Should You Buy Apple Vision Pro?

The Apple Vision Pro, priced at $3,700, is a premium mixed reality headset that remains prohibitively expensive for many consumers. Reviews indicate it does not easily fit into existing workflows, and some users regret their purchase. However, it excels at watching movies, viewing 3D videos, and serving as a display for a Mac. The device is heavy at over 1.3 pounds, though the M5 model introduced a more comfortable Dual Knit Band with a top strap and counterweights to reduce fatigue. An external battery pack is required, and traveling with the headset can be cumbersome. Apple refreshed the Vision Pro with an M5 chip in October 2025, making now a good time to buy as a next-generation model is not expected for at least two years. Potential buyers are strongly advised to try the device at an Apple Store and conduct thorough research on available apps and content before purchasing.

Design and Display

The Vision Pro resembles ski goggles with a single piece of laminated glass and an aluminum alloy frame. A magnetic Light Seal blocks out light, and the Dual Knit Band provides a breathable, cushioned fit. Inside are two micro-OLED displays offering over 4K resolution per eye, totaling 23 million pixels. The M5 chip allows rendering 10% more pixels and supports up to 120Hz refresh rates for smoother visuals. An external EyeSight display shows the wearer’s eyes to others, indicating the level of immersion. Custom Zeiss prescription lens inserts are available for $149, and readers for $99.

Cameras, Sensors, and Navigation

The Vision Pro features 12 cameras and five sensors, including LiDAR, for hand tracking, head tracking, and 3D mapping. Navigation is entirely controller-free, relying on eye tracking, hand gestures, and voice commands. Optic ID uses iris scanning for authentication, similar to Face ID. A built-in 3D camera captures spatial photos and videos, with a clear indicator when recording is active. The headset also includes six microphones for audio and voice input.

Processors and Performance

The M5 chip (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU) and R1 chip handle processing. The M5 improves AI performance by up to 50% compared to the M2, with unified memory bandwidth of 153GB/s. The R1 processes sensor data in under 12 milliseconds for a lag-free view. The Vision Pro comes with 16GB RAM and storage options of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB. Battery life is up to 2.5 hours for general use and 3 hours for video playback, with a swappable external battery pack.

visionOS and Software Features

visionOS powers the device, offering a 3D interface controlled by eyes, hands, and voice. Apps can be placed anywhere in virtual space, and the level of immersion is adjustable with the Digital Crown. The latest visionOS 26 introduced persistent widgets and improved Personas. visionOS 27, coming September 2025, includes Siri AI with generative capabilities, Visual Intelligence, and enhanced writing tools. The Vision Pro can integrate with a Mac as a virtual 4K display, supporting Wide and Ultrawide modes (equivalent to two 4K displays side by side). Over 150 3D titles are available on Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade games can be played with Bluetooth controllers.

Additional Key Facts

• Price: Starting at $3,700 (increased from $3,499 due to global memory crisis).
• Availability: In multiple countries including US, Canada, UK, Japan, and China.
• No trade-in: Apple does not accept trade-ins for older M2 models.
• Box contents: Dual Knit Band, Light Seal with two cushions, cover, polishing cloth, battery, USB-C cable, and power adapter.
• Medical warnings: Consult a doctor if you have heart conditions, migraines, seizures, or other health issues. The battery pack may interfere with pacemakers.
• Future plans: Apple is reportedly developing AI-powered smart glasses (no display) for 2026-2027, and a cheaper headset may arrive in 2028-2029. Long-term AR glasses and even contact lenses are rumored for the 2030s.

Source:MacRumors News