The Meta Quest 3S is Meta’s latest entry-level virtual reality headset, offering a compelling mix of performance and affordability for newcomers to VR. Priced at $269 for the 128GB model it delivers many of the core experiences of the higher-end Quest 3 at a more accessible price point.

Performance & Gaming

Powered by the same Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and 8GB of RAM as the Quest 3, the Quest 3S handles demanding VR titles like Batman: Arkham Shadow and Ghosts of Tabor with ease . It supports refresh rates up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay. However, it uses Fresnel lenses and a resolution of 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye, which is lower than the Quest 3’s 2064 x 2208 resolution. This results in a narrower field of view and some edge distortion .

Mixed Reality & Passthrough

The Quest 3S features full-color passthrough cameras, allowing for basic mixed reality experiences. While this is an upgrade over the black-and-white passthrough of the Quest 2, the image can appear fuzzy, making it less effective for tasks like reading text on real-world objects .

Design & Comfort

Weighing approximately 18.13 ounces, the Quest 3S is lightweight and features improved materials and straps for better comfort during extended use . However, some users may still find it uncomfortable for long sessions. The headset includes dedicated buttons for passthrough and volume control, enhancing usability .

Battery Life & Storage

The Quest 3S offers a battery life of around two hours, which is standard for standalone VR headsets . It comes in 128GB and 256GB storage options, accommodating a range of game libraries.

Verdict

The Meta Quest 3S strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it an excellent choice for those new to VR. While it doesn’t match the high-end features of the Quest 3, it delivers a solid VR experience for gaming and basic mixed reality applications. If you’re curious about VR but hesitant to invest in more expensive hardware, the Quest 3S offers great value.