Apple’s inaugural AR-VR headset, the Apple Vision Pro, signifies the tech giant’s foray into a still-developing market segment. Traditionally, Apple has been deliberate in entering markets, opting to wait for maturation before introducing its products. However, with the Vision Pro and the innovative visionOS, Apple is confidently stepping into the arena, impressing early reviewers with its sleek design. In this article, we explore the weight of the Vision Pro headset, delving into its specific measurements and detailing Apple’s strategies to ensure it remains comfortably lightweight and snug when worn.
How much Apple Vision Pro weighs?
Apple has officially revealed the weight of the Vision Pro, ranging from 21.2 to 22.9 ounces, approximately 600 to 650 grams. The weight discrepancy is attributed to distinct Light Seal and headband configurations. Additionally, the battery, as a separate component, has a weight of 353 grams.
Apple maintained a low profile regarding the weight of the Vision Pro, disclosing it only upon the device’s public release. Initial evaluators who had the opportunity to test the product observed its substantial weight, although not all expressed discomfort. Consumer perspectives on this aspect naturally differ.
How does the Apple Vision Pro compare to the competition for its weight?
Apple Vision Pro faces its main competitors among VR devices, such as the Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest Pro, HTC VIVE Pro 2, Sony PlayStation VR 2, and Valve Index. We are not considering AR-only devices to ensure a fair comparison.
| Announced | Weight | Price | |
| Apple Vision Pro | June 2023 | 600-650g (headset), plus 353g (battery) | $3,499 |
| Meta Quest Pro | October 2022 | 722g | Starts at $1,000 |
| Meta Quest 2 | September 2020 | 503g | Starts at $300 |
| Sony PlayStation VR 2 | November 2022 | 560g | $550 |
| HTC VIVE XR Elite | January 2023 | 625g | $1,099 |
| HTC VIVE Pro 2 | May 2021 | 850g | $1,399 |
| Valve Index | April 2019 | 810g | $999 |
| HP Reverb G2 | Refreshed in October 2021 | 550 | $599 |
The Apple Vision Pro appears relatively weighty, particularly when juxtaposed with its contemporary counterparts. When factoring in the battery weight, it ranks among the heftier VR headsets available, although it’s worth mentioning that the battery isn’t worn on the head. Nonetheless, wearing it will be necessary for unrestricted movement.
Certain competitors to the Vision Pro exhibit considerable weight when considering only the headset’s mass, notably the recently unveiled Meta Quest Pro. Thus, the Apple Vision Pro appears to hold a comparative edge in this aspect, although pricing may sway preferences toward the competition.
It’s worth emphasizing that the Vision Pro stands as a self-contained AR-VR headset, eliminating the need for external computer connections. In this regard, the headset’s weight becomes particularly noteworthy and commendable.
Apple made a clever move by separating the battery from the headset, reducing the weight of the head element, while allowing the body to comfortably manage the weight of the battery pack.
Is the Apple Vision Pro comfortable to wear?
Apple prioritizes comfort with the Apple Vision Pro. In terms of general feedback, users tend to notice the headset’s weight, particularly during extended wear. However, for shorter durations (under half an hour), discomfort is minimal, and users can adapt. Notably front-heavy, the headset comes with two included straps, the Solo Knit Band and the Dual Loop Band, both bundled with the $3,499 price—a departure from Apple’s typical pricing structure.
The Solo Knit Band, featured in marketing materials, contrasts with the preferred Dual Loop Band. Priced at $3,499, this inclusion stands out as unusual for Apple. Users find the Dual Loop Band superior in weight distribution, allowing for prolonged use of the Vision Pro without causing fatigue.
While the supplementary strap may not enhance the visual appeal of the headset, it significantly contributes to keeping it securely fastened to your face. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in distributing the headset’s weight, alleviating the front-heaviness and ensuring a more balanced feel.
Even with the singular Solo Loop strap, Apple has prioritized user comfort. The Solo Loop strap offers padding, breathability, and elasticity. A dial located on the headset’s right side enables users to adjust the strap’s tightness for a precise and comfortable fit.
Comfort considerations extend to the front of the headset as well. Apple has ingeniously designed a modular system for the face cushion, known as Light Seal, ensuring a customizable fit that accommodates various facial features. As is characteristic of Apple products, the face cushion is crafted from a soft textile and comes in diverse shapes and sizes.
It is evident that Apple places a strong emphasis on comfort as a fundamental element in its vision for spatial computing. The evolution of consumer perception throughout the device’s extended lifecycle remains to be observed.
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