Meta Quest 3S Review: Best Budget VR Headset in 2024?

Is time to dive into one of the hottest new releases in the market of virtual reality – the Meta Quest 3S. This headset just dropped, and it’s got everyone talking. Meta’s trying to strike that sweet spot between affordability and performance, and honestly, the 3S seems like it might just pull it off. With a price tag starting at $299, it’s currently one of the most affordable VR headsets out there, offering a solid gateway into both VR and mixed reality.

I’ve used pretty much every VR headset that’s hit the market, so I’ve seen the highs and the lows of this tech. And while the Meta Quest 3S has its fair share of compromises to keep the price down, it’s also packed with features that’ll impress both newcomers and those upgrading from older models.

Now, I’ve been using this headset for a good two weeks, and let me tell you, there’s a lot to unpack. In this review, we’re going to break down everything – the good, the bad, and whether the 3S really stacks up to the competition.

Price and Model Variants: Which One to Choose?

let’s talk about pricing because we all know that’s a big factor when deciding on tech. The Meta Quest 3S comes in two storage options: the base model with 128GB of storage for $299, and the upgraded 256GB version for $399. Now, here’s the thing – the $299 model already offers plenty of storage if you’re just diving into VR for casual gaming, watching movies, or exploring apps. But if you’re someone who plans to load up on big games, or simply wants more space for future content, the extra $100 might be worth it.

The 256GB model gets pretty close to the price of the standard Meta Quest 3, which raises a few questions. Is it worth getting the more affordable 3S or should you stretch your budget a bit for the more premium experience with the Quest 3? Well, it really depends on what you’re after. If this is your first time getting into VR, the 3S at $299 is a solid deal, and it comes with Batman: Arkham Shadow and a free 3-month subscription to Meta Quest Plus, which gives you access to a couple of free games each month. That’s not a bad start, right?

But, here’s the kicker – the 256GB version at $399 starts to edge into the refurbished Quest 3 territory, which might offer better value for just a bit more. So, unless you really need the extra storage on the 3S, the 128GB model feels like the smarter buy for most people. You get all the essentials without overpaying. And hey, if you do decide to upgrade later on, there’s always room for external accessories to boost your experience.

Unboxing: First Impressions and Packaging

Now, let’s get into the unboxing experience. First impressions matter, and the Meta Quest 3S comes in a sleek, minimalist box that’s super easy to open – no fuss, no complicated packaging. Right off the bat, Meta has kept things simple, but in a good way. Inside, you’ve got everything you need to get started: the headset itself, a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, a power brick, and of course, the two controllers. There’s also a glass spacer if you wear glasses, which is always a thoughtful touch.

The packaging feels premium enough for the price point, and I appreciate how straightforward it is. No unnecessary extras, just the essentials to dive right into the VR experience. The headset sits snugly in the box, and everything’s laid out in a way that makes it easy to spot what’s where.

One thing that stood out during the unboxing was how light the headset felt when you first picked it up. The design is clean, and it doesn’t look overly complicated, which is nice for anyone who’s new to VR. I also liked that the box is designed to be opened quickly – no excessive tape or layers of plastic to cut through. It’s almost like Meta wanted you to get into VR as fast as possible, which, let’s be real, is exactly what we want.

Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look

If you’ve seen the Quest 2 or Quest 3, the 3S feels pretty familiar, but with a few notable tweaks. The headset sticks with that classic white plastic exterior, giving it a sleek and modern look. It’s lightweight, which is great for long gaming sessions, but there are a couple of things you’ll notice that give away the budget-friendly price point.

First off, the front of the headset is packed with cameras. You’ve got a set of cameras dedicated to mixed reality, as well as tracking cameras that make sure your movements are accurately translated in VR. One thing that’s really cool about the 3S is the fact that it works even in pitch-black environments – perfect for watching movies in bed without disturbing anyone nearby. It’s a small but significant feature that adds a lot of flexibility.

However, there are a few design choices that feel like a step back. Meta removed the headphone jack on the 3S, which is a bit of a head-scratcher. This means you’ll need to rely on Bluetooth headphones or use a USB-C adapter if you want wired sound. It’s a small inconvenience, but if you’re someone who prefers plugging in your own headphones, it might be a dealbreaker.

