Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S have some key differences. The Meta Quest 3 is the more advanced model with superior visuals, more storage, advanced lenses, and a depth sensor for a premium experience. On the other hand, Meta Quest 3S comes as a streamlined version with a focus on affordability. Let’s explore difference between meta quest 3s and 3!
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Resolution:
- Meta Quest 3 has a higher 2064 x 2208 per-eye resolution for clearer visuals and better immersion.
- Meta Quest 3S has 1832 x 1920 resolution.
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Lenses:
- Meta Quest 3 features pancake lenses for sharper image quality and reduce distortion for more immersive visuals.
- Meta Quest 3S uses fresnel lenses that are bulkier and may show more glare.
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Mixed Reality Capabilities:
- Meta Quest 3 features high-resolution color passthrough that enables sharper and more realistic mixed reality experiences.
- Meta Quest 3S supports full-color passthrough but with lower resolution and detail.
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Field of View:
- Meta Quest 3 supports a wider 110° horizontal field of view that improves peripheral immersion during gameplay.
- Meta Quest 3S has a narrower 96° field of view.
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Internal Storage:
- Meta Quest 3 has 512GB of internal storage that allows to install more games, apps, and media without running out of space.
- Meta Quest 3S comes with 128GB of storage.
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Connectivity:
- Meta Quest 3 supports Wi-Fi 6E that improves download speeds and reduces latency in cloud-based apps.
- Meta Quest 3S support Wi-Fi 6.
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Audio:
- Meta Quest 3 supports upgraded spatial audio with a 3.5mm headphone jack that enhances directional sound for deeper immersion.
- Meta Quest 3S features 3D audio with less emphasis on low-end performance.
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Content Access:
- Meta Quest 3 includes a 3-month trial of Meta Quest+ for providing access to a rotating selection of premium VR games.
- Meta Quest 3S does not include any subscription benefit.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Meta Quest 3 |
Meta Quest 3s |
| Storage Capacity |
512GB |
128GB |
| Display Resolution |
2064 x 2208 pixels per eye |
1832 x 1920 pixels per eye |
| Lens Type |
Pancake lenses |
Fresnel lenses |
| Field of View (FOV) |
110° horizontal, 96° vertical |
96° horizontal, 90° vertical |
| Refresh Rate |
72Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz |
90Hz, 120Hz |
| Battery Life |
Approximately 2.2 hours |
Approximately 2.5 hours |
| Mixed Reality Features |
Full-color passthrough with depth sensor |
Full-color passthrough without depth sensor |
| Audio |
Enhanced spatial audio |
Standard audio |
| Included Extras |
Batman: Arkham Shadow game and 3-month Meta Quest+ trial |
Batman: Arkham Shadow game |
| Dimensions |
7.2 x 6.2 x 3.8 inches |
7.5 x 5.6 x 4.0 inches |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Meta Quest 3 if you:
- Want the highest resolution and most immersive mixed reality experiences
- Plan to install large games, media, and apps without worrying about space
- Care about display clarity, premium build, and upgraded lenses
- Use your headset frequently for productivity or long sessions
- Appreciate enhanced spatial audio and field of view for deeper immersion
Check Meta Quest 3 Best Price
Buy the Meta Quest 3s if you:
- Are new to VR and want an affordable entry point
- Do not need much internal storage or advanced optical features
- Prefer a lighter headset for casual or short sessions
- Want to experience the same platform and content access for less
- Can compromise on passthrough quality and lens performance to save money
Check Meta Quest 3S Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Display Quality |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Storage Capacity |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Mixed Reality Capabilities |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Lens Type |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Audio Experience |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Passthrough Resolution |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Field of View |
Meta Quest 3 |
| Build Quality |
Meta Quest 3 |
What They Have in Common
- Mixed Reality Support: Both headsets feature full-color passthrough and mixed reality capabilities, allowing users to blend digital objects with their physical surroundings for a more immersive experience.
- High-Resolution Displays: Both models include crisp, high-resolution displays that deliver sharp visuals and reduce the screen-door effect, enhancing comfort during extended sessions.
- Inside-Out Tracking: Each headset uses inside-out tracking with built-in cameras, meaning no external sensors are needed and setup is quick and easy in any space.
- Hand and Controller Tracking: Both support Meta’s Touch Plus controllers and hand tracking, letting users interact naturally with VR content whether they prefer controllers or controller-free experiences.
- Meta Quest Store Access: Both models connect to the same Meta Quest Store, giving users access to the same library of VR games, apps, and fitness experiences without compatibility concerns.
- Standalone Operation: Each headset is a standalone device, meaning it doesn’t require a PC or console to run, offering true wireless freedom for VR enthusiasts.
- PC VR Capability: Both support PC VR via Meta Link or Air Link, enabling users to stream PC VR content like SteamVR games for a more powerful, desktop-class VR experience.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Does Meta Quest 3S use the same processor as Meta Quest 3?
Yes, both headsets use the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, providing similar performance in terms of app loading, responsiveness, and multitasking.
Is the display quality the same on both models?
No, the Meta Quest 3 features pancake lenses that deliver sharper visuals and less distortion, while the Quest 3S uses fresnel lenses which are bulkier and offer slightly less clarity.
Can both headsets play the same games and apps?
Yes, both headsets run on the same Meta Quest platform and support the same VR games and applications available in the Meta Store.
Is passthrough mode better on the Meta Quest 3?
Yes, the Meta Quest 3 offers higher-resolution color passthrough, making it more suitable for mixed reality use cases where clarity and spatial awareness are important.
How much storage do I need for VR gaming?
If you plan to install many large games or media files, the 512GB version is better suited. The 128GB model may fill up quickly if you download multiple AAA titles or videos.
Do both headsets include the same controllers?
Yes, both the Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S include the same Touch Plus controllers with improved tracking and haptic feedback.
Which headset is more comfortable for long use?
The Meta Quest 3 has a more balanced design with slimmer optics, which reduces pressure on the face. However, the lighter weight of the Quest 3S may feel easier to wear for shorter sessions.
Are both models compatible with PC VR through Meta Link?
Yes, both models support Meta Link and Air Link, allowing users to connect the headset to a gaming PC for access to Rift content and PC-powered VR games.
Is the Meta Quest 3S a replacement for the Quest 2?
Yes, the Meta Quest 3S 128GB is intended to replace the Meta Quest 2 as a more budget-friendly headset in Meta’s lineup while using newer hardware and maintaining access to the latest software and content.
