The Meta Quest 2 has been a popular choice in the VR world since its release in 2020. With the launch of the Meta Quest 3 and the introduction of the Meta Quest 3S, many potential buyers are wondering if the older Meta Quest 2 still holds value in 2025.
Deciding between these headsets comes down to factors like budget, features, and future-proofing. Let’s break down why the Meta Quest 2 might still be a viable option and what you might miss by not upgrading.
Is The Meta Quest 2 Worth The Price?
The Meta Quest 2 has always been known for its affordability, and now, in 2025, its price has dropped even further. Currently available for around $199, it is significantly cheaper than the Meta Quest 3, which starts at $500. This price difference makes the Quest 2 one of the most accessible VR headsets on the market.
For first-time VR users or those on a budget, this affordability is a major selling point. While the Quest 3 boasts advanced features, the lower cost of the Quest 2 allows more people to experience VR without a hefty upfront investment. For those hesitant to spend a large sum on newer technology, the Quest 2’s pricing offers a risk-free way to explore the world of virtual reality.
Second-Hand Deals
The release of the Quest 3 has led many owners to sell their Quest 2 headsets at discounted prices. If you’re looking to save even more, consider purchasing a pre-owned Quest 2. Just ensure the device is in good condition and includes all necessary accessories before committing to a purchase.
Game Compatibility And Support
The Meta Quest 2 benefits from a vast library of games, with hundreds of titles available on the Meta Quest store. As of now, most of these games are still compatible with the Quest 2. Even though some games have been optimized for the Quest 3’s better hardware, there are very few Quest 3-exclusive titles at this point. This ensures that Quest 2 owners can continue enjoying popular VR games without feeling left out.
Meta’s strategy of supporting both devices ensures that developers remain incentivized to release games compatible with the Quest 2. After all, a large portion of the user base still uses the older headset. As long as this remains the case, Quest 2 users can expect ongoing compatibility and updates for their favorite games.
Future Updates And Longevity
When considering a VR headset, it’s essential to think about how long it will remain supported. Meta has a track record of extending support for its devices. For instance, the original Oculus Quest, released in 2019, continued to receive updates until 2023, with security patches planned until 2024. This suggests that the Meta Quest 2 will likely receive support well into 2025 and possibly beyond.
Even after the release of the Quest 3, Meta has reduced the Quest 2’s price instead of phasing it out. This move indicates that the company sees value in keeping the Quest 2 on the market, particularly for budget-conscious consumers. While it’s difficult to predict the exact timeline, buyers can reasonably expect software updates and game compatibility to continue for several years.
Features That Still Hold Up
The Meta Quest 2 may not have the latest technology found in the Quest 3, but it still offers a solid VR experience. Its display resolution, while slightly lower than the Quest 3’s, is sufficient for immersive gameplay. The headset is also capable of running most modern VR games without significant issues.
The Quest 2 supports PC VR gaming through Meta Quest Link, allowing users to play high-quality games like Half-Life: Alyx and No Man’s Sky. This feature alone makes the Quest 2 a versatile device for both standalone and PC-based VR experiences. For new users or casual players, these features are more than enough to enjoy VR without feeling the need for the latest upgrades.
What The Quest 3 Brings To The Table
While the Meta Quest 2 is a fantastic entry-level option, it’s important to acknowledge what the Quest 3 offers. The newer headset introduces mixed reality features with full-color passthrough, a feature that enhances productivity and work-related applications. It also comes with a slimmer design, higher resolution (2,064 x 2,208 pixels per eye), and the powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor.
One of the standout features of the Quest 3 is its full upper body tracking. Unfortunately, this feature isn’t available on the Quest 2 due to hardware limitations. For those interested in mixed reality or the latest advancements in VR, the Quest 3’s features may be worth the investment.
Should You Upgrade?
If you already own a Meta Quest 2, upgrading to the Quest 3 might not be necessary right away. Unless mixed reality features or the latest hardware improvements are critical to you, the Quest 2 remains a reliable option for gaming and entertainment. It’s worth waiting until more Quest 3-exclusive games or significant software updates are released before making the leap.
However, if you’re new to VR and have the budget for a $500 headset, starting with the Quest 3 could be a better long-term choice. It offers cutting-edge features and ensures that you won’t need to upgrade again anytime soon. On the other hand, if your main focus is gaming and you’re not concerned about mixed reality, the Quest 2 provides excellent value for its price.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Meta Quest 2 and Quest 3 ultimately depends on your budget and priorities. For those seeking an affordable introduction to VR, the Quest 2 is hard to beat. Its extensive game library, reliable performance, and low cost make it an excellent option in 2025.
On the other hand, if you’re ready to invest in the latest technology and want features like mixed reality and higher resolution, the Quest 3 is the superior choice. Carefully consider what matters most to you and pick the headset that fits your needs. Either way, VR has never been more accessible or exciting to explore.
