If you've been eagerly waiting to connect your PlayStation VR2 headset to a gaming PC and explore SteamVR's extensive library, your options were previously limited. However, Sony released a $60 adapter last fall that allows PS VR2 owners to use their headset with any modern gaming PC that meets the minimum specifications. Despite being marketed as a plug-and-play device, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC involves some additional setup steps due to certain feature omissions.
How to Connect to Your PC With the Adapter
Before diving into the step-by-step setup instructions, ensure you have all the necessary components. The PS VR2, when connected via the adapter, is fully compatible with most SteamVR games. You'll need sufficient Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, a DisplayPort 1.4 cable, a nearby AC power outlet, and both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam. The Sense controllers that come with the PS VR2 charge 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 simpler solution.
What You'll Need
Before you start, check if your gaming PC can support the PlayStation VR2 headset by visiting Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- A PlayStation VR2 headset
- The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter (includes AC adapter and 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 extension cables or external hubs, 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've gathered all the necessary components, follow these steps to connect your PS VR2 to your PC:
- Install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app: If you don't have it already, download and install the Steam Windows client. Open Steam and install the SteamVR app, followed by the PlayStation VR2 app.
- Set up your PC's Bluetooth and pair your Sense Controllers: From your PC's start menu, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > toggle Bluetooth to "On." To pair your Sense controllers, hold down the PlayStation button and Create button on each controller until the white light starts blinking. On your PC, click "Add device" under the Bluetooth & devices page, select "Bluetooth," and connect 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. For systems with both internal and external Bluetooth, 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. Connect the adapter to your GPU using a DisplayPort 1.4 cable. Attach 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 once powered on. 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 your PC has a newer GPU, such as a 40-series Nvidia RTX card, disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling for a stable VR experience. Go 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: Boot up the PlayStation VR2 headset by holding down the central button until it vibrates. Turn on SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime. Open the PlayStation VR2 app to update your Sense controllers' firmware and set up your Play Area and other preferences. Follow the on-screen and in-headset instructions to set up your IPD, display distance, and adjust the headset's fit comfortably. Once 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, a report from Road to VR suggests that some GPUs from around 2018, which included a USB-C port and VirtualLink feature, might allow a direct connection to the PS VR2, provided the PlayStation VR2 app is installed. This bypasses the need for the PC adapter, but results may vary.
