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What is the Best VR Headset for iRacing

HP Reverb G2
4.2
4.2/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
Amazon
Pimax Vision 8K X
4.0
4/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
Amazon
Oculus Quest 2
4.7
4.7/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
Amazon

Table of Contents

Virtual Reality (VR) translates into an important accessory in contemporary games. Games, including iRacing, demand VR because of the simulator. Unfortunately, trouble comes up when you are selecting the best one.


An amazing future lies ahead, with many VR headsets available in the market, great graphics, and high-powered. But you have to be keen when buying one. Before acquiring the device, you must understand the guidelines of what attributes you have to look out for. 


This article will discuss everything you need to understand about the best VR headsets for iRacing. We have listed the ten best ones available in the market, as well as every appliance’s benefits and demerits.


In addition, we will tackle some of the questions often asked and the necessary parameters you should consider when purchasing a VR headset for iRacing. There are many brands to select from, and it may be pretty puzzling for you if you are unsure of the features to look out for.

Top 10 iRacing VR Supported Headsets

1. HP Reverb G2 (V2)

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

HP made every effort to gift the world a VR headset with high resolution. And they delivered with the HP Reverb G2. Encompassing dual LCD panels, each with 2160 by 2160 resolution, the total resolution comes to 4320 by 2160; thus, discrediting their competition.


This gadget has an above-average field of view (FOV), which leaves users desiring more viewing scope; nevertheless, it exceeds most of the competition. Also, the refresh rate fails to use the unbelievable screen resolution properly. While this rate is considered reasonable, a greater refresh rate is wished-for for a resolution like this.


Quality personal computer (PC) hardware specifics are proposed to reap the most from the screen resolution. Or else the display cannot be used to its maximum potential.


HP came together with Valve to provide the G2 off-ear speakers similar to the Valve Index. This led to an amazing and immersive audio quality to go hand in hand with a powerful display. Additionally, the manufacturers claim the headset can be modified to fit any head.


The HP Reverb G2 is worth purchasing since it has the sharpest display and fantastic sound quality, and its retail price is reasonable.

Pros:

  • Excellent resolution
  • Works with SteamVR
  • Highly adjustable to maximize comfort
  • Easily adjustable
  • Breathable foam

Cons:

  • poor tracking for other games
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2. Pimax Vision 8K X

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

The Pimax Vision 8K X is the zenith of Pimax’s headset headsets. With dual 4K resolution displays, SteamVR tracking, and a refresh rate up to 90 Hz. Hence, making it a great gadget for dedicated VR gamers.


The Vision 8K X integrates Pimax’s signature ultrawide headset shell with an angled front. The headset’s angled display creates room for the 200 degrees field of view, which this line of headsets is famous for.


The back cushion of the Vision 8K X is a replica of the one on the HTC Vive Pro. It entails a triangular section, which supports the neck, and a cushion that allows the first one to take the shape of your head. In addition, the headset comes fitted with Pimax’s Comfort Lit improved face cushion that gives a long forehead cushion to balance the device.


Modifiable refresh rate is quite the norm in many VR headsets, but the Vision 8K X has one main arrangement option: FOV. The device supports four distinct FOV alternatives: Large, Normal, Small, and Potato. Nonetheless, the Potato FOV is impractical because the 90-degree render is very low quality.


The Pimax Vision 8K X has a lot of great features, including the great display and wide FOV, which makes it worth every dime.

Pros:

  • Superb clarity at full resolution
  • Wide FOV

Cons:

  • Average refresh rate
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3. Oculus Quest 2: Budget Option

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

The Oculus Quest 2 comes with a pair of sensors and headgear. It is a good device that lets you explore the virtual universe with great visuals.


The Quest 2 is a powerful piece of equipment comprising all the newest properties. It boasts a fantastic display, allowing users to visit the virtual universe and play games. The headset has a power button and an indicator on the right side. The other side has a USB-C connector.


The design is simple, and it has a strap, which you can swiftly slip and modify to fit your wants. This headset can readily modify the position of the lenses by pulling out the eye mask that can be put back. 


The sensors, which inherit each move in the VR environment, are one of the greatest features of the Quest 2. The sensors give an amazing grip for the user. Blending several buttons and a switch perfectly fits your thumb and index finger, giving the most mesmerizing gaming involvement imaginable.


In addition, the Quest 2 is considered the best budget option due to its affordable price. Unfortunately, the Quest 2 has short battery life despite its many benefits.


