If you've been eagerly waiting to use your PlayStation VR2 headset with a gaming PC to explore SteamVR's extensive library of games, your options were previously limited. However, Sony has now made it possible for PS VR2 owners to connect their headset to a PC with a $60 adapter released last fall. This adapter allows you to use the PS VR2 with any modern gaming PC that meets the headset's minimum specifications. But, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC isn't as straightforward as just plugging in the adapter. Despite being marketed as a plug-and-play device, there are some nuances and potential setup requirements depending on your PC's configuration.
How to Connect to Your PC With the Adapter
Before you start the setup process, ensure you have all the necessary components. The PS VR2, when connected via the adapter, is compatible with most SteamVR games. You'll need to confirm that your PC has Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, a spare DisplayPort 1.4 cable, access to a free AC power outlet, and both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam. The PS VR2's Sense controllers are charged via USB-C, so you'll need two USB-C ports and cables, or you can opt for the $50 Sense controller charging station available on Sony's website for a more convenient solution.
What You'll Need
Before purchasing the adapter, check if your gaming PC is compatible with the PlayStation VR2 headset. Visit Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page to verify your system's compatibility. Here's a list of everything you'll need:
- A PlayStation VR2 headset
- The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter (which includes an AC adapter and a male USB 3.0 Type-A cable)
- A DisplayPort 1.4 cable (sold separately)
- A free USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC (Sony advises against using an extension cable or external hub, though a powered external hub worked well in our tests)
- Bluetooth 4.0 capability on your PC (either built-in or via an external Bluetooth adapter)
- Steam and SteamVR installed on your PC
- The PlayStation VR2 app installed within Steam
How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you have all the required components, follow these steps to connect your PS VR2 to your PC:
- Install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app: Download and install the Steam Windows client if you haven't already. Open Steam and install the SteamVR app. Then, download and install the PlayStation VR2 app.
- Set up your PC's Bluetooth and pair your Sense Controllers: Go to your PC's start menu, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices, and toggle Bluetooth to "On." To pair your Sense controllers, hold down the PlayStation button and Create button on each controller until the white light at the bottom starts blinking. On your PC, click "Add device" on the Bluetooth & devices page, select "Bluetooth," and connect to both the PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller (L) and (R). If your PC lacks built-in Bluetooth 4.0, use a compatible Bluetooth adapter like the Asus BT500. If using an external adapter with a built-in Bluetooth radio, disable the internal Bluetooth driver in Device Manager.
- Set up the adapter and connect it to your PC: Plug the PS VR2 adapter into an unused USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC. Use a DisplayPort 1.4 cable to connect the adapter to a free DisplayPort slot on your GPU. Connect the AC power adapter to the PS VR2 adapter's DC IN connector and plug it into an electrical outlet. The adapter's status indicator will turn solid red when powered on. Finally, connect the PlayStation VR2 to the PC adapter via the USB-C port on the front of the adapter.
- Turn off Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling (optional): If you have a newer GPU like a 40-series Nvidia RTX card, you may need to disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling for a stable VR experience. Navigate to Settings > System > Display > Graphics, click "Default graphics settings," and turn off the "Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling" slider. Restart your PC.
- Launch the PlayStation VR2 App and SteamVR: Turn on the PlayStation VR2 headset by holding down the central button underneath the visor until it vibrates. Launch SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime. Open the PlayStation VR2 app on your desktop to update your Sense controllers' firmware and set up your PS VR2 headset, including your Play Area and other preferences. Follow the on-screen and in-headset instructions to adjust your IPD, display distance, and tighten the headset for comfort. Once setup is complete, you're ready to enjoy SteamVR games!
Can You Connect to PC Without an Adapter?
Currently, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC without the adapter is not officially supported. However, according to a report on Road to VR, some GPUs from around 2018 with a USB-C port and VirtualLink feature might allow a direct connection to the PS VR2, provided the PlayStation VR2 app is installed. This method bypasses the need for the PC adapter, but it's not a guaranteed solution for all users.
