Looking into saving up for a VR headset, mainly to play Half Life: Alyx among others. Was thinking about getting an Index but it seems a bit expensive for me, and I don't think it'll be back in stock anytime soon. Any suggestions?
Cheapest option for PC VR would be any Windows Mixed Reality headset. I've got one from Acer, it's practically the same experience as an OG Oculus Rift and it cost me like $160 to get. Refurbished ones of the Acer model I got seem to go for about $180 now, which is still pretty decent vs other headsets.
It's inside out tracking is a bit meh compared to higher end stuff now, but I haven't had any major issues with nearly every VR game I've tried. This would, in my opinion, be the absolute best option for someone entering the VR market that isn't sure if they want to stick with it or not. It'll give you about the same experience, and it's usually much cheaper so you won't end up losing a ton of money if you don't end up liking VR that much.
A used Oculus Rift is also an option, but is a bit more expensive. I believe these days, to get a full kit, it'll cost around $250-$300 for one with all the sensors, cables and 2 controllers.
If cost isn't a factor and you have all the money in the world, buy an HTC Vive and pickup just the Index controllers whenever they get in stock. It's probably one of the best combos for PC VR at the moment, but will be fairly pricey. The OG Vive setup still sells for like $600+ used on eBay, and a new Vive Cosmo will set you back like $700 for just the headset and controllers, or $900 to add the base stations as well.
Check to see if there is some kind of gaming bar/club/cafe near you.
They will often have sprung for the fancy stuff and for what a few hours rental costs you can likely have your fill of the concept and not have to have junk in your house.