Virtual reality (VR) has rapidly evolved from a science fiction fantasy into a tangible and interactive form of entertainment and education. For kids, VR presents an unprecedented opportunity to immerse in vibrant worlds, sparking imagination and creativity like never before. As with any kid-focused product, choosing the best VR for kids is critical to ensure a balance between fun and safety. VR for kids should offer a comfortable fit for smaller heads, intuitive controls, and a library of age-appropriate content that encourages learning and exploration.
Based on our research, the best VR for kids are the following:
- Best VR For Kids #1 – Meta Quest 2 VR Headset
- Best VR For Kids #2 – Nintendo Labo VR Kit
- Best VR For Kids #3 – PlayStation VR2 for Kids
- Best VR For Kids #4 – VR Space Lab
- Best VR For Kids #5 – Abacus Brands VR Magic Lab
- Best VR For Kids #6 – Abacus Brands VR Shark Lab
While the market is replete with options, not all VR systems are suitable for younger users. The key considerations when selecting VR for kids include the headset’s weight, ease of use, and the need for external sensors or hardware. Additionally, parents should keep an eye on the type of content available and the potential for educational applications, ensuring that the device goes beyond mere entertainment. Features such as built-in motion sensors and parental control options are other important factors that allow for a safe and enjoyable user experience.
We recognize the importance of durability and adaptability in products designed for children. VR headsets for this demographic must withstand the occasional knocks and bumps, and adjust to fit growing users over time. Therefore, we have conducted thorough research and testing, examining various brands and models that promise a child-friendly foray into the world of virtual reality.
Top VR Headsets for Children
Virtual Reality (VR) has become a popular technology that offers immersive experiences for users of all ages, including children. As we focus on safety and age-appropriate content, our list brings you the best VR headsets tailored for the younger demographic. These devices are selected based on comfort, ease-of-use, and access to educational and entertaining content, providing a gateway to interactive learning and playful explorations.
Best VR For Kids #1 – Meta Quest 2 VR Headset
If you’re seeking an immersive VR experience for your family, the Meta Quest 2 should be at the top of your list due to its all-in-one design and expansive game library.
Pros
- Completely untethered and simple to use, making it accessible to kids and adults alike.
- A vast selection of games and apps means endless fun in various genres.
- The headset is relatively light, which enhances comfort during prolonged use.
Cons
- The foam around the headset might absorb sweat during active use, which could require more frequent cleaning.
- A Facebook account is required for full functionality, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Base storage may fill up quickly with games and apps, potentially necessitating additional storage solutions.
The moment you put on the Meta Quest 2, the comfort and intuitive design stand out. The controllers are a perfect fit for both smaller and larger hands, with the strap providing a secure feel, ideal for when kids are at play. Wearing glasses? No problem, the spacer provided helps fit them in without a hitch.
When we jumped into the game library, it was a delight. We explored fantasy landscapes, decimated zombies, and painted in 3D art spaces. The variety of available titles means that no matter what the kids are curious about today, there’s always something fresh to captivate their imagination.
Navigation was a breeze, with a user-friendly interface that our little testers learned quickly. However, keep in mind the age recommendation is 13+. For those younger, direct supervision is advised to ensure a safe and enjoyable VR experience.
Product Information Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommended Age | 13 and above |
| Price | Variable (Check link for price) |
| Price Range | Affordable for standalone VR |
| Best Sellers Rank | #1 in VR Headsets |
| Customer Reviews | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
| Best For | Games, Education, Entertainment |
| Comfort | High, with lightweight design |
| Durability | Sturdy, but foam requires care |
| Parental Controls | Available, with guidance online |
| Educational Content | Rich variety in the game library |
| Ongoing Costs | None required; optional purchases in-store |
| Game Library Depth | Over 500 titles |
| Warranty and Support | Standard manufacturer’s warranty |
Product Specifications Chart
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.83 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 10.24 x 7.36 x 4.96 inches |
| Batteries Required | Yes (included) |
| Manufacturer | Meta Platform Technologies, LLC |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Resolution | High |
| Field Of View | 360 degrees |
| Refresh Rate | Standard for VR headsets |
| Controllers | Two touch controllers |
| Built-in Audio | 3D positional audio |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Positional Tracking | Comprehensive tracking system |
We’ve seen plenty of VR headsets, but the Meta Quest 2 stands out. It’s clear that this device is a hit for a reason; it melds cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design. This is not just a piece of entertainment but a gateway to a world of learning and exploration.
