Meta Connect 2024 has unveiled a new mixed reality headset, the Quest 3S, aimed at offering a more budget-friendly option compared to the Quest 3. Scheduled for a global launch on October 15, the Quest 3S will be available at a starting price of $300 for the 128GB model and $400 for the 256GB version. This represents a significant reduction in cost when compared to the Quest 3, where the 512GB model now retails for $500, and the 128GB model for $430. However, these price adjustments have necessitated some hardware compromises. While current stock at various retailers has not yet been updated to reflect these new prices, updates are expected soon.
Under the hood, the Quest 3S features the same Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset as the Quest 3. However, it reverts to the lower-resolution 1832 x 1920 per-eye fresnel lenses from the Quest 2, instead of the Quest 3's pancake lenses. Additionally, the field of vision is narrower, and it lacks a depth sensor found on the Quest 3. The front-facing camera arrangement on the Quest 3S is also different, featuring a spider-like design rather than the pill-shaped layout of the Quest 3.
Despite these changes, the Quest 3S will come equipped with Touch Pro controllers and support gesture controls for navigating menus and apps. Meta assures that users will still enjoy the same mixed-reality features and performance as on the Quest 3, allowing for the same gaming experiences and compatibility with upcoming titles like Batman: Arkham Shadow. Battery life is also improved, with the Quest 3S offering just over two-and-a-half hours of use from a full charge under optimal conditions, compared to the Quest 3's average of two hours. A new 'action' button has been introduced for quick switching between passthrough and immersive modes, replacing the double-tap gesture used on the Quest 3. With these features, the Quest 3S is poised to become the new entry-level Quest headset, as Meta plans to discontinue sales of the Quest 2.
