Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3 | Which Headset Should You Buy?
The world of mixed reality is rapidly evolving, with giants Apple and Meta leading the charge with their Vision Pro and Quest headsets, respectively.
Both devices offer tantalizing glimpses into the future of AR/VR experiences, but how do they stack up against each other? Here’s a detailed comparison.
Also Check Out: Does the Apple Vision Pro Have Games?
Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3
Between the Apple Vision Pro and the Meta Quest 3, the right choice hinges on priorities.
The Vision Pro is premium, boasting superior resolution, an innovative design, and Apple's robust ecosystem, but it comes at a steep $3,499.
The Quest 3, priced at $499, offers substantial value with solid features and a strong VR gaming focus.
If luxury and the Apple ecosystem appeal to you, the Vision Pro is a tempting choice. However, if you're looking for an affordable entry into the AR/VR world with a gaming edge, the Meta Quest 3 is an excellent option.
The future of AR/VR is bright, with both these devices leading the way. Choose based on your budget and desired features.
What is the Price of the Vision Pro and the Quest 3
The Apple Vision Pro, set to launch in early 2024, sports a whopping price tag of $3,499. In contrast, Meta’s Quest Pro initially came to the market at $1,500, but after mixed reactions, its price was adjusted to a more digestible $1,000.
The Vision Pro, with its eye-watering price tag, is by far the most expensive VR/AR headset available. The cutting-edge design, high-resolution displays, and powerful chips justify the cost, but it's still a significant investment. ,
In stark contrast, the upcoming Meta Quest 3 which is to be priced at $499 for 128GB storage, offers great value. For the price of one Vision Pro, you could equip yourself and several friends with Meta headsets!
For those eager to get their hands on these technological marvels, Meta Quest 3 is slated for a September 27, 2023 release. Apple aficionados will need a bit more patience, with the Vision Pro expected in early 2024.
Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3 Design and Hardware ,
Apple’s Vision Pro embodies the brand’s signature sleek aesthetic, with a blend of metal, glass, and fabric, reminiscent of high-end smartphones. In comparison, the Quest 3 by Meta appears more utilitarian, with a dominating black plastic exterior and a weight of 722g.
Unique to the Vision Pro, Apple has ditched physical controllers, opting instead for camera and sensor-driven finger and hand movements. However, it supports Bluetooth gamepads for gaming.
Dive into virtual or augmented reality, and the dual micro OLED displays ensure that people can still see your eyes, providing a more human connection. However, switch to the VR mode, and your gaze becomes your secret.
Meta Quest 3, in contrast, offers ergonomic controllers for enhanced interaction, but it also allows for hands-free navigation, making sure it doesn't lag behind Apple in this aspect. ,
But unlike its Apple counterpart, the Quest 3's design does not provide the unique eye display, sticking instead with a straightforward LCD. ,
Comfort seems paramount for both, with Apple opting for two padded straps and Meta employing a three-strap system to evenly distribute the device's weight. ,
Notably, the Quest 3 integrates the battery within the headset itself, while Apple takes a more modular approach, featuring an external pocket-friendly battery.
Specifications At A Glance
| Feature | Apple Vision Pro | Meta Quest 3 |
| Price | $3,499 | $499 |
| Processor | M2, R1 | Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 |
| RAM | 16GB | 12GB |
| Storage | 64GB | 128GB |
| Display Type | Micro-OLED | LCD |
| Resolution | 4K per eye | 2,064 x 2,208 per eye |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz |
| Weight | ~1.1 pounds | ~1.1 pounds |
How different are the two displays?
Apple outdoes its competition in the display department, boasting a better-than-4K resolution image for each eye, accumulating over 23 million pixels.
An innovative addition is an external display that provides a real-time view of the wearer’s eyes, facilitating more natural interactions.
The Quest 3, however, offers a resolution of 1,920 x 1,800 per eye, amounting to about 7 million pixels, with no external display.
What is the Power and Battery rating of the Vision Pro and the Meta Quest 3?
Performance-wise, the Vision Pro is built on Apple’s M2 processor and an auxiliary chip for camera and sensor data interpretation. ,
The Quest 3, on the other hand, relies on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ chip, more aligned with smartphone technology.
Despite these differences, both headsets promise a battery life of 1-2 hours, with the Vision Pro sporting a detachable battery pack for added portability.
Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3: OS, Software, and Gaming
Both headsets offer immersive experiences, but with distinct OS backgrounds. Apple's Vision Pro operates on the new visionOS, bringing iOS and macOS apps into the mixed-reality realm. ,
From watching movies to browsing the web or typing on a virtual keyboard, it feels eerily familiar yet futuristic.
Meta Quest 3, powered by Android open-source software, gears more towards an intense VR gaming experience. With haptic feedback, you're not just in the game, you feel it. ,
Apple does catch up with PS5 DualSense controller compatibility, but when it comes to a diverse game library, Meta Quest 3 currently takes the lead.
Content Availability Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3
Apple's Vision Pro, showcased at WWDC, promises a diverse range of uses. From floating windows for web browsing to immersive movie experiences, the potential seems vast. ,
A notable mention is its compatibility with Apple Arcade games. In contrast, Meta has been building its library of VR apps and games over the years. ,
While Meta may have the edge in terms of VR gaming, Apple’s ecosystem of apps, games, and services is unmatched.
Verdict ,
Both the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest Pro target the premium AR/VR market. The Vision Pro stands out with its advanced features and Apple ecosystem integration but comes at a high cost. ,
In contrast, the Meta Quest 3 offers a more budget-friendly mixed reality experience, albeit with some compromises.
The best choice hinges on individual preferences, needs, and budget. As the anticipation for the Vision Pro's release grows, the future of AR/VR looks promising with these two industry giants at the helm.
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