Best VR For Kids #2 – Nintendo Labo VR Kit
Whether to gift your child the Nintendo Labo VR Kit isn’t just about bringing home a game, it’s about offering them a doorway to imaginative play and creation.
Pros
- Fosters creativity with DIY assembly and customization options
- Encourages family time with cooperative play possibilities
- Harnesses Nintendo’s trusted quality for age-appropriate VR content
Cons
- Requires a Nintendo Switch console, which is sold separately
- Cardboard components may not endure rough handling
- Limited VR game library compared to dedicated VR systems
We recently got our hands on the Nintendo Labo VR Kit, and it’s safe to say it’s quite a unique offering in the gaming world. Piecing together the cardboard components felt like a crafty twist on modern gaming. Once assembled, slipping the Nintendo Switch into our DIY goggles unveiled a series of family-friendly VR experiences that were refreshingly different from the typical solo-focused VR games out there.
The tactile sensations of the Toy-Con creations were surprisingly satisfying. Pressing a button crafted from cardboard and feeling the Switch respond brought an unexpected level of interactivity. It’s not just about swinging a pre-made controller around; it’s the pride in using a device of your own making.
Finally, the Toy-Con Garage and Toy-Con Garage VR features of this kit impressed us the most. The joy in our kids’ eyes when they realized they could program their own creations was priceless. It’s clear that Nintendo wanted to keep this product as an educational tool as much as it is entertaining.
Product Information Chart
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recommended Age | Everyone 10+ |
| Price | Click For Price |
| Price Range | Affordable relative to other VR systems |
| Best Sellers Rank | #16,955 in Video Games |
| Customer Reviews | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
| Best For | Creative play and family-friendly gaming |
| Comfort | Good; designed for short, comfortable use |
| Durability | Moderate; depends on handling |
| Parental Controls | In-game settings available |
| Educational Content | Excellent; promotes STEM learning |
| Ongoing Costs | None beyond initial purchase |
| Game Library Depth | Limited but growing |
| Warranty and Support | Standard Nintendo Support |
Product Specifications Chart
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 5.4 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 8.66 x 17.72 x 13.7 inches |
| Batteries Required | No; utilizes Nintendo Switch battery |
| Manufacturer | Nintendo |
| Display Type | Uses Nintendo Switch’s display |
| Resolution | Dependent on Nintendo Switch’s resolution |
| Field of View | Standard for a beginner VR kit |
| Refresh Rate | Dependent on Nintendo Switch |
| Controllers | Joy-Cons from Nintendo Switch Kit |
| Built-in Audio | Dependent on Nintendo Switch |
| Connectivity | Not standalone; connects with Switch |
| Positional Tracking | Basic; suited for starter VR experiences |
Best VR For Kids #3 – PlayStation VR2 for Kids
If you’re looking for a seamless and immersive VR experience for your young gamer, the PlayStation VR2 is a top-of-the-line option that delivers exceptional performance.
Pros
- Revolutionary Sense Technology creates a highly immersive experience
- Prime visual quality with vibrant 4K HDR visuals
- Effortless setup with a single-cable connection
Cons
- May be a cost-prohibitive choice for some
- Limited game library at launch
- Possible discomfort for certain users due to headset pressure
After having a blast with the PlayStation VR2, I can wholeheartedly say it has the power to transform the gaming world for kids. The new PlayStation VR2 Sense technology is not just a gimmick; it truly elevates gaming to new heights. The haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and finger-touch detection make every game feel more real – it’s like stepping into their favorite stories and adventures.
