The Best VR Headsets for Teens Reviewed in 2024
Ana
Angeline Mirenda
In a digital world, virtual reality and devices that are used to interact with this environment are becoming more and more popular among teens. Everyone is trying to get in on the action and VR headsets have become a popular way of interacting in the virtual world. As they gain more and more popularity, these excellent devices are becoming more advanced with added features. The 360-degree option is available in a variety of different styles and price ranges as you will see that some of these outstanding models have. We have compiled a list of 10 Best Virtual Reality Headsets in this beneficial buying guide just for you. These headsets can give the part of the augmented reality that everyone is looking for. Some of these models can be very cost-effective, while others are a more expensive investment. These are the best-rated and the most-reviewed items of this category.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 33 hrs of research
All-in-one VR headset
Features state-of-the-art 3D graphics
Meet up virtually with friends and family to watch TV, sporting events, and more
Easy to use and ready to take on the go
Audio system built-in
10 Best VR Headsets
1. Oculus Go Standalone 32GB
All-in-one VR headset
Features state-of-the-art 3D graphics
Meet up virtually with friends and family to watch TV, sporting events, and more
Easy to use and ready to take on the go
Audio system built-in
Wearing for long periods of time will dry your eyes out
Lag issues are frustrating
Taking screen details to a whole new level this VR headset has the littlest, big screen possible. The effects are crystal-clear, and the display has some of the best 3D graphics on the market. The state-of-the-art graphics will make you feel like you are right in a personal movie theater without ever having to leave your couch. It is even possible to watch with your friends.
Read moreThis technology gives you a VR viewing space that allows you to watch with your friends whether in the same room or across the world. You can meet up to watch a movie, sporting events, or just a TV show. The VR headset is super-portable and very easy to use. There is no PC, hassles with wires, or phones. It is an all-in-one system that is ready to go. It even comes with a controller to make navigating in the VR world simple. The audio is superb with the surround sound that is built right into the headset. So, no speakers or headphones needed. If you are looking for an all-in-one VR headset with great graphics and awesome sound, this is the one for you.
Design
All-in-one VR headsets offer everything that you need to experience the system without having to use your phone or your computer for control. Everything that you need to jump right into watching movies, TV, or playing games has been included with this system.
Sensory stimulation
Your visual, audible, and tactical talents will be heightened with the use of this fabulous headset. Even in just simple viewing or playing with it, your mind will build on these skills on its own.
Social development
When you enjoy this fabulous item with your friends and family, you will be enhancing your social skills. Communication and verbal aspects will be gained for valuable abilities.
Value
Everything you need for wonderful viewing of the screen for the various activities you want to enjoy is already embedded in this headset. The audio and visual effects are built in.
Ease of use
Easy to use and great for on-the-go viewing. This system does not require any phone or computer, so it is great to take on the go for entertainment when you are not at home or viewing with friends.
2. Samsung HMD Odyssey Windows
Windows-based VR headset
Features AMOLED display
Dual screens and a 110-degree field of vision
Premium sound, 360-degree rich sound effects
Clear graphics and vivid colors
Control tracking does not have a large range
Headphones cannot be removed
Enjoy premium sound with headphones that will make you feel like you are really there. The sound system from the headphones offers a full, 360-degree sound experience that won’t let you down.
Read moreAlong with the sound system, this VR headset features a high-resolution display which is bright, clear and immerses you in the 110-degree field of vision. It also has dual screens that allow users to have a board view. It will add your gaming adventures and drop you right into a virtual reality world that has been created by windows. It will give you the freedom to talk to others, move around, and experience graphics like you were right there. The easy set-up and comfortable fit make for a great system for any age of players.
Design
The graphics along with the sound system really make this a well-put-together VR headset. The built-in premium sound system and the awesome field of vision really give users a great experience.
Sensory stimulation
Enjoy the 360-degree sound with this incredible headset. High-resolution screens featured in this VR headset are super-bright and very clear. It is an AMOLED display that gives players an immersive and vivid experience.
