Meta Quest 3S Launched: More Affordable Entry into Virtual Reality

Meta, the company renowned for its virtual reality (VR) innovations, has unveiled its latest headset, the Meta Quest 3S. This new entry-level mixed reality device is set to launch officially on October 15, 2024, with its price starting at $300, presenting a more budget-friendly option for VR enthusiasts. The Quest 3S was announced during the Meta Connect 2024, the company’s annual developer conference.

The Meta Quest 3S is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, similar to the Meta Quest 3, but features Fresnel lenses and the display resolution reminiscent of the discontinued Quest 2. This entry further integrates VR and physical reality with an improved color passthrough camera, enhancing the mixed reality experience.

The new headset maintains the controllers seen in previous models, ensuring continuity for users familiar with earlier devices. Although the Quest 3S lacks some of the higher-end features of the Meta Quest 3, such as superior lenses and displays, its reduced price point makes it a compelling alternative for those seeking an affordable entry into VR.

Interested users have the option to preorder the Meta Quest 3S in two storage capacities: 128GB for $300 and 256GB for $400. Retailers including Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Newegg have already listed the device for preorder. In an enticing offer, Meta is providing a free game, “Batman: Arkham Shadow,” along with a three-month subscription to Meta Quest Plus with each purchase, though the subscription will later cost $8 monthly after the trial period.

For those considering the more advanced Meta Quest 3, which offers 512GB of storage, deals are being curated to make this option more accessible financially. The original Quest 3 remains highly regarded for its exceptional VR capabilities, powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip and offering 4K+ Infinite Displays.

This initiative by Meta signals a push to broaden access to VR technology by providing varying price points while maintaining competitive specs. The Meta Quest 3S stands as the most affordable among Meta’s headset lineup, making VR technology more attainable for a wider audience.