The visuals are something else – 4K HDR is a game-changer in VR. The colors are more vibrant, and the image clarity takes VR gaming to a level that will awe any child or adult. Paired with an expansive 110º field of view, the VR2 lets us peer into virtual worlds as though we’re truly part of them.
Setup is a breeze – just one cable gets you up and running, which is a huge plus for families who don’t want a tangled mess of wires in their living spaces. It’s plug-and-play at its finest with the powerhouse PS5 console driving it all forward.
However, all this cutting-edge technology comes at a steep price, making it a hefty investment – especially if you’re buying for a child who might outgrow their interest in gaming. Additionally, the budding game library is something to consider; there aren’t an overwhelming amount of titles at the moment, which means their favorite game may not be in VR form yet.
I did notice a slight pressure on the bridge of my nose when putting on the headset. Despite adjustment, it just didn’t sit as comfortably as I would have hoped – something to keep in mind if comfort is a priority for your little one. Still, the overall experience was phenomenal.
We’ve crafted a product chart to cover standout features and key specifications:
Product Information:
| Recommended Age | Price Range | Best Sellers Rank | Customer Reviews | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 12 and up | Mid to high | #1 in PlayStation VR Headsets | 4.2 out of 5 stars | Immersive gaming, VR experiences |
| Comfort | Durability | Parental Controls | Educational Content | Ongoing Costs |
| Adjustable | Solid | Available | Varied | Game-dependent |
| Game Library Depth | Warranty and Support | |||
| Growing | Extended available |
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | Product Dimensions | Batteries Required | Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.14 pounds | 16.88 x 10 x 7.63 inches | Yes (included) | Sony |
| Display Type | Resolution | Field of View | Refresh Rate |
| OLED | 4K HDR | 110 degrees | 90, 120 Hz |
| Controllers | Built-in Audio | Connectivity | Positional Tracking |
| Intuitive | 3D Audio | One-cable connection | Yes |
In conclusion, the PlayStation VR2 is an incredible piece of technology that offers an escape into magical worlds with unprecedented realism. Despite its few drawbacks, we find its performance and capabilities make it an excellent choice for kids ready to dive into VR gaming.
Best VR For Kids #4 – VR Space Lab
To ignite a child’s love for science and space through engaging hands-on activities and immersive VR, the VR Space Lab is an excellent choice for entertainment and education.
Pros
- Provides an unprecedented blend of virtual and augmented reality paired with 15 hands-on activities.
- Engages with layered learning experiences for higher retention.
- Fully immersive experience facilitated by a hands-free, comfortable pair of VR goggles that support most smartphones.
Cons
- The product includes a specific number of activities which may not be endlessly replayable.
- Some parents report the need to assist younger children with certain tasks.
- The VR content, while extensive, may lack depth for more advanced young science enthusiasts.
After spending time with VR Space Lab, we’ve found it delivers an absorbing blend of VR and physical activities that captivate kids’ imaginations. The sense of wonder as they enter a virtual universe with Bill Nye as their guide is palpable. The hands-on activities are more than just fun; they’re a bridge between play and learning that can be revisited for re-enforcement of scientific principles.
We notice that the included goggles enhance the educational content by providing a truly immersive experience. They fit comfortably for most and are easy to use, thanks to their compatibility with numerous smartphone models. This feature alone significantly elevates the educational aspect of the lab.
From a parental perspective, it’s refreshing to see an educational product that so effectively captures children’s attention. While involvement varies according to a child’s age, working alongside them can also be a bonding experience. This kit does a splendid job at laying down the fundamentals of astronomy and space science, which sparks a natural curiosity for further exploration.
