Many people often ask me, “Which VR headset is right for me?” For a while now, my go-to recommendation has been the Oculus Quest 2. Since its launch in October 2020, it’s consistently delivered impressive virtual reality experiences. Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly, and the Quest Store offers a wide selection of software. But as technology continues to advance, my new top choice for those seeking the latest in VR headsets is the Meta Quest 3.
Simply put, the Meta Quest 3 is a top-tier VR headset. While it may not match the performance of high-end options like the Apple Vision Pro or PC/console-powered headsets such as the Valve Index and the upcoming PSVR2, it comes at a considerably lower price point. Much like its predecessor, the Quest 2, it offers excellent value for the features it brings to the table.
In this review, I’ll cover various aspects of Quest 3:
- Specs Comparison – Quest 2 Vs. Quest 3
- Software and Features
- Price and Availability
- Performance
- Meta Quest 3 Setup
Finally, I’ll provide my verdict on whether the Meta Quest 3 is the right choice for you.
Specs Comparison – Quest 2 Vs. Quest 3 | ||
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Details | Meta Quest 3 | Meta Quest 2 |
Price | $499 (128GB), $649 (512GB) | $299 (128GB), $429 (256GB) |
Release Date | October 10, 2023 | 2020 |
Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 (Gen 2) | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 |
Display Resolution | 2064 x 2208 pixels per eye | 1832 x 1920 pixels per eye |
Storage | 128GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB |
RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
Battery Life | Up to 2.9 hours (rated) | 2-3 hours (rated) |
Size | 7.2 x 6.3 x 3.8 inches | 7.5 x 5.2 x 4 inches |
Weight | 1.1 pounds | 1.1 pounds |
Mixed Reality Passthrough | Full-color passthrough (4MP 18 PPD) | Limited black and white passthrough |
Dimensions | 184 mm x 160 mm x 98 mm | 191.5 mm x 102 mm x 142.5 mm |
Display | Two LCD displays | Dual OLED displays |
Refresh Rate | 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz | 60 Hz, 72 Hz, 80 Hz, 90 Hz, and 120 Hz |
FOV | 110 degrees horizontal, 96 degrees vertical | 89 degrees (+- 4°) horizontal view |
Meta Quest 3: Software and Features |
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The Quest 3 comes with a slew of new features. According to reports, some of them are exclusive to the platform while others are expected to be rolled out to the Quest Pro, and Quest 2.
Here are some popular features:
- The built-in upper-body tracking requires no trackers.
- The AI-generated legs are impressive. They can actually estimate the real-life position of your legs.
- The Vision Pro-esque AR support is another top feature that allows users to position their virtual objects in the real world. However, this is expected to be released in 2024.
- Access to the entire Quest software catalogue.
What do I personally love?
- Most of the games and apps have got Quest 3 upgrades.
- The mixed reality is impressive, although not quite perfect.
The Meta Quest 3 compared to the Quest 2 supports every game and app available on the Quest store. If you own a Quest 2, or the Pro, you’ll be able to get your entire software library to the new headset. The new rollout also includes raw performance and graphical upgrades that will be loved by the majority.
Quest 3 Key Hardware Features and Software Offerings | |
|---|---|
Key Hardware Features | |
Standalone VR Experience | No wires, no external sensors, initial setup with a smartphone |
Advanced Mixed Reality Support | Blending physical and digital reality |
Enhanced Mixed Reality Passthrough | Two RGB cameras and depth sensor, higher quality than Quest 2 and Quest Pro |
High-Resolution Displays | Two LCD panels, 2,064 x 2,208 pixels per eye (30% more pixels than Quest 2) |
Pancake Lenses | Sharper image, wider field of view, thinner casing for comfort |
Powerful Qualcomm Chip | Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 for doubled graphics performance |
Improved Audio | 40% louder built-in speakers with better sound quality |
Simplified Room Setup | Supports seated, standing, and roomscale VR with automatic environment scanning |
Ringless Touch Plus Controllers | Enhanced haptic effects, hand tracking support |
Software Offerings | |
Backwards Compatibility | Fully compatible with over 500 Quest 2 titles (games, experiences, movies, apps) |
New Titles and Mixed Reality Features | Over 100 new and updated titles, more than 50 new and 50 enhanced with mixed reality features |
Price and Availability |
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The Quest 3 is officially available in 23 countries, which include:
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Canada
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- The United Kingdom
- The United States
As for the pricing, the Quest 3 comes in two storage options: 128GB and 512GB.
In the United States, the prices are as follows:
- $500 for the 128GB model
- $650 for the 512GB model
Please note that prices may vary in other countries due to factors like taxes and import duties. If you’re eager to bring this item home, be sure to make use of the special coupon codes available for Amazon purchases. Additionally, explore other platforms that offer substantial discounts to see if you can find a better deal.
Performance |
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In regard to the performance, the Quest 3’s is definitely better, and has some impressive specs. The higher per-eye resolution that is backed by a Snapdragon XR2 chip, and 8GB RAM offers a performance increase of 30% as per what Meta has promised.
Compared to its predecessors, the Quest 3 is about 40% slimmer and has got some real-good design improvements, enhancing the overall experience. The headset offers more comfort and is complimented by a redesigned elastic strap with integrated tightening loops to offer a more secure, and adjustable fit. Other than this, the biggest change is the IPD adjustment, allowing users to set the lenses to their preferences. This is a welcome change for glass wearers as it eliminates the need for a plastic spacer, apparently allowing users to adjust their headsets, making room for their glasses simply.
As for the color, it comes in classic white, and some customization options like orange and blue straps, and other casing alternatives. However, at an extra cost. The controllers come with a unique tracking system compared to its predecessor, which relies completely on the headset’s cameras, AI for tracking, and IR LEDs.
Meta Quest 3 Setup |
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The Setup of Quest 3 is quite simple, and straightforward. You will no longer need to create a Facebook account, but however, you’ll surely need a Meta account to set up. The below table explains the process, and things to successfully set up your Quest 3.
Meta Quest 3 Setup | |
|---|---|
Process | Easy and straightforward |
Account Requirement | Meta account (no Facebook account needed) |
Initial Steps |
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Pairing | Install the Meta Quest app on your Apple or Android device to pair |
Ongoing App Usage | Rarely required unless for live streaming |
Boundary Setup |
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Visual Mapping | Real-time mapping using geometric shapes |
Handling Challenges | Effective on reflective and transparent surfaces like windows, glass tables, and fish tanks |
So, Should You Buy the Meta Quest 3?
The Quest 3 is for sure a killer, and for such a cost-effective price as this, versus its competitors, it’s surely a good buy – all cause it does not require a gaming PC. This, indeed is a unique feature that sets it apart from most of the competitors on the market today. And with its range of feature rollouts and upgrades, this is surely setting new standards. For those who are ready to spend a bit more, Quest 3 establishes a fresh standard for VR and mixed-reality gaming.