Since the benefits so far outweigh the demerits, I would request you to immerse yourself in the fan-filled Oculus Quest 2 universe, starting at $299.

Pros:

  • No wires!
  • Long battery life
  • It can be tethered with your computer
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Lower display resolution
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4. Valve Index

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

The Valve Index is a powerful VR headset with enhanced abilities that allow you to experience more of the gaming universe. Although it operates on an older Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), the Index gives an awesome experience to the user. It shields your investment by giving you a comfy fit.


The Index has broad viewing angles, which give you a wide playing area in your game. The speedy refresh rate allows you to focus on the game with minimal to no distractions.


The knuckle controllers are recommended because they give amazing grip and monitor each movement your body makes, letting you get the most from the Valve Index. A shiny faceplate accompanied by two cameras, which function as sensors for the headset, is mounted on the front.


The Valve Index VR is rated among the top gaming headset VRs in the market currently. Unfortunately, it is hard to set up. Nonetheless, it has many amazing features that create a great gaming universe; hence, we recommend it.

Pros:

  • Dual knuckle controllers
  • Great audio quality
  • Lightweight
  • Extensive FOV

Cons:

  • Lower display resolution than other options
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5. HTC VIVE PRO 2

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

HTC is considered as one of the pioneers in the modern-day era of VR hardware, with their flagship HTC Vive VR being a benchmark in the industry for quite some time. However, the competition has warmed up; thus, HTC’s Vive Pro 2 has upped the stakes.


With a speedy refresh rate, high-resolution screen, robust built-in audio, and hardware that contends with the Valve Index for the top spot, the Vive Pro 2 is the actual definition of a gamer’s paradise.


However, it is not all great as there are several areas of the headset that feel left in the old days, and it has a steep financial barrier to entry that should be taken care of. Despite the minor shortcomings, there are many things to like about the Vibe Pro 2.


For those who can meet the HTC Vive Pro 2 steep demands, an immersive experience awaits them.

Pros:

  • Great resolution and refresh rate
  • A huge FOV
  • Very durable

Cons:

  • Quite expensive considering performance
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6. Pimax 5K Super

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

Pimax has blessed gamers with another great VR headset with the Vision 5K. Like the 8KX, the Vision 5K has an extensive 200-degree FOV, so you can notice even the smallest of the details when playing with VR.


The headset eliminates the annoying binocular effect to gift you the best VR experience, specifically when playing racing games like the F1, NASCAR, or Rally. Its two liquid crystal displays (LCDs) have a combined resolution of 5120 by 1440; thus, setting the bar in VR excellence.


Just like the 8KX, the 5K has many refresh modes to select from to see what best suits you while gaming. You can choose among 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz, 160Hz, or 180Hz, which gives you a vivid life-like feeling beneficial when playing first-person, racing, or action games. Lastly, the device is also fitted with face cowling, nose guard, and face foam that make it comfortable for gaming.


The Vision 5K turns your gamer’s lounge into a race track, and it is beautiful, sturdy, and offers you several modes to select from.

Pros:

  • Highest refresh rate (180Hz)
  • High FOV
  • High resolution of 2560 by 1440
  • Well-priced
  • Offers access to SteamVR

Cons:

  • It can only be paired with a powerful computer
  • Heavy (750g)
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7. Varjo Aero

3.5
3.5/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 2880x2720
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • FOV: 134°

The Varjo Company produces some of the most cutting-edge VR hardware currently in the market. I am pretty confident that you have probably heard of the brand due to exorbitant market prices, which range from $5,000 to $10,000. However, Varjo Aero is the brand’s first attempt to bring its products to the consumer.


The Varjo Aero borrows heavily from the company’s flagship headset, the Varjo XR-3, but without the pricey elements. Nonetheless, the Aero is still an expensive piece of technology, and only the most dedicated VR lovers would probably get interested.


Despite its steep price, the Varjo Aero’s visor is compact and sleek compared to other VR headsets. It also features two 2,880 by 2,720 pixel Mini LED displays for a total resolution of 5,760 by 2,720. The Mini LED LCD panels allow exceptionally sharp images with outstanding color reproduction.


Since the brand caters to design experts, Varjo calibrates the displays at the factory with 99% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 accuracy. Hence, the color displayed is true to reality.


Also, Varjo Aero is leading when it comes to the brightness of the displays. In bright, colorful VR environments, it would be hard to find another device that lets you experience the true beauty of the virtual universe.


If you are looking for a VR headset with great displays, which is very adjustable, and by extension, comfortable, then the Varjo Aero yourself.

