Hold onto your headsets, folks, because the Meta Quest 3S has arrived, and it’s ready to shake up your mixed reality game without giving your wallet a heart attack.
At just $299 for the 128GB version and $399 for the 256GB, this beauty brings all the fun of the Quest 3 to the masses—and we’re here for it.
Let’s break down why this headset might just be your new favorite gadget.
What’s Everyone Saying About It?
The Meta Quest 3S just dropped, and people are seriously freaking out about how good it is—especially for the price.
Tech reviewer Vadim Yuryev said it best in his tweet: RT @VadimYuryev “So Meta sent over their Meta Quest 3S for us to try out and HOLY SMOKES, for $300, I think it’s the best value and most fun gaming console you can get right now.” and many other experts agree with this ^^^ statement.
RT: @theshortcut “Meta’s new headset has finally sold me on VR”
RT: @TechNewsTube “The Best Headset for VR Noobs”
RT: @RtoVR “Value That Can’t Be Beat, With the Same Rough Edges as Its Siblings”
RT @IGN “The Quest 3S is the perfect entry-level VR headset, bridging the gap between the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 2.”
RT @engadget “Impressive VR for $300”
And honestly? The experts aren’t wrong. The Quest 3S brings stunning graphics, a lighter design, and a huge game selection that has everyone talking. It might just be the best VR bang for your buck we’ve seen in a long time.
But let’s be real—there are a few ugh moments too.
Setting it up? Super easy, even for total newbies. Navigating the menus, though? Well, let’s just say it’s got a learning curve, especially when you’re trying to juggle the controllers and hand-tracking. We’re talking accidental button presses, missed gestures, and a few “Wait, what did I just do?” moments.
Battery life is another hot topic (2-2.5 hours, in case you’re wondering). While it’s enough for a quick dive into a virtual world, marathon sessions might have you reaching for the charger a little too often.
And let’s not forget about the cost of apps—yeah, your headset is budget-friendly, but the app store? Not so much. Still, it’s a solid win for most people, and we’re about to tell you why.
Design and Hardware: Slim, Sleek, and Oh-So Chic
Let’s start with looks because, let’s be real, it matters. The Meta Quest 3S is like the Quest 2’s cooler, slimmer cousin. It’s 20% sleeker than the Quest 2, which means it won’t feel like you’re wearing a toaster on your face.
Sure, it’s a little bulkier than the Quest 3, but at this price point, we’re not complaining. Under the hood, it’s rocking the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip and 8GB of RAM as the Quest 3, so it’s got the speed and power to keep up with your VR adventures.
Plus, the color pass-through cameras mean you can blend reality and virtual worlds like a total pro. Think sci-fi movie vibes—but, you know, in real life.
New Design Features That’ll Make You Smile
Meta threw in some new design tweaks, like a dedicated pass-through button that lets you switch between VR and the real world faster than you can say, “Where’s my coffee?”
But here’s the twist: they ditched the 3.5 mm headphone jack. Yep, it’s gone. RIP. We know, we know—some of you still love your wired headphones, but don’t worry.
The built-in speakers are solid, and if you’re not ready to go fully wireless, just grab a USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter and call it a day.
Specs That’ll Make Your Tech-Loving Heart Skip a Beat
Alright, tech fans—get ready to geek out. The Meta Quest 3S might be easy on the budget, but it’s still loaded with features that’ll have you nodding in approval.
Check it out:
| Category | Specs That’ll Make You Smile |
|---|---|
| Price: | $299 (128GB) or $399 (256GB)—affordable and awesome! |
| Performance: | 2X faster GPU power (compared to Quest 2); 8GB RAM for smooth, lag-free action |
| Optics: | High-def resolution with 1832×1920 pixels per eye; Fresnel lenses with 3-way adjustable fit—comfort is key! |
| Battery & Storage | Around 2.5 hours of battery life with a 4,324 mAH battery; choose between 128GB or 256GB—more space, more games! |
| Mixed Reality | 4.5X better clarity and color (compared to Quest 2); 96° horizontal and 90° vertical field of view for top-notch visuals |
Features and Performance: It’s Game Time, Baby!
