The Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S are the latest standalone VR headsets from Meta. These devices offer users immersive virtual reality experiences without the need for external computers or sensors. The Quest 3 builds on the success of its predecessor with improved features and performance, while the Quest 3S provides a more budget-friendly option.
Both headsets have earned high praise from reviewers for their performance and capabilities. The Quest 3 stands out as the top choice for VR enthusiasts, offering cutting-edge features and superior graphics. The Quest 3S, while slightly less powerful, still delivers an impressive VR experience at a more affordable price point. Users can expect enhanced color cameras, higher resolution displays, and faster processors in both models compared to older Quest devices.
Meta Quest 3 vs. Meta Quest 3S: A Detailed Comparison
Meta recently launched the Quest 3S, a refresh of their popular Quest 3 VR headset. While the two headsets share many similarities, there are some key differences to consider. This comparison guide will help you understand what’s new and improved in the Quest 3S and whether it’s worth the upgrade.
Similarities
Both the Quest 3 and Quest 3S share these core features:
- High-Resolution Displays: Both headsets offer crisp and clear visuals with high-resolution LCD panels.
- Pancake Lenses: Enjoy a comfortable viewing experience with improved clarity thanks to pancake lenses.
- Color Passthrough: Experience mixed reality with enhanced color passthrough, allowing you to see your surroundings in full color.
- Powerful Performance: Both headsets are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 platform, delivering smooth performance and immersive gameplay.
- Hand Tracking: Interact with virtual environments naturally using hand tracking.
- Standalone and PC VR: Enjoy both standalone VR experiences and connect to a PC for high-fidelity VR gaming.
Differences
Here’s where the Quest 3S sets itself apart:
- Higher Resolution: The Quest 3S boasts a higher resolution per eye, resulting in sharper visuals and improved clarity.
- Double the RAM: With 12GB of RAM, the Quest 3S offers smoother performance and better multitasking capabilities compared to the Quest 3’s 8GB.
- Improved Comfort: The Quest 3S features a redesigned facial interface for enhanced comfort during extended VR sessions.
- Slightly Higher Price: The Quest 3S comes with a slightly higher price tag compared to the Quest 3.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Meta Quest 3 | Meta Quest 3S |
|---|---|---|
| Display | LCD | LCD (Higher resolution) |
| Resolution per eye | 1920 x 1800 pixels | 2064 x 2208 pixels |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 512GB | 128GB, 512GB |
| Tracking | Hand tracking, positional tracking | Hand tracking, positional tracking |
| Comfort | Standard facial interface | Improved facial interface |
| Price | Starting at $499.99 | Starting at $549.99 |
Which Quest is Right for You?
- Quest 3: A great option for those seeking a balance of performance, features, and affordability.
- Quest 3S: Ideal for users who prioritize higher resolution, smoother performance, and enhanced comfort.
This comparison highlights the key differences between the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S. Consider your priorities and budget to determine which headset best suits your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Meta Quest 3 and 3S offer standalone VR experiences with improved features
- The Quest 3 provides top-tier performance while the 3S is more budget-friendly
- Both headsets feature enhanced displays, cameras, and processors over previous models
Cost Comparison
The Meta Quest 3S and Quest 3 have different price points. The Quest 3S starts at $299.99 for the 128GB model. A 256GB version is available for $399.99. In contrast, the Quest 3 costs $499.99 and comes with 512GB of storage.
The Quest 3S offers a more budget-friendly option. It matches the launch price of the older Quest 2. The Quest 3, while pricier, provides significantly more storage space.
For buyers on a tight budget, the Quest 3S is the more affordable choice. However, those needing ample storage might find the Quest 3’s larger capacity worth the extra cost.
Physical Design and Comfort
The Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S share a similar white plastic body and Y-shaped headstrap. Both headsets offer optional upgrades to the Elite Strap or Elite Strap With Battery for enhanced comfort. The Quest 3 features a curved front panel with three vertical camera clusters, while the Quest 3S has a flatter front with two triangular clusters.
These design differences don’t significantly impact motion tracking or pass-through visibility. Users can adjust the interpupillary distance (IPD) on both models for a customized fit. The headsets include a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio options.
Key design features:
• Replaceable headstraps
• Adjustable IPD
• 3.5mm audio jack
• Front-facing cameras for tracking
While the Quest 3 uses Fresnel lenses, the Quest 3S may employ different optics. Both headsets aim to balance comfort and functionality for extended VR sessions.
Visual Experience
The Meta Quest 3S and Meta Quest 3 offer different display capabilities. The Quest 3S features a resolution of 1,832 by 1,920 per eye, providing 773 pixels per inch. In contrast, the Quest 3 boasts a higher resolution of 2,064 by 2,208, delivering 1,218 pixels per inch.
