Can You Use Valve Index Controllers With a Oculus Quest 2?

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By Ralph Torres

Are you wondering if you can use Valve Index Controllers with your Oculus Quest 2? The answer is yes! However, there are a few things you need to know before diving in.

Compatibility
First and foremost, the Valve Index Controllers are not officially supported by the Oculus Quest 2. This means that you may encounter some compatibility issues or limitations when using them together.

Setup
To set up the Valve Index Controllers with your Oculus Quest 2, you will need to have a compatible PC and a VR streaming app such as Virtual Desktop or ALVR. You will also need to have the SteamVR software installed on your PC.

Here are the steps to set up the controllers:

  • Connect your Oculus Quest 2 to your PC using a USB cable.
  • Launch Virtual Desktop or ALVR on your Quest 2.
  • Launch SteamVR on your PC.
  • Pair the Valve Index Controllers with SteamVR by holding down the system button until they turn on and then pressing and holding down both buttons below the trackpad until the controllers vibrate.
  • In SteamVR, go to Settings > Devices > Configure Controller > Pair Controller.
  • Select “Valve Index Controller” from the list of available controllers and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.

Limitations

While it is possible to use Valve Index Controllers with an Oculus Quest 2, there are some limitations to keep in mind.

Battery Life
The Valve Index Controllers require two AA batteries each, which can drain relatively quickly during extended play sessions. In contrast, the Oculus Touch controllers that come with the Quest 2 have built-in rechargeable batteries that can last for several hours of gameplay.

Functionality
Because the Valve Index Controllers are not officially supported by the Quest 2, some of their functionality may not work as expected, or at all. For example, the capacitive touch sensors on the Valve Index Controllers may not register properly in certain games or apps.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is possible to use Valve Index Controllers with an Oculus Quest 2, there are some limitations and potential compatibility issues to keep in mind. If you decide to give it a try, be sure to follow the setup steps carefully and keep your expectations realistic. Happy gaming!