The Meta Quest 3S arrived on the VR scene in late 2023, promising a more affordable entry point to Meta’s mixed reality ecosystem. Positioned as a successor to the wildly popular Quest 2, the 3S aims to deliver a compelling VR and MR experience without breaking the bank. But does it live up to the hype?
In this review, we’ll dive deep into the Quest 3S, exploring its features, performance, and overall value. We’ll compare it to its predecessor and the higher-end Quest 3 to see where it shines and where it falls short. Buckle up, because we’re about to journey into the world of affordable mixed reality.
What’s New in the 3S?
While the Quest 3S might seem like a minor refresh at first glance, it brings several key improvements to the table:
- Higher Resolution Displays: The 3S boasts improved LCD panels over the Quest 2, offering sharper visuals and reduced screen-door effect.
- Color Passthrough: Just like the Quest 3, the 3S features full-color passthrough, enabling more immersive and realistic mixed reality experiences.
- Improved Performance: Thanks to the Snapdragon XR2 chipset, the 3S delivers smoother performance and can handle more demanding VR applications.
- Dedicated Passthrough Button: A dedicated button allows you to quickly switch between VR and passthrough mode, making it easier to interact with your surroundings.
A Visual Upgrade, But Not a Revolution
The higher resolution displays are a welcome upgrade over the Quest 2. Text is clearer, environments are more detailed, and the overall experience is more immersive. However, don’t expect a massive leap in visual fidelity. The LCD panels still suffer from some mura (uneven backlighting) and the visuals aren’t as crisp as those on the Quest 3 with its pancake lenses.
Personally, I found the difference noticeable when switching between the Quest 3 and 3S, especially in games with fine text or detailed environments. However, after a few minutes in the 3S, I was completely immersed and rarely noticed the lower resolution.
Mixed Reality: A Glimpse into the Future
The Quest 3S truly shines when it comes to mixed reality. The full-color passthrough is a game-changer, allowing you to seamlessly blend virtual objects with your real-world environment. I had a blast playing games like “First Encounters” where aliens invaded my living room, and “Demeo” where I battled monsters on my coffee table.
While the MR experience on the 3S isn’t perfect (the passthrough can still be a bit blurry and distorted), it’s a significant step up from the Quest 2 and provides a tantalizing glimpse into the future of spatial computing.
Performance and Comfort
The Snapdragon XR2 chipset ensures smooth performance in most VR games and applications. I didn’t experience any lag or stuttering, even in graphically demanding titles. However, it’s worth noting that the 3S has the same amount of RAM as the Quest 2 (6GB), which might limit its future-proofing.
In terms of comfort, the 3S is a mixed bag. It’s slightly heavier than the Quest 2 and I found the strap design less comfortable than the Quest 3’s halo strap. Extended play sessions can lead to some facial fatigue, especially if you wear glasses.
Is the Quest 3S Worth It?
At its price point (around $300), the Quest 3S offers incredible value for money. It’s a significant upgrade over the Quest 2, with better visuals, improved performance, and access to Meta’s growing library of VR and MR experiences.
However, if you’re a VR enthusiast who demands the best possible visuals and comfort, you might want to consider the Quest 3. It offers a more premium experience, but at a significantly higher price.
Ultimately, the best headset for you depends on your budget and priorities. If you’re looking for an affordable entry point into mixed reality, the Quest 3S is an excellent choice.
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