Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: A Detailed Comparison

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3

Are you looking at buying a second hand VT headset but can’t decide which one to buy? In that case, it’s now time to dive into the Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3 battle, giving you a comprehensive understanding of how these two headsets stack up. Whether you’re new to the world of VR or an experienced user, this comparison will guide you through the key differences, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

Meta Quest 3S made its debut during Meta Connect 2024, alongside updates to Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses and the exciting reveal of Project Orion, Meta’s next-generation AR glasses prototype.

With the Meta Quest 3S starting at $299.99 and the Meta Quest 3 coming in at a higher price point, the question remains: how do these two models differ? Let’s break it down.

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: Price and Specifications

As mentioned, the Meta Quest 3S enters the market at a more affordable price of $299.99. Here are the key specifications you get for this price:

Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip
128GB of internal storage
8GB of RAM
1,832 x 1,920-pixel display resolution
90Hz and 120Hz refresh rate options
Fresnel lens technology

For those needing additional storage, a 256GB model is available for $399.99. From my personal experience with the Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3, 128GB is typically enough for most users, offering space for around 60 games and apps while still leaving room for more.

On the other hand, the Meta Quest 3 starts at $649.99. As of this writing, the 128GB model priced at $499.99. The specs between the Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3 are mostly similar: the same chip, RAM, and storage configurations. However, the Meta Quest 3 shines with superior display quality and additional refresh rate options, which we’ll explore in more detail below.

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: Design

When it comes to design, the Meta Quest 3S has a bulkier appearance, resembling the earlier Meta Quest 2 model. In contrast, the Meta Quest 3 boasts a sleeker, more modern look, making it more visually appealing to users who prefer a lightweight headset.

There are also notable differences in the front-facing design. While both the Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3 feature a mostly white body, the Meta Quest 3S arranges its sensors in a triangular pattern. In comparison, the Meta Quest 3 opts for larger, oval-shaped openings for its sensors. Both devices use the same controllers, meaning you won’t have to worry about differences in hand interaction or control schemes.

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: Display Technology

One of the standout differences between the Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3 is the display quality. The Meta Quest 3 delivers a much higher screen resolution compared to the Meta Quest 3S, making it an obvious choice for those seeking visual clarity in their VR experiences.

Meta Quest 3S: 1,832 x 1,920-pixel resolution
Meta Quest 3: 2,064 x 2,208-pixel resolution

Another area where the Meta Quest 3 excels is in its refresh rate options. The Meta Quest 3S offers two settings: 90Hz and 120Hz, whereas the Meta Quest 3 gives users more flexibility with 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz options.

Why would anyone choose the lower 72Hz refresh rate? For users utilizing PCVR, reducing the refresh rate can free up system resources, allowing them to increase resolution without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. It’s a balancing act between visual fidelity and refresh rate, and the Meta Quest 3 allows for more nuanced control in this regard.

Additionally, the Meta Quest 3S uses Fresnel lenses, which offer a solid VR experience, but the Meta Quest 3 steps it up with pancake lenses. Pancake lenses provide a lighter, thinner design, with less visual distortion and improved overall image quality, making them a superior choice for long-term comfort and clarity.

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: Features and Capabilities

Both the Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3 share a rich set of features, including augmented reality (AR) capabilities with passthrough mode. This allows users to blend digital elements with their real-world surroundings, creating an interactive AR environment. Each headset uses a 4MP camera to support AR experiences.

For those unfamiliar with AR, imagine dodging virtual objects in a game while moving around your actual living room. It creates an immersive layer of interaction that merges reality and virtual elements seamlessly.

At Meta Connect 2024, it was also revealed that both headsets will support spatial computing, which had been previously available on earlier models like the Quest 2. Spatial computing refers to the use of virtual displays and tools in a real-world context. With these headsets, you can manage multiple virtual screens simultaneously, enhancing productivity or creating an expansive entertainment environment.

Though spatial computing was already functional on older models, Meta promises improved performance and ease of use with the Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3. In essence, these headsets are designed to blur the lines between reality and the virtual world in more seamless ways.

Both devices offer access to a wide range of VR and AR apps from the Quest Store and provide support for PCVR through the Quest Link app. Furthermore, both headsets will let you play Xbox Game Pass titles, adding yet another dimension to their gaming capabilities.

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: Battery Life

Battery life can make or break a VR experience, and here’s where the Meta Quest 3 takes the lead. It features a larger 5,060 mAh battery, compared to the 4,324 mAh battery found in the Meta Quest 3S.

Based on our testing, the Meta Quest 3 offers about one hour and 19 minutes of continuous gameplay. This means that the Meta Quest 3S is expected to deliver even less battery life, which could be a concern for users who prefer longer gaming sessions. For heavy VR gamers or those who use their headsets for extended AR applications, the reduced battery life on the Meta Quest 3S may be a disadvantage.

Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: Which Should You Choose?

If battery life is your priority, the Meta Quest 3 is the better option, as its larger battery and higher energy efficiency give it the edge in longer usage sessions. While we have yet to fully review the Meta Quest 3S, based on the specs, it is expected to fall short in this department.

However, shorter battery life isn’t always a dealbreaker. Many VR users, myself included, find that extended gameplay in VR can be quite taxing on the eyes, so taking regular breaks is beneficial. In this sense, the Meta Quest 3S, with its lower price point, offers a great value for those willing to compromise on battery life.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for the best visual experience and longer sessions, the Meta Quest 3 will suit your needs better. If affordability is a priority and you’re okay with more frequent breaks, the Meta Quest 3S provides an excellent entry point into VR.

Final Thoughts on Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3

Both the Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3 have their strengths and weaknesses, but each model provides access to a rich array of features that make VR and AR more immersive than ever. The Meta Quest 3 may be the premium option with superior display quality, a wider range of refresh rates, and better battery life, but the Meta Quest 3S stands out as the budget-friendly alternative that still packs a punch.

In summary, the Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3 comparison shows that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy an amazing VR experience, but for those seeking the best that Meta has to offer, the extra investment in the Meta Quest 3 is likely worth it.