To switch between VR and monitor you’ll need to change the option in the graphics menu, “HMD with headphones” when you want VR, your normal setting otherwise. You’ll need to restart the game for the change to take hold. Bit of a faff, but it is what it is. (Edit: Ratkatcher has better info!) The Rift should be off if it’s off your head or you’re in a 2D game.
For my IPD, I placed a ruler on my forehead and had a look in the mirror
Personally, once I got in VR mode I’ve never gone back to 2D Elite. I’d recommend the VR comfort options for using the SRV, “maintain horizon” being the most important for me.
As for the Rift S, I found having the halo band further down the back of my head gave me a better fit, took the slight pressure off my nose bridge and gave me a slightly greater sweetspot. The edge blur for me is now a thin ring on the outside edges of my vision.
Game settings-wise, having as clear an image with the best detail as possible is what gives me the best sense of scale, but it’s something you’ll have to tweak to your computer’s strength. As HMD quality 1.0 in the Rift S is already quite sharp, it’s worth pumping up the other settings, in my view.
Hope you enjoy, and welcome to what I think is the
best way to play Elite Dangerous!