Virtual reality has come a long way, and the Meta Quest 4 is the latest headset aiming to push the boundaries even further. With improved hardware, new features, and a growing library of VR experiences, it promises to be a game-changer. But does it live up to the hype? In this honest review, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and whether the Meta Quest 4 is worth your hard-earned money.
Design and Comfort
The Meta Quest 4 builds on the sleek, minimalist design of its predecessor but with notable refinements. The headset is lighter and more balanced, reducing strain during extended play sessions. The adjustable head strap now features a dial mechanism for a snug fit, and the facial interface is softer, making it more comfortable for users with glasses.
However, there are still some drawbacks. While the weight distribution is better, the headset can feel front-heavy after an hour or two. The built-in speakers are decent but lack the depth of dedicated headphones, and the battery life, though improved, still limits longer gaming marathons without a power bank.
Display and Performance
The Meta Quest 4 boasts a higher-resolution display with a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, delivering sharper visuals and reduced motion blur. Colors are vibrant, and the field of view has been slightly expanded, making the experience more immersive. Whether you’re exploring virtual worlds or watching 3D movies, the visual fidelity is impressive.
Under the hood, the new Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset provides a noticeable performance boost. Games load faster, and graphical details are crisper. However, while the hardware is powerful, some users report occasional overheating during intensive sessions, which can lead to throttling and performance dips.
Controllers and Tracking
The redesigned Touch Pro controllers are a highlight of the Meta Quest 4. They’re ergonomic, responsive, and feature improved haptic feedback, making interactions feel more natural. Finger-tracking is more precise, allowing for subtle gestures like pointing or gripping objects with greater accuracy.
Inside-out tracking remains reliable, with minimal lag or drift. The addition of extra sensors helps maintain stability even in low-light conditions. That said, the controllers still rely on batteries, which can be a hassle compared to rechargeable alternatives. Some users also note that the tracking can occasionally glitch when hands are held too close to the headset.
Software and Content Library
The Meta Quest 4 runs on an updated version of Meta’s VR OS, offering a more intuitive interface and better multitasking capabilities. The app library continues to expand, with exclusive titles like Asgard’s Wrath 2 and Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR showcasing the headset’s potential. Social features, such as Horizon Worlds, are also more polished, making virtual hangouts smoother.
Despite these strengths, the platform isn’t without its flaws. Some apps still feel like tech demos rather than full-fledged experiences, and the store’s pricing can be steep for shorter games. Additionally, while sideloading is possible, the process isn’t as seamless as on PC-based VR systems.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The Meta Quest 4 offers a modest improvement in battery life, lasting around 2-3 hours depending on usage. While this is enough for most gaming sessions, power users will need an external battery pack for extended play. Fast charging helps, but it’s still a limitation for those who want uninterrupted VR immersion.
Wireless connectivity is strong, with Wi-Fi 6E support ensuring smoother streaming and multiplayer experiences. The headset also supports PC VR via Air Link or a USB-C cable, though latency can vary based on your network setup. For those who prefer wired connections, the lack of a DisplayPort input might be disappointing.
Conclusion: Is the Meta Quest 4 Worth It?
The Meta Quest 4 is a solid upgrade, offering better visuals, performance, and comfort than its predecessors. It’s an excellent choice for both VR newcomers and enthusiasts, especially if you value wireless freedom and a growing content library. However, it’s not perfect—battery life remains a limitation, and some software experiences still feel underdeveloped.
If you already own a Quest 3, the upgrade might not be essential unless you crave the latest specs. But for those new to VR or coming from older headsets, the Meta Quest 4 delivers a compelling, high-quality experience that justifies its price tag. Just be prepared for a few compromises along the way.