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What VR Headsets work with Half Life Alyx

Valve Index
4.5
4.5/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
Amazon
HP Reverb G2 (V2)
4.2
4.2/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
Amazon
Oculus Rift S
3.0
3/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
Amazon

Table of Contents

If you are new to the world of VR headsets, choosing the best one to play Half-Life: Alyx can be overwhelming. The list below showcases a wide range of headsets, each with its own price, personality, and priorities.

What are you most excited about for Half-Life: Alyx? If it is to experience the Half-Life world in excruciating detail, pick a headset with an emphasis on superior graphics. If you are looking forward to fast-paced virtual reality combat, choose a headset with a higher refresh rate.

Your gaming space and style can also help make the decision. Are a tether cable or external tracking beacons dealbreakers for you? Combine an optimal gaming space and a VR headset that matches your style, and you can experience Half-Life: Alyx in its full glory.

Top 8 Half-Life: Alyx Compatible Headsets

1. Valve Index

4.5
4.5/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 1440x1600
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • FOV: 130°

Half-Life: Alyx was developed to be used with this headset, and the Valve Index can handle it all with two screens, a 159-degree field of view, and a refresh rate up to 144 Hertz. While the excellent visuals provide a smooth experience, the Valve Index’s magic comes from its controller design. You can actually pick objects up, and all 10 fingers are independently tracked.

For most users, the Valve Index offers comfortable play during the 12-18 hours you will be playing. We noticed that this headset gets noticeably warm during long sessions. External tracking beacons mean that this headset works best for those who have a permanent set up in their game room.

As a tethered headset, you will need to be aware of the cord to avoid catastrophic unit failure. If you can survive a relatively simple external beacon setup and a cord, the Valve Index provides the fully immersive experience that Half-Life: Alyx was designed to provide.

Pros:

  • Half-Life: Alyx developed for Valve Index
  • Best hand controllers for Half-Life: Alyx
  • Independent 10-finger tracking
  • Accurate audio – important for pinpointing opponents
  • Excellent visual refresh rate
  • Adjusts for interpupillary distance (IPD)

Cons:

  • Rather expensive
  • Tethered design
  • External tracking
Amazon

2. HP Reverb G2 (V2)

4.2
4.2/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 2160x2160
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • FOV: 114°

If you are after an immersive experience in the Half-Life: Alyx world, the HP Reverb G2 (V2) might be the perfect VR headset. Because the lenses and speakers were developed by the same company that created the game, this VR headset shows the game as it was meant to be seen. The visuals with this headset are in unparalleled 4K, and the audio is just as impressive.

Although the visuals and world are experienced in flawless detail, this VR headset does not allow for individual finger tracking. While you can definitely still play Half-Life: Alyx, it does mean that certain actions like crushing cans are impossible.

Without finger autonomy, the combat is not as realistic. If true-to-life combat is one of your gameplay goals, this might not be the headset for you. However, if you are playing Half-Life: Alyx to explore one of the best VR worlds ever built, the HP Reverb G2 (V2) offers stunning screens, atmospheric audio, and everything you need to enjoy the game.

Pros:

  • Top-tier visuals
  • Adjustable IPD
  • Immersive audio
  • No external tracking
  • Easy to switch players with a magnetic face mask

Cons:

  • Tethered
  • Controllers occasionally lose signal
  • Finger autonomy unavailable
Amazon

3. Oculus Rift S

3.0
3/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 1280x1440
  • Refresh Rate: 80Hz
  • FOV: 115°

If you can find one, the Oculus Rift S is a budget-friendly way to play Half-Life: Alyx. Although it is not the cheapest option, the Oculus Rift S gives you the best value for the price. Because the controllers eat through AA batteries, you could invest in rechargeable batteries to save money in the long run.

An 80-Hz refresh rate means that, while not groundbreaking, your visual experience is definitely engaging. The speakers are adequate for most users, but a headphone jack means that you can upgrade to your own audio equipment.

Like most of the other headsets on this list, the Oculus Rift S is tethered so there is a cord to keep track of as you explore Half-Life: Alyx. No external sensors mean that it is easy to set up and begin playing. Because the IPD is fixed, it will either work for your face or it will not.

Overall, the Oculus Rift S is heavy-duty enough to enjoy Half-Life: Alyx without the heavy-duty price tag.

