Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3 comparison: The ultimate mixed reality headset?

The Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 are two upcoming mixed-reality headsets that are generating a lot of excitement. The Apple Vision Pro was recently unveiled at WWDC 2023, while Mark Zuckerberg surprised everyone by announcing the Meta Quest 3 just a few days earlier before the Meta Quest Gaming Showcase 2023.

The Apple Vision Pro is a mixed-reality headset that combines virtual elements with the real world.It enables users to interact with their surroundings through a technology called "spatial computing”. Additionally, the headset features ‘EyeSight’, a feature that helps users stay connected and engaged with the physical world around them.

The Meta Quest 3 is designed for regular virtual reality (VR) fans and is also capable of mixed reality with full-color passthrough.

So now, as we know the details of both headsets, It’s time to take a closer look at an Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3 comparison.

When it comes to face computers, three important things stand out: comfort, battery life, and a capable processor. Comfort is crucial, and Meta has more experience and feedback in this area compared to Apple. Let’s now take a look at how both fare against each other on various parameters.

Build and design

The Quest 3's design features a three-strap system that holds the headset securely on your face, while the top strap helps distribute the weight. It accommodates different head shapes and even allows space for a ponytail.

Whereas, Apple Vision Pro features a strong glass display at the front, a flexible cushion-covered aluminium frame, and an adjustable headband. The frame holds five sensors, six microphones, a digital crown just like the Apple Watch and 12 cameras.

The user will view two small displays, each the size of a postage stamp, through the lens. These displays have a total of 23 megapixels and provide visual information to the user.

Use-cases and pitch

The Vision Pro focuses on productivity and content consumption, with limited emphasis on gaming. It supports Apple Arcade games, whereas the Quest 3 highlights its extensive library of immersive experiences and compatibility with its predecessor's games.

Audiovisuals

The Vision Pro has micro-OLED panels with high resolution, while the Quest 3 reportedly uses an LCD panel with lower resolution. The Vision Pro also features advanced audio technology, while details about the Quest 3's audio capabilities are unclear.

Prescription lenses

The Quest 3 provides a glasses spacer for wearing prescription glasses, while the Vision Pro offers Zeiss Optical Inserts for visual correction.

Performance

The Quest 3 is equipped with a Snapdragon CPU+GPU, while the Vision Pro uses the powerful M2 SoC. The Quest 3 has multiple cameras and sensors for tracking, while the exact capabilities of the Vision Pro's sensors are not specified. It's important to note that further information is needed to fully understand the differences between the headsets.

Which one should you buy?

Meta's Quest 3 is priced at $500, but if you want more storage or accessories for better battery life, it could cost around $600 or more. It will be released in the fall and offers a wide range of activities and the ability to play with friends. Meta will likely promote its passthrough cameras and hand-tracking modes for augmented reality experiences.

This headset is considered an impressive upgrade from the Quest 2, and it will be available before other competitors' offerings. Apple's Vision Pro on the other hand is a unique way to experience the Apple ecosystem. It has a sleek design and many features to keep you aware of your surroundings when necessary.

It is currently the most advanced headset available. However, as an augmented reality headset, Apple is relying on developers to create compelling experiences. With a hefty price tag of $3,499, Apple needs to demonstrate what makes the Vision Pro truly special before its launch in 2024.