When VR first hit the mainstream, it was seen as expensive, niche, and somewhat intimidating. High-end headsets like the Valve Index and Meta Quest Pro still fetch a hefty price, but here’s the good news:

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a rich virtual reality experience.

Whether you’re a casual gamer, curious tech explorer, or someone who just wants to watch immersive 360° videos, today’s market offers a range of affordable VR devices, and many of them perform surprisingly well for their price. In fact, with £300 or less, you can jump into the virtual world with solid hardware that delivers fun, comfort, and decent performance.

This guide will help you navigate the best VR headsets under £300, what to expect from budget models, and how to choose the one that matches your needs.

What to Expect from Entry-Level VR Headsets

A man in a gray suit is receiving assistance with headphones from another man, who wears a blue plaid jacket indoors with natural light.

Before diving into recommendations, let’s set realistic expectations. Entry-level VR devices are designed for:

  • First-time users or casual players
  • Media consumption (Netflix VR, YouTube 360, etc.)
  • Light gaming and social interaction
  • Fitness apps and VR workouts
  • Education and virtual tours

You may need to compromise on features like ultra-high resolution, wide field of view, or cutting-edge hand tracking — but if you pick wisely, you won’t feel like you’re missing out.

Key Considerations When Shopping Under £300

  • Standalone vs tethered: Do you want a self-contained device or one that requires a PC or console?
  • Tracking type: Inside-out tracking (no sensors) is now common on affordable headsets.
  • Comfort: Weight balance and face padding are essential for longer sessions.
  • Game library: Make sure it supports the content you care about — gaming, fitness, media, or education.

The Best Cheap VR Headsets for 2025

A person wearing a virtual reality headset, with hands raised as if interacting with virtual elements, against a vibrant orange background.

Let’s explore the top-rated entry-level VR headsets you can get for £300 or less. All models listed are currently available or expected to be widely stocked.

1. Meta Quest 2 (128GB)

Price Range: ~£250

Still one of the most popular headsets, the Meta Quest 2 delivers incredible value for its price. You don’t need a PC, there are hundreds of games in the Meta Store, and it’s regularly updated by Meta.

Pros:

  • Huge content library
  • Wireless and portable
  • Solid tracking and hand gesture support
  • Access to Meta-exclusive fitness apps and social VR

Cons:

  • The default strap and face padding need improvement
  • Requires a Facebook/Meta account to set up

To enhance comfort, many users pair it with top VR controller grips and skins for added stability during intense play.

2. Pico 4 Lite

Price Range: ~£299

Pico is gaining ground as a serious alternative to the Quest line. The Pico 4 Lite delivers vibrant visuals, a slim form factor, and comes with decent controllers. It’s geared towards those who prefer media and casual games.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and well-balanced
  • High-resolution display
  • No Facebook login required
  • Great for watching VR videos

Cons:

  • Smaller app library than Meta
  • Not as many AAA game titles

This is one of the most affordable VR devices offering comfort and visual clarity with very little setup required.

3. Sony PlayStation VR (Original Model, Refurbished)

Price Range: ~£200–£250

While the PSVR2 is out, the original PlayStation VR still offers value — especially if you can find a refurbished bundle with controllers and camera.

Pros:

  • Access to a fun game library
  • Compatible with existing PS4 setups
  • Often bundled with games

Cons:

  • Requires external camera and multiple cables
  • Lower resolution by today’s standards

It’s still a great fit for families or teens who own a PS4 and want to explore VR without committing to a high-end setup.

4. DPVR E4 Lite (Entry Model)

Price Range: ~£299

The DPVR E4 Lite brings PCVR to budget users. While it doesn’t rival the Valve Index, it supports SteamVR and is capable of running many titles on modest hardware.

Pros:

  • SteamVR compatible
  • Lightweight and ergonomic
  • Accurate inside-out tracking

Cons:

  • Limited global support
  • Small online community

If you already have a gaming PC and don’t mind using a cable, this is a smart, cheap VR headset choice for getting into PC-based VR.

5. Oculus Go (Refurbished or Used)

Price Range: ~£100–£150

Though discontinued, the Oculus Go can still be found refurbished. It’s not ideal for active gaming, butit works well for watching VR content, exploring 360° tours, or educational tools.

Pros:

  • Super lightweight
  • Extremely affordable
  • Good for casual use or kids

Cons:

  • No 6DoF tracking (can’t move around in 3D space)
  • Limited app compatibility in 2025

Best used as a secondary headset or first-time tester for younger audiences or the elderly.

Choosing the Right Entry-Level Headset for You

A person wearing a VR headset sits on a couch, engaging enthusiastically, while another person observes nearby in a cozy setting.

Here’s how to narrow it down based on your needs.

1. Are You a Gamer?

Go for Meta Quest 2 or Pico 4 Lite. These offer good controller support, lots of game titles, and community integration.

2. Want It for Fitness?

Again, the Meta Quest 2 shines thanks to apps like Supernatural, FitXR, and Les Mills Bodycombat. You can pair it with an extra battery for Quest for longer workouts.

3. Do You Own a Console?

If you’ve already got a PS4, the original PlayStation VR still holds up for casual fun.

4. Are You Interested in PCVR?

Go with the DPVR E4 Lite for a no-frills but capable SteamVR experience on a budget.

5. Just Curious About VR or Need a Gift?

A refurbished Oculus Go or low-cost standalone viewer is perfect for exploring without overcommitting.

Pros and Cons of Budget VR Headsets

Pros:

  • Low financial risk — great for first-timers
  • Lightweight builds — often more comfortable
  • Plenty of content — especially on Meta’s platform
  • Standalone models reduce clutter — no wires or PC needed

Cons:

  • Lower resolution and refresh rates
  • Fewer features (eye tracking, haptics, etc.)
  • Shorter lifespan and upgrade path
  • May need accessories for the best experience

Conclusion: Entry-Level Doesn’t Mean Low-Quality

You don’t need to empty your wallet to step into virtual reality. The market is packed with options under £300 that offer solid performance, strong libraries, and surprising comfort. Whether you’re in it for fitness, gaming, movies, or educational exploration, there’s a cheap VR headset out there for you.

Start with what matters most to you — games, comfort, visuals, or versatility. Then find the headset that meets those needs without unnecessary extras. You can always upgrade later, but your VR journey can start today, and affordably.

Which budget headset are you eyeing? Let us know your picks, ask questions, or share your experience in the comments.