Amid the recent unveiling of new hardware by Valve, the Steam Frame has certainly captured attention, emerging as a standout item on many wishlists. Yet, in the realm of virtual reality, the Meta Quest 3 continues to shine brightly, boasting an impressive combination of affordability, solid hardware, and a rich library of exclusive games. For those seeking an entry point into the VR landscape, the Meta Quest 3S presents a budget-friendly alternative, currently available at a discount of up to as part of early Black Friday promotions.
Performance and Features
While the Meta Quest 3S may feature slightly less advanced lenses and a marginally lower resolution per eye compared to its premium counterpart, it still delivers remarkable performance and capabilities. Powered by the robust Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, the headset excels in both standalone VR games and mixed reality experiences, complete with color passthrough functionality akin to the higher-end model.
In a recent review, I rated the Meta Quest 3S a commendable 7/10, highlighting its status as a significant upgrade from the Quest 2. With an enhanced chipset, 8GB of RAM (up from the Quest 2’s 6GB), and improved weight distribution, it stands as a compelling choice for newcomers and those looking to upgrade. Although my preference leans towards the more powerful Meta Quest 3, I often recommend the Quest 3S for first-time buyers or those transitioning from the Quest 2, as its lower price point simplifies the decision-making process.
Versatile Gaming Experience
The Quest 3S effectively bridges the gap between standalone and PCVR gaming. It offers access to engaging standalone titles such as Batman: Arkham Shadow and Deadpool VR, while also enabling users to stream PCVR masterpieces like Half-Life: Alyx through the Quest Link software or Steam Link app. This dual-library access is a significant advantage, particularly when considering that the Steam Frame, despite its impressive design, does not support Meta Quest exclusives.
For those contemplating a VR headset purchase, the Meta Quest 3S 128GB model is currently priced at just 9.99 on Amazon, bundled with an exclusive Gorilla Tag skin and a three-month trial of the Horizon+ service. For users requiring additional storage, the 256GB version is available for 9, which includes the same trial and a copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow, a standout experience in Rocksteady’s acclaimed Arkham series.
While the exact duration of this discount remains uncertain, it is part of an early Black Friday sale, suggesting availability until Monday, December 1, 2025. This timing allows savvy shoppers to avoid the chaos of Thanksgiving weekend, providing a convenient opportunity to secure a fantastic deal while potentially sidestepping lengthy family gatherings.
