The Quest 2 is older and cheaper than ever. But with the Quest 3S now at $299, is the bargain still worth it?
The case for the Quest 2
The Quest 2 remains a fully capable 6DoF VR headset that runs the same enormous library of games as its newer siblings. On sale it regularly drops below $200, making it the cheapest way into real virtual reality. If you just want to try Beat Saber, Gorilla Tag or watch movies on a big virtual screen, it still delivers.
What you give up versus newer Quests
The Quest 2 uses the older Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 chip and only has black-and-white passthrough, so the colour mixed-reality experiences built for the Quest 3 and 3S won't work the same way. Its Fresnel lenses also show more glare than the Quest 3's pancake optics.
Quest 2 vs Quest 3S: the key decision
This is the real question in 2025. The Quest 3S costs only about $100 more than a discounted Quest 2 but adds a far faster chip, colour mixed reality and longer software support. Unless you find a Quest 2 for under $150, the 3S is the better long-term buy.
Who should still buy the Quest 2
Grab a Quest 2 if you find a steep discount, want a cheap second headset for guests, or are buying for a young child where you don't want to risk an expensive device. For everyone else, spend a little more on the 3S.