Meta Quest 3S reviews: How do early testers rate the new VR headset?
The Meta Quest 3S will be officially released on October 15, 2024, and the first reviews show how good the VR headset really is. We summarize.
In this article, we summarize the reviews from tech magazines that have already tested Meta's new Quest 3S VR headset. You can find the corresponding links in the references below the article.
- Note: With the Quest 3S, Meta is for the first time pursuing a review strategy that does not allow VR magazines like MIXED or UploadVR to have their own reviews online for the launch of the VR headset. We will update the following list as soon as the first reviews from VR magazines are online.
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UploadVR: Better head and hand tracking than Quest 3
UploadVR was only able to test the Meta Quest 3S for a short time, as the test unit arrived very late. However, initial tests have shown that the Quest 3S offers better head and hand tracking in low light than the more expensive Quest 3, despite its lower price and weaker lenses and displays.
David Heaney, the review's author, attributes this to the Quest 3S's built-in infrared illuminators, which the Quest 3 lacks. UploadVR will make a final assessment after more extensive testing, but the initial impressions are promising.
CNET: Best value ticket to mixed reality
CNET rates the Meta Quest 3S as the best value for money in VR. Despite some compromises compared to the more expensive Quest 3, the Quest 3S offers many of the features of the premium model at a significantly lower price.
According to CNET, the Fresnel lenses provide a less sharp image compared to the pancake lenses of the Quest 3, and the comfort of the Quest 3S leaves a lot to be desired during longer sessions. Overall, however, the Quest 3S is a convincing option for VR beginners.
The first testers agree: despite the lower resolution and Fresnel lenses, the Quest 3S is a great value for money. | Image: Meta
Tom’s Guide: Best entry-level VR headset
Tom's Guide also praises the Meta Quest 3S as the best VR headset in terms of value for money. The compact design, the good performance and the large selection of apps and games are positively highlighted.
Tom's Guide criticizes the lower wearing comfort compared to the Quest 3 and the relatively short battery life of about two hours. Nevertheless, author Tony Polanco recommends the Quest 3S as an ideal choice for beginners who don't want to jump straight to the more expensive Quest 3.
TechRadar: Best budget VR headset with minor flaws
TechRadar sees the Meta Quest 3S as the perfect introduction to the world of VR gaming. The doubled graphics performance compared to the Quest 2, the good mixed reality experience and the comfortable controllers are praised.
On the downside, the Fresnel lenses and low resolution make for a much less sharp image than on the Quest 3. Tester Hamish Hector was also disappointed by the return of the three-step interpupillary distance control. Overall, however, the Quest 3S is an excellent entry-level model for VR fans.
Digital Trends: The perfect introduction to VR gaming
Digital Trends describes the Meta Quest 3S as the best budget option in the VR space. Author Alan Truly highlights the doubled graphics performance compared to the Quest 2, the decent mixed reality and the strong tracking in low light conditions.
On the downside, the Quest 3S is less comfortable to wear, causing pressure points on the face, and the Fresnel lenses are less clear. Overall, however, the Quest 3S is the ideal choice for VR newcomers.
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