How to Connect PlayStation VR2 to a PC with the PS VR2 Adapter

For PlayStation VR2 owners looking to transition their virtual reality gaming experience to a high-performance PC, opportunities have been sparse until now. Sony recently introduced a $60 adapter that allows PS VR2 headsets to be used with any modern gaming PC, provided the system meets the minimum specs. However, the process isn’t as straightforward as it might seem, with some additional setup often required depending on your PC configuration.

Connecting Your PS VR2 to a PC: The Process

To successfully connect your PlayStation VR2 headset to a gaming PC, several components are necessary. Ensure your PC supports sufficient Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, has a free DisplayPort 1.4 slot, is close to an AC power outlet, and has both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam. The Sense controllers included with the PS VR2 require USB-C charging ports and cables to maintain their battery life. For convenience, Sony offers a Sense controller charging station for $50.

What You’ll Need

Before proceeding, verify that your gaming PC can support the PlayStation VR2 headset. Sony provides a helpful PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page for this purpose. If your system complies, gather the following:

• 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 (note: Sony advises against using an extension cable or external hub)
• Bluetooth 4.0 capability on your PC (built-in or external adapter)
• Steam and SteamVR installed on your PC
• The PlayStation VR2 app installed within Steam

Step-by-Step Connection Guide

Ready to connect? Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Install SteamVR and PlayStation VR2 App

   Ensure both SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app are installed in your Steam library.

2. Pair Sense Controllers via Bluetooth
   • Activate your PC’s Bluetooth settings.
   • To make the controllers discoverable, press and hold the PlayStation button and the Create button on each controller until the light at the base blinks.
   • From your PC’s settings, click “Add device” under Bluetooth & devices to pair both controllers.
   • If your PC lacks built-in Bluetooth, consider using an external Bluetooth adapter, such as the Asus BT500. You may need to disable the internal Bluetooth driver in the Device Manager first.
3. Set Up and Connect the Adapter
   • Insert the PS VR2 adapter into an unused USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC.
   • Attach a DisplayPort 1.4 cable from the adapter to your GPU’s DisplayPort slot.
   • Connect the adapter’s power supply to an electrical outlet; the status indicator will turn solid red.
   • Link your PS VR2 headset to the adapter using the USB-C cable.
4. Disable Hardware-accelerated GPU Scheduling (Optional)

   This step is crucial for systems with advanced GPUs, such as the Nvidia RTX 40-series, to enhance stability in VR games.

   • Navigate to Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
   • Click “Default graphics settings” and turn off “Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling.”
   • Restart your PC.
5. Launch PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR
   • Power on your PlayStation VR2 by pressing the center button beneath the visor.
   • Initiate SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime.
   • Open the PlayStation VR2 app to update your Sense controllers and configure your Play Area and preferences.
   • Follow on-screen instructions to adjust your IPD and display distance. Ensure the headset is comfortable.
   • With everything set up, enjoy a wide range of SteamVR games.

Using PS VR2 with a PC Without an Adapter?

The question of connecting PS VR2 to a PC directly, without an adapter, remains complex. At present, the official stance is that an adapter is required. However, some users with early 2018 GPUs equipped with USB-C ports and VirtualLink technology report success in bypassing the adapter, with the PlayStation VR2 app being the key component.

Curious about other VR options for your PC? Explore our guide to the best VR headsets for PC gaming.