Sep 25, 2024 4:30:00 PM

Meta Quest 3 Price Cut: What You Need to Know

Meta is shaking up the VR market with potential price cuts and model changes for the Meta Quest 3. Here's everything you need to know.

Meta Quest 3 Price Cut: What You Need to Know

Anticipated Price Cuts and Model Discontinuations

Meta is gearing up for significant changes to its Meta Quest 3 lineup. According to recent leaks, the company plans to introduce the Meta Quest 3S and discontinue the 128GB version of the Meta Quest 3. This strategic shift could lead to price reductions for both the 128GB and 512GB models, making them more appealing to potential buyers.

These changes are anticipated to occur soon, with the production of the 128GB model ceasing by mid-November. As a result, consumers may find discounted prices on the remaining Meta Quest 3 stock, offering an excellent opportunity to secure a VR headset at a lower cost. For those interested in enhancing their VR setup, Meta's official accessories, such as the Elite Strap and controller mounts, could also become more affordable.

This move marks Meta's continued effort to streamline its VR headset offerings, likely paving the way for the Meta Quest 3S to take centre stage.

What the Leaks and Rumours Say about the Meta Quest 3

The upcoming changes to Meta's VR lineup are primarily sourced from two notable figures in the XR community: @CezaryXR, Editor-In-Chief at XRDailyNews, and @Lunayian, a prolific leaker of Meta Quest 3S information. According to their reports, the Meta Quest 3S will be available in two models: a 128GB variant priced around $300 and a 256GB model estimated at $400.

These price points align with the leaked Amazon ad and reflect Meta's previous pricing strategy seen with the Quest 2. The potential introduction of the Quest 3S at these competitive prices could significantly drive interest, especially among consumers looking for affordable, high-performance virtual reality and mixed reality headsets.

However, as with all leaks, it's important to approach this information with caution, as Meta has yet to officially confirm these details. If these rumours prove to be accurate, the Meta Quest 3S could meet high demand, particularly for gaming and professional use, with accessories like the Elite Strap, controller mounts, and other VR controllers expected to enhance the overall experience.

As the VR and mixed reality space continues to grow, the Quest 3S's price-performance ratio and robust product details, including compatibility with mixed reality applications, could make it a standout in Meta’s lineup.

Impact on Current and Future VR Enthusiasts

For current VR enthusiasts, the potential price cuts and model discontinuations present a double-edged sword. The introduction of the Meta Quest 3S could provide a more affordable entry point into VR, especially for those interested in a mixed reality headset without the premium price tag.

On the flip side, future VR enthusiasts stand to benefit the most from these changes. If the Quest 3S is indeed priced lower than the current models, it could make virtual reality gaming and immersive experiences more accessible to a wider audience. With competitive pricing on Amazon and favourable reviews likely to follow, the Quest 3S could become a go-to device for those seeking quality VR experiences at a budget-friendly price.

In terms of hardware, accessories like head straps and extended battery options for the Quest Pro and Quest 3 could further enhance the experience. As the market shifts, the potential for a broader audience to explore virtual reality gaming and mixed reality applications is substantial.

Comparing Meta Quest 3 and the Potential Quest 3S

Comparing the Meta Quest 3 with the Meta quest 3S

One of the key questions surrounding the Meta Quest 3S is how it will compare to the existing Meta Quest 3. Leaks suggest that while the Quest 3S may feature a bulkier design and slightly downgraded specs—particularly in areas like display quality and RAM—it will still include the same powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor as the Quest 3, ensuring solid performance.

The deciding factor for many potential buyers will likely be the price. If the Quest 3S is too close in price to the Quest 3, consumers might opt for the latter due to its superior features, including a sleeker design and higher-end display. On the other hand, if the Quest 3S is priced too low, it could potentially cannibalise sales of the Quest 3, drawing budget-conscious buyers away from Meta’s main VR offering.

For those looking at premium alternatives, the Quest Pro, with its enhanced features like professional-grade optics, extended battery life, and more comfortable design, could still be the go-to choice for serious VR users. With Amazon possibly offering competitive deals on both the Quest 3 and Quest Pro, the Quest 3S might appeal most to newcomers who are interested in a high-performance VR experience but are mindful of cost.

Ultimately, battery life, pricing strategy, and the market positioning of the Quest 3S relative to the Quest 3 and Quest Pro will play critical roles in how Meta's headset lineup evolves and is received by consumers.

Is Meta Quest 2 out of stock?

The Meta Quest 2 is currently sold out everywhere, creating a significant opportunity for the upcoming Meta Quest 3S to enter the market. As the demand for virtual reality headsets continues to grow, the unavailability of the Quest 2 paves the way for the Quest 3S to attract new customers eager to explore immersive experiences.

This situation has left many potential buyers looking for alternatives, making the Meta Quest 3 stock particularly appealing. With the Quest 2's stock dwindling, consumers are likely to turn their attention to the Meta Quest 3S, which is positioned as a more affordable option with comparable performance.

As Meta prepares to launch the Quest 3S, the current scarcity of the Quest 2 amplifies interest in the new product. Those seeking to dive into the world of virtual reality will find the Meta Quest 3S an enticing choice as they look for the next generation of VR headsets. With a strong focus on accessibility and performance, the Quest 3S is poised to fill the gap left by the Quest 2's absence in the market.

Should You Wait to Buy the Meta Quest 3?

Given the current leaks and rumours, it might be wise to hold off on purchasing a VR headset for the time being. The potential for price cuts and new model introductions, such as the Meta Quest 3S, means waiting could save you a significant amount of money. With Meta potentially discontinuing certain models and offering discounts on existing Meta Quest 3 stock, the upcoming Meta Quest 3S could present a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.

While the Quest 3S appears to be a promising contender in the VR market, it's always prudent to wait for official product announcements before making a decision. Keeping an eye on the latest stock updates, leaks, and news from Amazon or other retailers can help you stay ahead of price drops and new product availability. Until then, staying informed about Meta's VR offerings will ensure you make a well-considered choice when it's time to invest in a virtual reality headset.