Social development
You can carry on with others around you with freedom as this marvelous headset will not tie you down to one spot. It is connected wirelessly to give you the best freedom for socializing.
Value
The board view of this superb device with the dual screens and a 110-degree field of vision makes it is one of the best devices of its kind on the market for outstanding graphics.
Ease of use
The set-up is easy for this great product that allows you the best in viewing for games, movies, and so much more. You will be maneuvering it like a pro in no time at all because it is so easy to use.
3. Oculus Go Standalone 64GB
Standalone VR – no additional devices required
Integrated spatial audio
Wide quad, fast-switch LCS
Available in 32GB and 64GB storage options
Apps and games must be downloaded to the device and can timeout with slower internet speeds
Non-adjustable IPD can cause edges of the screen to appear off-center and/or blurry for some users
Most VR headsets on the market today are more peripherals than complete gaming systems. They require the use or purchase of other devices such as a PC, Smartphone, or Gaming Console in order to render the software required for the headset to function.
Read moreOften, gift-givers find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place as they have spent upwards of $100 on a headset for a birthday or holiday present, not realizing that their daughter/nephew/cousin’s phone is not compatible with the app needed to make it work. If your teen is interested in virtual reality and you aren’t looking to spend another $200-$400 for a PS4 or Samsung Galaxy 8, the Oculus Go can be the perfect introductory device. This fully immersive virtual reality headset is known as a ‘standalone’ unit. Inside the headset itself is a microcomputer capable of understanding and running all of the software required. It also has internal hard drive storage similar to a PC that provides room for all of your child’s games and movies to be stored. The Oculus App for smartphones is required but, rather than being a hub for the overall processing power of the device, this app is used only to configure and customize the Oculus Go as well as to download new games and movies.
Design
The Oculus Go comes in two storage size, 32GB, and 64GB. As always, the bigger the space, the more games and movies your device can hold at one time. This can really make a difference when you are talking about the variation between 3 movies and 10 games (32GB) or 7 movies and 20 games (64GB).
Sensory stimulation
The system also comes with an intuitive hand controller to assist with menu and game navigation. The controller combines the classic feel of a rear trigger and physical Back and Home buttons with a touchscreen top for smoother and more realistic movement in-game.
Social development
This is the perfect independent system to introduce your teen to VR with others as it combines a quality viewing experience in a comfortable headpiece and works straight out of the box to use with family and friends.
Value
This headset has been designed to provide the most comfortable feel possible, utilizing breathable fabrics and injection foam molding to create a secure but gentle fit that can conform to a wide variety of facial structures.
Ease of use
The device has also made huge strides in decreasing known virtual reality pitfalls by reducing the screen-door effect, improving visual clarity, and dropping glare.
4. HTC VIVE Virtual Reality System
Software works well
Durable
Easy set up
Wonderful graphics
Some customers had a hard time with multiplayer settings
A few buyers experienced virtual reality world disappearing
Virtual reality gives gamers a whole new perspective on gaming. We know that most gamers prefer playing with a headset and a wireless controller for the freedom of movement that it offers.
Read moreWith virtual reality, this incredible headset is perfect for experiencing a whole new idea of a gaming world. Virtual reality will make it seem like you are actually in the world in which you are viewing in the device. You’ll be able to actively interact as the character making each activity you encounter completely different every time.
Design
You get roughly almost over 2800 games that you can choose from powered through steam. You’ll never want to play a game the same again once you have this virtual headset.
Sensory stimulation
It gives you a chance to be more active while playing your favorite game and doing the interactions yourself. You’ll feel like you're in a whole new world with virtual reality games.
Social development
Your teens will have many chances to practice their social skills with this exceptional device that can make time with friends and family a wonderful learning experience.
Value
Your headset will be able to track your movements from ceiling to floor and comes with a 360-degree controller. It also provides a two-month trial included in your purchase of a Viveport Subscription.
Ease of use
Just like the other wireless devices, this one is simple to use once you have looked at the instructions for set-up and use. The freedom of movement is the best features since there are no wires to be problematic.
