There are so many smart glasses, and there’s so little time. Between augmented, virtual, mixed, and extended reality glasses, there are almost too many options to choose from. We're rounding up the three best smart glasses sets from each category.
Our team will compare these products based on build quality, battery life, sound quality, functionality, software integration, and price. We aim to help you understand how these technologies can enhance your daily life, from leisure time to professional workflow.
This guide will cover all the bases, whether you're looking for the most cutting-edge technology or a budget-friendly option. Ready to determine which smart glasses will be the most popular in 2024?
What Different Types of Smart Glasses Will This Article Cover?
AR Smart Glasses (Augmented Reality)
Augmented reality glasses display digital content overtop of one’s regular view of the outside world, enhancing one’s understanding of the surrounding environment without isolating one from it.
These glasses are ideal for interactive tasks and accessing real-time information while keeping one's surroundings visible.
VR Smart Glasses (Virtual Reality)
VR glasses offer a fully immersive experience by displaying a digital environment that covers your complete field of vision. These glasses are used primarily for gaming, virtual tours, or training simulations. Virtual reality glasses are the way to go if you want an immersive experience without distractions in your peripheral vision.
MR Smart Glasses (Mixed Reality)
Mixed reality glasses blend elements of AR and VR glasses, creating a hybrid environment where real and virtual elements interact. These glasses are suited for collaborative projects and advanced training simulations.
XR Smart Glasses (Extended Reality)
Extended reality is an umbrella term encompassing virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. Only a few smart glasses on the market today fall into this category, so we'll be devoting this section to three models offering unique experiences that don't quite fit into the conventional categories delineated by VR, AR, or MR.
In this article:
Best Smart Glasses in 2024
Our Top Picks for the Best Augmented Reality Glasses
Top Pick: MyW AR Glasses
Unsurprisingly, our pick for the best smart glasses goes to our MyW AR Glasses. We have experience in this business, and we’ve bundled the fruits of all the crucial lessons it taught us into our flagship product. When looking for smart glasses that enhance and completely change how you consume media, MyW AR glasses are a terrific choice.
If you want to stream content from Netflix, YouTube, or other popular streaming services, you can do it all while maintaining situational awareness and engaging with your environment. It's like having a "cinema on the go" with a large-screen experience wherever you are, enhanced by dynamic stereo sound from built-in speakers.
What makes MyW AR glasses unique is that, unlike most other smart glasses, they are a tool for entertainment, productivity, and creativity.
- A built-in 13MP camera lets you record life's precious moments with a hands-free first-person perspective.
- Real-time, multi-language translation software can seamlessly translate 50 languages and instantly transform how you interact during travel or work.
- Wi-fi and Bluetooth capabilities allow you to browse the web or download almost any app directly from the Google Play store to your smart glasses.
- A wireless remote control with a keyboard helps simplify navigation, while the MyW app allows you to connect to your smartphone seamlessly.
- The MyW fits comfortably over regular glasses for those requiring prescription lenses, so you’ll never miss a single detail of your augmented display.
- Optional polarized lenses shield your eyes from harsh indoor and outdoor light.
Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in a movie, capture your view of the world, or enjoy the power of highly advanced apps projected right in front of your eyes, MyW AR Glasses offer an unparalleled augmented reality experience.
XREAL Air
The XREAL Air promises an "IMAX video experience” anywhere you go. Whether you're a gaming enthusiast or a lover of immersive entertainment, these glasses are designed specifically for you.
They feature the latest micro-OLED panels from SONY and use a proprietary optic engine to deliver some of the highest resolutions and most accurate color profiles available. Directional Audio technology helps to reduce sound dispersion and offers better privacy, with minimal disturbance of other people in your area.
One thing to note is that the glasses utilize XREAL's proprietary Nebula software, which provides the operating environment for AR apps built with the REAL SDK. Unfortunately, many users report that the software regularly crashes and requires frequent reboots. One user even returned the glasses because the software was “unusable.”
