This burgeoning wearable tech category lets you talk to an AI assistant, listen to music, or check out a display screen right from the comfort of your very own face.I’ve had the opportunity to test a variety of smart glasses, with some proving to be excellent and others falling short.
One of the pairs I’ve tested is the RayNeo Air 3s Pro, priced at $299. This model, produced by TCL-owned RayNeo, features a 201-inch virtual screen with 1080p, 120 Hz, and 1200 nits. However, the 46-degree field of view is somewhat disappointing. The color vibrancy and brightness are significantly improved compared to previous models like the Air 2s and the older TCL RayNeo Air 2 XR Glasses. Despite some adjustments, I found that I had to slightly slide them down my nose to avoid blurring at the bottom of the screen. They also require a lens shade for use in brighter environments. While they are more affordable than other virtual-screen options, I found them lacking in design, fit, and comfort. RayNeo has added some new features, including spatial sound, but it didn’t work well for me. The standard sound, however, is satisfactory. The required software for 3 DoF is still unrefined and prone to bugs. Despite these drawbacks, they offer good value for money and are suitable for watching movies and light gaming.
Another pair I’ve tested is the Viture Luma Pro, priced at $499. With every new release of smart glasses, previous models instantly seem outdated, and this is no exception. The Viture Beast, although slightly more expensive, offers a superior display and an onboard chip, eliminating the need for the SpaceWalker app. If you’re a gamer, you might end up spending the money you saved by choosing the Luma Pro on accessories. However, if you’ve already spent your budget on games, the Luma Pro is a more affordable option for a small, portable screen suitable for travel.
The Engo3, priced at $400, is designed for high-performance athletes such as runners and cyclists. These sports sunglasses are impressively lightweight at only 38.5 grams. I tested the version with photochromic lenses, which adjust their transmittance based on ambient light. The glasses can be connected to a compatible Garmin or Apple Watch, and the heads-up display (HUD) can be customized to show real-time data during workouts. However, the HUD is located near the bridge of the nose, which can be distracting and uncomfortable.
Lastly, I tested the Chameleo Music Shield, priced at $260. These are the simplest smart glasses on this list, ideal for those who prefer a more minimalist design. If auto-transition photochromic lenses aren’t your style, these glasses offer a straightforward alternative.