Apr 22, 2025
RayNeo Air 3s Review: The Truth About These $399 AR Glasses
The RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) offers a budget-friendly entry into AR glasses technology at $269, with promotional discounts occasionally reducing the price to $219. These glasses deliver specifications that compete with more expensive alternatives in the market.
Analysis of the device shows a 1080p resolution per eye, 650 nits of brightness, and a virtual display that simulates a 201-inch screen. The quad-speaker arrangement provides 200% improved audio performance compared to previous models. Weighing just 2.8 ounces (76 grams), the glasses remain comfortable during extended usage sessions.
The review examines the display quality, audio capabilities, comfort factors, device compatibility, and overall value proposition of these AR glasses. Technical specifications, real-world performance, and comparison with competing products provide context for potential buyers considering this lower-priced AR option.
What is the RayNeo Air 3s?
The RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) represents the latest evolution in consumer AR glasses, officially unveiled at MWC 2025. These streamlined glasses incorporate advanced technology in an affordable package, targeting users seeking immersive viewing experiences without the premium price typically associated with AR products.
Overview of RayNeo and the Air 3s model
RayNeo emerged in 2021 as an innovative company incubated by TCL Electronics, focusing on developing cutting-edge AR consumer hardware and applications [8]. The company has achieved several technological breakthroughs since its inception, including launching the world's first full-color Micro-LED optical waveguide AR glasses [8].
The Air 3s demonstrates RayNeo's commitment to accessibility in AR technology. These glasses function primarily as a wearable display connecting to various devices via USB-C. Rather than offering full environmental mapping capabilities, the Air 3s creates a private, portable screen that simulates a 201-inch display projected six meters ahead [7].
The product retails at $269, with promotional discounts occasionally reducing the price to $219 [5]. Currently, the glasses are available in the US, Canada, and Japan markets [8].
Key specs at a glance
Technical specifications for the Air 3s stand out in the budget AR glasses segment:
Display: HueView™ micro-OLED with tandem OLED structure (two OLED panels) [10]
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 per eye with 120Hz refresh rate [5]
Color performance: 98% DCI-P3, 145% sRGB, color accuracy of ∆E<2
Contrast ratio: 200,000:1 (double that of many competitors) [10]
Brightness: 650 nits (to-eye brightness) [10]
Field of view: 47 degrees [5]
Audio: Quad-speaker setup in dual opposing acoustic chambers [5]
Weight: Only 2.8 ounces (76 grams) [5]
Connectivity: USB-C with DisplayPort support [5]
The glasses incorporate RayNeo's OptiCare™ technology with 3840 Hz DC+PWM dimming, designed to reduce eye strain during extended viewing sessions [5].
How it compares to RayNeo Air 2
The Air 3s delivers significant improvements over the previous RayNeo Air 2 model, offering enhanced specifications at a lower price point [10].
Display quality has advanced with RayNeo's HueView screen technology, producing more vibrant colors and deeper blacks [10]. Peak brightness has increased from 600 nits on previous models to 650 nits, improving visibility in brighter environments [10].
The most substantial upgrade appears in the audio system, with RayNeo claiming 200% better sound through its innovative quad-speaker arrangement [10]. The new Whisper Mode 2.0 reduces sound leakage, making these glasses more appropriate for public settings [5].
The Air 3s has eliminated edge blurriness issues that affected earlier models, resulting in clearer viewing across the entire field of vision [13]. The field of view has widened slightly to 47 degrees, compared to 46 degrees in previous models [13].
For gaming enthusiasts, the Air 3s can be paired with RayNeo's JoyDock accessory, transforming Nintendo Switch gameplay by expanding the small screen to an immersive 201-inch virtual display while extending battery life [5].
Display and Audio Performance
The RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) establishes new benchmarks for visual quality in budget AR glasses. The display technology delivers exceptional value relative to the price point.
Micro-OLED screen quality and brightness
RayNeo's advanced HueView™ technology sits at the core of the Air 3s, utilizing a micro-OLED screen with tandem OLED structure. This display architecture employs two overlapping OLED layers working in concert to emit light, resulting in improved stability and efficiency.
The glasses project a 201-inch virtual screen that appears to float approximately six meters ahead of the viewer. Peak brightness has increased to 650 nits from the previous model's 600 nits, enhancing content visibility across various lighting conditions.
A notable limitation affects most AR glasses - the semi-transparent display means bright environments can wash out the image. Outdoor use or well-lit rooms may require adjusted expectations for optimal viewing.
Color accuracy and contrast ratio
Color performance on the RayNeo Air 3s meets IMAX Enhanced criteria with impressive specifications:
98% DCI-P3 color accuracy
145% sRGB coverage
∆E<2 color accuracy
200,000:1 contrast ratio
This contrast ratio, double that of many competitors, produces deep blacks and vibrant colors that enhance content quality. Films and games display with cinema-quality color reproduction on this personal viewing system.