The headset uses the same FAL (Fresnel) lenses as the Quest 2, which, while still decent, do feel like a bit of a downgrade compared to the Quest 3’s more advanced lenses. You’ll need to take a moment to adjust the headset to find that “sweet spot” where everything looks sharp. This isn’t a huge issue, but it’s something worth noting if you’re used to more modern lenses.

Comfort and Ergonomics:

Let’s talk comfort, because if you’re planning to spend hours immersed in virtual worlds, the fit and feel of your headset matter a lot. The Meta Quest 3S is relatively lightweight, but comfort is one of the areas where some compromises have been made to hit that lower price point. Right out of the box, the headset comes with a basic strap – a simple Y-shaped design that’s functional but far from perfect.

The weight distribution on the Quest 3S is a bit front-heavy, meaning most of the weight rests on your face, especially since it lacks a proper counterweight at the back. After a while, you’ll likely start to feel some pressure on your forehead or around your eyes, especially if you’re using it for extended periods. If you’ve tried the Quest 3, the difference in comfort will be noticeable, but it’s not a dealbreaker for an entry-level headset.

The strap, while easy to adjust, isn’t the most comfortable option for longer gaming sessions. It’s made of a soft but thin material that does the job, but don’t expect it to provide much in the way of support. If you’re serious about comfort, you might want to invest in an aftermarket strap with better padding or a built-in counterweight. Luckily, most Quest 3 accessories are compatible with the Quest 3S, so you can easily upgrade your comfort level without much hassle.

Now, for glasses wearers, Meta did include a glass spacer in the box, which is a nice touch. It ensures that you can comfortably wear the headset with glasses without them getting squished or scratched. However, like the strap, the face cushion feels pretty basic. It’s made of foam that’s covered in fabric, which is fine for light use, but it tends to soak up sweat during intense gaming sessions. If you’re someone who uses VR for workouts or plays physically active games, you might want to consider swapping it out for a more breathable, wipeable silicone cover.

Another important ergonomic feature is the IPD (Interpupillary Distance) adjustment. The Quest 3S uses the same manual three-step IPD system from the Quest 2, meaning you can slide the lenses to three preset positions to better match your eye distance. While this isn’t as precise as the Quest 3’s finer IPD adjustment, it works well enough for most users. However, if you fall outside the average IPD range, you might struggle to find a perfectly clear view, so be prepared to do a bit of trial and error when setting it up.

Where the Quest 3S does shine is in its overall size and portability. It’s lighter and smaller than many other VR headsets on the market, making it easier to wear for longer periods despite the weight distribution issues. Plus, the fact that it’s a standalone headset with no wires hanging off the back means you’ve got full freedom of movement. You don’t need to worry about tangling yourself up in cords or dealing with a complicated setup – just put the headset on and you’re good to go.

The material quality, while not as premium as the Quest 3, feels durable enough to handle regular use. The buttons and ports are easy to access, and the USB-C charging port is located conveniently on the side. However, the lack of a headphone jack is something that might annoy users who prefer wired audio solutions. You’ll need to either use Bluetooth headphones or a USB-C adapter for audio, which isn’t the most convenient if you plan on using the headset while it charges.

Display and Lenses: Visual Quality and Performance

Now, let’s talk about one of the most important aspects of any VR headset – the display and lenses. The Meta Quest 3S comes with the same LCD panels that were used in the Quest 2, which means you’re getting a resolution of 1920 by 1832 per eye. It’s a solid display, especially for the price, but if you’re familiar with the more advanced OLED or mini-LED screens, you might feel like it’s a bit dated. However, for most users, it delivers a clear, crisp visual experience that’s good enough for games and media consumption.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the 3S runs at a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, which makes gameplay feel smooth and responsive, especially in fast-paced games. This higher refresh rate is a nice touch, and you’ll notice it when moving around quickly in virtual environments. It helps reduce motion sickness, which is a huge plus if you’re prone to that while using VR.

The biggest compromise with the 3S comes down to the lenses. Meta opted to reuse the FAL (Fresnel) lenses from the Quest 2, and while they’re still capable, they’re not as sharp or immersive as the newer pancake lenses on the Quest 3. With Fresnel lenses, you might notice some “god rays” – those annoying light streaks that can appear in high-contrast scenes – as well as a slightly smaller field of view. The field of view here isn’t bad, but it’s a bit more limited compared to newer headsets.

