Image: MomJunction Design Team
VR headsets have become a part of our lives and homes and are here to stay. VR (virtual reality) refers to a simulated environment created by software that allows one to experience and interact with the 3D world. The best VR headsets for kids allow children to enter an immersive and parallel world where learning becomes fun and engaging.
VR headsets can be used to watch movies, study, and play video games—all your child has to do is connect it to an app. However, ensure you monitor the content before your child uses the device and limit their usage to just a few hours per day—moderation is the key here. Keep scrolling as we have listed the best-selling VR headsets that you could purchase online to make learning fun for your children.
Top Picks
11 Best VR Headsets For Kids In 2024
1. Best Flexible And Durable: Merge VR Headset
Image: Merge Let your child travel around the world and learn everything firsthand with this award-winning Merge VR headset. Made of soft, flexible, and durable foam, this cordless headset is comfortable for kids to use at home and in classrooms. It is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. The high-end VR headset has over 2,000 Amazon reviews, most of which have raved about its quality and seamless visuals.
Pros
- Includes adjustable lens
- Easy to use top buttons
- Easy to wipe and clean
- Suitable for tweens and older kids
- Comes with a head strap for support
- Compatible with Google expeditions, National Geographic, NASA and more apps
- Features camera access for augmented reality integration
Cons
- May not be ideal for people with glasses
- May not work with all phone sizes
"The VR headset scores points for its high-quality lenses and the comfort it offers. My children find the immersive experience enjoyable. Our phone models easily fit inside, and accessing them is also fuss-free. It's a well-cherished device for our family."
2. Best Lightweight: Meta Quest 2 — Advanced All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset
Image: Meta With Meta Quest 2, you can explore virtual worlds like never before. With a powerful processor and high-resolution display, the Meta Quest 2 gaming headset provides a smooth and immersive VR experience. You’ll have access to over 350 titles across gaming, fitness, social/multiplayer, and entertainment genres, including exclusive blockbuster releases and unique VR experiences. The wireless VR headset with cutting-edge audio integration and easy-to-use Guardian boundary feature lets you set up your designated play space and roam freely in VR.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Hand-tracking and haptic feedback
- Built-in earphones for an immersive audio experience.
- Compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
Cons
- Images might appear foggy at times
- May be difficult to connect the smartphone to the device
- May have limited battery life
"Playing games, solving 3D puzzles, and watching movies have become more amusing with this VR headset. Its quick response time keeps the entertainment factor intact. The battery life isn't great, but its immersive experience makes it worth investing in."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 6,820 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Quick tip3. Best Adjustable Head Straps: Atlasonix 3D VR Headset
Image: Atlasonix From watching 3D YouTube videos to playing fun games, this tried-and-tested VR headset allows your child to discover a whole new world. It provides a seamless experience with a 360° field of view and supports HD, 3D, 1080p, 4K screen resolutions.
Pros
- Compatible with Android and iOS operating systems
- Includes adjustable head straps
- Ability to match focal distance and unilateral myopic alignment to reduce distortion
- Consists more than 300 video games
- Works with mobile devices with 4 – 6.2-inch screens
- Extra-large lenses
Cons
- May not fit smartphones with more than 6.2 inches screen size
"This VR headset is well-received by my son for its adjustable magnifying lenses. It feels comfortable and stays stable, offering an excellent 3D experience. Plus, it allows him to secure his phone inside, even with its case, which ensures added fun."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 309 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
Merge VR Headset Best Flexible And Durable | Meta Quest 2 — Advanced All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset Best Lightweight | Atlasonix 3D VR Headset Best Adjustable Head Straps | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Purple | White | - |
| Weight | 12 ounces | 1.83 pounds | 10.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | 5.5 x 7.5 x 4 inches. | 10.24 x 7.36 x 4.96 inches. | 15.99 x 8.99 x 1 inches. |
| Batteries | - | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 698 | 6,820 | 309 |
| Price | $49.99 | $299 | $24.99 |
4. Best For Safety: Let’s Explore VR Headset For Kids
Image: Let's Explore Oceans The fully immersive, 360-degree virtual reality headset lets you swim with whales and sharks, and encounter polar bears through virtual reality – all from the comfort of your home. The handy carry case makes it easy to take with you on the go, and the included 36-page hardback book is full of facts and information about the ocean world.
Pros
- Easy to use
- No assembly required
- Compatible with Android and iOS
- Makes VR Gaming experience more fun.
Cons
- Limited content choices
- Plastic hinges may be fragile
5. Best Eyesight Protection System: BNEXT VR Headset
Comfortable and durable design with an eyesight protection system and adjustable head strap, this is one of the best VR headsets for kids. It works with smartphones that have a 4 to 6.3 inch screen and gyro sensor. With over 4,500 good reviews on Amazon, this is a great pick for VR content consumption.