Apple Vision Pro
The latest and greatest (and most expensive) Apple consumer product to hit the market promises to set a new benchmark for augmented reality smart glasses. With these glasses, you can navigate simply by using your voice or eyes, allowing a seamless blending of digital content and your physical space.
Each Vision Pro also comes with Apple's first 3D camera, allowing you to capture spatial photos and videos in full 3D. This functionality makes it perfect for collaborating and connecting with coworkers or loved ones.
The device’s "light seal" gently conforms to your face and delivers a precise fit that blocks stray and peripheral light. Additionally, you can add reading glasses or prescription glasses lens inserts for crystal clarity.
Just remember this is an Apple product, meaning you will pay a premium for all this functionality. Also, it's artificially and needlessly restricted to the Apple ecosystem, so if you're an Android or PC user, you'll probably want to consider an alternative.
Lastly, there's the price. Even though the Vision Pro isn't strictly marketed as a professional augmented reality headset, its price surpasses the cost of some business smart glasses we'll cover below. If you're willing to spend a premium price for a premium experience, the Vision Pro aims to meet that expectation.
Our Top Picks for the Best Virtual Reality Glasses
Meta Quest 3
The Meta Quest 3 is one of the best virtual display glasses on the market today. These VR glasses offer a unique feature: Meta AI.
Each headset has a pair of high-resolution microdisplays providing crisp visuals that enhance the realism of VR environments. Integrating the Meta View app creates a seamless connection with your Meta account, allowing you to personalize the VR experience to your liking.
Audio quality is another talking point for Meta Quest 3. While the headset’s sound reproduction is clear and satisfying, the positioning of the speakers allows a fair amount of ambient noise to seep through. And unlike other VR headsets — such as the Sony Playstation VR2 — dedicated headphones are not part of Meta’s base model.
It's important to note that some users experienced eye strain during extended sessions using these displays, a common complaint with most VR headsets. Additionally, while the headsets accommodate users who wear glasses, those with larger frames might find the fit a bit uncomfortable.
If you're looking for a VR headset designed explicitly for gaming, consider one of the two options listed below. The Meta Quest 3 headset is a solid choice if you want a well-rounded experience that straps the full power of Meta AI to your face.
Sony PlayStation VR2
If you're a PS5 owner looking for a dedicated VR gaming experience, you can't go wrong with a PlayStation VR2. With high-definition lenses and graphics driven by the PS5, virtual gaming worlds have never looked crisper or more precise.
The PSVR2 has four embedded cameras that track exactly where your head is positioned at all times. This tracking allows for smooth and responsive gaming and is a significant improvement over the original PSVR, which required a PS4 HD camera to track the user’s movements via LEDs.
The new headset’s ergonomic design makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods, even if you have to wear regular glasses underneath. If you're a gamer looking for a reasonably priced mid-range device, the PSVR2 is a significant upgrade from the last model in terms of tech and features.
Unlike most other devices on this list, the PSVR2 has severe ecosystem limitations. You can only use it if you own a PS5; even then, you're limited to PlayStation-approved apps. These restrictions might feel constraining if you seek a more open VR platform.
Valve Index VR Kit
The Valve Index VR is the way to go if you're looking for the highest-fidelity, highest-build quality virtual reality experience. This device targets VR enthusiasts who prioritize the best visual and audio quality.
The headset's vibrant and clear display greatly enhances visual immersion in VR environments. It sports a high refresh rate, which helps significantly reduce motion blur and may also help alleviate the motion sickness many users experience when using VR headsets.
Remember that the Valve Index VR's premium nature means you also pay a premium price. You can purchase individual pieces in sequence to spread the cost over time but will sacrifice certain functionality until you have the whole set.
Additionally, most high-end gaming experiences require the added horsepower of a dedicated PC to function, making the combined package far more expensive than the PSVR2.
If your budget is not a concern and you want the top-tier VR experience, the Valve Index VR Kit might be just what you're looking for.