Also, the lenses have a pretty noticeable sweet spot. If you’re off-center even a little, things can get blurry, so you’ll need to adjust the headset just right to get everything in focus. This is especially true when you’re jumping between mixed reality and VR modes, which the Quest 3S handles surprisingly well, despite the older lens tech.

Speaking of mixed reality, the 3S does a great job here. The cameras on the front give you a decent passthrough mode, allowing you to see your surroundings while interacting with virtual objects. It’s a fun feature for things like working out or even just navigating around your room without taking the headset off. The passthrough isn’t quite as crisp as the Quest 3, but for a headset at this price, it’s impressive that Meta managed to include it at all.

Mixed Reality Capabilities:

One of the coolest features of the Meta Quest 3S is its mixed reality (MR) capabilities. Now, this isn’t just a VR headset – it’s designed to let you interact with both the virtual world and your real surroundings at the same time, and it does this pretty well, especially for the price.

Thanks to the array of cameras on the front, the 3S offers passthrough vision, which means you can see your actual environment while still having virtual elements layered on top. Whether you’re walking around your room, grabbing your controllers, or just trying to avoid tripping over something, you can easily switch between the real and virtual worlds without taking the headset off. The passthrough is in color, and while the resolution is not as sharp as higher-end headsets, it gets the job done for basic navigation.

Mixed reality is more than just passthrough, though. Meta is really pushing for the 3S to be a device for spatial computing – meaning you can interact with both your real and digital environments simultaneously. Imagine setting up a virtual screen on your actual desk, or playing a game where virtual objects appear right in your living room. The Quest 3S allows for that, and while it’s not perfect, it’s a huge step toward making MR more accessible to everyday users.

One feature that stands out is hand tracking. You don’t even need to use the controllers to navigate menus or interact with some apps. Just raise your hands, and the cameras will track your gestures. It’s surprisingly responsive for a budget headset, and works well enough for simple tasks like browsing the web or selecting apps. Of course, for gaming, you’ll probably still want to stick to the controllers for better accuracy, but the option to go hands-free is a nice touch, especially when you just want to watch a movie or casually browse.

Speaking of media consumption, the mixed reality feature also comes in handy when you’re watching movies or videos. You can set up a virtual screen in your real-world environment, whether it’s in your living room or even lying in bed. This flexibility makes the Meta Quest 3S more than just a gaming device; it’s also a powerful entertainment tool. Plus, you can still see your surroundings, so you’re not completely cut off from the real world.

Another fun aspect of mixed reality on the 3S is multitasking. You can pull up different windows and arrange them around your space – like having a web browser floating next to a game or placing a YouTube video screen in the middle of your room. It’s a glimpse into what future VR headsets could offer in terms of productivity and spatial computing, and the 3S gives you a taste of that for a budget price.

In terms of how it compares to the higher-end Quest 3, the mixed reality on the 3S is slightly less refined. The passthrough quality isn’t as sharp, and you may notice a bit of distortion around the edges. But for an entry-level headset, the mixed-reality performance is impressive. It’s clear that Meta wanted to give users a taste of next-gen tech without making them pay top dollar for it.

Controllers and Tracking: User Experience

When it comes to VR, controllers and tracking are a huge part of the experience. Luckily, the Meta Quest 3S sticks with the tried-and-tested design from previous models, so if you’ve used a Meta headset before, you’ll feel right at home. The controllers are light, easy to hold, and pretty responsive, although they haven’t seen any major upgrades compared to the Quest 2 or 3.

The controllers themselves are simple yet effective. They come with built-in haptics, giving you that extra bit of immersion when interacting with virtual objects. Whether you’re slicing through enemies in a game or grabbing tools in a creative app, the feedback from these controllers helps make everything feel a bit more real. They also have great ergonomics – you can play for hours without feeling hand fatigue, which is always a plus.

One thing to note is that the Quest 3S controllers use the same tracking system as the Quest 3, with cameras on the headset tracking their position. This inside-out tracking system is fast, accurate, and reliable, meaning you won’t need any external sensors set up in your room. Just put the headset on, grab the controllers, and you’re good to go. The tracking works well in most environments, whether you’re in a bright room or even in lower light settings. The addition of infrared (IR) illuminators helps make the Quest 3S capable of working in complete darkness, which is perfect for late-night gaming or movie-watching in bed.

