GeForce NOW on Meta Quest vs Virtual Desktop: Which is Better for Cloud Gaming?
Both GeForce NOW and Virtual Desktop offer ways to play PC games on your Meta Quest headset, but they take different approaches. Which one is right for you? Let’s compare these two popular options for cloud gaming on Meta Quest.
GeForce NOW on Meta Quest: Cloud Gaming Made Simple
- How it Works: GeForce NOW is a cloud gaming service. Games are streamed from NVIDIA’s servers directly to your Meta Quest through its web browser. You don’t need a gaming PC.
- Pros:
- Easy Setup: Log in to GeForce NOW through the Quest’s browser, and you’re ready to play.
- No PC Required: You don’t need to own or maintain a gaming PC.
- Cost-Effective: Subscription-based, potentially cheaper than buying a gaming PC.
- Extensive Game Library: Access to a vast library of PC games, depending on your subscription tier.
- Cons:
- Network Dependent: Relies entirely on a strong 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection.
- Subscription Required: You need a GeForce NOW subscription to play.
- Limited Customization: Fewer options for tweaking graphics settings compared to Virtual Desktop.
Virtual Desktop: Stream From Your Own PC
- How it Works: Virtual Desktop is an app that lets you stream your entire PC desktop to your Meta Quest. To play games, you’ll need a VR-ready gaming PC.
- Pros:
- Full PC Access: Access your entire PC, not just games.
- Maximum Customization: Tweak in-game graphics to your heart’s content.
- Play Any PC Game: Play any game you own, regardless of whether it’s on GeForce NOW’s library.
- Play PCVR Games: You can also play any PCVR games that you own.
- Cons:
- Requires a Gaming PC: You need a powerful VR-ready PC to stream games effectively.
- More Complex Setup: Requires installing software on both your PC and Quest.
- Potential for Technical Issues: Troubleshooting can be more involved than with GeForce NOW.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | GeForce NOW on Meta Quest | Virtual Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| PC Required | No | Yes (VR-Ready Gaming PC) |
| Setup | Simple | More Complex |
| Cost | Subscription-based | One-time app purchase + cost of gaming PC |
| Game Library | Extensive (GFN Library) | Your entire PC game library, including PCVR games |
| Customization | Limited | Full |
| Network | Strong 5 GHz Wi-Fi needed | Strong 5 GHz Wi-Fi needed, PC wired connection recommended |
| Latency | Can vary | Generally lower if the PC is on the same network |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose GeForce NOW if: You don’t have a gaming PC, want a simple setup, and prefer a subscription model with a large library of games.
- Choose Virtual Desktop if: You have a powerful gaming PC, want full control over your gaming experience, want to play any PC game including PCVR games, and don’t mind a slightly more complex setup.
The Bottom Line
Both GeForce NOW and Virtual Desktop offer compelling ways to play PC games on your Meta Quest. The best choice depends on your individual needs, resources, and technical expertise.
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Duncan Baxter has been gaming in the cloud since the early days of OnLive, witnessing the evolution of cloud gaming from its infancy to the powerhouse platforms of today. As a dedicated cloud gaming fan, he explores services like GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Amazon Luna, and Boosteroid, always on the lookout for the best streaming experiences. Whether testing new features or revisiting classics, Duncan brings firsthand insight and deep knowledge to the Cloudy.Games community.
