The Meta Quest 3S has made a significant impact in the gaming world, surpassing industry giants like Xbox, PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch to become Amazon’s top-selling console of 2024. This achievement is especially notable given that the device launched only in October. As a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, the Quest 3S offers a compelling entry point into virtual reality, trading some hardware specifications for a significantly lower price—making VR more accessible to a broader audience.
Unlike traditional consoles, the Meta Quest 3S operates independently, requiring no connection to a high-end PC or gaming console. This wireless freedom allows users to move unrestricted during gameplay, a clear advantage over tethered systems like the PlayStation VR2. The standalone functionality, combined with an expanding library of engaging VR titles, has clearly resonated with consumers, fueling its strong sales performance.
Amazon’s 2024 Best-Seller Rankings: A VR Breakthrough
According to Amazon’s 2024 best-seller list, the Meta Quest 3S ranked #11 in the overall video games category—placing it above major competitors. The PlayStation 5 Slim followed at #17, while the Nintendo Switch came in at #53. Notably, no Xbox console appeared in the top 80, though Xbox accessories performed well. The PlayStation 5 Pro and the original Meta Quest 3 were also absent from the list. The only individual gaming products that ranked higher than the Quest 3S were the PlayStation DualSense controller (#9) and a Nintendo microSDXC card (#8).
The continued presence of the Meta Quest 2 at #27—despite being discontinued—further underscores consumer preference for budget-friendly VR options. This trend suggests that price plays a crucial role in driving adoption of virtual reality technology.
What This Means for the Future of VR
The success of the Meta Quest 3S on Amazon signals a growing mainstream interest in VR, even as the technology continues to evolve. With Sony’s PlayStation VR2 failing to gain similar traction on the platform, it’s clear that convenience, affordability, and ease of use are key factors influencing buyer decisions. As anticipation builds for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025, it remains to be seen whether it will challenge VR’s rising momentum. However, 2024’s results undeniably mark a turning point—virtual reality is no longer a niche curiosity, but a competitive force in the gaming market.
[ttpp] Meta Quest 3S – $349 at Amazon | $350 at Best Buy (List Price: $400, Save $51)