Pros:

  • Great price for features
  • No external tracking
  • Fluid tracking
  • Respectable specs to experience the Half-Life: Alyx world
  • Headphone jack

Cons:

  • Tethered
  • Fixed IPD
  • Discontinued and harder to find
  • Finger autonomy unavailable
Amazon

4. HTC VIVE PRO 2

3.5
3.5/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 2448x2448
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • FOV: 120°

With a 116-degree field of view and a 120-Hz refresh rate, the HTC Vive Pro 2 offers one of the best visual experiences. No screen-door effect means that it feels like you are really in Half-Life: Alyx.

Unfortunately, the controllers feel a little more primitive than other options. However, the HTC Vive Pro 2 is compatible with the knuckles-style Valve Index controllers. For the ultimate Half-Life: Alyx experience, you could pair the Vive’s 5K graphics with the intuitive Valve Index controllers.

One reason we chose the HTC Vive Pro 2 over other options is that replacement parts are readily available via authorized dealers. If you trample the tether, replacement parts mean that you will not be out of commission for long periods of time.

To support the impeccable specs and fluid tracking, you will need to install external beacons. Once it has been set up, the HTC Vive Pro 2 can provide one of the best Half-Life: Alyx gaming experiences.

Pros:

  • High-end graphics
  • Adjustable IPD
  • No external tracking
  • Replacement parts available
  • Comfortable for users who wear glasses
  • Compatible with knuckle-style controllers

Cons:

  • Expensive price tag
  • Clunky controllers
  • External tracking
  • Tethered
  • Fixed brightness makes it challenging to play darker scenes in Half-Life: Alyx
Amazon

5. Oculus Quest 2 - Cheapest VR Headset for Half-Life: Alyx

4.7
4.7/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 1832x1920
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • FOV: 90°

With its budget-friendly price, Oculus Quest 2 is the cheapest VR headset that will allow you to play Half-Life: Alyx. While that lower cost comes with lower graphics, the Oculus Quest 2 is definitely able to provide an enjoyable playthrough with the assistance of a powerful gaming computer. Although the head strap and audio quality leave a little to be desired, you can upgrade the head strap and use your own audio equipment for a better Half-Life: Alyx experience.

Beyond the price, upgrading your Oculus Quest 2 with an Oculus Air means that you can play Half-Life: Alyx without the affliction of a tether cable. Because Half-Life: Alyx is a physically intense game, it is a relief not to have to worry about tangling a fragile cable. This VR headset does not require external tracking beacons, so its setup is as easy as it gets.

The team agreed that the sleek white finish is a design statement that will look great on display in your game room.

Pros:

  • Most affordable choice
  • Untethered for a more immersive Half-Life: Alyx experience
  • No external tracking
  • Easy to set up
  • Elegant white aesthetic

Cons:

  • Adequate graphics
  • Uncomfortable default head strap
  • Poor audio
  • Finger autonomy unavailable
GameStop
Amazon

6. HTC VIVE Cosmos Elite

3.3
3.3/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 1440x1700
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • FOV: 110°

At a price comparable to higher-end VR headsets, the VIVE Cosmos Elite offers the excellent visual aspects you would expect. If you are the sort of gamer who is constantly fiddling with settings until it is perfect, the VIVE Cosmos Elite might be right for you. The faceplate conveniently flips up so you can adjust your computer’s settings without removing the entire rig.

You can choose to upgrade to a wireless setup for an untethered Half-Life: Alyx experience. Unfortunately, that wireless adapter is a bit pricey. The external beacons might be a pain to set up but result in seamless tracking.

With adjustable head straps and adjustable IPD, the VIVE Cosmos Elite is noted for being one of the most comfortable VR headsets for long sessions. When a comfortable headset, excellent graphics, and accurate tracking come together in the VIVE Cosmos Elite, you can lose yourself in Half-Life: Alyx.

Pros:

  • Immersive graphics
  • Adjustable IPD
  • Comfortable for the 12-18 hours of Half-Life: Alyx gameplay
  • Faceplate panel flips up
  • Wireless adapter available

Cons:

  • Expensive price tag
  • External tracking
  • Noisy fan behind the faceplate
  • Finger autonomy unavailable
Amazon

7. Pimax 5K Super

3.8
3.8/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 2560x1440
  • Refresh Rate: 180Hz
  • FOV: 200°

The first thing to notice about the Pimax 5K Super is its magnificent 150-degree field of view capacity. It also boasts a best-in-class 180-Hertz refresh rate. While each of these is important when playing Half-Life: Alyx, you will need to choose between a wider field of view or a higher refresh rate.

