Meta has announced the retirement of the Quest 2 VR headset, replacing it with the new Quest 3S, which starts at the same price of $299.99. The Quest 3S incorporates the display from the Quest 2 but features the upgraded chip and cameras found in the Quest 3, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking virtual reality experiences. It has been named the Editors’ Choice for affordable VR headsets, although the higher-priced Quest 3, available for $499, is recommended for those who prioritize visual clarity.
The Quest 3S and its predecessor are currently the only widely available VR headsets priced at $500 or less. Competing VR products, such as the Valve Index and HTC’s Vive Focus Vision, typically cost around $1,000, with the Apple Vision Pro priced at an astonishing $3,500, making the Quest headsets more accessible options.
In terms of design, the Quest 3S mirrors the aesthetic of the Quest 3 with a matte white finish and a flatter front plate housing two triangular camera clusters. It retains familiar features such as a USB-C port and a padded face interface but lacks certain adjustments present in the Quest 3, such as lens distance tuning. The headset accommodates glasses with an included spacer.
The display resolution of the Quest 3S remains at 1,832 by 1,920 pixels per eye, matching the Quest 2. However, it does not reach the higher resolution capabilities of the Quest 3. Still, it offers a satisfactory viewing experience, supporting refresh rates of 72Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz. The pass-through functionality utilizes improved 4MP color cameras for better visibility of surroundings compared to the monochrome view of the Quest 2.
The Quest 3S is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, the same as the Quest 3, providing a significant upgrade in processing power compared to its predecessor. It offers storage options of 128GB and 256GB without expandable memory.
The controllers for the Quest 3S are identical to those of the Quest 3 and feature a simple design with buttons for intuitive control. Additionally, hand tracking is supported, allowing users to navigate the interface without controllers, although the accuracy is generally better with the controllers.
While the Quest 3S is mainly aimed at entertainment and gaming, it supports a robust library of VR applications and games, including popular titles like Beat Saber and VRChat. Users can also connect it to their PC for SteamVR gaming through the optional Meta Quest Link Cable.
Despite its potential for work applications, the Horizon Workrooms offering from Meta remains in beta, highlighting a focus on gaming experiences. The Quest 3S integrates with Meta’s Horizon Worlds, a social VR platform, though user activity within these virtual spaces appears limited.
In summary, the Meta Quest 3S is a strong contender for anyone looking to enter the world of VR. Its combination of advanced technology, color pass-through capabilities, and an extensive library of applications makes it an ideal choice at a reasonable price point. The headset offers an excellent entry-level experience into virtual reality, suitable for both newcomers and those looking to upgrade from the Quest 2.