If you’re looking to go controller-free, the Quest 3S also supports hand tracking, just like its pricier counterparts. Hand tracking has come a long way, and it works surprisingly well for things like navigating menus, browsing the web, or controlling certain apps. It feels futuristic to just wave your hand to select something, though it’s not quite accurate enough for fast-paced games. But for casual use, it’s a fun and practical addition.

One area where you might notice a slight downgrade compared to the Quest 3 is the overall build quality of the controllers. They’re durable, but they don’t feel quite as premium. It’s a small trade-off that makes sense given the lower price point of the 3S. However, if you’re used to the Quest 2, these should feel pretty familiar, and you’ll still get that solid Meta tracking performance.

Another small downside is that the Quest 3S doesn’t support controller-free hand tracking to the same extent as newer, more advanced models. While the tech is there, it’s not quite as smooth or responsive as what you’d find on the Quest 3, especially in more complex tasks or fast-moving games. It’s fine for casual use but lacks the precision for hardcore VR enthusiasts who rely on accurate hand tracking.

One thing that remains consistent, though, is the ability to use accessories like grip covers or charging docks, which are compatible with the Quest 3S. These small add-ons can make a big difference in comfort and usability, especially if you’re planning long sessions in VR. Meta’s ecosystem of accessories is extensive, so you’ll have plenty of options if you want to customize your setup.

Battery Life and Charging: How Long Can You Play?

Battery life is always a critical factor with standalone VR headsets, and the Meta Quest 3S is no different. On a full charge, you’re looking at around 2 to 2.5 hours of continuous playtime, depending on what you’re doing. If you’re playing graphically intense games or using mixed reality features heavily, the battery will lean closer to that 2-hour mark. For lighter tasks like watching videos or using basic apps, you can probably stretch it a bit longer, but it’s clear that this headset isn’t built for all-day use without recharging.

The 2-2.5 hour battery life might feel limiting, especially if you’re someone who likes long gaming sessions, but for casual users or short bursts of VR, it should be sufficient. If you’re planning to dive into longer sessions, you’ll definitely want to keep the charger nearby or invest in a battery pack accessory to extend your playtime. Fortunately, the Quest 3S is compatible with most of the Quest 3 accessories, including battery straps that can significantly extend the battery life while also balancing the headset’s weight.

Charging the headset is straightforward, thanks to the included USB-C to USB-C cable and power brick. It takes about 2-2.5 hours to fully charge the headset from zero, which is pretty standard for VR devices. The charging process is simple, and if you’re just using it casually, you can easily charge it between sessions to keep it topped up. However, if you plan on using the headset while it’s plugged in, things get a bit tricky. Since the 3S lacks a headphone jack, using a USB-C adapter for audio while charging is cumbersome, as it forces you to choose between charging or using wired audio.

For those who want to get around the short battery life, there are several accessories you can pick up. One of the most popular is the battery strap, which not only adds a counterweight for better balance but also doubles your playtime by adding an extra battery at the back. This is a great option if you’re using the headset for longer sessions, and the extra weight on the back helps offset the front-heavy design, making it more comfortable overall. Plus, the fact that you can still use the headset while it’s charging from the battery strap is a huge bonus.

If you don’t want to invest in extra accessories, there are also quick charge power banks you can attach to the headset with a short cable, which gives you a boost in battery life without needing to stop playing. It’s not as seamless as the battery strap solution, but it’s still a good way to get more out of your play sessions if you’re not near an outlet.

One thing to note is that Meta has optimized the headset’s power usage pretty well. The Quest 3S doesn’t drain battery excessively during standby, so you can leave it on for short breaks without worrying about a massive drop in power when you come back. However, there’s no proximity sensor to automatically turn the headset off when you remove it, so you’ll need to remember to power it down manually after each session, which can be easy to forget.

Audio and Connectivity: What’s Missing and What’s Improved

First off, the Quest 3S uses built-in speakers, similar to previous Meta headsets. These speakers are integrated into the head strap, providing spatial audio directly to your ears without needing headphones. The sound quality is decent, delivering clear audio with a reasonable level of immersion for games, media, and apps. It won’t blow you away with deep bass or crystal-clear highs, but it does the job for casual use.

However, if you value a more immersive audio experience – say, for intense gaming or watching movies – the built-in speakers might feel a bit underwhelming. They also don’t isolate sound very well, meaning others around you can hear what you’re listening to, and outside noises can leak in, which can take away from the immersion. If you’re gaming in a quiet room, this might not be a big deal, but if you’re in a noisier environment, the built-in audio setup falls short.

