Connecting your PlayStation VR2 headset to a gaming PC for access to SteamVR's vast library has been challenging, until now. Sony's $60 adapter (released last fall) bridges the gap, enabling PS VR2 compatibility with most PCs—provided they meet the minimum specifications. However, despite its "plug-and-play" marketing, some setup might be needed depending on your PC configuration.
Connecting Your PS VR2 to Your PC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before starting, ensure you have: sufficient Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, a DisplayPort 1.4 cable, a free AC power outlet, the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam, and USB-C charging ports/cables for the Sense controllers (or a Sony charging station).
What You'll Need
Check your PC's compatibility on Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page. Assuming compatibility, gather these items:
- PlayStation VR2 headset
- PlayStation VR2 PC adapter (AC adapter and USB 3.0 Type-A cable included)
- DisplayPort 1.4 cable (sold separately)
- Free USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC (Note: Sony advises against extension cables or external hubs, though a *powered* external hub may work.)
- Bluetooth 4.0 capability (built-in or via an external adapter)
- Steam and SteamVR installed
- PlayStation VR2 app installed on Steam
Connecting Your PS VR2: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Install Software: Download and install the Steam Windows client, SteamVR app, and the PlayStation VR2 app.
- Set up Bluetooth and Pair Controllers: Enable Bluetooth in your PC's settings. On each Sense controller, hold the PlayStation and Create buttons until the light blinks. Pair them via your PC's Bluetooth settings. If using an external Bluetooth adapter alongside a built-in one, disable the built-in adapter in Device Manager.
- Connect the Adapter: Plug the PS VR2 adapter into a USB 3.0 port. Connect it to your GPU via DisplayPort 1.4. Connect the AC adapter to the PS VR2 adapter and to a power outlet. The adapter's indicator will turn solid red.
- Connect the Headset: Connect the PlayStation VR2 to the adapter's USB-C port.
- (Optional) Disable Hardware-accelerated GPU Scheduling: For newer GPUs (e.g., Nvidia RTX 40-series), disabling this setting in Graphics settings might improve stability. Restart your PC afterward.
- Launch Apps and Set Up Headset: Power on the PS VR2 headset. Launch SteamVR, setting it as your default OpenXR runtime. Open the PlayStation VR2 app to update controller firmware and set up the headset (Play Area, IPD, display distance, etc.).
Connecting Without the Adapter?
Currently, direct connection without the adapter is unreliable. While some reports suggest it might work with certain 2018-era GPUs featuring VirtualLink and the PlayStation VR2 app, it's not a guaranteed method. (Road to VR article for reference).
