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How to Buy a Dedicated VR Headset

How to · Tech

How to Buy a Dedicated VR Headset

Get the best setup for your space and spread out the cost without paying interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $1,500 before anything else
Across the 0% window $83.33/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $1,500 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

You are buying this to jump into high-end virtual reality with zero compromises on tracking or immersion, so you want a setup that lasts for years instead of leaving you wishing you bought the better version six months from now. A complete kit with base stations and controllers usually runs about $1500, making it a serious piece of entertainment gear that deserves a proper plan.

Keep an eye out for holiday game bundles in December to get extra software value packaged in. If a brand-new generation just dropped, look at last year's model since it often gets discounted while still offering nearly the same performance.

That intro window is a deadline, not free money, so if you still have a balance left when the 18 months are up, standard interest will kick in on whatever is left.

The steps

  1. 01

    Check the release cycle

    Look at how long the current hardware has been on the market. If a fresh model is rumored for early next year, waiting a bit will either get you the new gear or drop the price of the current setup.

  2. 02

    Hunt for December bundles

    Holiday game bundles in December often throw in top-tier titles or accessories for the same base price. Waiting for these packages usually gives you more value for your money than buying raw hardware in November.

  3. 03

    Measure your play space

    Base stations need clear lines of sight and physical mounting or tripod space in your room. Clear out the footprint before you buy so you know the hardware will actually fit your living area.

  4. 04

    Set up the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card

    If you want to break up the about $1500 cost, the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That comes out to about $83.33 per month if you spread it across the intro window on purchases.

  5. 05

    Test your PC specs

    Dedicated headsets demand heavy graphics processing power from your computer. Run your system specs against the headset requirements before ordering so you do not end up with hardware your PC cannot drive.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I really need base stations?

If you are buying a dedicated tracking kit, yes, because outside-in base stations offer the most precise controller tracking possible. Inside-out headsets are easier to set up, but dedicated base stations are the gold standard for twitch movements.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can trigger late fees and might cancel your promotional rate entirely. Always set up autopay for at least the minimum so you stay on track.

Should I buy used to save money?

VR lenses scratch easily and base station motors wear out over time. If you buy used, inspect the lenses in person and make sure the tracking hardware has not taken any hard falls.

Are games included in the base price?

Usually no, unless you catch a specific holiday bundle. Plan to budget an extra chunk of cash for your initial game library.