Shop the Valve Index VR Kit here
Our Top Picks for the Best Mixed Reality Glasses
Microsoft HoloLens2
Designed with productivity in mind, the Microsoft HoloLens2 is the premier device in the mixed reality category. It offers users a blend of digital and physical interaction in a pair of highly sophisticated glasses.
Specifically designed to enhance collaboration in professional or educational settings, the HoloLens can project high-definition holograms into the user's field of vision for precise, efficient hands-free work.
This headset is designed for manufacturing, engineering, construction, and healthcare workers and is one of this list's most comfortable and ergonomic devices. It is lighter, more balanced, and has a better field of view than the original HoloLens.
Like Valve's VR headset, the HoloLens2 is expensive, which may keep it out of reach for casual users or smaller businesses. Additionally, while it excels in professional and educational settings, it shouldn't be your first choice if you're looking for entertainment-focused mixed-reality experiences.
If you're interested in experiencing the most cutting-edge mixed reality technology in a strictly professional setting, the Microsoft HoloLens2 is a good choice.
Shop the Microsoft HoloLens 2 here
Magic Leap 2
The Magic Leap 2 is a close second when evaluating the best mixed-reality headsets. Much like Microsoft's device, it targets professionals in healthcare, manufacturing, and design. By allowing users to visualize and manipulate 3D models and other data, the device lets workers keep their hands free to focus on manual tasks.
The design is light and ergonomic, so head movements aren't as constricted as they are by many other mixed-reality devices. You get the same crisp visuals and sound quality you'd expect from such a premium device, as well as enhanced spatial awareness capabilities thanks to advanced sensors and AI features.
Much like the HoloLens2, the Magic Leap 2 is a niche device that will only satisfy users' needs in professional settings. There are much more affordable alternatives if you want to relax on your sofa and dig into the latest Netflix series. Also, the application library must still catch up to the ecosystems offered by larger competitors like Microsoft or Apple.
The Magic Leap 2 is a solid choice among the top smart glasses for professionals or educators. It provides robust capabilities — if you can justify the cost.
See a list of Magic Leap 2 authorized resellers here
Varjo XR-4
The Varjo XR-4 is an interesting device. It is clearly designed for professional use and offers some of the highest-quality visual fidelity and immersion of any device on the market.
At the same time, the Varjo XR-4 has garnered considerable attention from gamers for its high resolution. The headset boasts an impressive smart glasses display with an ultra-high resolution of 3840 x 3744 per eye (compared to 1440 x 1600 per eye in the Valve Index).
Unfortunately, the device suffers from software issues, including compatibility problems and frequent crashes — with both Varjo's proprietary software and SteamVR. Users also complain that the device is front-heavy and uncomfortable for extended use.
On paper, the Varjo XR-4 sounds like a powerhouse mixed-reality device, but the software issues and uncomfortable ergonomics may make it difficult for most users to use.
Our Top Picks for the Most Unique Smart Glasses (Honorable Mentions)
Lucyd Smart Eyewear
Are you looking for smart glasses that are compatible with your prescription lenses? How about a pair of stylish smart sunglasses that can be worn discreetly in public? If so, Lucyd Smart Eyewear is a good option.
Lucyd’s device is unique in that it's enhanced by a ChatGPT AI voice assistant. Designed to keep users' eyes away from their phone screens and focused on the world around them, the assistant allows users to take calls, play music, and connect with Siri.
It's worth mentioning that Lucyd eyewear ONLY works with iOS devices, so you'll need to find another option if you're an Android user. Additionally, many customers felt the audio quality could have improved compared to competitor brands.
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
Are you looking for glasses with a tried-and-true classic style? These Ray-Bans might look like regular glasses, but deliver much more than just fashion. With an array of intelligent features powered by Meta AI, you can view notifications, take calls, control music, and access virtual assistants directly from the frame.