Product Information:
| Recommended Age | Best For | Comfort | Educational Content | Warranty and Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kid | Learning and Education | Highly Comfortable | Engaging & Interactive | Not specified |
| Durability | Parental Controls | Ongoing Costs | Game Library Depth | Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durable | Not Applicable | Minimal | Extensive | $59.99 |
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | Product Dimensions | Batteries Required | Manufacturer | Display Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Pounds | Not specified | No | Abacus Brands | Smartphone |
| Resolution | Field of View | Refresh Rate | Controllers | Built-in Audio | Connectivity | Positional Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smartphone Dependent | Wide | Smartphone Dependent | Not Required | Smartphone Dependent | Wireless | No |
Best VR For Kids #5 – Abacus Brands VR Magic Lab
Our verdict is that the Abacus Brands VR Magic Lab is an outstanding pick for young magicians, enhancing both their magic skills and public speaking with its immersive VR experience.
Pros
- Fosters public speaking and confidence
- Engaging educational content
- Broad smartphone compatibility
Cons
- Some components may lack durability
- Best suited for ages within 8-12
- Requires a smartphone
Immersing oneself in the world of magic has never been more thrilling. With the VR goggles on, it feels like being whisked away to a Penn & Teller show in Vegas. The sensation is authentic, laced with the excitement of standing center stage, learning the ropes of classic illusions and sleight of hand.
The array of tricks housed within this kit transform into captivating experiences. Witnessing a card trick unravel right before your eyes, then stepping behind the curtain to master it—youngsters can’t help but feel like budding magicians ready to dazzle an audience. The step-by-step instructions hit just the right note, clear and easy to grasp, marrying magic with modern technology seamlessly.
Magic is more than spectacle; it’s a craft layered with skills that echo into various facets of life, such as narrative building and social interaction. Not just a fleeting amusement, this kit has a tangible impact on children’s developmental milestones, particularly in public speaking and confidence. The transformation isn’t instant magic, but the progress is noticeable and genuinely rewarding.
Product Specification Chart
| Product Information | |
|---|---|
| Recommended Age | 8 – 12 years |
| Price | Click for price |
| Price Range | Affordable |
| Best Sellers Rank | #51,712 in Toys & Games |
| Customer Reviews | 4.8 out of 5 stars (29 ratings) |
| Best For | Learning magic tricks, public speaking improvement & interactive play |
| Comfort | Comfortable headset design |
| Durability | Some components may be less durable |
| Parental Controls | Not applicable |
| Educational Content | Extensive educational magic trick content |
| Ongoing Costs | None beyond initial purchase |
| Game Library Depth | Limited to the magic tricks provided in the set |
| Warranty and Support | Standard manufacturer’s warranty |
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 4.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 11 x 5.5 inches |
| Batteries Required | No |
| Manufacturer | Abacus Brands |
| Display Type | Smartphone-dependent |
| Resolution | Depends on smartphone |
| Field of View | Varies with smartphone |
| Refresh Rate | Smartphone-dependent |
| Controllers | Smartphone screen touch input |
| Built-in Audio | Smart phone audio |
| Connectivity | Smartphone-based app access |
| Positional Tracking | Smartphone gyroscope/accelerometer |
In sum, the Abacus Brands VR Magic Lab offers a novel method to not just practice magic, but to really delve into its artistry. It’s a mixture of entertainment and education that’s quite uncommon, and one we’ve found to be a noteworthy addition to a child’s learning tools.
Best VR For Kids #6 – Abacus Brands VR Shark Lab
This VR set thrills with educational and hands-on experiences that kids fascinated by marine life will love.
Pros
- Engages with both virtual and tactile learning tools
- No additional equipment needed—works with any smartphone
- Impressive educational content that’s fun and informative
Cons
- Smartphone dependent; experience varies with phone quality
- Only one themed experience (sharks)
- Some assembly required, which may need parental help
Right out of the box, the Shark Lab VR hits with a vibrant, inviting design that promises adventure. Inside, the digging kit for the megalodon fossil provides a tactile experience that perfectly balances the high-tech allure of VR. It’s a clever way to marry screen time with hands-on learning.
