# Meta Quest 3S: A Budget-Friendly VR Headset Bundled with Batman Arkham Shadow
When Meta introduced the **Meta Quest 3** the previous year, it was recognized as a revolutionary advancement in virtual reality (VR) technology. With upgraded lenses, boosted processing capabilities, a more streamlined design, and mixed reality (MR) functionalities, it represented a considerable enhancement over its predecessor. Nevertheless, the $500 price made it unattainable for a number of prospective users. Introducing the **Meta Quest 3S**, a cost-effective iteration of the Quest 3 that preserves much of the same capabilities and features but at a lower cost. To add more value, it is packaged with **Batman Arkham Shadow**, a much-anticipated VR game, making it a compelling option for gamers this holiday season.
## Meta Quest 3S: Cost and Availability
The **Meta Quest 3S** comes with a tempting price of **$299** for the 128GB model, which is $200 less than the standard Quest 3. For users requiring additional storage, a **256GB version** is offered for **$399**. Both versions are equipped with identical hardware; thus, the only distinction is the storage capacity.
Meta is also introducing a “play now, pay later” initiative, enabling users to acquire the headset through monthly payments. The program includes a **24-month subscription to Meta Quest Plus**, along with a Meta warranty and coverage. Below is a summary of the monthly payment plans:
– **Quest 3S (128GB)**: $19.99/month
– **Quest 3S (256GB)**: $24.99/month
– **Quest 3 (512GB)**: $29.99/month
Furthermore, if you buy the Meta Quest 3S before **April 2025**, you will receive **Batman Arkham Shadow** at no extra cost. This game is scheduled for release on **October 22, 2024**, and is expected to be an exciting addition to the VR gaming industry. Additionally, all purchasers will obtain **three months of Meta Quest Plus** for free, providing access to a variety of games from the outset.
The Meta Quest 3S will be on sale starting **October 15, 2024**, at key retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart, and Target. Preorders are currently active, and Meta’s “play now, pay later” option is only available on **Meta.com**.
## Meta Quest 3S: Specifications and Design
The Meta Quest 3S boasts a design that bridges the gap between the older **Oculus Go** and the **Oculus Quest 2**. It is **20% smaller** than the Quest 2, with a thickness of **73.9mm**, compared to the Quest 2’s **93.1mm**. However, it is still larger than the **Quest 3**, which features a more compact **62.3mm** profile. This is because the Quest 3S utilizes the same **Fresnel lenses** as the Quest 2, which are bulkier than the **pancake lenses** used in the Quest 3.
The display resolution of the Quest 3S remains the same as the Quest 2, featuring **dual 1832 x 1920 LCD panels**. Although the Quest 3 has a higher resolution of **2064 x 2208**, the difference is not substantial enough to deter most users.
Concerning weight, the Quest 3S weighs **514g**, slightly heavier than the Quest 2 but lighter than the Quest 3. The additional weight is attributed to a **20% larger battery**, providing the Quest 3S with about **an hour more battery life** compared to the Quest 2.
Similar to the Quest 2, the Quest 3S includes a **cloth head strap**, which can be easily replaced with more comfortable options. The **best Quest 3 accessories** are projected to be compatible with the Quest 3S, including head straps and other peripherals.
A significant modification is the elimination of the **3.5mm headphone jack**, requiring users to utilize Bluetooth or USB-C headphones for private audio experiences. However, the integrated speakers in the head strap arms deliver excellent sound quality, so headphones are not essential for the majority of users.
## Meta Quest 3S: Mixed Reality Features
One of the notable aspects of the Meta Quest 3S is its **color passthrough vision**, which enables users to view their real surroundings in full color while wearing the headset. This functionality facilitates interaction with the environment without the need to remove the headset, minimizing disruptions and enhancing the overall user experience.
The **six cameras** located on the front of the headset consist of two **RGB cameras** for stereoscopic color passthrough, two **4
