The Best VR Headsets for Sim Racing

The Pimax Crystal tops this list for a good reason—it’s what we use on our sim rigs here at TracksVR. This headset sets the bar high with ultra-sharp resolution and an incredibly wide field of view, designed to immerse you fully in the racing environment. It also minimizes the screen-door effect, making every detail of the track crystal clear.

Not only that, but buying the Pimax Crystal makes you eligible for the 12k Trade-In program—so that you can upgrade your headset more easily when new tech becomes available. It’s not just a great investment in your current sim-racing experience; it sets you up for future success as well.

Key Features

• Dual 2880x2880 per-eye resolution for unrivaled visual clarity
• 130-degree field of view (FOV) for wide peripheral vision
• Expanded FOV available with premium glass lenses (included in box)
• High refresh rates (up to 120Hz) for smoother visuals in fast-paced races

Considerations

• Requires a powerful PC to handle its high-performance demands
• Some sim racing games may have limited support for the expanded FOV; check compatibility beforehand

The Pimax 8K X brings a top-tier experience with its 8K resolution across two displays, ensuring maximum detail and immersion on the racetrack. Its expansive FOV also provides a more authentic cockpit view during sim racing, allowing you to make excellent use of your peripheral vision during heats.

Key Features

• Dual 4K resolution, enhancing the visibility of distant track elements
• 200-degree FOV—one of the widest available—for enhanced situational awareness
• Modular design with customizable comfort features for longer sessions

Considerations

• Requires a high-end GPU to fully utilize the resolution and FOV
• Bulkier than other models, which may affect comfort during extended use

These headsets aren’t quite as advanced as the ones above, but they still offer a lot of bang for buck. If you want adrenaline without breaking the bank, you could do worse.

The DPVR E4 is an excellent option for sim-racers seeking high-quality visuals at a medium price point. Its 3664x1920 resolution delivers sharp, detailed images, while its lightweight design makes it easy to wear during extended racing sessions without becoming fatigued.

Key Features

• 3664x1920 resolution
• HD display screen
• 116-degree FOV
• Lightweight flip-up design
• 120hz refresh rate
• SteamVR compatible

Considerations

• IPD is only adjustable via software using the hand controllers (which sim racers typically do not use)

Via PCMag.com

The HP Reverb G2 is known for delivering high-resolution visuals at a reasonable price, making it a favorite for sim racers who prioritize image clarity. Its inside-out tracking setup also simplifies the hardware requirements.

Key Features

• 2160x2160 per-eye resolution, offering excellent sharpness for racing environments
• Comfortable, lightweight design suitable for long racing sessions
• Inside-out tracking with four cameras, removing the need for external sensors
• Compatible with both SteamVR and Windows Mixed Reality platforms

Considerations

• Limited FOV at 114 degrees, which may not be as immersive as other models
• Inside-out tracking can struggle in low-light settings, potentially affecting accuracy

If you’re really looking to save money while still enjoying the thrills of sim racing, the headsets below should be up to the task. While these won’t offer the same performance as the higher-end options on this list, they should still offer a good experience—especially for newer sim racers who aren’t sure how much they’re willing to invest in the sport yet.

See Also: Getting Started with VR Sim Racing: A Beginner’s Guide

Via Wired.com

The Meta Quest 3 offers an accessible entry point into sim racing VR, with decent visuals and performance when connected to a PC using the Link Cable. Its wireless capability also makes it versatile for other VR experiences outside of sim racing.

Key Features

• 2064x2208 per-eye resolution, which delivers a good level of clarity for its price range
• 120Hz refresh rate when connected with the Link Cable, minimizing motion blur in fast racing sequences
• Portable and lightweight, ideal for users who want a balance between PC and standalone VR
• Large game library through PC connectivity, providing a wide range of racing titles

Considerations

• Requires Link Cable for optimal sim racing performance (sold separately)
• FOV is narrower than some high-end models, slightly reducing immersion

Via PicoXR.com

The Pico 4 is a budget-friendly choice with impressive resolution and comfort for sim racers looking for a more affordable VR option. Its wireless connectivity makes it versatile, though a wired setup is recommended for optimal performance in sim racing.

Key Features

• 2160x2160 per-eye resolution, offering solid image clarity for a budget headset
• Four-camera inside-out tracking, making setup easy and eliminating external sensors
• Comfortable and lightweight design, suited for longer gaming sessions
• Compatible with PCVR via wireless streaming or cable, expanding its usability

Considerations

• Wireless streaming may have slight latency for sim racing, so a wired connection is preferable here
• Limited compatibility with certain racing titles compared to more mainstream brands

The headsets on the list above represent some of the finest VR hardware for sim racing on any budget. But if you want the absolute best virtual racing experience you can have in Calgary, you’ll want to book a race at TracksVR—where you can see, hear, and feel the difference a best-in-class sim rig makes for yourself.

We have multiple types of high-end headset to try out at our facilities, including the DPVR E4, Samsung Odyssey, Pimax Crystal and Pimax 8KX. Not only that, but our industry-leading wheels, wheelbases, pedals, and accessories provide an experience so immersive you’ll swear you’re really in the driver’s seat. Whether you’re dropping in to race with us or shopping for your sim rig, our team has what it takes to give you a white-knuckle grip on the wheel and a smile plastered across your face.