For extended viewing comfort, RayNeo implemented OptiCare™ technology with 3840 Hz DC and PWM dimming. This system reduces flickering and color instability across 20 brightness levels. TÜV SÜD certification confirms low blue light emission and flicker-free operation.
Quad-speaker setup and Whisper Mode 2.0
The most significant audio upgrade comes from the world's first dual opposing acoustic chamber design with four speakers - two positioned on each side.
This arrangement creates a synergistic effect that delivers 200% better sound compared to conventional two-speaker designs typically found in AR glasses. The audio quality provides clearer highs, more detailed mids, and deeper bass than expected from such a lightweight device.
For private listening, Whisper Mode 2.0 substantially reduces sound leakage. This feature makes the glasses suitable for public environments like planes, cafes, or shared workspaces. According to RayNeo, the system reduces sound leakage by up to 13 times compared to other designs.
Activating Whisper Mode requires pressing the menu button on the left temple to enter settings, navigating to "Whisper Mode" using the volume button, and toggling the feature on or off. At moderate volumes, nearby listeners cannot discern audio content, though higher volumes may still produce some sound leakage.
The combination of high-quality visuals and enhanced audio performance positions the RayNeo Air 3s as a compelling option for immersive media consumption at its price point.
Comfort, Design, and Build Quality
The RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) combines lightweight construction with practical design elements, distinguishing it within the budget AR glasses market.
Weight and adjustability
Weighing just 76 grams (2.8 ounces), the RayNeo Air 3s maintains a light presence during wear [15]. The balanced weight distribution—46.7% front and 53.3% rear—prevents the front-heavy sensation common in many AR glasses models [16].
RayNeo reduced clamping pressure by 15% compared to previous models, addressing discomfort issues typically associated with extended AR glasses use [2]. The 9-Point FlexiFit system serves as the primary comfort feature, offering extensive customization options:
Adjustable nose pads (two options included)
Three adjustable lens viewing angles
Customizable temple positioning
The lightweight construction presents one notable challenge—the USB-C cable can exert downward pressure on the right arm, potentially disrupting balance during active movement [4]. Proper adjustment of the nose pieces helps mitigate this issue.
Prescription lens compatibility
The RayNeo Air 3s provides comprehensive prescription support for corrective lens wearers. The device accommodates myopia ranging from 0 to -10.00D and astigmatism from 0 to -2.00D [1]. Users with prescriptions beyond these parameters may experience suboptimal visual correction.
Prescription lenses can be ordered through RayNeo's official optical partners [1]. Owners of prescription lenses for the RayNeo Air 2s will find them fully compatible with the Air 3s model [16].
The installation process requires attaching the prescription lens frame, included with the package, to the nose pad for stable visual performance [17].
Durability and materials used
The RayNeo Air 3s features plastic construction that minimizes weight but lacks premium tactile qualities [13]. A shaded, single-piece front lens with mirrored finish blocks 99.6% of external light, maintaining content privacy [18].
Unlike higher-end competitors, these glasses do not incorporate electrochromic dimming or separate physical light blockers, potentially limiting performance in bright environments [13]. The redesigned carrying case offers secure protection during transit, with sufficient capacity for the glasses, USB-C cable, and cleaning cloth [13].
A subtle design improvement appears in the removal of the FCC label from the exterior of the right arm, enhancing the overall aesthetic quality [13].
Compatibility and Use Cases
The RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) offers compatibility across more than 1,000 devices, functioning as a versatile display companion for numerous tech ecosystems. This wide-ranging compatibility makes these glasses suitable for multiple usage scenarios.
Supported devices and platforms
The RayNeo Air 3s connects to devices supporting DisplayPort output via USB-C. Compatible hardware includes:
Smartphones: Latest iPhones (15/16 series), Samsung Galaxy devices (note: Samsung phones must disable DEX mode first), OnePlus, OPPO, and Huawei models
Tablets: iPad Pro/Air, Galaxy Tab series, Surface devices
Computers: MacBooks (2015 and newer), Windows laptops, Chromebooks
Gaming: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PlayStation and Xbox (with adapters)
RayNeo provides HDMI-to-USB-C adapters for devices lacking native DisplayPort support, ensuring compatibility with older technology.
Best use scenarios: travel, gaming, work
Travel scenarios demonstrate the Air 3s' practical advantages. The private 201-inch virtual screen allows for comfortable movie viewing on planes or trains without neck strain. Several reviewers observe that many customers purchase these glasses specifically for travel and commuting purposes after initial demonstrations.
Nintendo Switch gaming improves significantly when paired with RayNeo's JoyDock accessory. This combination transforms the Switch's 8-inch screen into an immersive 201-inch display while providing 10,000 mAh additional battery capacity for extended gaming sessions.
