Valve’s Index headset held the crown among PC VR headsets for a good while, but as we stand in 2025, is it still a smart buy given that it’s approaching its sixth birthday? Stick around for our straightforward advice.
### The Case Against Buying Valve Index in 2025
As someone who’s been using the Valve Index as my go-to choice for PC VR over several years, I’m confident in saying that dropping $1,000 on the 2019 model just doesn’t make sense anymore. Sure, it still has standout features—like its top-notch headphones—but the steep price, cumbersome setup, and its now-aging technology make it hard to recommend for most users today.
When it comes to getting a quality PC VR experience, the Quest 3 is where my vote goes these days. It manages to blend affordability, user-friendliness, and stellar visual performance into one package. The lenses on the Quest 3 aren’t just the best in terms of clarity and sweet spot; they also deliver a notably higher resolution than what you’d find on an Index. Plus, with its impressive inside-out tracking, there’s no need for those fiddly external tracking beacons that the Index requires. Just remember to invest in a more comfortable head strap than the one included—something like the ANNAPRO Battery Head Strap will not only boost comfort but also pack in an extra battery for balance and longer game time.
One of the sweet perks of Quest 3 is its tether-free setup for PC VR. Thanks to Valve’s own Steam Link app on Quest 3, diving into your SteamVR games wirelessly is seamless. It even bypasses the Quest Link from Meta, taking you straight to your SteamVR goodies. Plus, you’re getting a completely standalone headset with the Quest 3, which is perfect if you’re playing games where peak graphics aren’t a priority—it’s super convenient and more mobile.
A crucial tip: if you’re opting for Quest 3, make sure your network is up to par for a smooth wireless VR ride.
Get your gaming rig hooked up to your router with an Ethernet cable for the best results. Your router should minimally support Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), but ideally, you’d want Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax). If you’re thinking about a router upgrade to gear up for wireless VR, this is our take. It’s also wise to keep your router near your gaming area for the best experience, but if it’s within a room or two, you should be in the clear.
