Gear

The Best VR Headsets for Kids

Bring a virtual experience home with the headsets that have a little something for everyone in the family.

a vr headset is placed against a yellow backdrop

Virtual reality headsets may not have displaced the television as the workhorse of the home entertainment system or the traditional console as the object of most video game hype. But every year they’re getting closer, and as more and more dads are getting into the medium, they’re naturally curious about a VR headset for kids. While often times the best VR for kids is the best headset for you, some may prefer a more affordable (and more easily replaceable) option for tiny hands. Therefore, we’ve broken down the best VR headsets for kids. No longer expensive novelties, they’re attainable hardware with robust game libraries, and they’re sure to be on tons of birthday lists this year.

As a relatively new product, deciding which is the best VR headset for kids can be an overwhelming proposition. The best to think about it is where the computing power comes from: a smartphone, an onboard computer, a gaming console, or a gaming PC. Besides the quality of the experience, the main differentiator between these categories is price. There’s a world of difference between a cheap VR headset powered by a smartphone and the best VR headset for PC, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t solid choices at every level.

Within those categories, it’s the quality of the gameplay experience — determined by the ease of use of the controllers, the comfort of the headset comfort, and audio-visual quality — and the available games and apps that separate the best VR headsets for kids from the rest.

No matter your product preference, remember that while some of our recommended headsets are deemed safe for kids 12 and older, others are rated “no young children.” VR headsets might not fit snugly on smaller heads, and more importantly, kids can do damage to their vision by using them. Before you buy anything, read the safety instructions carefully and make sure you’re getting the right product for your family.

Best Smartphone VR Headset

Daydream View by Google

We're going to go ahead and recommend you skip the dirt-cheap folding cardboard options and pay just a bit more for a much better experience even on the low end. The Google Daydream View works with any Daydream-enabled phone (most modern Android phones are included) and has an impressive app library because, well, it's Google. It's made from a soft, breathable fabric that gives you more playing time before sweaty eyes set in. The included controller adds another dimension to gaming and lets you make menu selections without turning your head. It's recommended for use by kids 13 and older.

$32.95

Best Stand-Alone VR Headset

Oculus Quest 2 VR Headset by Meta Quest

Sure, your child will have a ton of fun with this VR headset -- its hosting of titles from Star Wars to Jurassic World and the Walking Dead are all a ton of fun. But after your kid goes to bed, you can use it to watch your favorite show on Netflix or get in a quick workout through its numerous fitness apps. Its part gaming system, part home entertainment system, and its uses are as myriad as its graphics.

$299

Best Console VR Headset

PlayStation VR HDR Headset by Sony

Gamestop has a ton of the Playstation headsets refurbished and ready for a second life. Immerse yourself in Marvel, Star Wars, and Blizzard games in an experience so real and terrifying you heart rate will rise.

$150

Best VR Headset for PC

Rift S by Oculus

For a VR headset that connects to a PC and does most everything well, look no further than the Oculus Rift S. The ergonomics of the headset and the twin touch controllers are solid, and the Oculus library of games will make it hard for kids to get bored. Best of all, and unlike many PC headsets, there's no need to set up external motion sensors, which means your kids won't knock them over and you won't have to move anything to use your kid's VR gaming space as, say, your home office. It's recommended for use by kids 13 and older.

$449.98

Best VR Headset for Yourself that You’ll Claim Is for Your Child

Vive Cosmos Elite by HTC

Sure, it's pricey, but the Cosmos Elite represents the pinnacle of PC-based VR gaming. Its 2880 x 1700 pixels are packed so tight that it eliminates the 'screen door' effect with inferior products, while integrated headphones ensure immersive adventures. An easy flip-up design allow you to take a time-out when the phone rings or your child calls.

$899

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