Unlike most VR headsets that have quick setups, the Pimax 5K Super puts all the power in your hands. While this more intense approach is not for everyone, it is perfect for those who enjoy precision.

Although this headset is tethered and can be a trip hazard during physically demanding portions of the game, the Pimax 5K Super is compatible with the Valve Index controllers. With extra investment, you can enjoy 10 independent fingers with either an ultra-high refresh rate or an ultra-high field of view.

Pros:

  • Fastest refresh rate
  • Adjustable IPD
  • Ability to finetune settings
  • You can use your own audio equipment
  • Compatible with knuckle-style controllers

Cons:

  • Tethered
  • Choose between expansive field of view or ultra-fast refresh
  • Distortion at the edge of field of view
  • External tracking
  • Default speakers deliver poor quality audio
Amazon

8. Pimax Vision 8K X

4.0
4/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 3840x2160
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • FOV: 200°

With the highest price on the list, the Pimax VISION 8K X is, unsurprisingly, overkill for most users. However, if you enjoy pushing the VR experience to its limit, the Pimax VISION 8K X might be right for you.

Even if you have played Half-Life: Alyx numerous times on other VR headsets, a wealth of newly visible details and textures will make the game feel new again. This is because of this headset’s impressive 4K displays and the largest field of view available.

However, all that detail comes at a cost. There is a slightly slower refresh rate of 90-115 Hz which is still absolutely enjoyable on Half-Life: Alyx. You will also need a beast of a gaming machine to be able to support the Primax VISION 8K X to its fullest abilities.

Because Half-Life: Alyx requires lots of hand movement, this headset’s compatibility with knuckle-style controls means that you can also enjoy a more satisfying gaming experience.

Pros:

  • Ability to finetune settings
  • Two 4K displays
  • Largest field of view
  • See all the textures and small details programmed into Half-Life: Alyx
  • Compatible with knuckle-style controllers

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Tethered
  • External tracking
  • Incompatible with machines running AMD GPU
Amazon

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Good Half Life Alyx VR headset

Because Half-Life Alyx means exploration and combat, refresh rate can make a big difference in your experience. Everyone’s preferences are different, but, in general, a refresh rate of 60 Hz or below results in noticeably clunky gameplay. If the combat aspects of this game are what you enjoy most, it might be worth investing in a higher refresh rate.

Graphics

Resolution and field of view are two aspects to consider in your quest for the best VR headset to play Half-Life Alyx. Higher resolution usually comes at the expense of performance, but can help you feel like you are actually there.

In the same way, a more expansive field of view feels natural and immersive. It is also helpful in combat. Prioritize the graphics if you want to experience every single atmospheric detail in Half-Life: Alyx.

Audio

To pinpoint adversaries effectively in Half-Life: Alyx, quality audio is a must. Fortunately, most VR headsets that leave some to be desired in the audio department allow you to use your own audio equipment. However, depending on the rig, that can be uncomfortable for long sessions.

Finger Autonomy

Half-Life: Alyx was developed with the expectation that a player would be able to enjoy finger autonomy. Does that mean that playing this game without finger autonomy is not worth it? Absolutely not – Half-Life: Alyx provides a great game beyond how you can use your hands.

However, if you want to enjoy the full experience, choose a headset compatible with the Valve Index’s knuckle-style controllers. With finger autonomy, handling virtual objects feels more intuitive and you can enjoy the satisfaction of flipping the bird at your adversaries.

Haptic Add-Ons

To unlock the best possible Half-Life: Alyx experience, choosing a VR headset compatible with haptic add-ons can make the combat seem even more real. After all, there is nothing quite like feeling water rush around your feet or a face-hugger latching onto your face. If you want to feel like you are in the immersive Half-Life: Alyx world, choose a VR headset with compatible haptic add-ons.

Comfort

Playing through Half-Life: Alyx takes about 12-18 hours. Discomfort during that time can be distracting. Because comfort is subjective, there is no single best VR headset.

