Unlike the Meta Quest 3, the Quest 3S doesn't have a 3.5mm audio port. In other words, you won't be able to connect wired earbuds to the Quest 3S, but it's not necessary. The audio that emanates from the Quest 3S is crisp and sharp, and it gets sufficiently loud, too.

The Meta Quest 3S contains many of the Quest 3’s signature features, including color passthrough, speedy performance, a compact design, and a robust app library — all for $299. Though it’s not as comfortable to wear and its battery life isn't the best, its low starting price makes it an enticing product for those curious about VR.

The Meta Quest 3S also relies on the Quest 2’s fresnel lens system instead of the pancake lenses used by the Quest 3. I won’t get into the weeds of how these lenses differ technically, but know that fresnel lenses are bulkier and cause blurriness at the fringes of your field of view.

I reviewed Meta's Quest 3S, a budget VR headset with mixed reality and AI, to test its quality and value as an upgrade or a first headset.

The 3S is the latest ‘mixed reality’ headset from Meta, the company formerly known as Facebook. It costs £289.99, the cheapest Quest yet, but Meta insists it has very similar specs and performance to the £469.99 Meta Quest 3 that launched in October 2023.

Use precise geolocation data and actively scan device characteristics for identification. This is done to store and access information on a device and to provide personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. List of Partners (vendors)

It's by far the best value in VR. But the question is, should you upgrade to it or go with Meta's even better model?

The Meta Quest 3S is here, delivering Meta Quest 3 graphics and games at the magic $299 price. But is it any good? I've spent a week with it to let you know.

If you crave peace and limited distractions, consider investing in the Meta Quest 3S to achieve fitness goals in the privacy of your home.