Here’s where things get a bit tricky: the Quest 3S does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack. That’s right – if you want to use your own wired headphones, you’ll need a USB-C adapter. This is a bit of a strange omission, especially considering the Quest 2 and Quest 3 both had headphone jacks. If you’re someone who prefers wired audio for better sound quality or just for the convenience of not having to charge another device, this might be a bit frustrating.

On the plus side, Bluetooth audio is supported, so you can connect wireless headphones or earbuds to the headset. While this is a nice option, keep in mind that Bluetooth audio can sometimes introduce a bit of latency, which might be noticeable in fast-paced games where audio sync is crucial. If you’re watching movies or playing more casual games, the latency shouldn’t be much of an issue. Still, it’s something to be aware of if you’re particular about audio sync.

In terms of connectivity, the Meta Quest 3S sticks to the basics. The headset comes with a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, but as mentioned earlier, this can be a little restrictive if you want to charge and use wired audio at the same time. Some accessories, like the official Meta sound solution from Soundcore, help bypass this issue by providing both audio and charging through a single port, but these are extra purchases you’ll need to consider if you’re serious about having both.

When it comes to wireless connectivity, the Meta Quest 3S performs well. The headset supports Wi-Fi 6, which means faster and more stable wireless connections, especially if you’re streaming games from your PC or using cloud-based VR services. This is a significant improvement over older models and makes for smoother experiences with less lag when playing wireless PC VR games. If you have a fast Wi-Fi connection, you’ll notice how quickly apps load and how stable the connection remains, even during more demanding VR experiences.

For those who like to connect their VR headsets to a PC, the Quest 3S also supports Meta’s Air Link and wired Link options. This lets you play PC VR titles via either a wireless connection or a direct USB-C link to your computer. Air Link, in particular, works well if you have a strong wireless network and want the freedom to play PC VR games without being tethered to a cable. The wired option offers a more stable and consistent experience, though it sacrifices the wireless freedom that makes the Quest 3S so appealing in the first place.

Accessories:

While the Meta Quest 3S is a solid headset on its own, the right accessories can significantly enhance your experience. Meta has ensured that most of the accessories for the Quest 3 are compatible with the Quest 3S, which is great news for users who want to customize and improve comfort, battery life, and overall usability.

One of the most popular accessories for the Quest 3S is the Elite Strap with or without the battery pack. The standard strap that comes with the headset is functional but far from ideal for long gaming sessions, as it can feel uncomfortable and lacks balance. The Elite Strap, however, offers much better support by distributing the weight more evenly across your head, reducing pressure on your forehead. If you opt for the version with a built-in battery, you’ll also get double the playtime, making it a must-have for anyone who spends more than an hour or two in VR.

Next up are audio accessories, which are especially important since the 3S lacks a headphone jack. Meta has partnered with Soundcore to create a set of official over-ear headphones designed specifically for VR. These headphones not only deliver better audio quality than the built-in speakers, but they also come with a USB-C passthrough, allowing you to charge the headset while using them. This solves the issue of having to choose between charging and audio, which is a common complaint with the Quest 3S. They also fit snugly over the headset’s straps, making them a seamless addition to your VR setup.

Another essential accessory is the charging dock. Meta offers an official charging dock for the Quest 3 and Quest 3S, which includes slots for both the headset and controllers. This makes it super convenient to keep everything charged up and ready to go without needing to plug in multiple devices. It’s not a cheap accessory, but it’s great for those who want to avoid the hassle of constantly plugging and unplugging cables.

Controller grips are also a must-have, especially if you’re into active VR games that involve a lot of movement. The Quest 3S controllers are comfortable, but adding a pair of grip covers gives you extra security, ensuring the controllers stay in your hands even during intense gameplay. Some grip covers also come with built-in straps that allow you to fully release the controllers without dropping them, enhancing your immersion in VR games.

For fitness enthusiasts, Meta has introduced some cool fitness accessories like face covers designed to be breathable and sweat-resistant. These covers are made of silicone and can be easily wiped down after a workout, making them perfect for users who enjoy using VR for exercise. There’s also a specific facial interface that provides better airflow and comfort for long sessions, which is especially helpful during more physically demanding VR games.

