From Ray-Bans to Oakleys, Meta provides a variety of smart glasses for you to explore.
During Meta Connect 2025, Mark Zuckerberg introduced three new smart glasses, further expanding the range of smart glasses available from Meta. We had the opportunity to test all of them, and I’ve worn several models since 2021.
Even though the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) has been released, Meta is not discontinuing the Gen 1s at all. In fact, the company is maintaining them as the most budget-friendly option in the series, with prices increasing from that point onward. Overall, Meta boasts a total of six distinct smart glasses models to consider.
So, which set of Meta smart glasses suits your needs? They all feature Meta AI at their core and can capture images, record videos, and replicate earbud functionality when linked to any smartphone, but is the least expensive option truly your best choice? Or should you opt for something a bit more upscale? I answer all of these inquiries and more below.
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1)
Contrary to what the name might imply, Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) is in fact the second iteration of Ray-Ban’s smart glasses line. The original version was named Ray-Ban Stories and launched in September 2021, but the rebranding to Ray-Ban Meta for the subsequent product was due to significant reasons. Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) is a fantastic improvement, providing Meta AI features, much enhanced video and photo quality, surround sound audio recording and playback, along with improved battery performance.
Even though Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) is the most economical option, they remain an excellent choice for smart glasses that I believe most users will find satisfying. They are available in three classic Ray-Ban styles — Wayfarer, Headliner, and Skyler — each offering a broad array of lens colors and tints. Additionally, prescription lenses are available ranging from -6.00 to +4.00.
However, it appears that Meta is no longer stocking all available lens colors for the Gen 1s. As of this moment, Meta only lists Wayfarer and Skyler on its website, and Best Buy has a very restricted selection as well.
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) retains most of the same Meta AI features as newer Meta smart glasses, with a few important exceptions. While you can inquire what Meta sees or hears, it can only handle a single audio prompt at a time. This means you must ask one question at a time, while newer Meta glasses feature Meta AI’s live conversation mode.
The camera quality of Gen 1 is also nearly comparable to that of Gen 2, despite the notable difference in recording resolution. Photos are mostly identical between generations, but video quality is markedly improved on Gen 2s, and Gen 1 also suffers from inferior video stabilization.
The battery life is the weakest aspect of Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1). With only 4 hours of maximum use per charge, you’ll find yourself charging these glasses at least once daily. Fortunately, the included charging case allows for convenient recharging on the go, and you’ll be able to charge the glasses fully multiple times before needing to recharge the case itself.
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2)
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) stands out as the most fashionable smart glasses offered by Meta at present. With over 150 different combinations of lenses, frames, colors, and styles, there’s nearly guaranteed to be a pair that suits your individual taste.
It also represents a significant improvement over some of the less favorable aspects of Gen 1. It nearly doubles the battery life, which was the primary criticism directed at the Gen 1 glasses. These utilize the same internal hardware and cameras as the Oakley Meta HSTN smart glasses, so my battery evaluations there will provide insights on what to anticipate.
In summary, Gen 2s are expected to capture about 60% more photos and videos on a single charge compared to Gen 1s, making them a compelling option for anyone seeking these glasses for their distinct perspective.
Video recording quality receives a considerable enhancement over the Gen 1s, featuring a new 60FPS recording option and significantly improved stabilization.
Along with the upgrades in battery and camera capabilities, Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) introduces Meta AI Live conversation mode. When you say, “Hey Meta, go live,” the AI enters conversation mode and is capable of seeing and hearing what you see in real-time.
This enhancement surpasses the previous Meta AI features found in Gen 1 glasses, allowing for a seamless conversation with Meta AI as you move around.
Oakley Meta HSTN
Oakley Meta HSTN are stylish and functional Oakley glasses without the conventional “visor” appearance often associated with the brand. They utilize the same internal hardware as Ray-Ban Meta.
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