However, one thing to look out for is adjustable interpupillary distance (IPD). If your IPD is not compatible with the headset’s range, Half-Life: Alyx will be, if not nauseating, very difficult to play.

Another element to comfort level is keeping track of a tether cable. If you think a cable might be distracting or dangerous for your gaming style, choose a headset that can be used wirelessly.

Price

Do you need the biggest most expensive VR headset to enjoy Half-Life: Alyx? While more expensive headsets can provide a smoother, more beautiful experience, this game can still be fully enjoyed on a cheaper headset. However, Half-Life: Alyx is filled with layers of detail and is an enjoyable game even on inexpensive VR headsets.

WTF is Half-Life: Alyx, exactly???

As a triumphant return to the immersive Half-Life world, Half-Life Alyx redefined the standards of virtual reality games. Set between Half-Life 1 and Half-Life 2, it might not be the long-awaited Half-Life 3. However, it continues Valve’s tradition of gaming excellence as seen in a whole new platform.

With breathtaking graphics, well-thought-out physics, and compelling storytelling, Half-Life: Alyx is exclusive to virtual reality which means that it showcases all the possible potential. From the graphics to the gameplay, Half-Life Alyx is the opportunity to actually journey to the Half-Life world.

Although Half-Life: Alyx is a first-person shooter, it does not come across as just another shoot-em-up virtual reality game. You get to explore the world, solve puzzles, and discover a captivating story. Our team thought that the first play-through of Half-Life: Alyx transcends a game and is as much an experience as watching Star Wars for the first time.

Best Half-Life Alyx Settings

Each VR headset and each computer will run Half-Life: Alyx differently, there is no single correct set of options to optimize your VR equipment. The best way to figure out which settings are right for your VR headset and computer is to test. Taking the time early on to finetune the settings to your preferences will result in the rest of the playing experience being fantastic.

Player expectations also determine which setting you will want to use. If you want to play Half-Life: Alyx to experience every detail of the world, graphics might be slightly more important than performance. For those who enjoy horror and combat, optimize your audio setup as well as your graphics and performance options.

Chances are, you probably have a good idea of what kind of experience your gaming computer is capable of – you just need to adjust the settings on your VR headset to match that anticipated performance.

Minimum PC Requirements to run Half-Life: Alyx

Because Half-Life Alyx often requires higher performance than the VR headset itself, you might need to upgrade your gaming computer. Here are the minimum requirements you need:


OS: Windows 10
Processor: Intel Core i5-7500 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600
Memory: 12 GB RAM
Graphics: GTX 1060 or AMD RX 580; 6 GB VRAM

Recommended PC Requirements to run Half-Life: Alyx

Upgrade from the minimum requirements to achieve smoother gameplay and an optimal experience. Check out the recommended requirements below:


OS: Windows 10
Processor: Intel Core i7 9700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Memory: 16 GB DDR4 RAM
Graphics: RTX 2070 Super or AMD 5700 XT

TL;DR: The Best VR for Half Life Alyx

The best VR headset for Half-Life: Alyx depends on your budget, your computer, your preferences, and what kind of gaming experience you want. A headset that matches your priorities for this game is the one that you will enjoy the most.

If you want to interact as much as possible with the world, prioritize finger autonomy. For users who want to soak in the atmosphere and discover the story, choose a headset that puts resolution, field of view, and audio above finger autonomy. Figuring out what you want to achieve is the first step to having an absolutely fantastic Half-Life Alyx experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

While Half-Life: Alyx features horror elements like face crawlers, it is not a game based around scaring the user. For those unphased by horror, Half-Life: Alyx is not scary. However, Half-Life: Alyx can send a good shiver down your spine if you have a low threshold for horror.

For those on a budget and looking for the cheapest possible way to experience Half-Life: Alyx, the Oculus 2 offers a fantastic gaming experience. However, if you are a graphics connoisseur and expect games to be flawless and run on ultra-high settings at all times, you might find the Oculus 2 wanting.

The truth is that Half-Life: Alyx has so many layers that there is something to enjoy at all quality levels. The Quest 2 does an admirable job delivering that experience.

Released exclusively in virtual reality, Valve has no plans to provide a way to play Half-Life: Alyx without a VR headset. If you are willing to explore user-created mods, it might be possible to play Half-Life: Alyx without a headset. Depending on your comfort level fiddling with user-created technology, that might not be an option for everyone.