Pros
- Provides a 360° visual experience
- Adjustable lenses offer a wide field of view
- Features a soft nose piece that reduces pressure
- Compatible with drones
- Works with some Google cardboard apps
- You get a list of free downloadable virtual reality games
Cons
- May not be compatible with all smartphones
"I got these VR goggles for my young drone enthusiast. It fits comfortably without requiring frequent adjustment and is compatible with his phone. However, I recommend using it with care to prevent drops and scratches."
Quick tip6. Best With Built-In Action Button: Feebz VR Headset
Image: Feebzstore Feebz VR Headset is a universal 3D virtual reality goggles set compatible with iPhone and Android phones up to 6.5 inches in screen size. It has a list of free VR apps and videos, making it a suitable gift for children of all ages. The built-in action button on this virtual reality headset lets you control VR apps without needing a remote, making it a truly immersive experience. With its enlarged lenses and comfortable design, the ultra-efficient Feebz VR Headset might be the perfect way to explore the world of virtual reality.
Pros
- Good build quality
- Easy to use
- Lightweight design
- Large field of view
Cons
- Can cause eye fatigue after extended use
- Limited selection of compatible apps and video games
"Its adjustable straps, user-friendly features, and versatile compatibility have been perfect for introducing my kids to virtual reality. While the visual quality varies based on the phone's capabilities, it works great for casual entertainment and educational experiences."
7. Best Cushioning: Abacus Brands Bill Nye’s VR Science Kit
Image: Abacusbrands The Abacus Brands Bill Nye’s VR Science Kit might be the perfect way to learn and experience science. With step-by-step videos that turn pictures into immersive videos right on the page, this unique educational toy helps foster a fundamental understanding of basic scientific concepts. The included VR goggles offer a hands-free learning experience as you enter Bill Nye’s virtual reality lab to see science in action. The 50-piece set has everything you need to dive in and experience the projects right out of the box, making it an ultimate kids’ VR toy set!
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Compact and easy to store
- Comfortable headset
- Compatible with Android and iOS
Cons
- May not be compatible with tablets
- Some science concepts may be slightly difficult for younger children
"I love this VR set, which adds a modern twist to hands-on experiments. My children now find the concepts more relatable and engaging. It's a worthy choice for immersive learning."
8. Best Immersive Visual Experience: Destek V5 VR Headset For Kids And Adults
Image: Destek Available in two colors, this VR headset is compatible with smartphones with a gyro sensor, including different iPhone and Samsung versions. It has a lightweight and compact design for easy wearing, and the T-shaped headband is comfortable and appropriately sized to suit most head shapes and sizes. You can easily carry this superior-quality headset while traveling. The comfortable headset lets you watch 360-degree videos and offers great video clarity.
Pros
- Easy to adjust to prevent pressure
- 110-degree field of view
- Can fit most glasses
- Suitable for games and movies
- Provides a great virtual experience
Cons
- Does not have a Bluetooth controller
- Buttons may get stuck at times
"I got this device as a birthday present for my nephew. He loves its lightweight build and uses it for everything from playing games to watching movies. Plus, its T-shaped headband has kept slips to a minimum."
Caution9. Best Heat-Dissipating Design: VR Shinecon Virtual Reality Glasses
Integrated with Japanese PMMA lenses, this gadget offers a 360° panoramic view with 3D images. With the addition of retractable headphones that deliver high-quality sound, your child will have an immersive VR cinematic experiences. It is compatible with most iOS and Android smartphones.
Pros
- Features heat-dissipating design
- Bluetooth-enabled comfortable controller
- Adjustable pupil and focal distance
- Fits phones with screen sizes ranging from 4.7 to 6 inches
- Removable leather pad around the eye area ensures comfort
- Adjustable head strap
Cons
- Might be bulky
- The straps may not be sturdy
"This VR headset lends a comfortably immersive experience with its inclusive speakers. Setting it up is a breeze too. And though the remote control could be improved, its beginner-friendly design makes it a worthy choice for my family."
10. Best Safety And Comfortable: digib Virtual Reality Goggles
Image: Digib A VR headset for kids is meant to be safe and comfortable to use. And this expertly crafted gadget by digib is lightweight and includes adjustable T-shape straps, soft, breathable leather padding around the eye area, and a deepened area at the center that does not hurt the nose. Additionally, the lenses feature anti-blue light coating to protect your child’s eyes.
