Discover the key pricing differences between Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3, and decide which...
Discover the surprisingly affordable Meta Quest 3S, the latest budget-friendly VR headset from Meta, set to revolutionise the virtual reality landscape.
Is the Meta Quest 3 lite real?
Yes, the Meta Quest 3 Lite is rumoured to be in the works and is anticipated to be announced at Meta Connect 2024, scheduled for September 25–26. Also referred to as the Meta Quest 3S, this headset aims to provide a more budget-friendly alternative to the Meta Quest 3.
The Quest 3 Lite is expected to retain many features of the Quest 3 but will likely include some downgrades. For instance, it may feature a less visually crisp screen and adopt the Quest 2's bulkier outer shell, which could impact the overall design and aesthetics.
In terms of specs, the Quest 3 Lite may not match the high-performance capabilities of its predecessor, potentially affecting performance and battery life. However, it will still aim to deliver immersive mixed reality experiences.
As for price and availability, the Quest 3 Lite is speculated to be positioned competitively in the market, with various 3S price leaks hinting at affordability. It could also align with other upcoming innovations in the VR space, like smart glasses and the Apple Vision.
With updates expected on lenses and controllers, the Quest 3 Lite could serve as an accessible entry point into the world of VR and mixed reality, appealing to a broader audience looking for quality without the premium price tag. Keep an eye on Meta Connect 2024 for more details!
Meta Quest 3S: The Affordable VR Revolution
The Meta Quest 3S is set to make waves in the virtual reality landscape by providing a powerful, budget-friendly alternative for VR enthusiasts. With the tech community buzzing for months about Meta's new affordable headset, a recent accidental reveal by Amazon has confirmed its existence and pricing.
Aiming to democratise access to high-quality VR experiences, the Meta Quest 3S is expected to appeal to both newcomers and gamers. Its reduced price point is likely to draw a broader audience, significantly expanding the VR market. With features and specs comparable to the more premium models, the Quest 3S could reshape how people experience virtual reality.
Price and Release Date: What We Know So Far
The Meta Quest 3S is creating buzz with its anticipated starting price of just $299, making it $200 less than the Meta Quest 3. With a launch date set for October 16, 2024, just in time for the Christmas season, the Meta Quest 3S is poised to be a top contender in the VR market.
The design of the Quest 3S is expected to include some elements from the Meta Quest 3, but with adjustments that may make it more accessible. Speculations around its lenses and controllers suggest it will still provide a quality VR experience, with some compromises compared to its more expensive counterpart. Overall, the Meta Quest 3S could redefine affordability in VR, especially given its timely release and potential for strong sales during the Christmas period.
Key Features and Specifications of the Meta Quest 3S
Despite its lower price point, the Meta Quest 3S offers impressive performance, powered by the same Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset featured in the Meta Quest 3. This ensures compatibility with Quest 3-exclusive games, so users can enjoy high-quality VR experiences without compromise.
To manage costs, the Meta Quest 3S utilises Fresnel lenses, like those found in the Quest 2, rather than the more advanced pancake lenses seen in the Quest Pro. Additionally, it does not include a 3.5mm headset jack, requiring users to opt for VR-certified earbuds or utilise the over-the-ear speakers for audio.
As the September reveal approaches, consumers are eager to see how it stacks up against other models, including Apple's emerging offerings
Meta Quest 3S: Design
Thanks to several leaked images sourced from a South Korean message board, we've gathered impressive details about the upcoming Meta Quest 3S headset.
For starters, the design features a unique blend of the Quest 2's size and boxiness, combined with the semi-bulbous rounding of the Quest 3's chassis. This design choice is likely influenced by the headset's use of fresnel lenses for optics, which require a larger housing compared to the Quest 3's pancake lenses.
Notably, the Quest 3S will incorporate a floating lens array. While the layout differs from the Quest 3, it retains the same lens positions. However, the depth sensor from the Quest 3, an IR line projector, has been split in two and repositioned on either side of the front sensors and RGB passthrough cameras.
The Quest 3S will seemingly adopt the woven fabric facial interface of the Quest 3, along with its head strap design for enhanced comfort. However, unlike the Quest 3, the Quest 3S will not include the four-point spacing adjustment mechanism, freely adjustable lens spacing, or IPD wheel. Instead, it will revert to the Quest 2's three-point lens adjustment system, and it will lack a 3.5mm audio jack and pogo charging pins.
As we await the official announcement, which is expected at the Meta Connect event, the Quest 3S is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the lineup of Quest headsets, offering a compelling option for VR enthusiasts.
Comparing Meta Quest 3S with Meta Quest 3 and Other VR Headsets
The Meta Quest 3S is strategically designed as a more affordable alternative to the Meta Quest 3, much like Microsoft's Xbox Series S complements the Xbox Series X. Both headsets utilise the same powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset, but the Quest 3S makes certain hardware concessions to achieve its lower price point.
When compared to other VR headsets in the market, the Meta Quest 3S presents a compelling blend of performance and affordability. At just $299, it mirrors the launch price of the 64GB Oculus Quest 2, positioning itself as a strong contender in the current landscape. This competitive pricing, along with insights from the recent Quest 3S leak, suggests that the Meta Quest 3S will attract both new users and seasoned VR enthusiasts alike.
With its focus on delivering an accessible VR experience, the Quest 3S stands to appeal to a broader audience, especially those considering complementary options like the Vision Pro or various Oculus accessories. As the hype builds around the September reveal, consumers are eagerly anticipating how this headset will fit into the evolving VR ecosystem, particularly regarding its compatibility with glasses and additional controllers.
Is there a Meta Quest 4 coming out?
Despite recent layoffs in its Reality Labs division, Meta is forging ahead with ambitious plans for the future of its VR lineup, including the anticipated release of the Quest 4 in 2026 and a higher-end headset slated for 2027, according to reports from The Information. This commitment demonstrates Meta's focus on advancing its VR technology and enhancing user experiences.
The upcoming Quest 4 is expected to build on the foundation laid by previous models, including the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S, integrating innovative features and improved performance. As Meta continues to refine its controllers and accessories, users can anticipate enhancements that will further enrich their virtual experiences.
In addition to these developments, Meta's strategic advertising on platforms like Amazon underscores its commitment to increasing visibility and engagement for its products. With the Quest lineup, including the innovative 3S design and Oculus Rift, Meta aims to solidify its position in the competitive VR landscape, offering a range of options that cater to both casual users and dedicated gamers. The future looks bright for Meta as it navigates challenges while pushing the boundaries of virtual reality technology.
