How To Setup the Oculus Quest 2

May 20, 2022

10 minutes

Virtual reality is something that a decade ago would seem impossible. But the future is now with the Oculus Quest 2 and other devices like it! Virtual reality (VR) is a computer generated environment with scenes and objects that appear to be real, immersing users into their surroundings.

As someone who was amazed as a kid seeing movies in 3D, courtesy of those stylish cardboard glasses, putting on a VR headset for the first time was mind-blowing!

The Oculus Quest 2 improves upon its previous version, mainly with the Snapgradon XR2 system. It allows for more robust games and applications to be played on the headset. The screen resolution of 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye is a 50% increase from Quest 1’s 1440 x 1600 pixels per eye. Also, rather than an LCD screen, the Quest 2 uses an OLED screen, which consists of pixels that glow themselves.

The downside to the Quest 2 is that users are required to connect their Facebook account, which for those who don’t use social media, will be at a disadvantage. It’s this requirement that kept the price of the Quest 2 so low, especially since they gain the advantage of having the data of headset users.

This guide goes through the process of setting up the Oculus Quest 2 for the first time. From unboxing to headset adjustments to general tips, it can seem daunting at first. After all, advanced technology naturally seems to be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! This guide is here to help you dip your toes into virtual reality!

Oculus Quest 2

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Opening up the Oculus Quest 2 box was a little surreal, much like the scenes you’re about to experience after following this guide!

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Here’s what’s included with your Oculus Quest 2:

Reference Guide
Safety & Warranty Guide
VR Headset
Set of 2 Touch Controllers
Charging Cable and Power Adapter
Two AA Batteries (for controllers)
Glasses Spacer
Silicone Cover for the facial interface

Before you can power on the headset and get going, there are a few steps you need to take.

Pull the tabs from the touch controllers. They will take a good yank to get out, but this will allow the batteries to connect internally and power on the touch controllers.
Remove the film cover from the lens. Savor the peelies!
(Optional) Add the silicone cover to the headset. After spending some time with the headset on, I found that I needed the extra support to stop it from sliding around.
(Optional) Attach the glasses spacer. For those who need it, follow this guide to attaching the glasses spacer to the Oculus Quest 2.

After all this, you’re finally ready to move on!

Press the button on the right side of the headset for 2 seconds. You’ll know the power is on either by looking through the lens or a light on the outside of the headset.

When putting on the Quest 2 headset, make sure it's secure and comfortable for you. Use the horizontal adjustment straps to tighten the headset around your heat. I recommend adjusting the top strap after you’ve turned on the device, so you can make sure you’re getting the clearest view.

Adjustment took a bit to get to my liking, so don’t rush through this step. My own impatience had me adjusting while doing the setup, which was just a hassle. So make sure to take the time to do this properly.

Whether it’s prompted on the screen or not, adjust the lens within the headset to your preference. They move at the same time, so push together or pull apart until the screen is clear for your eyes.

First thing you need to do is sit down in a space that allows you to move your arms around comfortably. Majority of the onboarding is done with the headset on. Following the prompts on the screen, you’ll be instructed to do things like:

Connect to Wi-Fi
Watch the safety video

As with all new technology, there might be an update or two needed. You can remove the headset during this, as it’ll make a chime when it's completed. This is a perfect time to have some water!

You are required to download the Oculus app on your phone before continuing on. It’s available for both Android and Apple phones, and it will require you to login with your Facebook account. As stated earlier, you cannot use the Quest 2 without a Facebook account.

You’ll be instructed on how to set up Guardian, the tool that enables a virtual boundary around you for safe play!

During this step, you will use the touch controller to draw your boundary, which is great for those who have limited or a very specific area they want to play in. Once Guardian is activated, you’ll see plus signs appear around you, signifying your play area.

The Quest 2 also has passthrough alert, which alerts you when you’re too close to the edge or step outside the play zone. This can take some getting used to, but it’s the best tool I could imagine for a virtual reality headset!

The first UI you’ll see when you’re finally through setup is the toolbar. This is where the important information about the Quest 2 and your navigation will exist. Here you’ll find battery levels, be able to cast to devices, browse the internet or games, and more! Read our guide to get to know your Quest 2 better!

The orange button on the toolbar is for the Oculus app store, click into it to begin your VR adventures!