While it’s designed primarily for gaming, there’s a lot more to unpack here. Let’s see how it stacks up!
Build Quality: Made for Comfort, Not Luxury
The Quest 3S is crafted from lightweight plastic, making it comfortable for longer gaming sessions. But you might miss the feeling of a premium build, as the device’s simplicity matches its budget. The display and lenses are suitable for gaming, but when it comes to browsing or watching videos, they can feel a bit lacking.
Keeping It Simple with Controllers
With traditional VR controllers included, the Quest 3S keeps things easy to grasp—literally. Hand-tracking is available too, though it’s a bit inconsistent. You’ll likely rely on the controllers most of the time, as hand-tracking works well about 70% of the time. It’s straightforward and practical, ideal for newcomers to VR.
The Fun Part: Gaming on the Quest 3S
If you’re all about gaming, you’ll appreciate what the Quest 3S brings to the table. It runs popular VR games like Beat Saber, Fruit Ninja, and Just Dance VR smoothly, making it a solid choice for VR enthusiasts. Meta’s Quest+ subscription also offers access to a wide variety of games for $7.99/month, giving you plenty to explore.
With Meta’s game studio ownership, you can expect more titles to be well-optimized for the Quest series. It’s a nice edge over competitors, especially Apple’s Vision Pro, which isn’t focused on gaming.
Who Is the Quest 3S Best For?
The Quest 3S feels like a refreshed Quest 2, but with improved controllers, a faster chipset, and mixed reality support—all for the same $299 price. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a gaming-first experience on a budget. However, if you need a headset for productivity or intense media consumption, the Quest 3S might not meet your expectations.
Final Thoughts: A Gamer’s Delight
The Quest 3S delivers a fun, affordable way to dive into VR gaming. While it’s not trying to be a luxury device or a productivity powerhouse, it’s a strong contender for anyone looking to experience VR without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a VR newcomer, the Quest 3S has plenty to offer. It’s all about simple, accessible fun!