5. HTC VIVE
Realistic graphics, directional audio, and haptic feedback
360-degree controller and headset tracking to the millimeter
A two-month trial subscription to Viveport included
Powered by Steam VR
Required a compatible PC to run, please run the STEAMVR performance test to ensure compatibility before purchasing
Customer support for this device is reported as low-quality or virtually nonexistent
If your child is interested in Virtual Reality gaming, chances are that you have heard of the HTC VIVE. This fully immersive, out-of-box VR headset is powered by the gaming PC platform, Steam. This unit is one of the most impressive graphical experience available on the VR market today, capable of providing a room-scale 15’ by 15’ experience, although the system can also be utilized in a smaller 6’ by 6’ space or while seated for those easily affected by motion sickness.
Read moreThe unit incorporates a massive 360-degree movement tracking system that can follow you up, down, and all around to the millimeter. The built-in Chaperone system will alert you when you reach the edges of the play area, so there is no worry about accidentally walking out of your house or falling down the stairs while immersed. The HTC VIVE comes with the headset itself, 2 handheld controllers for assistance with menu screens and in-game controls, 2 lighthouse sensors to provide maximum tracking capabilities, the control box that connects to your PC, and all of the power/sync/HDMI cables required to fully connect and utilize the device.
Design
The realistic visual potential of this unit along with the integrated spatial audio and haptic feedback creates a truly immersive experience where you will be able to truly see, hear, and even feel as though you are literally in the room with your favorite games and shows.
Sensory stimulation
This headset is one of the current top dogs in the VR market mainly for its extremely high-quality tracking software that provides an exceptionally smooth, lag free and immersive gaming experience.
Social development
The VIVE utilizes Steam for its gaming library which means that there are upwards of 2,800 games, apps, and viewing experience available for this device.
Value
The HTC VIVE is considered a PC virtual reality gaming system. Your teen’s computer is used as the processor and hard drive in order to store movies and games and run the required software in order for this device to function.
Ease of use
Your PC’s specifications are directly proportional to how well this headset will perform so trying to run this device on the minimum required processor, memory, and graphics card capabilities can cause this system to lag and have blurry or out of focus visuals.
6. Oculus Quest
Can be played right out of the box
Operates via mobile app; no need for other equipment or systems
Insight tracking reflects your movement in real-time
Conforms to your environment so you can play in any space, standing or sitting
Low battery life (around 2 hours)
Graphics are still improving (compare to the Nintendo Wii style)
The Oculus Quest is a perfect headset for users that are passionate about Virtual Reality Headsets but not looking to spend quadruple digits on a system. Sleek and up-to-date, this set features fresh and innovative technology to boost your experience without breaking the bank. It’s available with 64 GB or 128 GB of space.
Read moreDesign
With a chic design, we can see why this headset is so popular. Black and a metallic purple make it seem futuristic while a slim silhouette offers appeal to players that worry about being bogged down by bulky hardware.
Sensory Stimulation
Video games get a bad rep but we see the appeal! May games out there can actually increase physical activity, logical reasoning, and other developmental skills in children and teens. Virtual Reality takes gamers to the next step, encompassing them in the virtual world and allowing them to truly indulge their imaginations.
Social Development
If you’re looking for a set that will help your child connect socially with others, consider purchasing games for them that require teamwork and co-op play. Many popular games involve working as a team to accomplish a goal and even games that are everyman-for-himself often have an option to connect with other players via wifi.
Value
This game is by no means cheap, but it’s less expensive than some of its competitors, and gives gamers a high-quality VR experience. It’s right around the average price of our guide.
Ease of Use
The Oculus Quest connects directly to your mobile app and is ready to play right out of the box.
7. Oculus Rift S
More sealed-in face mask
Headset stays secure
Ability to outline your area of play and the game will accommodate barriers
Slightly better graphics than last iteration
Headband is thick enough that you may have trouble getting headsets/headphones around it
Built-in sound is weak and has no base
The Oculus Rift boasts one of the largest gaming libraries available for Virtual Reality systems. There are hundreds of games already available in the Oculus catalogue, with more still to come. Insight tracking allows you to see your character moving in tandem with your own motions and you don’t even have to hook up to external systems to do it! Room-scale censors also ensure that your experience is never hampered by the size of the room around you.