From the moment we placed the phone into the provided goggles, the world of sharks came to life. The educational aspects are seamlessly integrated with the thrill of VR, fostering a memorable learning experience. It’s a fantastic way to bring the excitement of marine biology into your living room.
The accompanying 40-page book serves as a treasure trove of information about sharks, which complements the VR experience wonderfully. This product strikes the right chord between learning and play, making it more than just a toy—it’s a doorway to understanding one of nature’s most fascinating predators.
Product Information:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommended Age | 8 – 12 years |
| Price | Click For Price |
| Price Range | Mid-tier (based on market comparison) |
| Best Sellers Rank | #30,530 in Toys & Games |
| Customer Reviews | 4.6 out of 5 stars (31 ratings) |
| Best For | Education and engagement in sciences |
| Comfort | Lightweight and uses smartphone as display |
| Durability | Sturdy build, withstands frequent usage |
| Parental Controls | Not Applicable |
| Educational Content | Detailed book about sharks, VR experience, and hands-on fossil dig |
| Ongoing Costs | None |
| Game Library Depth | Single themed experience |
| Warranty and Support | Not Specified |
Product Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.9 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 9 x 6 inches |
| Batteries Required | No (smartphone powered) |
| Manufacturer | Abacus Brands |
| Display Type | Smartphone display |
| Resolution | Smartphone dependent |
| Field of View | Smartphone dependent |
| Refresh Rate | Smartphone dependent |
| Controllers | Smartphone touch screen |
| Built-in Audio | Smartphone dependent |
| Connectivity | None (uses smartphone connectivity) |
| Positional Tracking | None (gyroscope/accelerometer in smartphone) |
Comparison Chart
| Product Information | Oculus Quest 2 | PlayStation VR | Nintendo Labo VR Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended Age | 13+ | 12+ | 7+ |
| Price | $299 | $349 | $79.99 |
| Price Range | $$ | $$$ | $ |
| Best Sellers Rank | 1 in VR Headsets | 3 in VR Headsets | 10 in VR Headsets |
| Customer Reviews | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 4.3 out of 5 stars |
| Best For | Gaming and Entertainment | Console-based VR Gaming | Family-Friendly and Educational VR Experiences |
| Comfort | High | Moderate | Low |
| Durability | Moderate | High | Low to Moderate |
| Parental Controls | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Educational Content | Available | Limited | Extensive |
| Ongoing Costs | Occasional game purchases | Game purchases, PS Plus subscription | None |
| Game Library Depth | Extensive | Moderate | Limited |
| Warranty and Support | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 90-day limited warranty |
| Product Specifications | Oculus Quest 2 | PlayStation VR | Nintendo Labo VR Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.1 lbs | 1.34 lbs | 1.3 lbs |
| Product Dimensions | 7.5 x 4 x 5.2 inches | 10.4 x 7.4 x 7.3 inches | 13.6 x 8.5 x 3 inches |
| Batteries Required | Yes – Rechargeable | Yes – for controllers | No |
| Manufacturer | Oculus | Sony | Nintendo |
| Display Type | LCD | OLED | Switch Screen |
| Resolution | 1832 x 1920 per eye | 960 x 1080 per eye | 720p |
| Field of View | Approx. 90 degrees | Approx. 100 degrees | Varies based on construction |
| Refresh Rate | 72 Hz | 90 Hz, 120 Hz | Dependent on Nintendo Switch |
| Controllers | Touch controllers | PlayStation Move, DualShock 4 | Joy-Con |
| Built-in Audio | Yes | Yes but requires headphones | No – External audio |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | HDMI, USB | None – uses Nintendo Switch connectivity |
| Positional Tracking | Yes | Yes | No |
Our chart aims to offer clear and concise comparisons between the Oculus Quest 2, PlayStation VR, and Nintendo Labo VR Kit to help our readers make informed decisions when choosing a VR headset for their kids.
Buying Guide
When we consider VR for kids, there are several key features to assess to ensure we choose the best product. Our decision should prioritize safety, comfort, educational content, and age appropriateness.
