Oculus has announced that you will be able to pre-order seven Rift-compatible PCs starting from February 16th. The cheapest option is $949 but as you’ve likely guessed, it comes without the accompanying virtual reality headset.
Dell, Alienware, and Asus have each made at least one model available. If you’re looking for a system that’s just about able to manage the Rift’s significant specifications, the Asus G11CD features an i5-6400, GTX 970, and 8 GB of RAM for $949. The other Asus models offer improved processor spec, GPU models, and RAM.
Dell’s most basic model mimic’s Asus’ own and costs $999. The Rift display costs an additional $599.
Three Alienware systems are also available but it’s worth noting that none of the bundles come in at $1,499 or less, Oculus’ stated price point for entry level PCs and bundles. Oculus still insists that combined bundles will be offered at that price.
The Alienware Area 51 is the most expensive Rift-ready option, it boasts an Intel i7-5820K (overclockable), 16 GB of RAM, and a Nvidia GTX 980. This will set you back $2,549.
None of the prices mentioned include the purchase of an Oculus Rift at $599. The headset comes with a Xbox One controller, a head-mounted display, remote, carrying case, and camera. Free copies of EVE: Valkyrie Founder’s Pack, and Lucky’s Tale are also included.
It’s possible to build your own PC for less than those listed which might well prove to be more powerful but doing so poses challenges of its own. Should you choose to do so, it’s probably a good idea to build a system with a degree of future proofing.
