A good VR experience largely depends on what kind of display your device is providing. For that, you will need a good graphics card (GPU). But how would you get a cheap VR ready graphics card when your budget is low?
You see, not all great GPUs have a hefty price tag. You just have to find the right one. In the sea of different brands, varieties, sizes, and types it is quite impossible to choose the right one alone. That’s where we come in. We have carefully analyzed the market and come up with a list of items that will cater to your VR needs.
Top 8 Cheap GPU For VR Headsets (Meta Quest 2, Rif S, Valve Index, and More)
- Editor’s Choice: ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3060 Twin Edge
- Best Value For Money: ASUS GeForce RTX 2060
- Cheapest GPU: ZOTAC GAMING GeForce GTX 1650 OC
- Budget Pick: GIGABYTE Radeon RX 6600 8G
- Best For VR Sim Racing: ZOTAC Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super
- Best AMD GPU: XFX Radeon RX 580 GTS
- Minimum GPU For VR: MSI GeForce GTX 1050
- VR User’s Recommended: MSI GeForce GTX 1660 Super
Editor’s Choice: ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3060 Twin Edge
Since 2006 Zotac has been making a budget-friendly NVIDIA Ampere architecture GPU for a quality gaming experience. Their 30 RTX series has a lot to offer to your VR set. It comes with a whopping 12 GB swift GDDR6 memory, amplified Tensor, and RT Cores, the latest streaming multiprocessors make your Virtual experience all the more fun and consistent.
Ray tracing is the cornerstone of gaming graphics cards. Zotac’s ray tracing formula simulates the physical behavior of light in order to provide real-time, HD quality motion even to the most visually demanding games. This card features dual 88mm fans, which showed promise well in terms of thermal output. The Zotac RTX 3060 mainly focuses on high-quality 1080p VR gaming with its high 1807MHz clock speed.
Truly it is one of the best GPU for VR at this time and date.
Best Value For Money: ASUS GeForce RTX 2060
If you want the best graphics card for oculus quest 2 then we have the ASUS GeForce RTX 2060 series for you. These days, the name Asus rarely needs an introduction. For the last few decades, they’ve been practicing as the leading motherboard, chipset, and graphics card manufacturer. From laptops to VR headsets, they have branched out their GPU equipment.
This Asus GPU boosts the maximum clock speed to 1785 MHz instead of the usual 1680 MHz given by NVIDIA. Its board has 6 GB of 14 Gbps GDDR6 memory on a 192-bit bus unlike the RTX 2070, which has 8 GB of RAM on a 256-bit bus. The silicon is the same as 2060 however the 2070 features 2304 CUDA cores.
The cooling is the card’s most important feature. It provides you with three dust resistance variable-speed fans. The fans are made out of aluminum fins and copper (Nickel plates). GPU plates. Apart from that, you will get two DisplayPort 1.4 ports and 2 HDMI 2.0 ports. So, now You won’t face any sort of problem connecting your VR headset here. Truly this is a great option to look into if you favor VR gaming sessions.
Cheapest GPU: ZOTAC GAMING GeForce GTX 1650 OC
GTX 1650 OC is the base version of the 1600 lineup. It is based on the TU117 chipset, which is made in 12 nm technology and has a 200mm2 die size with 4700M electric tubes.
With a base frequency of 1485 Megahearts and a boost clock of 1695MHz, the Zotac GTX 1650 OC has 896 CUDA Cores. It has 4GB of GDDR5 VRAM rated at 8 Gigabit, a 128-bit bus width, and 128.1 GB/s bandwidth. One Displayport, one HDMI port, and one DVI-D port are available on the graphics card.
It uses ZOTAC’s Ice Storm 2.0 cooling technology, which has a single 90mm fan and a well-built aluminum heatsink that resembles a sunflower. It makes close communication with the GPU for efficient heat drainage all the way to the ends.
The graphics card is quite compact which is a plus. There is no backplate, and the card is powered only by the motherboard’s PCIe slot (75W). If you compare the OC and Super in the VR you won’t particularly see much of a difference. However, with keen technical eyes, the Super line might just take the cake.
Budget Pick: GIGABYTE Radeon RX 6600 8G
In the time and age of inflated prices and unbalanced supply and demand ratio, Gigabyte Radeon is a god sent. This one is a non-XT version of the NAVI23, which has features to give you a quality VR experience of life. The GPU even holds its own at WQHD. As a 6600 series device, it also provides FSR support and raytracing.
The 8GB RAM, 128-bit memory with a 3X Cooling System integrated with parallel spinning fans gives you a combination of speed and heat management. The GPU also comes with an 8G tech that not only gives you a high frame rate but also lag-free screen time that you need for VR gaming but also. Now get the ultimate virtual gaming experience with powerful latest computing units, super AMD Infinity Cache filing, and 8GB of dedicated GDDR6 integrated memory.