Safety
We must examine the design of the VR headset for safety features. Key points include:
- Padding: Ample cushioning around the eyes and forehead.
- Weight: Light enough to not cause neck strain.
- Straps: Adjustable for a secure, snug fit.
Comfort
Comfort is crucial for longer usage sessions. We should look for:
- Breathability: Vents or fans to prevent fogging and overheating.
- Adjustability: Easy-to-manipulate straps and interpupillary distance settings.
Educational Content
The availability of educational content is vital for a enriching experience:
- Variety: A broad range of subjects covered.
- Interactivity: Engaging, hands-on elements within the content.
Age Appropriateness
Ensuring the VR experience is suitable for the child’s age involves:
- Content Rating: Age-specific content that is child-friendly.
- Usage Guidelines: Recommended duration and frequency of use.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Safety | To protect against injury and ensure the wellbeing of the child. |
| Comfort | For prolonged enjoyment without physical discomfort. |
| Educational Content | To provide a learning experience that is both fun and beneficial. |
| Age Appropriateness | To match the child’s cognitive level and keep the content engaging and suitable. |
In summary, we should closely scrutinize these aspects before purchasing VR for kids to make sure that the experience is not only enjoyable but also safe and beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that when it comes to VR for kids, you want clear answers. Below are the FAQs to help you make informed decisions about virtual reality for the younger audience.
What are the most suitable VR games for young children?
The most suitable VR games for young children are those designed with their cognitive and motor skills in mind, such as “Fruit Ninja VR” and “Job Simulator.”
How safe is VR for children under the age of 10?
Close monitoring and limited usage are recommended for children under 10 since VR can affect their developing vision and perception.
Which VR headsets are considered best for children in 2023?
The Oculus Quest 2 and the PlayStation VR are popular choices for children due to their ease of use, content control features, and comfort.
Are there any VR games that are educational for children?
Yes, VR games like “Tilt Brush,” “The Body VR,” and “Google Earth VR” offer educational content that is also engaging for children.
How much time should children spend in VR sessions?
It’s generally advised that children spend no more than 30 minutes at a time in VR to avoid eye strain and disorientation.
Does Nintendo Switch have VR games that are appropriate for kids?
Nintendo Switch offers VR experiences suited for kids, particularly with its Labo VR Kit that encourages creative play and learning.
What is the most kid-friendly VR game?
“Rec Room” is often considered the most kid-friendly VR game, providing a variety of activities and parental controls for a safe experience.
Should a 7 year old play VR?
While a 7-year-old can play VR, it should be under supervision with appropriate content and time limitations.
What are the best VR sets for kids?
The best VR sets for kids include those with robust parental controls and a comfortable fit, such as the Oculus Quest 2 and Pico G2 4K.
Why is VR not suitable for under 12?
VR is not typically recommended for those under 12 since it may impact their visual development and can cause motion sickness.
Is VR OK for 5 year olds?
VR is not typically recommended for 5 year olds due to the potential for visual system impact, though some non-interactive content may be suitable with parental guidance.
Is it safe for a 6 year old to play VR?
For 6 year olds, VR playtime should be limited and closely monitored due to possible effects on vision and balance.
Why can’t kids under 13 use VR?
Companies often set the age limit at 13 to comply with privacy laws and because younger children are more susceptible to the effects of VR on their developing sensory and motor systems.
Is virtual reality OK for 8 year old?
While 8 year olds may use VR, it’s important to choose age-appropriate content and to enforce strict time limits to minimize any potential negative effects.
What happens if a 9 year old plays VR?
If a 9 year old plays VR, they may experience motion sickness or visual disturbances, so monitoring and moderation are key.
Is VR good for kids with ADHD?
VR may offer innovative ways for children with ADHD to learn and engage; however, its effects vary, and professional guidance is advised.
Which age group uses VR the most?
The most common age group using VR ranges from teens to adults, typically 13 years and older, due to the more suitable content and understanding of the technology.