However, these Ray Bans do come with a couple of minor drawbacks. For one, some users find the battery life limited, especially with heavy use throughout the day. Additionally, the glasses have minimal functionality without the Meta View app. Users who do not wish to download additional Meta software may be unable to utilize all the features these Ray Bans offer.
These are a solid choice for anyone looking for more discreet, fashionable, and wearable smart glasses.
Shop Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses here
VITURE XR Display Glasses
These glasses are designed to bring you a high-definition augmented reality experience wherever you go. Whether you want to watch movies, play games, or listen to music, VITURE's XR Display Glasses have you covered.
Dimmable electrochromatic film allows easy lens adjustments for the best quality video—day or night. The glasses also include Harman AudioEFX and support for Apple's Spatial Video. Many gaming-optimized apps work perfectly with the VITURE XR glasses, making them ideal for gamers who want to play in different environments.
The device relies on the SpaceWalker app to access its multi-screen functionality. Unfortunately, some users report that the app didn't work as intended and that getting a clear image with specific devices — like a MacBook Pro — was impossible.
Shop VITURE XR Display Glasses here
FAQs
What Are Smart Glasses?
Smart glasses are wearable computer screens that enhance what the wearer sees around themselves by displaying digital images over other items in one’s field of view.
Just as regular glasses improve visual clarity, these digital images augment reality and provide interactive data like navigation prompts, notifications, and real-time translations, improving mental clarity regarding your surroundings.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Smart Glasses?
The most crucial factor when choosing the best smart glasses is their intended use. For example, battery life may be an essential consideration for most people who plan to use their glasses on the go but not for gamers who will have their glasses tethered to a game console or PC.
What Are the Best Smart Glasses?
The best smart glasses will depend on your specific needs and preferences. For augmented mixed-use scenarios, augmented reality glasses like the MyW AR glasses are highly regarded for their advanced features and multiple applications.
If you're primarily into gaming, a dedicated gaming headset like the Valve Index VR or Playstation VR2 might be better suited to your needs.
What Is the Typical Price of Smart Glasses?
Prices for smart glasses vary widely based on brand name, technology, and features. Entry-level models designed for entertainment often start around $400, while advanced versions equipped with technology for professional work could exceed $3000. Again, your price for smart glasses will largely depend on the intended use.
What Are the Potential Use Cases of Smart Glasses?
Since smart glasses are still an emerging technology, the use cases are practically limitless. From the early days of Google Glass to the recent release of the Apple Vision Pro, new technology has significantly expanded the possibilities. We expect to see smart glasses used in various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and education, in the future.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Smart Glasses?
Wearable smart glasses offer enhanced productivity by providing hands-free access to information. This access can boost efficiency and output, especially in professional settings. For home entertainment, these devices can deliver immersive experiences that open new ways for users to engage with digital content.
However, there are some drawbacks to using wearable smart glasses. Privacy concerns are particularly troubling, as the ability to record video or take photos discreetly can lead to privacy violations if used unethically. Additionally, user comfort can be challenging since many smart glasses are large and uncomfortable for extended use.
Are Smart Glasses Safe for You?
While smart glasses are generally considered safe, you should always take certain precautions. Read the instruction manual thoroughly and be mindful of prolonged use. Eye strain and fatigue are common when using smart glasses for extended periods, and physical injuries can occur if you misuse smart glasses.
You should be fine if you follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use common sense when using these devices.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Smart Glasses for You
With the countless smart lens glasses available today, there's something for practically everyone. We hope this list left you with several options, from the style-conscious to the tech-savvy.
While finding a device that balances entertainment and real-world functionality can sometimes be difficult, the MyW AR glasses do just that. Whether you're looking to kick back and enjoy a movie or need a tool to keep you connected and productive on the go, MyW AR is designed to integrate seamlessly into your lifestyle.
If you've been holding out on getting a pair of smart glasses, now is the perfect time to discover how the MyW AR glasses can enrich your everyday life.