Read moreDesign
A new design means sturdier headgear. The Oculus Rift S is structured with speed and agility in mind. The new headstrap means that your gear stays put even as you face up against on-screen obstacles.
Sensory Stimulation
The insight tracking allows players to move freely throughout their space. The touch controllers also enable you to slash, swing, and shoot as your character mimics your actions in a realistic, real-time fashion.
Social Development
Video games can be a great way for kids to connect with peers and family. Look for games that encourage teamwork and co-op platforms if you want your child to get a greater social benefit from their VR headset.
Value
This VR system sits beneath the median price point of our guide. It has a lower memory space (8 GB) than some of the other models but it’s certainly a popular option.
Ease of Use
You can use this VR headset right out of the box. It doesn’t require hooking up to or syncing with additional external hardware or accessories, either. Some users had trouble with connectivity but it seems that this was related to faulty headsets/lemons.
8. Samsung Gear w/Controller
Transforms users into 2D and 3D VR worlds
The controller gives full control; drag, point, select and drop with just a wave of the wrist
Boosts understanding of complex concepts
Encourages fine motor skill development
Promotes longer attention spans
The headset is only compatible with Samsung smartphones
Adjustment for eye lenses are not individual, can make it difficult to focus on some users
The well-constructed and quality VR headset is able to transfer the users to another world. It puts users right in the middle of a baseball game and can provide a 3D movie experience right from the couch. This headset includes a controller that can point, drag, select, and drop with just a simple wave of the wrist.
Read moreUsers can experience 100s of games and movies with this headset that are designed for the Samsung smartphones and devices. The headset is powered by Oculus allowing the user to experience 360-degree content control in both 2D and 3D. It also allows you to browse the web and add additional controls with the Bluetooth connections. Just place a Samsung device in the headset and experience the world of VR.
Design
This system offers 100s of videos and games to totally allow a user to immerse themselves in the VR world. This device runs super smooth and the controller adds to the user-friendliness.
Sensory stimulation
Using VR headset benefits users by allowing them to boost their ability to understand complex concepts, encourages fine motor skill development, and promotes longer attention spans. This headset and controllers are a great way to experience a VR world.
Social development
This headset also includes the world of socialization allowing users to watch movies with friends, play games as teams, and communicate inside the world of the VR. The seamless integration used with this system, in all its features.
Value
The crisp viewing screen makes the experience one of a kind. For games, movies, and such, this is one of the better models of VR headsets that you can buy currently available.
Ease of use
Using a VR headset can take user places that they have only imagined before. When placing this system over your head and the controller in hand the possibilities are endless.
9. Google Daydream View
Lightweight, breathable headpiece
Can wash the facemask
Lots of different choices for game genres
Can also watch events in panoramic view
Remote has trouble staying synced with the game
Headset may not fit over glasses
The Google Daydream View is the choice for you if your family wants to test out the VR experience without investing in one of the more expensive models. This system operates via your mobile phone and a Wii-like remote. It’s not as immersive as some of its competition but it’s a great starter set.
Read moreDesign
To use this, you access the Daydream App on your phone. This app features a collection of VR-friendly games to choose from. Pick your favorite, strap your phone into place in the headset, and get ready to play! You can also use this to watch concerts, movies, and sports games in full panoramic view.
Sensory Stimulation
This set is a little less intricate and involved than some of its competition. Without the addition of the VR gloves/arm bands, your in-game movement is limited to what you can do with a Wii-style remote.
Social Development
One of the draws of this system is that it isn’t just games. You can also experience panoramic events like concerts, movies, and ball games. And some of the choices in-app allow you to explore other places and cultures around the world.
Value
This is one of the less-expensive VR headsets on our list. It provides a good introductory experience if you want to test out the VR life before sinking your money into a more expensive and involved system.
