How to Connect Your PlayStation VR2 Headset to a PC: Step-by-Step Guide

Connecting your PlayStation VR2 headset to a gaming PC for access to SteamVR's extensive library has, until recently, been a frustratingly limited experience. However, Sony's $60 adapter released last fall now makes this possible for PS VR2 owners, provided your PC meets the headset's minimum specifications. While marketed as plug-and-play, some setup might be needed depending on your PC configuration.

How to Connect Your PS VR2 to Your PC Using the Adapter

Before starting, ensure you have everything needed. The adapter provides compatibility with most SteamVR games, but you'll need: 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/cables for the Sense controllers (or a Sony 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 (includes AC adapter and USB 3.0 Type-A cable)
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 adapter)
Steam and SteamVR installed on your PC
PlayStation VR2 app installed in Steam

Step-by-Step Connection Instructions

Follow these steps to connect your PS VR2:

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 power adapter, and connect the PS VR2 headset to the adapter's USB-C port. The adapter's indicator will turn solid red when powered on.
(Optional) Disable Hardware-accelerated GPU Scheduling: For newer GPUs (e.g., Nvidia RTX 40-series), disabling this in Graphics settings may improve stability. Restart your PC afterward.
Launch Apps and Set Up Headset: Power on the PS VR2 headset. Launch SteamVR, set it as your default OpenXR runtime, and open the PlayStation VR2 app. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the headset setup, including Play Area, IPD, and display distance.

Can You Connect Without the Adapter?

Currently, direct connection without the adapter is unreliable. While some reports suggest that certain GPUs (circa 2018) with VirtualLink might allow this with the PlayStation VR2 app installed, it's not a guaranteed method.