Connecting your PlayStation VR2 headset to a gaming PC and accessing SteamVR's vast library has been a challenge until recently. Sony's $60 adapter, released last fall, now makes this possible for PS VR2 owners, provided your PC meets the minimum specifications. However, despite its plug-and-play marketing, some setup might be required depending on your PC configuration.
Connecting Your PS VR2 to Your PC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary components. The PS VR2 is compatible with most SteamVR games via the adapter, but you'll need: 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 two USB-C charging ports and cables for the Sense controllers (or a Sony Sense controller charging station).
What You'll Need
First, verify your PC's compatibility using 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 hub may work.)
- Bluetooth 4.0 capability (built-in or via an external adapter)
- Steam and SteamVR installed on your PC
- PlayStation VR2 app installed on Steam
Connecting Your PS VR2: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to connect your PS VR2:
Install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app: Download and install the Steam Windows client, then install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app.
Set up Bluetooth and pair Sense Controllers: Enable Bluetooth in your PC's settings. On each 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.
Set up the adapter: Plug the PS VR2 adapter into a USB 3.0 Type-A port, connect it to your GPU via DisplayPort 1.4, connect the AC adapter, and connect the PS VR2 headset to the adapter.
Disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling (optional): For newer GPUs (like Nvidia RTX 40-series), disabling this in Graphics settings might improve stability. Restart your PC afterward.
Launch the PlayStation VR2 App and SteamVR: Power on the PS VR2 headset. Launch SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime. Open the PlayStation VR2 app to update controllers and configure your headset (Play Area, IPD, etc.).
Can You Connect Without the Adapter?
Currently, direct connection without the adapter is unreliable. While some reports suggest a direct connection is possible via VirtualLink on certain 2018 GPUs with a USB-C port and the PlayStation VR2 app installed, this isn't officially supported.
