The Meta Quest 3S stands out as an incredible value in the VR landscape, especially for those seeking a cost-effective entry into mixed reality. However, potential buyers must weigh whether to upgrade from an existing model or invest in the higher-tier Quest 3.

A year can change a lot in the tech world. Last October, I praised the Meta Quest 3 for its impressive features. After a health scare that got me into VR fitness, I've come to see these headsets as essential tools for my lifestyle. While Meta's Quest headsets serve various functions—from gaming consoles to creative devices—the Quest 3S now offers a budget-friendly entry into mixed reality.

Pricing and Positioning

With Apple's Vision Pro priced at $3,500, the Quest 3S is positioned attractively at $300, making it a significant step down from both the Quest 3 ($500) and the Quest 2 (now discontinued). It effectively serves as the low-end model in Meta's updated lineup, appealing to casual users who might not need all the advanced features of the Quest 3.

Design and Comfort

The Quest 3S maintains a similar aesthetic to its predecessors but is lighter and more compact. Key improvements include better hand tracking through new cameras and a dedicated mixed-reality button for easy mode switching. It comes with comfortable controllers that no longer feature the cumbersome rings found on the Quest 2 controllers.

Mixed Reality Capabilities

Equipped with improved color passthrough cameras, the Quest 3S enables users to blend VR graphics with their real-world environment. While the cameras aren’t as crisp as those on the Quest 3, they are significantly better than the black-and-white cameras on the Quest 2. The ability to layer VR on top of physical spaces opens up new avenues for fitness and gaming experiences.

Performance and Graphics

Both the Quest 3S and the Quest 3 use the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, delivering substantial performance improvements over the Quest 2. However, the graphics capabilities are somewhat hindered by the Quest 3S's older lens technology. While the Quest 3S handles most tasks well, the optics do not offer the clarity of the Quest 3, making text and graphics less sharp.

Battery Life and Usability

With an estimated battery life of 2.5 hours, the Quest 3S aligns closely with the Quest 2. It’s enough for long sessions, but users will want to recharge periodically. The Horizon OS ecosystem continues to improve but remains somewhat isolated compared to other platforms.

Should You Upgrade?

For existing Quest 2 owners, the decision to upgrade is nuanced. While the Quest 3S offers notable improvements, many users may find their current headset adequate, especially since the Quest 2 remains compatible with a wide range of apps and games. The $300 price tag may feel steep for casual users, particularly if they need to invest in additional accessories.

Conclusion

The Meta Quest 3S is an impressive device that delivers great value for its price, offering users a taste of mixed reality without breaking the bank. However, for those already satisfied with the Quest 2, waiting for a broader range of optimized games and apps may be a wise choice. Ultimately, the 3S is a fantastic option for newcomers to the VR world, providing a solid mix of performance, design, and innovative features at an accessible price point.

This article is curated by Apurv Modi, Editor - Technology.