Meta Quest 3S launched as cheaper standalone virtual reality headset

Meta has launched a cheaper version of its last VR headset, the Meta Quest 3S. It maintains the core hardware as the non-S version. However, with a lower price tag, the company aims to make standalone virtual reality headsets a bit more accessible to all.

Meta Quest 3S Is a Blend of Quest 3 and Quest 2

The Meta Quest 3S is essentially a combination of the Quest 2 and 3, designed to reduce costs. If you favor the older, more powerful model, you’ll be glad to know that its price is decreasing.

This new VR headset starts at $300 but employs the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset and 8GB of RAM as the standard Quest 3. It also features the same color passthrough technology that was a significant improvement over the Quest 2 (utilizing a 4MP camera to integrate the real world for AR experiences). So, what sacrifices were made to lower the price?

Unlike the dual LCDs in the Quest 3, the 3S utilizes a single LCD with a slightly lower resolution per eye. It is 1,832 x 1,920px compared to 2,064 x 2,208px. The new LCD still supports fast 90Hz and 120Hz refresh rates. But it lacks the 72Hz and 80Hz options. These two are beneficial when using PCVR, as reducing the refresh rate helps to enhance the render resolution.

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More significantly, the Quest 3’s slim pancake lenses have been replaced by the older Fresnel lenses found in the Quest 2. This results in a narrower field of view. It measures 96° horizontally and 90° vertically, compared to the 110° and 96° offered by the Quest 3.

The 3S weighs nearly the same, 514g instead of 515g. But it boasts slightly improved battery life. The new VR headset can last 2 hours and 30 minutes. In comparison, the Quest 3 can offer 2 hours and 12 minutes. This is achieved despite having a smaller battery (4,324mAh vs. 5,060mAh).

Pricing and Availability

The Meta Quest 3S offers two storage capacities: 128GB and 256GB, priced at $300 and $400, respectively. Additionally, the price of the 512GB Quest 3 has been lowered to $500, making it another viable option if you prioritize a superior display experience.

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