Here’s where things get fun. The Meta Quest 3S brings you the same upgraded Touch controllers as the Quest 3, with hand-tracking that feels like straight-up magic.
Wanna cast spells, slice through waves of enemies, or become the Jedi you were always meant to be? You can.
But heads up: getting used to the controls can be a little… let’s say, interesting. Some users have found the hand-tracking a bit too responsive, leading to moments where you’re trying to click one thing and accidentally hit something else. Awkward!
But hey, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be casting spells like a pro.
Quest 2 vs. Quest 3 vs. Quest 3S: Who Comes Out on Top?
Still rocking a Quest 2? The Meta Quest 3S is like finding a designer jacket at a thrift store—an upgrade that won’t break the bank.
Here’s what you’re getting:
- Speed and Power: With a turbocharged processor and more RAM, the Quest 3S is faster than a kid on a sugar rush.
- Color Pass-Through: Mixed reality just got a lot more colorful, and we’re not mad about it.
- Slimmer Design: It’s less bulky, more comfy, and just plain better-looking.
But we’re not here to pretend the Quest 3S is exactly the same as the Quest 3.
Let’s keep it 100—here’s what’s different:
- Display Quality: The Quest 3S sticks with the same resolution as the Quest 2, which means it’s not quite as sharp as the Quest 3. But unless you’re scrutinizing every pixel, it’s still a high-res experience that looks amazing in action.
- Lens System: Instead of the Quest 3’s fancy pancake lenses, the Quest 3S uses fresnel lenses. Sure, they’re bulkier and can get a little blurry at the edges, but they still get the job done.
- No Depth Sensor: The Quest 3 has a depth sensor for super-accurate MR interactions, but honestly, if you’re not planning to become a professional VR architect, you probably won’t miss it.
Boost Your Meta Quest 3S Game with These Must-Have Accessories!
Ready to dive into mixed reality with your Meta Quest 3S? Heck yes! But before you leap into the virtual abyss, check out these accessories that will turn your gaming from “meh” to “OMG, I’m obsessed!”
Must-Have Accessories:
- Meta Quest Compact Charging Dock: Never run low on juice again! This chic dock makes charging your Touch Plus Controllers a breeze and comes with a handy extended cable for your Quest 3/3S headset. Power up and get back to the fun in no time!
- Meta Quest Elite Strap with Battery: Short gaming sessions? No, thank you! This comfy strap gives you two extra hours of playtime. With its perfect weight balance, you’ll be ready to dive deep into your favorite adventures without breaking a sweat!
- Meta Quest 3S Breathable Facial Interface: Say goodbye to sweaty faces! This genius accessory installs in seconds and features breathable fabric to keep you cool. Plus, with soft silicone pads, you’ll be comfy enough to game all day!
Final Verdict: The Meta Quest 3S—Your New Best Friend in VR
So, should you grab the Meta Quest 3S? Duh! But let’s keep it real—it’s not here to steal the spotlight from the Quest 3, and that’s okay. It’s here to give you an awesome VR and MR experience without draining your bank account.
If you’re new to VR or still holding onto your Quest 2, this is the perfect way to level up. But let’s get one thing straight: the Meta Quest 3S is a total steal, but the app store can still rack up some costs.
While there are freebies, the really juicy apps will probably set you back a bit, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself making a few extra purchases.
And yes, this headset is chef’s kiss for gamers, but if you’re hoping to travel the world or explore new places from your couch, you might need to do a little digging (and pay up) to get there.
Meta’s clearly aiming for sleek and streamlined, and we’re here for it. With its quick-switch button, comfy fit for glasses, and compatibility with all your fave Quest 3 titles, the Meta Quest 3S has everything you need to jump into new dimensions—without stretching your wallet.
Note: This article has been peer reviewed and held to the highest editorial standards.