Ease of Use
Made from soft, breathable fabric, this lightweight headset is a hit among gamers. The facepad is hand-washable, making it a good choice for families that share a set or gamers that switch off with friends. Users did have trouble with controller staying paired, though.
10. Sony PlayStation
Plug and Play for easy setup
5.7” OLED 1080p display with 120 fps
3D spatial audio
Utilizes LED tracking technology
Requires PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Camera (sold separately)
Utilizes a lot of wired connections which can make it bulky and frustrating to adjust
Sony PlayStation has been around since 1994 and is well-known in gaming circles for being a cutting-edge, graphics-intensive gaming platform that is always at the forefront of current generation consoles. Their current system, the PlayStation 4 is no exception. With the PlayStation VR system, Sony takes the first step into the future of gaming. This virtual reality headset and controller system is designed to work with your existing PS4 to provide an advanced VR display.
Read moreIt utilizes a 5.7-inch OLED display capable of full 1080p resolution. It runs at 120 frames per second to reduce video and audio lag and provide smoother freedom of movement. The integrated headphones provide a fully three-dimensional audio profile using spatial technology that lets you hear sounds from every angle. Since this is a proprietary Sony device it features Plug and Play technology. There are no phone apps to download or configuration settings to deal with. Just plug it, and the PlayStation Camera, into your PS4 and go. There are hundreds of games, movies, and apps available through the PlayStation Store so there you can experience everything VR has to offer.
Design
If your teen already has a PS4 this system will provide you with a computer driven-quality virtual reality experience without having to shell out another $1k+ for a gaming PC.
Sensory stimulation
The headset itself has several LED lights on the outside edge as do the Dualshock 4 controller and the PlayStation Move motion controller (sold separately) which the camera uses to capture precision images of your movement. This allows the system to provide a seamless translation of your natural motion into the virtual reality environment and eliminates lag and syncing issues.
Social development
Used with PlayStation, your child or teen will love using this VR headset with their friends and close relatives for gaming fun. Hours of socializing will enhance their abilities in other types of social settings.
Value
This unit is considered a Console-VR system. It requires a PlayStation 4 to process game software and store game data. It also requires the PlayStation Camera which employs LED tracking technology to follow your movements.
Ease of use
The headset itself has been designed with superior weight balance and wide, soft straps to provide easy adjustability and maximum comfortability. The less you realize the headset is there, the more immersive the world can be.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
Of course, the design for each of these superb products is slightly different from the others, but generally, they are all wireless devices that use 2D and 3D visuals and advanced audio features to improve the visual screen experience for games, movies, and such. Kids, teens, and adults will love the improved experience that such a headset can provide. These are made to connect to certain systems such as PlayStation and others using a smartphone or other device often for the set-up and functioning. Make sure when you purchase a set that it works with the intended system you have or are going to purchase for the best connectivity.
Sensory Stimulation
Virtual reality headsets have many advantages when used as a learning and developmental tool in the classroom. Utilizing virtual reality headsets in the classroom is gaining in popularity and are now being used around the world. Virtual reality headsets can be best used by visual learners by immersing them in the world rather than staring out the window as the teacher talks about the subject. Using a VR headset, they are more likely to learn and enjoy the learning process more VR headsets can be used in a variety of learning environments. The benefits are outstanding and provide students with an active learning experience, a learning experience without distractions, engagement, a hands-on learning approach, and improved learning comprehension on advanced concepts. This truly interactive and distraction-free environment is beneficial to more students.
Social Development
There are many advantages to virtual reality and 3D simulations. They provide an environment that allows people to learn outside and learn concepts with more advanced reasoning and experiences. Some of the advantages of VR learning and 3D simulations can be found in job training and classroom learning experiences. When this type of experience is used, it brings back life to sometimes an otherwise pretty boring experience. When VR learning and 3D simulations are used, they offer full training and learning experience for the user. It can present scenarios for brain surgeries, allow teens to explore Mars, and create real-life situations for people to learn from. This type of complex training and learning is not only a total experience for the user, but it is also a very cost-effective tool for businesses and schools. The resource is reusable and provides the skills and knowledge for real-life scenarios. These are all advantages that schools and businesses should take advantage of when presenting a learning and training experience.
