In the past couple years, we have seen some excellent new VR headset releases from top brands like Oculus, HTC, Valve and Sony. Virtual reality headsets have come a long way since their initial introduction a few years ago.
What started as bulky, uncomfortable devices with low resolutions and field of views are now lighter, more refined pieces of technology that offer truly immersive VR experiences. As the technology continues to improve at an incredible pace, 2024 and 2025 are shaping up to be outstanding years for VR.
In this blog post, we discuss some of the most anticipated upcoming VR headset releases over the next two years based on rumors and industry chatter. It is predicted that over 45 million new VR headsets will ship globally by 2025.
We breakdown the top options you should keep an eye out for and the types of experiences you can expect. Stick around till the end to see our list of the VR headsets poised to push the industry further.
Top 10 Best New VR Headset You Must Look For in 2024 and 2025
There are VR headsets slated to launch within the next couple years that will appeal to a wide variety of users, with price points ranging from around $300 all the way up to $800.
Analysts forecast that standalone VR headsets and wireless new VR headset will see the most growth, rising from approximately 15% of the market this year to over 50% by 2025.
Features like higher resolutions, wider fields of view, more realistic feedback through haptics, and improved inside-out tracking will help drive mass adoption. Over 10 upcoming VR headsets for PC meeting these enhanced specs are currently in the works from industry leaders.
We believe three critical aspects for success will be comfortability through lower weight and improved ergonomics, truly immersive graphics and longer battery life.
Below we outline some top new VR headsets you’ll want to consider that aim to deliver on these fronts.
1. Pimax Reality 12K QLED
The Pimax Reality 12K QLED is an exciting new standalone VR headset that was announced recently. This VR headset stands out from others because it has a record high resolution of 6K per eye in PC mode and 4K per eye in standalone mode.
This gives users an incredibly clear and detailed visual experience whether they are using it as a PC VR headset or untethered. With a wide 200 degree field of view both horizontally and vertically, gamers and media consumers will feel truly immersed in virtual worlds.
An impressive refresh rate of 200Hz in PC mode and 120Hz in standalone keeps visuals smooth. The lightweight and comfortable design features active cooling and magnetic face pads for long sessions. Users can easily swap out the rechargeable battery and do not need external base stations or cables cluttering their space.
2. Sony SRH-S1
The Sony SRH-S1 is one the most awaited upcoming VR headsets which promise to take mixed reality applications to the next level. With its 4K per eye resolution display, 120Hz refresh rate and integrated 6DOF tracking along with standalone design without the need for PC or base stations, it gives everyone an immersive experience right out of the box.
The onboard Qualcomm XR2+ Gen 2 processor paired with Adreno GPU ensures smooth rendering even for complex designs and programs. This will allow engineers and architects to view and manipulate their creations in virtual world easily.
The flip up visor design with binocular overlap of more than 55% and adjustable diopter and IPD range from 60-72mm will offer users a comfortable viewing experience for extended period of time which is necessary when working on projects.
3. Arpara VR All In One
The Arpara VR All In One looks very promising for an upcoming new VR headset. This device is fully self-contained and does not require a PC to operate, making it very convenient for users.
It has a high resolution of 2560×2560 per eye which will allow users to experience VR environments and graphics in great clarity and detail. The use of Micro-OLED display technology has allowed the headset to be much smaller and lighter weight at only 380 grams.
This means long periods of use will be more comfortable compared to heavier headsets. Six degrees of freedom motion controllers are included so users can interact intuitively in VR. The 95 degree field of view is also quite large and will provide an immersive experience.
4. iQIYI Qiyu MIX
The iQIYI Qiyu MIX is another exciting upcoming standalone VR headset that was recently announced for release in 2024. We are impressed with some of this headset’s key specs considering its affordable price of just $510.
It has an 1832×1920 per eye resolution which is just under 2K and will deliver clear images to users. Unlike other headsets, it has integrated dual 4MP cameras for mixed reality content that many will enjoy. With an 88Hz refresh rate and 93 degree field of view, the Qiyu MIX provides a smooth visual experience.
It has built-in speakers and microphone as well as easy AA battery power for untethered use. The included 6DoF controllers allow gaming without cables. Despite its compact size of just 348g, it is comfortable to wear for long periods according to iQIYI.
5. Nolo Sonic 2
The Nolo Sonic 2 is one of the upcoming VR headsets which will attract users looking for a high refresh rate standalone experience. With 120Hz refresh rate display, it promises ultra smooth visuals for virtual reality applications.
At 120Hz, the Sonic 2 will offer one of the smoothest visual experiences for VR games and simulations. This is nearly double the refresh rate of most headsets in the market. The high specs Qualcomm XR2 processor and Adreno 650 GPU allows rendering even complex graphics at such high speeds wirelessly.