Pros
- Compatible with Android smartphones and Apple iPhones
- Fits phones with screen sizes ranging from 4.5 to 6.3 inches
- Offers 780p, 1080p, and 2K screen resolutions
- Possesses a slot to connect headphones
- Heat-dissipation technology
- High-quality HD lenses offer a 360° panoramic view and larger field of view
- Focal length and interpupillary distance can be adjusted
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
- May be heavy
"Seeing my kid enthusiastically enjoying the virtual realm is a treat. It accommodates all our phones regardless of the size. The straps are comfortable but need some quick adjustments for better eye settings. Overall, it's a good option for casual use."
11. Best For Accuracy: Discovery Kids VR Goggles
Image: Discovery Kids If your little adventurer enjoys watching shows on Discovery Kids, this VR headset will be an ideal gift for them. With these high-end goggles, they will enjoy watching their favorite content such as Shark Week or Everest Forest up-close and at 360° view.
Pros
- Works with iOS and Android smartphones
- Gives access to any content on Discovery, YouTube, and other apps
- Adjustable focus for accurate viewing
- The adjustable head strap provides comfort
- Recommended for children 8 years and older
- Easy to use
Cons
- May not be compatible to be used with glasses
"The best part about these VR goggles is their adjustable focus, which offers my child an immersive viewing experience. They may not be compatible with larger phones but they deliver an enjoyable experience."
How To Choose The Right VR Headset For Kids?
Here’s a list of factors to consider when choosing the right VR headset.
- Comfort: Ensure the headset does not feel unbalanced, heavy, or have fitting issues, as it can negatively affect the overall VR experience. Choose a lightweight VR headset that can be worn comfortably for at least a few hours and is made of soft and durable materials.
- Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the VR headset you wish to purchase. Ensure the headset is compatible with the operating system and the apps your children use.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Look for a Bluetooth-enabled headset for convenient wearing and use.
- Sound: Check the sound quality for an immersive virtual experience. Select VR headsets come with built-in speakers or headphones, and some have built-in microphones that allow communication with other users.
- Adjustability: Choose a VR headset with easy adjustability to suit your child’s needs. Ensure it has adjustable straps or tightening knots to make the desired adjustments.
- Age: Check the age range recommended by the manufacturer to choose the right headset for your child with the necessary features to help them learn and have fun.
Is It Safe For Kids To Use Virtual Reality Headsets?
You must have heard of this famous quote by Ray Bradbury – ‘Too much of anything isn’t good for anyone.’ This holds true for the concept of virtual reality for kids. So to answer the question, yes, virtual reality is safe for kids to use as long as it’s used in moderation. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to ensure everything is safe before your child is introduced to this whole new universe.
Although most virtual reality headsets come with adjustable focal and pupil distance features, and anti-blue light lenses, prolonged exposure could cause eye damage. So make sure your child is not using the gadget for more than 1 hour. It’s important to take at least 10-minute breaks for every hour of usage. Furthermore, please note that the headset your child uses is compatible with their age.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. At what age can kids start using VR headset?
The recommended age is 13 years and above, but it’s not a definite rule. No matter the age, it’s always best to introduce your child to a VR headset when they are old enough to have better impulse control and self-awareness.
2. Can VR damage my brain?
No scientific evidence suggests that VR can damage one’s brain. However, prolonged use of VR headsets, like all other gadgets, may cause headaches, and dizziness.
3. Are VR headsets worth buying?
If you want to make your child’s education more interesting or want to make their gaming or movie experience more enjoyable, then getting a VR headset is the right choice.
4. What PC specifications do I need for VR?
The PC must have at least 8GB of RAM, Windows 10, multiple USB ports, an Intel Core i5 processor, and a GTX 970 or AMD RX 480 graphics card for it to work with a VR.
The Bottom Line
The best VR headsets for kids offer unparalleled fun and excitement by introducing users to a fun and engaging 360-degree simulated environment created by virtual reality. To buy one, find a VR headset that offers a snug, lightweight fit and is well-padded, especially for kids who wear spectacles. Also, it should not strain their eyes, so avoid VR headsets where the screen is placed too close to their eyes. Our top picks are Meta Quest 2-Advanced Headset with built-in earphones, Abacus Brands Bill Nye’s Science Kit, for leveraging scientific concepts, and Let’s Explore VR Headset in a travel-friendly case. Further, consider buying a best-selling headset compatible with Android and iOS devices, giving you access to numerous apps for learning and fun.
Infographic: Precautionary Measures For Using VR Headsets For Children
VR (virtual reality) headsets for children can provide an engaging and immersive way for kids to learn, play, and explore new things. However, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Look at the infographic below to explore some of these precautionary measures. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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