Pros:

  • Ultra-clear display
  • Standard USB-C cable
  • Adjustability
  • Automatic IPD
  • Disadvantages

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Heavy
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8. Lenovo Explorer

2.6
2.6/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 1440x1440
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • FOV: 110°

The Explorer is Lenovo’s first mixed reality headset. Its goal is to create an affordable, accessible option for other brands’ more renowned VR experiences.


Featuring strong build quality, the Explorer is an excellent piece of hardware. Nonetheless, minor issues with Microsoft’s Mixed Reality platform, combined incoming innovations prevent it from becoming a must-have.


Visually, the Explorer is quite similar to the already known Oculus Rift, featuring touch controls and a visor-shaped headset, which look similar to those of Oculus Touch from a distance.


The most terrific Explorer’s selling point is how easy they can set up. Plus, they do not require external sensors to perform optimally. If you are using Windows 10, all you need is to plug the Explorer into one USB slot on a supported PC. From there, you will follow commands running on the screen. The process takes virtually 2 minutes.


The most crucial feature of any VR headset is the quality of image hitting your eyeballs, and here the Explorer is a mixed bag. The screen door effect is still noticeable, but not that obvious. It also has a challenge with focus because getting the image perfect in both eyes simultaneously is undoubtedly impossible.


For a potential client, the Lenovo Explorer is a classic example of the potential of the Windows Mixed Reality platform, with a renowned manufacturer going out of its way to create a well-built VR headset, which handles VR games, and it is worth your money and time.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Good resolution for the price

Cons:

  • Heats up when in use
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9. Samsung HMD Odyssey+

3
3/5
Value
Immersion
Comfort
Control
Ease of Use
  • Resolution: 1440x1600
  • Refresh Rate: 90Hz
  • FOV: 110°

The HMD Odyssey + deploys a pair of 3.5 inches AMOLED display capable of 3K resolution able to bring your games to life with hyper-realistic graphics. The resolution has 1440 by 1600 pixels per screen with a 90Hz refresh rate.


A high refresh rate is necessary to eliminate the feelings of motion sickness, especially when you are fully immersed in a virtual racing game. The HMD has a 110-degree FOV to engross you with life-like details as you race.


AKG tunes the gadget’s sound to ensure you hear everything. The HMD Odyssey+ also boasts an adjustable headband, and it is also 10 percent lighter than its previous version. It is manufactured from comfortable materials so that you can immerse yourself in the universe as long as you wish.


We cannot forget that this VR headset has a cooling fabric, so you will not have to get concerned about the lenses clouding up as you play. In a nutshell, the HMD Odyssey + is a great gadget that offers gamers a great experience; hence, they should not shy away from trying it out.

Pros:

  • Its AMOLED display presents superb contrast
  • The Odyssey+ has an extensive FOV
  • It has a 90Hz refresh rate
  • Manual interpupillary distance adjustments

Cons:

  • The user cannot flip up the visor
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10. Oculus Rift S

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

The Oculus Brand has described the Rift S as an upgrade, but not a real “Rift 2.” It is still tethered to the gaming computer but noted as a “gold standard” for virtual reality. The gadget offers to use the most exclusive experience when gaming.


The Rift S “Insight” system deploys tracking cameras mounted on the headset rather than the ones placed around the room. It has five different cameras mounted differently: rather than a wide-angle camera on every corner.


The self-contained setup of the Rift s is way more straightforward because all you do is plug one USB cable and one Display Port cable, then start the Oculus desktop program that takes you through the setup. The Rift S controllers have not had a significant upgrade compared to that of its previous version, the Oculus Rift, but they are still among the best VR controllers ever designed so far.


The Oculus Rift S is a more approachable entry point into computer-based VR. Plus, the Insight is quite impressive, which validates the intermediate Rift.

Pros:

  • No outside tracking stations
  • Lightweight
  • Backward compatible

Cons:

  • Lower refresh rate
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Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Good iRacing Headset

I assume you have gone through the entire review and settled on the device you need. If all is not clear yet, this guide will help make your decision easy after going through this fantastic evaluation of the top VR headsets we chose for you.


This guide is vital for people who are new to buying VR headset for iRacing since it is an expensive investment. Ergo, before you decide on the product to purchase, we must go through the key components you should consider when purchasing.


To start, these are the factors:

Comfort

When selecting a VR headset for iRacing, you need something lightweight but not too small. Hence, go for headsets that allow for maximum strap modification so that they can fit your head without causing discomfort. Many VR headsets tend to be pretty heavy, so your comfort while gaming is compromised. Also, protect the neck when gaming to avoid straining and fully enjoy the experience.