With integrated tracking cameras providing full 6DOF inside out tracking and compatible controllers, users get complete packaged virtual reality setup out of the box. They can start experiencing VR titles and creative tools right away.
6. Meta Quest 3S
We are very excited about the upcoming Meta Quest 3S standalone VR headset. As a lower cost alternative to the Meta Quest 3, this device has the potential to bring virtual reality to many more users. It is rumored to feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset like the Quest 3 for high performance.
The 120Hz refresh rate display will allow for smooth visuals in VR. Setup will be simple without base stations through inside-out tracking. Two updated Touch controllers are included for interfacing in VR worlds. Partial finger tracking can enrich interactions.
Estimated battery life and a lightweight comfortable strap will help minimize fatigue. Built-in speakers and mics plus Wi-Fi 6E wireless allow for social features. Compatibility with the Meta Quest platform opens access to its content and community. If the speculated price is affordable enough, this headset could take over from the popular Quest 2 for entry-level VR.
7. Roscosmos XR-2
The Roscosmos XR-2 is an interesting new VR headset for PC currently in development. We are excited to see this new option from Roscosmos which will be used to train cosmonauts. It has some great specs like an ultra-high 2880×2880 per eye resolution.
This will ensure cosmonauts gain extremely realistic experiences inside virtual spacecraft. With a 120Hz refresh rate, motion and simulations will look incredibly smooth. Outside-in tracking with included base stations will provide full six-degrees of freedom.
This makes the headset ideal for complex simulations involving movement around vehicles. Its lenses, controllers and flexible headstrap seem designed for comfort during long use. Once released, this headset not only has potential in cosmonaut training.
8. Simula One
The Simula One is one of the most powerful and feature-packed standalone VR headsets in the works which promises to be a potent productivity tool for professionals. Some of its key aspects make it a compelling option. With 2448×2448 per eye resolution and 100 degree field of view, it aims to offer sharpest visuals in VR.
The inclusion of high performance Intel i7 processor and massive 1TB SSD allows running even resource intensive x86 programs and simulations in virtual environment. While the detachable computing module makes it future-proof by allowing users to upgrade to more capable chips anytime.
With 16GB RAM and three USB Type-C ports, users can easily connect multiple peripherals like trackpads, keyboards for enhanced usability. The Linux based SimulaOS with VR focused window manager allows using all popular designing/coding software seamlessly in VR along with multi-window workflows.
9. Shiftall MeganeX
The Shiftall MeganeX shows promise as an ultra-light PC VR headset. At only 320 grams, its lightweight design makes it very comfortable for long play sessions. Shiftall is a trusted brand known for quality displays, and the MeganeX does not disappoint with its 2560×2560 per eye resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
This should provide crisp and smooth visuals. While a wired connection is necessary, inside-out tracking means setup is simple without external equipment. The included speakers and optional tracking add-on also expand its capabilities. As a headset-only system, buyers will need quality controllers to use it fully.
However, for its high-fidelity optics alone, the MeganeX could appeal to simulation and virtual cockpit enthusiasts. At an estimated price of $1699, this high-end headset remains an investment. But for those seeking top-tier visuals without the weight, this new VR headset shows promise.
10. TCL NXTWEAR V
The TCL NXTWEAR V seems an interesting standalone VR option coming next year. It has a good 2280×2280 per eye resolution for clear viewing of content. We like the 108 degree field of view that would make media feel wide. With a 90Hz refresh rate, virtual worlds and videos will look smooth.
A useful feature is screen sharing through WiFi with flat displays. This makes collaboration easy without removing the headset. Teachers could also control multiple headsets simultaneously for classrooms. Four inside-out tracking cameras mean no external gear is needed.
At only 300g, it seems comfortable to wear for extended use. Controllers and Android powers allow interacting freely. Once released, the TCL will give an affordable all-in-one solution for entertainment, work and education. Its features show potential for multi-user applications.
Final Words
Lastly, VR technology continues to rapidly progress thanks to breakthroughs made by leading companies. The new VR headset we highlighted have the potential to offer much more polished and life-like experiences.
As prices continue decreasing and capabilities increase, it’s an exciting time for the growth of virtual and augmented reality. Within the next few years, we may see the lines between reality and high-fidelity virtual worlds start to blur as resolutions rise above human visual acuity.
So, be sure to check back with us here at 5thScape frequently, as we will continue to evaluate new VR headset releases and provide the latest updates, comparisons and full reviews on the top VR headsets.
Experiencing the next generation of solutions may truly feel like a major leap into the future of how we play, work and socialize. So, don’t miss your chance to be an early adopter when these headsets arrive.
