeled “PS4.”
What You Should Consider
This model has a weaker screen than others, but it works well enough for most purposes. It doesn’t support Microsoft’s Xbox One console, though, so the edges of the screen may be slightly distorted.
HTC Vive Cosmos Elite VR Headset
What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to use Xbox One to stream to use VR headsets as displays and think you might want to buy a gaming PC for VR purposes later on, the HTC Vive Cosmos has an impressive display and sound for an immersive gaming experience
What You’ll Love
With this VR headset, you can enjoy watching videos from any device that can be cast to it, including the use of Microsoft’s Xbox One Streaming application. Some people also like using an Xbox gamepad for PC VR games with the HTC Vive.
What You Should Consider
This VR headset isn’t designed for the Xbox One. It won’t be able to play games as well as a display if you’re going to use it to watch streaming videos.
Oculus Quest 2 Advanced All-in-One Virtual Reality Headset
What You Need to Know
If you don’t already own an Oculus Rift headset, but want to get one for yourself, then this might be a good option for you. It offers a standalone VR experience that works with smartphones and doesn’t require any additional hardware.
What You’ll Love
While this device isn’t compatible with Xbox One or Xbox 360, it’s worth checking out or saving for on its own. You can use it with Chromecast and other streaming devices to watch content on a larger screen if you’d prefer.
What You Should Consider
With this VR headgear, you won’t need an Xbox console to use it. However, most people who decide to buy one end up finding it worth it.
Conclusion
If you’re planning on buying a VR headset for Xbox, it’s important to understand what your goals are before spending too much money.
There are plenty of options available, but if you’re looking for something that can be used with both consoles and PCs, the Oculus Quest 2 Advanced All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset is a good option.
If you have any questions feel free to comment below.