Best For VR Sim Racing: ZOTAC Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super
Experience next-generation Virtual performance with minimal latency, and plug-and-play connectivity with the new and improved Zotac Gaming Geforce GTX 1660 super GPU. It is a tactically budget-friendly alternative to Nvidia’s increasing list of mainstream GPU for 1080p gameplay. However, this one meets all the minimum graphics card for vr requirements.
The GPU is based on Nvidia’s “Turing”-architecture. The 1660 super edition comes with 1408 turning-based Cuda cores with a slightly upgraded base clock of 1530 mg and a boost clock of 1785 mg.
Your device remains cool for a long time thanks to its soundless, compact twin fans and aluminum body heatsinks. The product comes with 6 GB of 14 Gbps GDDR6 ram. The ram sits on a 192-bit bus which has six 32-bit memory processors, and a base capacity of 6GB, an idle combination for VR gaming. It is practically faster than the GTX 1660 Ti.
With the GPU you will get 3 display ports and one HDMI port. So you shouldn’t face any problems while connecting your VR headset.
Best AMD GPU: XFX Radeon RX 580 GTS
Now, we have a non-Nvidia-based GPU in our arsenal. This card literally stood out from the rest of its predecessors is a fantastic illustration of what the Radeon graphics cards can be when a manufacturer puts a lot of effort into it.
To begin with, the company didn’t employ 1340Mhz as it did with the previous disappointing models. Instead, XFX has put the boost clock pace to 1425HMz and accelerated the GDDR5 RAM from 8.0 to 8.1Ghz.
The RX 580 series GPU uses the latest Polaris architecture, which incorporates 4th Gen GCN graphics units, a newly designed display engine, and modern multimedia components. All of these are built on the groundbreaking Next FinFET 14 manufacturing technology for improved VR performance.
For superior cooling and performance, it is equipped with a unique ( mixture of beefy and quiet) Double Dissipation Cooling System. You will need a minimum of 500 watts to run the GPU. With the Radeon graphics card and the latest Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets, you can experience a new generation of fascinating Virtual Reality content. The card, along with AMD LiquidVR technology, creates a virtual reality experience. Multiple factory GPU overclocking options are available, including a 1366MHz base and 1386MHz boost clock. All in all best graphics card for oculus quest 2
Minimum GPU For VR: MSI GeForce GTX 1050
MSI is not a new name in the VR world. They make quality VR headsets at a very reasonable price range. The MSI GTX 1050 Ti, powered by MSI, is a great way to convert your Computer into a complete gaming rig. It’s an older but still capable GPU that can handle your Virtual reality gaming needs.
This sophisticated graphics card improves high-definition gaming performance and offers DirectX 12 features for super-fast, fluid, and power-efficient gameplay. With NVIDIA AnselTM technology, you can even take and share expert quality in-game images.
This MSI GeForce video card features 4GB GDDR5 RAM and 768 CUDA units operating at 1341 MHz for quick, smooth gameplay in many of today’s top games (bootable).
In comparison to previous-generation cards, it has a 128-bit memory interface and 112-gigabit-per-second memory bandwidth. It also offers Dual-Link DVI-D, HDMI, and DisplayPort outputs providing a variety of connectivity options, with one DVI port supporting a high resolution of 1920×1200@60Hz. This product has proven to be the Cheapest graphics card for oculus quest 2.
VR User’s Recommended: MSI GeForce GTX 1660 Super
This one is the upgraded version of the MSI GTX 1660 series. The GPU itself is pretty basic. The MSI GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER is built on the basis of NVIDIA’s Turing architecture at the rate of 12nm. 1408 CUDA Cores, 48 ROPs, and 88 TMUs make up the GTX 1660 SUPER. You will get a 1530MHz base clock and a 1785MHz boost clock.
It’s an elegant card with a length of 9.7 inches and a thickness of 862 grams. Because it’s somewhat hefty, the die-cast metal plate beneath it serves as both a heatsink and a safety brace, which is really appreciated.
Within the card, you will see three DisplayPorts and one HDMI port. MSI has made a generous gesture by allowing extra DisplayPorts to be utilized instead of the typical array of ports. Ultra-high-definition video has four times the resolution of 1080p, allowing for sharper and crisper VR graphics with fine details.
Buying Guide: Best Budget VR-Ready Graphics Card
If you need assistance choosing the Cheapest Graphics Card for VR, we’ve highlighted certain factors to consider while making your decision:
RAM Capacity: When selecting the cheapest GPU for VR, make sure it has enough RAM storage. The system will run and multitask smoothly if you have higher RAM storage. You’ll need a graphics processor with a minimum of 4 to 6 Gigabytes if you are planning to use VR for your gaming session. Professional gamers, on the other hand, may require additional RAM storage.
