At this year's Connect 2024 event, Meta introduced the Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable version of the popular Quest 3. It is a device that offers the same mixed reality capabilities and fast performance, but at a significantly lower price - just €279. It is aimed primarily at those who are just entering the world of VR or looking for a cheap upgrade from the older Quest and Quest 2 models.
In addition, Meta has reduced the price 512GB version of Meta Quest 3, which is now available for €605 instead of €605 465 €With more space for games and apps, a better screen, and a wider field of view, the Quest 3 remains the best choice for those who want the ultimate VR experience.
Where are the compromises?
With a lower price usually comes compromises, and the question is what exactly are we losing with the Quest 3S compared to the standard model. Meta hasn't revealed any hardware details yet, but based on early reviews and analysis, we can expect lower quality LCD screen instead of higher contrast QLED, somewhat smaller field of view, poorer quality of headbands and less effective lenses, which can affect image sharpness.
Last updated 2025-02-02 / Affiliate links / Photo source: Amazon Product Advertising API
However, Meta claims that the 3S will support the entire existing Quest library and took advantage of this year's ecosystem updates, such as improved Passthrough, better surround audio support and new Travel Mode, which allows you to use VR headsets while traveling. While it will work with most Quest 3 titles, doubts have already been raised about whether it will run more demanding games with the same smoothness as the more expensive model.
Who is the Quest 3S for?
Meta wants to attract new users with the Quest 3S who have not yet tried VR technology or are still using the Quest 2. It is the perfect device for casual gaming, socializing and creating. Users can enjoy VR concerts in Horizon Worlds' Music Valley, create works of art in Gravity Sketch and Painting VR, they watch content on Netflix, YouTube, Twitch and even play games over Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) in the enhanced “Theater View” mode.
For those who want even more, Meta has lowered the price. 512GB Quest 3, which in addition to more space also offers better resolution, wider field of view and better opticsWhile the Quest 3S will be more than enough for everyday use, tech enthusiasts and serious VR gamers will likely prefer to go for the more expensive model.
Advantages and disadvantages
After initial tests, the Meta Quest 3S proves to be great entry-level model for VR, but with some shortcomings that need to be taken into account.
+ Price (€279 is the cheapest entry into a quality VR experience), improved Passthrough, support for the entire Quest library, better performance than Quest 2, improved software and user interface.
– Worse LCD screen and lenses than the Quest 3, less comfortable to wear due to inferior straps, smaller field of view, questionable long-term support for more demanding games.
Is this the VR revolution we've been waiting for?
Meta has been working for years to make VR a part of everyday life, but despite lower prices, the technology still remains niche. Apple with its Vision Pro is targeting the high-end segment, while Meta is aiming to reach a wider audience with the Quest series. The Quest 3S is another step in that direction, but the question remains whether it will really convince those who still doubt the usefulness of VR devices.
Last updated 2025-02-02 / Affiliate links / Photo source: Amazon Product Advertising API
If the experience is good enough, the Quest 3S could be the right entry point for the masses. But if the compromises are too great, it will remain just a cheaper alternative for existing users. Either way, price cuts in the VR world are always welcome. Perhaps the Quest 3S is the model that will finally convince the general public.What do you think? Is now the right time to get into VR, or would you rather wait for the next big thing?
