Meta
The Meta Quest 3S 256 GB is a standalone VR headset launched in October 2024, offering Quest 3‑level XR2 Gen 2 performance at a lower price with mixed‑reality color passthrough, 256 GB storage, and a bundled Batman: Arkham Shadow game. It features a slimmer 73.9 mm visor, Fresnel lenses, and a 2.5‑hour battery life, targeting budget‑conscious VR newcomers.
Pros
Current
$384.99
Average
$377.35
Lowest
$299.00
Highest
$399.99
Lower = better sales rank
HTC
Meta
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FIBBR
HTC
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Goovis
Saqico
HTC
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![NexiGo Enhanced Charging Dock for Meta Quest 3 and 3S, with LED Light [On/Off], [Support Elite Strap with Battery], Headset Display Holder and Controller Mount, Rechargeable Batteries, White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dTCP-V5HL._SL500_.jpg)
NexiGo
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Cons
From Expert Reviews
Praised by Experts
Criticized by Experts
From User Reviews
Users Love
Users Complain About
Expert Opinion
Professional reviewers commend the Quest 3S as a strong Quest 2 replacement, highlighting its XR2 Gen 2 chipset that delivers faster apps and lower latency, as well as its mixed‑reality capabilities like color passthrough and scene meshing. They also note the slimmer, lighter design as a comfort win, but criticize the lower resolution, Fresnel optics and narrower field of view compared to the full Quest 3, and point out the modest battery life and limited storage as cost‑driven compromises.
What Users Say
Everyday users appreciate the headset’s comfortable fit, the value of the bundled Batman game, and the ability to experience mixed‑reality content without cables. However, they frequently mention visual fidelity loss due to the lower resolution and Fresnel lenses, wish for longer battery life, and miss a headphone jack for private audio listening.
Common Complaints
Noticeable pixelation and blur from lower resolution and Fresnel lenses, battery lasting only about 2.5 hours under heavy use, and lack of a headphone jack forcing reliance on built‑in speakers.
How It Compares
vs. Quest 3 (512 GB)
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose Quest 3 if you prioritize visual fidelity and premium optics over cost.
vs. Quest 2
Advantages
Disadvantages
Quest 2 remains a good entry point for users who don’t need mixed‑reality features.
vs. Apple Vision Pro
Advantages
Disadvantages
Vision Pro is for professionals seeking top‑tier spatial computing, not for budget‑conscious gamers.
HTC Vive vs Meta Quest 3S
pairwise
