The Quest 3, Meta’s latest virtual and mixed-reality headset, has been unveiled. It will begin selling before the end of the year for $499.99 for the 128GB model. The Quest 3’s next-generation design is more compact, with sharper resolution, superior performance, and more advanced Meta Reality technology. Here’s a quick look at the new VR/MR headset compared to its predecessor, the Quest 2.
The new headset is slimmer than the previous generation
The Quest 3 is very different from the Quest 2. It is 40% thinner than its predecessor and features an intriguing front fascia design with three tracking pills, including dual 4MP RGB color cameras and a depth sensor. The camera sensors boost with inside-out tracking and improved color video passthrough, which includes 10 times more pixels than the Quest 2.
The Quest 3 includes powerful Meta Reality technology
The Quest 3 features “best-in-class Meta Reality technology,” according to Meta. This implies that a user will be able to integrate mixed reality experiences with the real environment around them. The VR/MR headset also employs “innovative machine learning and spatial understanding” to merge the virtual and real-world contents and generate “limitless possibilities” for exploration.
It still has the rear-firing speakers
The Quest 3 includes three dots near the volume controls that appear to contact charging pins, similar to the Quest Pro. Meta will almost certainly include a charging base station with the Quest 3 or make it an optional item. The device has a new head strap. However, the rear-firing speakers for built-in audio remain.
You obtain a new set of controllers
The Quest 3 controllers have been revamped and are visibly different from the Quest 2 controllers. They have improved ergonomics and comfort, as well as TruTouch haptics. The new controllers resemble the Quest Touch Pro units included with Quest Pro. They do, however, have distinct charging connectors/hardware. Users will be able to upgrade to Quest Touch Pro controllers for use with Quest 3, according to Meta.
The VR/MR headset is backward compatible
Backward compatibility means that the Quest 3 will support all Quest 2 titles, allowing consumers access to over 500 VR games, apps, and experiences that already exist in the Metaecosystem. Additionally, the new VR/MR headset may be linked to a PC to play PCVR games. In the near future, the tablet will also have its own distinct set of games.
Pricing and availability are the third meta quest.
Meta will begin shipping Quest 3 before the end of 2023. The base 128GB model will cost $499.99. If you don’t want to wait, grab your hands on Quest 2, which will be discounted beginning June 4. The 128GB and 256GB SKUs will cost $299.99 and $349.99 respectively.
Should you wait for Meta’s next-generation VR/MR headset?
Wait until Quest 3 if you have approximately $500 to spend. However, the $200 difference makes the Quest 2 a more considerable choice. According to Meta, the future software upgrade would improve the CPU and GPU performance of the Quest 2 by 26% and 19%, respectively. It will also have Dynamic Resolution Scaling functionality to boost pixel density.