The Meta Quest Pro isn't the best VR headset; the more affordable Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro are better. However, if you're really into mixed reality, it's a good choice.
For professionals, scientists, and creative folks who collaborate online, this headset is handy. If you're in that group, you'll probably love it. The mixed reality features are a step away from regular VR, as seen in the Quest 3.
The Quest Pro has a potential. Virtual offices and collaborating with virtual versions of colleagues can be appealing. Some might prefer this over being a talking head on Skype or Google Meet.
But most people haven't switched to working in the metaverse yet. If you want to work in VR, you're an early adopter, and it might not fully meet your expectations.
Plus, it's pricey and in the UAE selling within price range of AED 2,888 to AED 3,999, compared to the Quest 3 that is selling within price range of AED 1813 to AED 2,249. It's a big decision, and for many, it might be too much.
Meta Quest Pro: Design
The Meta Quest Pro looks different from the Oculus Quest 2 in a few important ways. First, the strap is changed from elastic to a plastic one with extra padding for comfort. It also has a wheel for adjusting the fit. The strap holds the battery, distributing the weight better across your head.
Unlike the Quest 2, the Meta Quest Pro is a mixed-reality headset, not just for virtual reality. This means you can see a bit of the real world around you while wearing it, which is great for mixed-reality experiences but can be distracting in virtual reality.
Meta Quest Pro: Controllers
The controllers are similar in layout but have a rechargeable battery and use cameras instead of a tracking ring. This allows you to move the controllers out of sight without losing tracking, but they are a bit heavier. The controller straps can be replaced with a stylus nib for certain apps, but they might be easy to lose.
There's also an add-on for a full eye seal, but it costs extra. Overall, these changes make the Meta Quest Pro feel different from the Quest 2, especially in mixed-reality experiences.
Meta Quest Pro: Performance and Specs
The Quest Pro is one of the best VR headsets when it comes to performance. It has a powerful chip and lots of memory, handling everything smoothly without any problems.
It also has fast Wi-Fi support, a large storage capacity of 256GB, and new display panels that make the visuals more vibrant and clear compared to the Quest 2.
The hand-tracking feature is improved, making it a better experience without controllers. However, the display refresh rate is capped at 90Hz, while the Quest 2 can go up to 120Hz. This might not be a big issue for most people, but having the option for a higher refresh rate would have been nice for even smoother experiences.
Meta Quest Pro: Features
The Meta Quest Pro doesn't just look different; its features show it's all about mixed reality. One cool upgrade is color passthrough, which makes games like Wooorld and Painting VR better. However, the real world's video feed isn't super clear.
The Quest Pro also has eye and face tracking, but we haven't seen a practical demo of how eye-tracking improves gaming yet. The tech does help the headset adjust for a better fit and position for our eyes. Face tracking is a bit strange, and you can turn it off.
In the future, these features might get better, but right now, they feel a bit like gimmicks. Despite the recent price cut, we hope Meta releases cool games that really justify the Quest Pro's higher cost over the Quest 2. We want more reasons to choose it, especially for its passthrough and face-tracking features.
Meta Quest Pro: Battery
Meta Quest Pro's battery life, they said it lasts around one-and-a-half to two hours between charges, which seemed quite short. The Quest 2, which costs way less, lasts longer – about two to three hours, and up to four with an extra battery.
Considering the Quest Pro's higher price, users expected it to have a similar or better battery life. Meta argues that people usually don't spend more than a couple of hours in VR, and you can use it while charging. But if you like longer VR experiences, the Quest Pro's battery life might not be a good fit, even though it's comfy to wear. If you use it for short periods, the battery should be fine, but not for longer, uninterrupted VR sessions.
Meta Quest Pro: Set up
Setting up the Quest Pro is much easier than older VR headsets. After turning it on, you'll get simple tutorials that show you how to adjust it properly. In just a few minutes, you're ready for VR.
The Quest Pro's design lets you see your surroundings while wearing it. You can use it almost anywhere without worrying about bumping into things. Unlike the Quest 2, which needs a specific space, the Quest Pro just asks for enough room to move your arms. This takes only a few seconds.
You also need to connect to the internet using Wi-Fi 6E. A virtual window shows available networks, and you can type in your network's password with a virtual keyboard. This part is easy and smooth.