VR Software Platforms: SteamVR, Oculus, and More

What a VR Software Platform Is

A VR software platform is the ecosystem that provides the operating system, app store, and runtime for a headset. It determines which games and applications you can run, how you install them, and how the headset communicates with a PC or console.

Different headsets use different platforms. Standalone headsets have their own built-in operating system and store. PC VR headsets rely on a platform like SteamVR installed on a gaming computer. Console VR headsets are tied to a specific game console. Some headsets support more than one platform, giving you flexibility. For a deeper look at the differences between standalone and PC VR, see our guide on standalone vs PC VR.

SteamVR: The PC VR Standard

SteamVR is the most widely used platform for PC VR headsets. It is part of the Steam store and provides a large library of VR games and applications. Headsets that use SteamVR include the Valve Index, Pimax Crystal Light, Pimax Crystal Super, and many HTC Vive models.

The Valve Index page on Steam shows that it includes Half-Life: Alyx and requires a PC with a DisplayPort connection. Pimax headsets are built for flight simulation and sim racing, and they run on SteamVR. The HTC Vive Focus Vision can also connect to a PC and use SteamVR via DisplayPort mode for low-latency gameplay. If you are building a PC VR setup, browse the best PC VR headsets for models that support SteamVR.

Meta Horizon Store: The Standalone Ecosystem

Meta Quest headsets run on Meta's own platform, the Meta Horizon Store, for standalone content. This platform offers a curated selection of games, apps, and media that run directly on the headset without a PC.

Meta Quest headsets can also connect to a gaming PC using a Link cable or wireless Air Link, which gives access to SteamVR and other PC VR content. This makes them a versatile choice for users who want both standalone convenience and PC VR capability. For a list of Meta headsets, see best Meta VR headsets.

PlayStation VR2: Console VR Platform

PlayStation VR2 is designed for the PlayStation 5 console. It uses the PS5's hardware to run VR games and applications. The PS VR2 page states that it is not compatible with the PlayStation 4 and requires a PS5 console.

In addition, the PlayStation VR2 PC adapter allows the headset to connect to a PC and access SteamVR games. This expands the platform options for PS VR2 owners beyond the PlayStation ecosystem. If you are considering a console VR headset, the best VR headset guide includes PlayStation VR2 options.

Hybrid Headsets: Standalone and PC VR in One

Some headsets are designed to work both as standalone devices and as PC VR headsets. The HTC Vive Focus Vision is one example. Its overview page describes it as a hybrid standalone PC VR headset that functions as an all-in-one XR device and can also be tethered to a PC for SteamVR.

Hybrid headsets give you the freedom to use the headset on its own for portable gaming and media, and then connect to a PC for more demanding PC VR titles. They often include features like DisplayPort mode for a lossless connection to the PC. For more on hybrid options, check best HTC Vive headsets.

OpenXR and Cross-Platform Compatibility

OpenXR is an open standard that allows VR applications to run on multiple platforms without requiring separate versions for each headset. Many platforms, including SteamVR, Meta Horizon Store, and the Vive standalone OS, support OpenXR.

This means that a game built with OpenXR can work on different headsets that support the standard. It reduces fragmentation and makes it easier for developers to release content across ecosystems. When choosing a headset, checking for OpenXR support can give you access to a wider range of applications. Learn more about ecosystem compatibility in our article on VR ecosystem compatibility.

How to Choose a Headset by Platform

Your choice of VR headset should match the platform you plan to use most. If you already have a gaming PC, a SteamVR headset like the Valve Index or a Pimax model gives you access to the largest library of PC VR games. If you want a standalone headset that does not require a PC, a Meta Quest headset or the HTC Vive Focus Vision in standalone mode is a good fit.

If you own a PlayStation 5, the PlayStation VR2 is the natural choice, with the option to add PC VR later via the adapter. For users who want both standalone and PC VR capability, a hybrid headset like the Vive Focus Vision offers the most flexibility. Consider the platform ecosystem when building your shortlist. For a broader overview, see best VR headset.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Can I use a Meta Quest headset with SteamVR?

Yes. Meta Quest headsets can connect to a gaming PC via a Link cable or wireless Air Link, allowing you to run SteamVR games and applications.

Does PlayStation VR2 work with a PC?

Yes, with the PlayStation VR2 PC adapter. The adapter lets you connect the headset to a PC and play SteamVR games.

What is OpenXR?

OpenXR is an open standard that enables VR applications to run on multiple platforms. Many headsets and platforms support it, which helps improve cross-platform compatibility.

Do all PC VR headsets use SteamVR?

Most PC VR headsets use SteamVR, but some also support other platforms. For example, the HTC Vive Focus Vision can run SteamVR when connected to a PC, and the Valve Index is built for SteamVR.

Can I play Oculus games on a non-Meta headset?

Oculus games are tied to the Meta platform. Some may be accessible through third-party tools like Revive, but official support is limited to Meta headsets.

What platform does the HTC Vive Focus Vision use?

The Vive Focus Vision has its own standalone operating system and app ecosystem. It also supports SteamVR when connected to a PC via DisplayPort or wirelessly.

Are there headsets that support both SteamVR and the Meta Horizon Store?

Meta Quest headsets support the Meta Horizon Store natively and can access SteamVR via a PC connection. Other headsets like the Vive Focus Vision support SteamVR when tethered to a PC, but do not run the Meta Horizon Store.