Valve Index

Unlike fine wine, technology doesn't age well. Still, the Valve Index is the closest a VR headset has ever been to vintage. Despite its discontinuation, the Index remains a favorite among consumers and continues to be one of the ultimate VR headsets for gaming.

Resolution-wise, the Index is disappointing for a product over $700. Its tracking capabilities, on the other hand, explain why gamers love the product so much. The entire emphasis of the Index is put on elements that directly improve the smoothness of VR gaming experiences: Lighthouse 2.0 Tracking ensures tracking precision under two millimeters (RMS). A market-leading refresh rate of up to 144 Hz safeguards gamers, reducing potential nausea and motion sickness. An emphasis on ergonomic design allows players to endure long gaming sessions without discomfort.

Oh, and don't worry about that vintage comparison: the good news is that Valve Index is getting cheaper, and you can find many second-hand headsets well below $700. On the other hand, you also have to spot them, meaning buying the Index can be a challenge, especially if you reside in a non-urban area.