I Tested Apple’s New Spatial Computing Headset: Is the Vision Pro 2 Worth $3,500?

The Second Generation Arrives

When Apple announced the Vision Pro 2 at WWDC earlier this month, I was skeptical. The original Vision Pro was a technical marvel but a practical flop—too heavy, too expensive, and too isolating. The new version promises to fix those issues. At $3,499, it’s still eye-wateringly expensive, but I’ve been using it for a week, and I have to say, it’s a significant step forward. Let me break down what’s changed, what’s still annoying, and whether you should even consider buying one.

What’s New in the Vision Pro 2

The most obvious change is the weight. Apple shaved off about 100 grams, bringing it down to 550 grams. That doesn’t sound like much, but it makes a huge difference on your face. I could wear it for about two hours before feeling fatigued, compared to 30 minutes with the original. The new Solo Knit Band is more comfortable, and the light seal is better at blocking out external light. Apple also added a second USB-C port for external battery packs, which is a lifesaver for long sessions. The displays are still stunning—dual 4K micro-OLED panels that make virtual content look razor-sharp.

Performance: The M4 Ultra Chip Delivers

The Vision Pro 2 runs on Apple’s M4 Ultra chip, which is a beast. Apps launch instantly, and multitasking between virtual windows is smooth. I tried running multiple Safari tabs, a 4K video, and a 3D model all at once—no lag. The eye tracking is more accurate, and the hand gestures feel natural. I still find the lack of a physical controller limiting for intense gaming, but for productivity and media, it’s fine. The new passthrough mode is improved—the latency is lower, so moving around feels less disorienting.

Killer Apps and Use Cases

Apple has been working on software. The new “Spatial Workspaces” feature lets you create virtual monitors that float in your room. I connected my MacBook and extended my desktop across three virtual screens. It’s game-changing for productivity—I could write code, check emails, and browse docs simultaneously. For entertainment, the Apple TV+ app offers immersive 3D movies that feel like a private cinema. But the killer app is “Immersive FaceTime,” which scans your face and projects a realistic avatar. It’s creepy but effective for remote meetings. The problem? There aren’t enough third-party apps yet. Most developers are still waiting for the user base to grow.

The Social Awkwardness Factor

Let’s be real: wearing a headset in public is still weird. The Vision Pro 2 has an external display that shows your eyes (called EyeSight), but it’s still a bulky device on your face. I tried using it on a Zoom call, and colleagues said my avatar looked lifelike but alien. At a coffee shop, I got stares. Apple has made it lighter, but it hasn’t solved the social stigma. If you’re planning to use this mostly at home, it’s fine. But if you want to use it on the go, be prepared for weird looks.

Battery Life: Still a Weakness

The battery pack attaches via a cable, and it’s still clunky. I got about 3.5 hours of mixed use before needing to plug in. That’s better than the original’s 2 hours, but not enough for a full workday. The external battery pack can be swapped, but it’s not hot-swappable—you have to turn off the headset. For $3,500, I expect better. Apple should have integrated the battery into the headband like some competitors do.

How It Compares to Competitors

Meta’s Quest 4 costs $499 and does 80% of what the Vision Pro 2 does. It’s lighter, has better hand tracking, and a larger app library. But the Quest 4’s displays are lower resolution, and the passthrough is less sharp. The Vision Pro 2 is clearly superior for productivity and high-end media. But for gaming and social apps, the Quest 4 wins hands down. There’s also the upcoming Samsung/Google headset expected later this year, which might undercut Apple on price. The Vision Pro 2 is a luxury device, not a mass-market one.

Should You Buy It?

If you’re a developer, a creative professional, or a tech enthusiast with deep pockets, the Vision Pro 2 is a glimpse into the future of computing. It’s the best spatial computing device I’ve ever used. But for most people, it’s still too expensive and too niche. Wait for the third generation, or buy a Quest 4 and save $3,000. Apple has made progress, but the Vision Pro 2 is still a product for early adopters. I’m excited about its potential, but I’m not convinced it’s ready for the mainstream.