Compatibility

Nowadays, there are numerous VR headset brands in the market, making it easy for one to get confused when buying. Not all VR headsets allow you to play iRacing; hence, search for those that work with computers and consoles. Several affordable VR headsets only work for mobile, so they are not recommended for iRacing.

Range of Motion

Search for VR headsets, which present an extensive FOV to see your gaming surroundings. You must see what is in front of you so you can compute your turns when iRacing. Looking up, down, and sideways is critical in a VR gadget.

Sound

A good VR headset should entail an audio system and an inbuilt microphone. This is non-negotiable as you need to hear the revving engine and the virtual surroundings to immerse yourself in the digital universe fully.

Price

The price of the VR headsets varies, so search for a device that fits your budget and study its attributes to know if it has what you need. The best VR headsets for iRacing tend to be pricey, but many brands offer affordable versions that you can ultimately get within your budget range.

Refresh Rates

No matter what type of VR headset you are using, they all have given maximum refresh rate. A refresh rate refers to the time it takes to redraw the on-screen image completely. They are measured in Hertz (Hz); thus, the number you see indicates the total number of redraws in a second.


Many displays are capable of at least 60Hz, with modern-day displays realizing about 120Hz, 240Hz, and even 360Hz. The bigger the refresh rate, the smoother the screen’s motion can generate. In VR headsets, higher refresh rates make the experience more immediate and responsive.

Resolution

Resolution is a phrase that goes beyond VR. It refers to the number of pixels that can be displayed. 1440 by 1440 designation on your VR headset is the gadget’s resolution. In this case, the headset’s display is both 1440 wide and high. You should select a gadget with an excellent resolution to avoid the screen door effect.

Field of View (FOV)

FOV, in a broad sense, refers to the extent of the observable environment, which you can see at any specific moment. If you are using your eyes, your FOV extends from one edge of the peripheral vision to the other.


In a VR headset, the aim is to offer you the largest FOV possible but limited to what the human eye can track. With the average human eyes, each eye gives virtually 130 degrees of intersecting FOV, adding up to roughly 180 degrees.

WTF is iRacing, Anyway?

IRacing is technically a game, but engineering, kinematics, and track modeling are beyond compare. In most cases, formula one pilots frequently use the program for training since iRacing copies short tracks, rallycross, oval tracks, road racing, endurance racing, and most vehicles therein.


It is the most realistic service of its type. But it is presented on an accessible subscription model; hence, anyone with a computer and a screen can sign up and compete against real humans. It is most effortless with digital pedals, but people do it well without console controllers.


IRacing is real racing minus the actual car. The tactics, car control, sights, and sounds are weirdly identical. Sitting on the grid before the race kicks off will make you nervous. Crashing can water down your dreams of becoming a champion. The battles are still as demanding as on an actual road. IRacing is potentially the next best thing if you cannot go real-life wheel-to-wheel.

The Virtual Reality Advantage

Why Add VR to your IRacing Setup?


Realism


First, racing in VR feels natural, especially the accidents.


In iRacing, with a VR headset on, the first time you encounter an accident will make you creep in fear. Also, the sounds will get you fully immersed.


Vision


The discipline of deploying vision to locate the best racing line via a corner is similar to that needed by a real-life track driver. As you get close to the corner, you set the brake point using your peripheral vision since you are concentrating on the apex. When you brake, all your visual concentration should be on the exit. In real racing, one uses a similar approach.


Sensitivity to Track Detail


Virtual reality lets you “observe” details in the circuit you may have missed on a traditional monitor. For example, VR lets you see the camber inside a corner. And once you are visually aware of track details, you can probably feel the detail too.


Early Warnings through Extra Sensory Input


It is simple to drive correctly with a VR headset since you get an early warning of what your car is doing. In iRacing, you rely on the eyes to detect the car’s rotation, while in circuit racing on an actual track, you detect rotation through the body.


However, a delay in receiving information makes arresting a situation quite challenging. You begin learning to cruise the car from memory rather than the feel. Luckily, this is not the situation with virtual reality, which makes you so sensitive to the tiniest of movements; hence, you can readily forecast what the car will do next.

