Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3: Which AR/VR headset comes out on top?

I’m Bria, a tech enthusiast and go-to expert for all things gaming and gadgetry. Bringing over a decade of tech troubleshooting and passion for the latest gadgets to guide you through your tech queries.

As someone who’s witnessed countless trends rise and fall in the tech world, I'm always cautious yet optimistic about new gadgets. However, the buzz around AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality) headsets like the Apple Vision Pro® and Meta Quest 3™ feels different. Could these devices finally bridge the gap between niche and mainstream? Here's my take on what these innovations offer and how they stack up against each other.

Diving into a world of virtual imagination

Remember when most gaming consoles tried integrating the then “latest” technology, motion mapping? Think Xbox Kinect® and Wii MotionPlus®. Those were innovative yet short-lived. So, can Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 succeed where others have fallen short? And, more importantly, which headset is right for you?

VR (virtual reality) headsets are not just gaming gadgets; they're gateways to immersive experiences that could revolutionize entertainment, productivity, and more. It transports you to digital realms, disconnecting you from the physical world. These technologies, promising to redefine our daily lives from fitness to remote work, mark yet another bold attempt to revolutionize the world with cutting-edge tech.

What do we know about the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3?

The Meta Quest™ headsets (formally known as the Oculus®) arrived on the tech scene in 2012 and operated largely unopposed, with no other headsets to rival it. That’s changed. Apple® recently unveiled its take on a VR headset, the Vision Pro. The Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 offer incredible immersive experiences but approach VR differently.

The Vision Pro leverages its strengths in design and Apple ecosystem integration, focusing heavily on high-quality visuals and audio. It's intended not just for gaming but also for productivity, media consumption, and virtual interactions in a mixed-reality environment. On the flip side, the Meta Quest 3 focuses on immersive gaming and social experiences. While it includes some AR capabilities, its primary strength lies in virtual reality, with robust support for a wide range of VR games and social VR platforms.

Let’s talk specs.

Apple Vision Pro tech specs

The key features include the new VisionOS® operating system, a digital crown for immersive level adjustment, and, finally, eye-tracking and gesture-based control. Let’s get into the hardware:

• Display: Dual micro-OLED 4K displays
• Processor: Apple M2 + R1 chip
• Storage options: 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
• Audio: Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
• Camera: 12 cameras for precise hand tracking and passthrough without the need for hand controllers

Meta Quest 3 tech specs

The Meta Quest comes with the Quest™ operating system and Touch Plus controllers, along with some other high-level specs packed inside its new, slimmer design:

• Display: Dual LCD displays
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
• Storage options: 128 GB, 512 GB
• Audio: Spatial audio with 3D positional sound
• Camera: 4 cameras for passthrough and hand tracking

It’s important to note that the Meta Quest 3 does not have built-in eye tracking, unlike the Apple Vision Pro. Eye tracking eliminates the need for handheld controllers while using the headset, allowing you to select items in virtual space with just your eyes.

What sets Apple Vision Pro apart from other headsets?

The Apple Vision Pro offers an unprecedented level of integration with the broader Apple ecosystem. VisionOS aims to seamlessly blend the physical and digital worlds, allowing apps to float effortlessly in your living room or office. The Vision Pro, with eye tracking and gesture control, feels futuristic and user-friendly.

The Vision Pro is being considered the future of headsets. I think the device has a long way to go. While Apple has pushed the boundaries of VR technology with the Vision Pro, it's still in its early days. You might not get as many confused expressions from your co-workers if you decide to wear your Vision Pro at work. As cool as sneakily watching Apple TV® under the guise of checking your emails is, the ecosystem is still developing. Apple's high entry cost (starting at $3499) could limit its initial adoption compared to the budget-friendliness of the Meta Quest 3 (starting at $499). It might be a while before these headsets are in every household.

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Is the Meta Quest 3 the better gaming headset?

You might be wondering: What about gaming? After all, a virtual reality headset is typically packaged as a form of gaming entertainment. Here’s where the Meta Quest delivers. This headset offers a substantial library of games and apps. Plus, it’s capable of integrating in ways Apple can’t with games made specifically for VR and the ability to connect to Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Compared to its counterpart, it offers more gaming titles than Apple’s gaming app (Apple Arcade®), offering tons of titles for every player.

Which VR headset will come out on top?

Choosing between the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 comes down to what you value most: premium integration and professional utility or accessible gaming and entertainment. Despite their similar appearance, they are two different gadgets catering to two different groups of people. As an avid video game player who moonlights as a professional, I see tremendous potential in both. As technology evolves (and the prices drop), perhaps they'll complement rather than compete, covering all aspects of our digital lives.

Things to consider when choosing your VR headset

Ultimately, your choice between Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 depends on your budget, preferred use case, ecosystem compatibility, and warranty options. The Vision Pro is a game-changer for Apple enthusiasts seeking next-gen productivity and entertainment. In contrast, the Quest 3 is the clear choice for those who want immersive gaming and fitness without the high price tag.

Key considerations:

• User base. The Vision Pro targets professionals and tech enthusiasts, whereas the Quest 3 appeals to gamers and general tech consumers.
• Cost. The Vision Pro is a premium product with a premium price, while Quest 3 is significantly more wallet-friendly.
• Ecosystem compatibility. The Vision Pro could be a seamless addition for those already invested in Apple products. It has access to many of the same apps you’d see on your iPhone® or iPad®.
• Warranty options. Meta™ has a limited 1-year warranty (you can extend it to 2 years for an additional cost), though neither plan covers accidental damage and only covers the headset. Apple offers Apple Care®, which covers each of your Apple devices with individual prices and plans. Apple Care does cover accidental or spill damage.

No matter which you choose, your headset is worth the cost of protection. Be sure to opt for a protection plan that protects more than just your VR headset from breakdowns, defects, accidental damage, and more—we’re talking thousands of devices in your home, no matter the brand or where you purchased them—with coverage that doesn’t expire. Learn more about Asurion Home+ electronics protection.