After years of following the evolution of virtual reality , I've seen grand promises fade and promising technologies fall by the wayside. I've tested every type of headset, from rudimentary prototypes to the most advanced devices on the market. And while the Meta Quest 3 and 3s represent a significant step forward in terms of ease of use and price, I think it's essential to approach the issue of accessories with a healthy amount of skepticism.
Big tech companies love to sell us on the idea that we need a myriad of add-ons to "maximize" our experience. But which accessories really make a difference, and which are mere "money-grubbing" designed to fatten their coffers? In this article, I'll share my personal perspective, based on years of experience in the VR world, on the accessories I consider to be the best. essential for Meta Quest 3 (and 3s), especially from the perspective of the Chilean user, taking into account factors such as price, availability and conditions of our market.
Comfort: The Achilles Heel of Virtual Reality (and How to Mitigate It)
I've tried many headsets over the years, and discomfort has been a constant. The standard elastic strap that comes with most headsets, including the Meta Quest, simply isn't sufficient for long gaming sessions. They distribute weight unevenly, put pressure on your face and neck, and can cause fatigue and headaches.
Therefore, I consider that a high quality head strap It's the first accessory you should invest in. I've tried several options, and my personal recommendation is to look for a strap that offers:
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Good lumbar support: Distributes weight more evenly and reduces pressure on the face.
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Precise fit: Allows you to adapt the strap to the shape of your head for a comfortable and secure fit.
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Breathable materials: They prevent the accumulation of sweat and improve comfort.
As for the facial pads I consider it to be more of a personal matter. If the standard pad is uncomfortable for you, you can opt for one made of softer, more breathable materials, such as synthetic leather or memory foam. However, I don't consider it a must-have accessory.
Power: Battery, the Inevitable Limitation (and How to Alleviate It)
Battery life is another major limitation of the Meta Quest headset. If you're someone who enjoys marathon gaming sessions, a external battery It is an essential accessory.
When choosing a power bank, keep in mind:
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Ability: Look for a battery that offers at least twice the capacity of the headset's internal battery.
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Compatibility: Make sure the battery is compatible with the Quest 3 (or 3s).
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Weight: A battery that is too heavy can be uncomfortable to carry.
In my experience, a well-chosen power bank can make the difference between an interrupted gaming session and full immersion in the virtual world.
Protection: Prevention is the Best Investment (Especially in Chile)
VR headsets are delicate and expensive devices, and repairs are often costly and complicated. Therefore, investing in protective accessories is a wise decision.
A hard carrying case It's essential to protect the headset during transport and storage. Look for a case that's shock- and water-resistant and offers enough space to store the headset, controllers, and other accessories.
I also highly recommend using lens protectors to prevent scratches or dirt. Scratched lenses can significantly affect image quality and reduce immersion.
In the Chilean context, where the availability of spare parts and specialized technical services may be limited, visor protection becomes even more important.
Immersion: Sound is Half the Battle (and Sometimes Forgotten)
While image quality is key, sound plays a crucial role in virtual reality immersion. The Meta Quest's built-in speakers are decent, but they don't offer the same audio quality as a good headset.
Therefore, I recommend investing in some noise-cancelling headphones designed specifically for VR. Look for a headset that offers:
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High quality sound: For an immersive and detailed audio experience.
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Active noise cancellation: To block out external distractions and focus on the game or experience.
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Comfort: To be able to use them for long periods without discomfort.
You can also opt for some in-ear headphones (IEMs) with a short cable to avoid tangles. However, in my experience, active noise cancellation is essential for true VR immersion.
What You Don't Need (or at least not at first):
While there are many other accessories for Meta Quest, I consider them less important than those mentioned above. Some examples are:
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Controller covers: They can improve grip, but are not essential.
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Additional motion sensors: The Quest uses an "inside-out" tracking system that works quite well without external sensors.
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Touch mats: They can improve immersion in certain games, but they are expensive and take up space.
In my opinion, it's best to invest first in the accessories that truly improve comfort, battery life, and audio quality. The rest are add-ons you can consider later if you feel the need for them.
The Key Factor: The Content
Beyond accessories, the most important thing for enjoying virtual reality is, obviously, the content. Good accessories can't make up for a poorly designed game or experience. Therefore, I recommend investing time in the Quest store and discovering games and apps that interest you.
I also recommend trying different types of experiences, from action-adventure games to simulations and educational apps. Virtual reality offers a world of possibilities, and there's something for everyone.
The Chilean Market: Final Considerations
Before purchasing any accessory, I recommend researching prices and availability in Chile. Compare prices at different online and physical stores, and read reviews from other Chilean users to ensure you're making the best decision.
It's also important to consider shipping and import costs, especially if you're purchasing accessories from abroad. That's why GSMPRO.CL is always the best option.
Prioritize the Essential, Experiment and Enjoy
Virtual reality is an exciting technology with enormous potential. However, it's important to approach the issue of accessories with a healthy degree of skepticism and focus on those that truly enhance the user experience.
Prioritize comfort, battery life, and audio quality, explore different types of content, and most of all, enjoy the ride! The world of virtual reality is constantly evolving, and there's always something new to discover.
What are your favorite accessories for Meta Quest ? What tips do you have for new VR users in Chile? Share your thoughts in the comments.