If you’re someone who likes to take your VR headset on the go, a travel case is another great addition. The official Meta travel case is sturdy and designed to fit the headset, controllers, and a few other accessories snugly, protecting your gear during transport. Whether you’re traveling or just want to store your headset safely at home, it’s a worthwhile investment to keep everything in good condition.

Lastly, for those who want to expand beyond gaming, there are more creative accessories like the Meta Ink Stylus. This pen-like accessory lets you draw or write in virtual reality, which can be useful for artists or anyone wanting to take notes in VR. It’s a fun, niche addition, but one that adds extra versatility to the Quest 3S beyond just gaming and entertainment.

Gaming and Performance:

When it comes to gaming, the Meta Quest 3S holds its own, especially considering its price point. Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, the same processor found in the more expensive Meta Quest 3, the 3S is capable of delivering smooth gameplay and solid performance for most VR titles on the market. This is a big win for an entry-level headset, as you’re getting the same processing power that can handle a wide variety of games, from casual experiences to more graphically demanding ones.

One of the most important things to highlight is that the Meta Quest 3S can run all of the biggest VR games coming to the platform. Games like Batman: Arkham Shadow, Alien, and Metro, which are exclusive to VR, run impressively well on this headset. The Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 provides enough power to make these games look and feel immersive, with smooth frame rates and minimal stuttering. Even fast-paced games that require quick reactions and precision, like Beat Saber or Superhot VR, perform seamlessly on the 3S.

Now, let’s talk about the visuals. As mentioned earlier, the 3S uses the same LCD screen as the Quest 2, which offers a resolution of 1920 x 1832 per eye. While this isn’t as high as the Quest 3’s display, it still provides sharp and clear visuals. Games look good, especially considering the 3S’s affordability, but you might notice that some details, especially in darker scenes or games with complex lighting, aren’t as crisp as on higher-end headsets. The refresh rate of up to 120Hz helps keep fast-moving games smooth and responsive, reducing motion blur and contributing to a more immersive experience.

The only noticeable downside with the display and lens setup is the FAL (Fresnel) lenses, which, while functional, come with the usual caveats. You’ll likely encounter god rays in high-contrast scenes, and there’s a smaller field of view compared to the Quest 3. Finding the sweet spot for clarity also takes a bit of adjustment, but once you do, the visuals hold up well for the price. The screen resolution and refresh rate make up for some of the compromises in the lens technology, so most users won’t find it too distracting during gameplay.

One feature that really stands out is the 3S’s ability to handle mixed reality games. Thanks to its passthrough cameras, you can blend your real-world environment with virtual elements, adding a whole new dimension to VR gaming. While the passthrough resolution isn’t quite as sharp as the Quest 3’s, it’s still effective enough to let you see and interact with your surroundings while playing. This opens up a lot of possibilities for more interactive and immersive gameplay, where you’re not just confined to a completely virtual space.

As for the game library, the Quest 3S benefits from Meta’s extensive catalog of VR games and apps. You’ll have access to all the latest titles as well as a growing selection of indie games, fitness apps, and social experiences. One of the big bonuses is that the 3S comes bundled with Batman: Arkham Shadow and a free three-month subscription to Meta Quest Plus, giving you access to a rotating library of free games every month. This is a great way to start building your game collection without spending too much right away.

In terms of performance, the Meta Quest 3S shines for most casual and mid-range gamers. It handles the vast majority of VR titles with ease, offering smooth gameplay and responsive controls. However, for power users who demand the highest fidelity in graphics or plan on using the headset for professional VR applications, the limitations of the 3S’s screen and lenses might become more apparent over time.

Another important feature is the headset’s ability to stream PC VR games via Air Link or using a USB-C connection. If you’re a fan of PC VR gaming, you can wirelessly stream high-end VR titles from your PC to the Quest 3S using Air Link, provided you have a strong Wi-Fi connection. Alternatively, you can opt for the more stable wired connection, giving you access to even more graphically demanding games that aren’t available on the standalone Quest store. This makes the 3S a versatile option for those who want to dip into the more expansive world of PC VR gaming without committing to a pricier headset.

Media Consumption and Special Features:

The Meta Quest 3S isn’t just for gaming – it’s also a capable device for media consumption and other interactive experiences. With the increasing popularity of virtual spaces for movies, TV shows, and even virtual social gatherings, the 3S provides a decent platform to immerse yourself in media and more.