Disadvantages to VR Headset Use

Clarity and screen door constitutes a considerable issue. Fortunately, the screen door is a small challenge in modern VR headsets. However, clarity is still a huge challenge. That is why after extended use, VR makes your eyes feel tired. But to solve the problem, try to adjust the headset for your face correctly. But even after this, it still will not be perfect.

iRacing VR Setup Guide

  1. First, ensure that you have configured your VR headset using the software availed by the VR Visor.
  2. To set up iRacing to use your VR headset, go to the iRacing interface and choose settings.
  3. Then press the tab and select graphics configurations.
    This will open the “auto-configure graphics” setup. When you get this screen, tap on the drop-down arrow.
  4. Then on the list provided, search and choose the display you previously configured on your VR headset.
  5. Lastly, click the “Auto Configure” button.
  6. Once the arrangement process is done, the simulator will deploy your VR headsets the next time you launch them. Alternatively, you can also use the graphics option in the simulator to fine-tune some visual settings.

Everything You Need for the Ultimate iRacing VR Experience

Chassis

The chassis serves as the foundation upon which other parts can be affixed. Hence, it would help if you had something rigid because it supports you and the forces you direct upon it.


Wheel

The wheel is considered the heart and soul of the simulator since it provides the most crucial response. It would help if you had a force-feedback mount, meaning your wheel is linked to a base, which has a motor that gives out force along the axis of rotation.

In an actual car, the driver feels how the vehicle reacts to inputs through the wheels, pedals, and body. In the simulator universe, all you receive is the response from the wheel; thus, choosing the appropriate one is crucial.


Pedals

Threshold braking knows where the ultimate brake pressure lies and deploys it to brake as late as possible without reducing too much speed headed to a corner. It is a skill that allows for faster lap times, but it is a complicated move to understand on an actual track.

Press the brakes heavily, and you will slow the car; rail them lightly, and you will not acquire adequate downforce on the front wheels, and you will understeer the track into the wall. Thus, acquiring a pedal that feels natural is an essential simulator feature.


Headset

The basic specification when purchasing a headset is the refresh rate. For an immersive experience, you will need one with a refresh rate of at least 144 Hz.

If your headset has a delay, you will get a slower response. IRacing needs you to keep micro-modifying things when you drive, which is easy to achieve if everything reacts swiftly. 


PC/Console

With iRacing games, the graphics processor is the most valued element since you want magnificent details, which the iRacing engineers have meticulously infused the game to shine through. For example, things like tire marks, as if in real life.

Hence, get a console with a great processor for iRacing due to all the physics and other computations needed to get the car’s handling to perfectly to imitate the real thing.

Minimum PC Requirements for iRacing in VR

Operating System (OS): Windows 8.1 64-Bit, Windows 10 64-Bit

Processor: Six core CPU or better  

Random Access Memory (RAM): 16 GB

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): 6 GB of DEDICATED memory

Hard drive: 25 GB of free disk space

Recommended PC Requirements for iRacing in VR

Operating System (OS): Windows 8.1 64-Bit, Windows 10 64-Bit

Processor: Eight core CPU or better  

Random Access Memory (RAM): 32 GB

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): 8 GB of DEDICATED memory

Hard drive: 25 GB of free disk space

TL;DR: Which VR Works Best with iRacing

The appropriate headset for you relies on affordability, comfort, refresh rate, resolution, sound, and any other particularity. Nonetheless, pegged on the alternatives listed in this article, the Oculus Quest 2 takes the crown for the best budget option for iRacing.


The price point is quite affordable to many $299, and it also gives gamers an amazing and immersive experience. The Quest 2 is compact yet robust, and it encompasses most of the trending features. It has an amazing display, allowing you to enjoy the digital universe.


In addition, the VR headset sacrifices absolutely nothing when it comes to its outstanding audio experience. Offered free reign, I would go with the Oculus Quest 2 any time.

Frequently Asked Questions

IRacing is compatible with many popular VR headsets, including HTC and Oculus. VR devices put you in the driver’s seat and fully immerse you in an online racing experience. 

Yes. IRacing is fully compatible with Oculus VR headsets, including Oculus Quest.

To launch iRacing in virtual reality, you need to follow the steps below, including:

  1. First, switch on the computer
  2. Set up your wheels (optional)
  3. Power on your wheels
  4. Calibrate the wheel
  5. Connect the VR headset to the USB link
  6. Load the iRacing computer program
  7. Load your track sessions
  8. Allow the prompted VR Headset software request
  9. Get ready to race

If you desire to get the best-looking VR image, use Reshade, a tool to alter shaders, by primarily altering how light and shadows mix in the games. Reshade mixed with other options allows you to alter the colors and lighting in games.