If you've been eagerly waiting to connect your PlayStation VR2 headset to a gaming PC and explore the vast library of SteamVR games, your options were previously limited. However, Sony has now released a $60 adapter that allows PS VR2 owners to use their headset with any modern gaming PC, provided it meets the headset's minimum specifications. While the adapter is marketed as a plug-and-play solution, setting it up can be a bit more involved depending on your PC's configuration.
How to Connect to Your PC With the Adapter
Before diving into 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 your PC has Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, a spare 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 more convenient solution.
What You'll Need
First, check if your gaming PC is compatible with the PlayStation VR2 headset by visiting Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page. If your system meets the requirements, here's 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 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 inside 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.
- Download and install the PlayStation VR2 app.
- Set up your PC's Bluetooth and pair your Sense Controllers:
- From your PC's start menu, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > toggle Bluetooth to "On."
- On each controller, hold down the PlayStation button and Create button until the white light at the bottom starts to blink.
- On your PC's Bluetooth & devices page, click the "Add device" button, select "Bluetooth," and search for PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller (L) and (R). Connect both devices.
- If your PC lacks built-in Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, 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.
- 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 like a 40-series Nvidia RTX card, disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling for a stable VR experience by navigating to Settings > System > Display > Graphics, clicking "Default graphics settings," and turning 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 rumbles.
- 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 PS VR2 headset, including 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.
Once the setup is complete, you're ready to enjoy SteamVR games to your heart's content!
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.