If you want to acquire a good graphics card for VR at a reasonable price, a 6GB RAM storage option would be more than enough.
Cooling Mechanism: A GPU with a heat sink in direct contact with the GPU ensures a quick and flawless heat transfer. It keeps your device cool throughout your VR sessions. It is no secret that too much head will tamper with your PC. So a good cooling system will ensure you have a lag-free time in the VR.
Also, get a recent graphics card with parallel spinning fans for the optimal cooling effect. They have improved air circulation, which provides more efficient cooling.
Resolution or FPS: Most mainstream VR headpieces include 2160 by 1200 pixel density and a 90Hz refresh rate. Whether it’s Oculus, Sony HTC, or Google they all follow the same pattern. That means your graphics system must be strong enough to push at least 90 frames per second in order to play VR games properly. To avoid lows dropping below the 90fps threshold, you should get a GPU with a higher frame rate.
The Size and Level of Noise: GPUs have various types and numbers of fans. This may affect the amount of area they take up in a CPU. Depending on how much heat your CPU can handle, you can get a GPU with 2 or 3 fan
Also, pay great attention to the alternate rotating fans. As previously stated, GPUs with alternative fans offer better heat spreading techniques at a lower noise level.
FAQs
What is the cheapest VR GPU?
The meaning of cheapest GPU is the most affordable graphics processing unit for a certain task or game. However, the term “affordable” is relative to the specific user’s budget. A low-end VR Ready GPU can be as expensive as $500 while a high-end GPU for gaming can cost upwards of $700.
Some of the cheapest GPUs that are good for VR are the AMD Radeon RX 480 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060. These GPUs offer good performance for a relatively low price. For example, the GTX 1060 is currently available for around $250.
Other GPUs that are cheaper but still offer good VR performance include the AMD Radeon R9 390 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 970. These GPUs can be found for around $200.
The AMD Radeon R9 390 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 are both good VR GPUs, but they are not the cheapest. The GTX 1060 is a cheaper GPU that still offers good VR performance.
Which GPUs are VR Ready?
The term “VR Ready” is used to describe a graphics processing unit that is capable of running virtual reality software and hardware. VR Ready GPUs are typically high-end GPUs that are powerful enough to handle the demands of virtual reality gaming. Some of the most popular VR Ready GPUs on the market include the AMD Radeon RX 580 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080. These GPUs offer the best performance for VR gaming and are typically priced at $500 or more.
Other VR Ready GPUs include the AMD Radeon RX Vega 56 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070. These GPUs offer good performance for VR gaming and are typically priced at $400 or more.
Is GTX 1650 S VR Ready?
GTX 1650 S is not a VR Ready GPU. This GPU is not powerful enough to handle the demands of virtual reality gaming. If you want to play VR games, you will need to purchase a more powerful GPU such as the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650.
Is a GTX 3070 VR Ready?
Yes, the GTX 3070 is a VR Ready GPU. This GPU is powerful enough to handle the demands of virtual reality gaming. It offers great performance and is able to deliver a smooth VR gaming experience. GTX 3070 has the necessary features such as an HDMI port, display port, and dual-link DVI to support virtual reality headsets. It also has a fast enough refresh rate to prevent motion sickness.
Can a GTX 1660ti run VR?
Yes, the GTX 1660ti can run VR. It is a powerful card that is capable of handling most VR games and applications. If you are looking for a great VR experience, the GTX 1660ti is a great option.
Is the 2060 VR Ready?
According to specs released by Nvidia, the RTX 2060 is VR Ready. This means that it is capable of running virtual reality hardware and software with acceptable framerates and image quality. More specifically, the RTX 2060 is able to deliver 90 frames per second in VR applications. It should be noted that VR Ready GPUs are not just for gaming; they are also used for professional applications such as architectural design and product prototyping.
Will 1660 run Half-Life Alyx?
The GTX 1660 is a powerful GPU that can run Half-Life Alyx. This VR game is demanding, but the GTX 1660 is up to the task. It offers great performance and is able to deliver a smooth VR gaming experience. You will need a VR headset and controllers to play this game.
Conclusion
The bottom line is you will get a good but cheap vr ready graphics card from our list. If you want the most upgraded version of GPU then go for ZOTAC Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super or MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super. The building is almost the same here. The main difference is in the clock speed and cooling system.
For a total lag-free experience, we recommend ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3060 Twin Edge for its high memory slot. GIGABYTE Radeon RX 6600 Eagle 8G Graphics Card will give you the overall best VR session with its premium features and 3x cooling system. If however, you want the cheapest basic GPU then we recommend ZOTAC GAMING GeForce GTX 1650 OC or MSI Computer Video Graphic Cards GeForce GTX 1050.