First off, let’s talk about watching movies and videos in VR. The Quest 3S has a large, sharp enough display to make watching content on apps like Netflix, YouTube VR, and even personal media libraries a pretty enjoyable experience. Imagine sitting in a virtual movie theater with a massive screen in front of you, all from the comfort of your own room. The 1920 x 1832 per-eye resolution is decent for watching videos, although it’s not quite up to the level of higher-end VR headsets. The visuals are clear, but you might notice some pixelation or lack of sharpness compared to OLED displays, especially in darker scenes or highly detailed environments.

The great thing about VR media is that it feels much more immersive than watching content on a traditional screen. You can set up virtual environments – like a home theater, a cozy cabin, or even a scenic outdoor space – and lose yourself in whatever you’re watching. While the LCD display might not rival OLED for deep blacks and rich colors, it still provides a solid viewing experience, especially when combined with the sense of scale you get in VR.

Another standout feature is the 3S’s mixed reality capabilities for media consumption. With passthrough mode, you can watch videos or movies while still being aware of your real surroundings. This is a great feature if you want to multitask – like keeping an eye on your environment while watching a show, or setting up a virtual screen in your living room without bumping into furniture. The passthrough cameras allow you to seamlessly mix the real and virtual worlds, which adds convenience to everyday use beyond just gaming.

For social VR experiences, the Meta Quest 3S has access to a growing list of apps and platforms like Meta Horizon Worlds, VRChat, and Rec Room, where you can meet up with friends, attend virtual events, or just hang out in a virtual space. These apps allow you to connect with people from around the world, whether you’re teaming up for multiplayer games or just having a conversation. The 3S’s ability to blend both VR and mixed reality makes it even more versatile in these social settings. You can interact with others in virtual environments while still being aware of your physical surroundings.

For those interested in productivity, the 3S supports some spatial computing features that let you multitask in VR. You can pull up multiple virtual screens, browse the web, check emails, or even manage documents while working in a virtual workspace. Meta has also been pushing towards making VR a useful tool for remote work and creative collaboration, allowing you to set up virtual meetings, sketch ideas, or review 3D models in real-time. While the Quest 3S doesn’t have the ultra-high resolution of more premium headsets, it still works well for light productivity tasks, especially if you’re looking for a distraction-free environment to focus on work.

Fitness applications are another area where the Meta Quest 3S shines. There are several popular fitness apps, like Supernatural, FitXR, and Beat Saber, that allow you to get a full-body workout in VR. The headset’s lightweight design makes it ideal for active use, and the ability to mix VR with passthrough mode lets you stay grounded in your real-world space while exercising. Meta’s growing focus on fitness in VR makes the 3S a great tool for those looking to add some fun to their workout routines. Plus, with accessories like sweat-resistant face covers, it’s easier to keep the headset clean after intense sessions.

In terms of special features, the hand tracking on the Quest 3S is another big plus for media consumption and productivity. You can navigate menus, browse content, and interact with apps without needing to pick up the controllers. The hand tracking isn’t perfect, and it might not be fast enough for gaming, but for casual media browsing or working in VR, it’s a nice convenience. Whether you’re selecting a movie, navigating through apps, or just interacting with virtual objects, the ability to use your hands feels natural and adds a futuristic vibe to the whole experience.

Pros and Cons: The Good, The Bad, and the Missing

Now that we’ve gone through the ins and outs of the Meta Quest 3S, let’s break it down into some clear pros and cons. Every device has its strengths and weaknesses, and the 3S is no exception. This section will give you a quick overview of where this headset shines and where it falls short, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Final Thoughts:

So, is the Meta Quest 3S worth your time and money? The answer largely depends on who you are and what you’re looking for in a VR headset.

The Meta Quest 3S is a solid entry-level VR headset, offering a lot of value for its price. It strikes a balance between affordability and performance, making it a great option for those new to VR or users upgrading from the Quest 2. The mixed reality features, wide game compatibility, and powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip make it an appealing choice for casual gamers and media consumers.

That said, the lack of a headphone jack, limited battery life, and older lens technology are notable drawbacks. If you’re a power user or someone looking for the latest in VR tech, the Meta Quest 3 might be worth the extra investment. But for those on a budget, the Quest 3S delivers more than enough performance to make it a worthy contender in the VR space.