Value
When creating the list for the 10 Best Virtual Reality Headsets it was important for our team to design a comprehensive list of the best VR headsets on the market with the best value and best consumer reviews. Each of the headsets listed has been reviewed based on the value for the money versus the features and design. The features and design of the headset are important because they add to its value. Making sure that the best-valued products are displayed on our lists is very important. Once the list is completed with VR headsets that are of great value, then the list is reviewed by the panel of experts to determine what headsets have the best reviews. It is important for each of the headsets to have a great star rating because that is a solid indicator that consumers are happy with a product. The panel was able to determine which were the best and list the items for your viewing.
Ease of Use
All of these wonderful devices are relatively easy to use for the child, teen, and adult. They all come with great instructions on set-up and use that are simple to understand. For students, there is not a better way to learn some concepts. There are so many advantages to using virtual reality learning in the classroom. It provides a learning experience that is not only totally immersive but is hands-on and distraction-free.
Design Sensory Stimulation Social Development Value Ease of Use 
If you plan on letting others use your headset, such as family and friends, it will get dirty quickly because the human face can be one of the dirtiest parts of the body. VR Cover is a company that makes protective covers for headsets that keeps them clean and it works much like a pillowcase for a pillow. These are machine-washable and well worth the purchase for great hygiene.
If you are new to virtual reality gadgets, it is wise to take things slowly. Don’t try to use the device too long for the first few sessions. Often, people get headaches or experience motion sickness when they try this new adventure. After several sessions, you should be able to spend longer periods with the headset on than before.
Other Factors to Consider
Entertainment Value
While kids and students learn while using VR headsets, they will be entertained with the things they can accomplish and learn. They provide the element of reality in 2D and 3D that cannot be experienced with some other types of systems. The modern technology of these devices can be enjoyed for a number of activities. Use them for watching movies, shows, or sporting events. They make everything on the screen look so much more real and alive than just looking at the screen as it is.
Sound Quality
One of the best things about virtual reality equipment such as these excellent headsets is the fact that the sound is embedded in the device. You do not have to rely on a separate mechanism for the sound or the visual effects to be the most superb you have ever experienced. When the sound is as good as it is with these products that are listed, you will never want to watch movies or play games anymore without using one of these ideal headsets to fully enjoy the activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What are some for the benefits for students using VR headsets?
We have summarized the best benefits for students in this easy to reference list:
1. Students are able to explore places and subjects without ever leaving their classrooms
2. Allows students to experience different careers, subjects, and environments
3. Gives the ability to travel to certain times in history
4. Creative outlet for creating their own VR content
5. Ability to integrate VR learning into all subjects for visual learners
6. Creates empathy for crises by being able to experience the situations through VR
7. Explore areas of the ocean or universe that would otherwise not be available
8. Promotes the world of wonder and curiosity
q: Are these equally entertaining for boys as they are for girls?
Most certainly. Girls love to see movies, games, and other activities in 2D and 3D reality just as much as boys do. The instructions are simple, and the devices are user-friendly.
q: Is there an age minimum or maximum for using these items?
No, not at all. Younger children may need them set up for them and then shown how to operate the headsets, but they enjoy them just as much as older kids do. Adults love these as well, so no, there is no age limit for fun.
q: What is the main purpose of these headsets?
They are used to enhance games, movies, and screen activities with 2D and 3D visual effects and surround sound audio for a better viewing experience. The many features and capabilities of these excellent devices make everything you see on the screen much better and realistic.
q: Are these devices all wireless?
Yes, these are all wireless, but some of them use a smartphone for their functioning and set-up features. We made a note in the summary sections of which ones those are.
q: What is a common complaint about these products online from customers?
The biggest problem would have to be connectivity and compatibility of the devices with the systems that they are for. You have to have the specific system that the headset is for or else it will not work correctly or at all. When purchasing, make sure you are getting the one that is compatible with the system you have currently.