Field of view also differs between the two models:
- Quest 3S: 96 by 90 degrees (horizontal, vertical)
- Quest 3: 110 by 96 degrees (horizontal, vertical)
Both headsets support multiple refresh rates:
- 72Hz
- 90Hz
- 120Hz
The lens designs vary as well. The Quest 3S uses Fresnel lenses with a three-position inter-axial distance (IAD) adjustment. The Quest 3 employs pancake lenses with continuous IAD adjustment, allowing for more precise fitting.
Image quality on the Quest 3S is good, but it appears grainier compared to the Quest 3. The higher-end model provides noticeably improved visual detail.
Table: Key Display Differences
| Feature | Quest 3S | Quest 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution (per eye) | 1,832 x 1,920 | 2,064 x 2,208 |
| Pixels per inch | 773 | 1,218 |
| Field of view | 96° x 90° | 110° x 96° |
| Lens type | Fresnel | Pancake |
| IAD adjustment | 3-position | Continuous |
The Quest 3’s superior visuals justify its higher price point for users seeking the best possible image quality. However, the Quest 3S still offers a solid visual experience at a more affordable price.
Camera Capabilities
The Quest 3S and Quest 3 both feature color pass-through cameras. These 4MP cameras allow users to see their surroundings in full color. This feature is useful for augmented reality applications and maintaining awareness of the environment.
While the cameras provide clear visuals, they don’t match the eye-quality clarity of more expensive options. The Quest 3 includes a physical depth sensor, which helps determine object distances. In contrast, the Quest 3S relies on software for depth detection.
Key camera features:
• 4MP color cameras
• Full-color pass-through
• Augmented reality support
Front cameras on both models are positioned slightly differently. The Quest 3S has its cameras on the lower left, while the Quest 3’s placement varies.
Processing Power
The Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S share identical processing capabilities. Both headsets use the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, a chip specifically designed for mixed reality devices. This processor offers improved performance over previous generations, enabling smoother graphics and more complex virtual experiences.
Both models come equipped with 8GB of RAM, which helps with multitasking and running demanding applications. While this is less than the 12GB found in the Meta Quest Pro, it still provides ample memory for most VR tasks.
Key features of the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2:
• Enhanced graphics processing
• Improved AI capabilities
• Better power efficiency
These specifications ensure that users of either the Quest 3 or Quest 3S can enjoy high-quality VR experiences without significant performance differences between the two models.
Motion Tracking and Controller Functionality
The Quest 3 and Quest 3S employ identical motion tracking systems. Both headsets utilize external cameras to monitor their position and controller movements. The devices come with Meta Quest Touch controllers, which offer precise input.
Limited hand-tracking capabilities are available on both models. Users can interact with virtual environments without controllers in some scenarios. For optimal performance, controllers should remain in the headset’s field of view.
Key features:
• External camera-based tracking
• Meta Quest Touch controllers
• Basic hand-tracking support
The motion tracking technology in these devices provides a seamless VR experience. Users can expect responsive controls and accurate movement detection in both the Quest 3 and Quest 3S.
Power Longevity
The Meta Quest 3S boasts superior battery performance despite its smaller 4,324mAh battery compared to the Quest 3’s 5,060mAh. The 3S runs for about 2.5 hours on a single charge, outlasting the Quest 3’s 2.2-hour runtime. This extended operation likely stems from the 3S’s lower-resolution display, which demands less power.
| Model | Battery Capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|---|
| Quest 3S | 4,324mAh | 2.5 hours |
| Quest 3 | 5,060mAh | 2.2 hours |
Users benefit from the Quest 3S’s longer battery life, allowing for extended VR sessions without interruption.
Storage Capacity Comparison
The Quest 3 boasts a generous 512GB storage option. This high-capacity model offers ample space for apps, games, and media. In contrast, the Quest 3S provides two storage choices:
- 128GB model
- 256GB model
The Quest 3’s storage capacity doubles that of its sibling. This extra space allows users to keep more content on their device without needing to delete or manage files frequently.
For heavy users or those with large libraries, the Quest 3’s larger storage may prove beneficial. However, the Quest 3S models still offer sufficient space for many users’ needs.
VR Software Ecosystem
Meta’s VR platform powers both headsets, offering hundreds of apps and games. Users can access SteamVR and other PC-based games by connecting to a computer with the Meta Quest Link Cable. This versatility expands gaming options beyond the built-in library.
• Native apps and games
• PC VR compatibility
• SteamVR access
The software ecosystem provides a wide range of entertainment and productivity tools, catering to various user needs and preferences.
Which Headset to Choose
The Meta Quest 3 offers a superior display, making it the top choice for VR enthusiasts. Its enhanced visuals justify the $200 price difference.
For those new to VR or on a budget, the Meta Quest 3S is an excellent option. It matches the Quest 3 in performance and features, offering great value.
Key differences:
- Quest 3: Better picture quality
- Quest 3S: More affordable, longer battery life
Both headsets are highly recommended. The Quest 3S is ideal for VR beginners, while the Quest 3 is perfect for those seeking the best visual experience.