Media consumption presents another ideal application. When linked to a Pocket TV or comparable streaming device, the glasses deliver access to content from Google TV, Hulu, YouTube, and other platforms, effectively creating a portable cinema.
iOS users receive an additional feature: the ability to view spatial videos and photos captured on iPhone 15/16 models in complete three-dimensional format.
Limitations in bright environments
Performance in well-lit settings represents the primary drawback. While the glasses block 99.6% of light, they lack physical light shades or electrochromic dimming technology. External light penetrates through the front-shaded portion, reducing contrast and brightness even at maximum settings.
This limitation means the RayNeo Air 3s functions best in indoor or dimly lit environments rather than outdoor settings with bright sunlight.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $269 (and occasionally discounted to $219), the RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) ranks among the most affordable AR glasses available. Analysis of this budget-friendly option reveals whether it delivers genuine value or compromises too heavily on features.
Comparison with Xreal and other AR glasses
The RayNeo Air 3s costs substantially less than its primary competitors. The Xreal One retails at $499 while the Xreal One Pro commands $599, positioning the Air 3s at roughly half the price of these alternatives.
The price differential corresponds to feature disparities between these products. Xreal models incorporate spatial computing capabilities through their custom X1 chip, providing 3DOF (degrees of freedom) tracking that enables users to pin screens in fixed spatial positions. This technology creates a more immersive experience, particularly beneficial for productivity applications.
Given this price gap, the Air 3s makes certain reasonable compromises. As a "no frills option", it lacks spatial computing features but compensates with impressive display and audio performance relative to its price point.
What you gain and what you miss
Purchasing the RayNeo Air 3s provides a bright, vivid 1080p picture through micro-OLED panels operating at 120Hz. The display quality offers 98% DCI-P3 coverage, ΔE<2 color accuracy, and a 200,000:1 contrast ratio.
The audio system features dual opposing acoustic chamber design that produces stronger bass, clearer mids, and crisper highs. Whisper Mode 2.0 ensures audio privacy in public environments.
Compared to higher-priced alternatives, the Air 3s lacks 3DOF capabilities found in Xreal glasses. It also omits electrochromic lenses for blocking out light, resulting in optimal performance in controlled lighting environments rather than bright outdoor settings.
A consistent theme emerges across user reviews - many consider these glasses "the best bang for your buck" in the AR glasses market.
Where to buy
The RayNeo Air 3s is available directly from RayNeo's online store for $269. Periodic promotions reduce the price to $219 on Amazon, enhancing the value proposition.
For consumers seeking an affordable entry point into quality AR glasses without spatial computing features, the Air 3s offers impressive audiovisual performance at a significantly lower price than competing products.
Conclusion
Analysis indicates the RayNeo Air 3s (check price on Amazon) delivers exceptional value in the AR glasses market. Despite lacking spatial computing features found in more expensive alternatives, these glasses excel in crucial areas - display quality and audio performance.
The technical specifications prove impressive for the price point. A bright 1080p screen with 200,000:1 contrast ratio combined with an innovative quad-speaker arrangement creates an effective entertainment system. Performance limitations appear primarily in bright environments, while indoor use and travel scenarios showcase the device's strengths through its 201-inch virtual screen experience.
The RayNeo Air 3s balances affordability and performance effectively. Priced at $269, with frequent discounts to $219, these glasses provide an accessible entry point into AR technology. The absence of premium features is offset by the solid core experience of private viewing with quality audio reproduction.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key features of the RayNeo Air 3s AR glasses? The RayNeo Air 3s offers a 1080p resolution per eye, 650 nits brightness, and a 201-inch virtual display. It features a quad-speaker setup, weighs only 2.8 ounces, and is compatible with over 1,000 devices through USB-C DisplayPort.
Q2. How does the display quality of the RayNeo Air 3s compare to other AR glasses? The RayNeo Air 3s boasts impressive display specs, including 98% DCI-P3 color accuracy, 145% sRGB coverage, and a 200,000:1 contrast ratio. This puts it on par with or even surpassing some more expensive competitors in terms of visual quality.
Q3. Are the RayNeo Air 3s comfortable for extended use? Yes, the RayNeo Air 3s are designed for comfort during long sessions. They feature a 9-Point FlexiFit system for customization, reduced clamping pressure, and a balanced weight distribution. However, some users may experience mild discomfort after a couple of hours of use.
Q4. What are the main limitations of the RayNeo Air 3s? The primary limitation is performance in bright environments. The glasses lack electrochromic dimming or physical light blockers, which can affect contrast and visibility outdoors or in well-lit spaces. Additionally, they don't offer spatial computing features found in more expensive AR glasses.
Q5. Is the RayNeo Air 3s worth its price? At $269 (often discounted to $219), the RayNeo Air 3s offers excellent value for its features. While it lacks some advanced capabilities of pricier models, it delivers impressive display quality, good audio, and wide device compatibility at a budget-friendly price point, making it a compelling option for many users.
References
[1] - https://www.rayneo.com/pages/about-us
[2] - https://www.zdnet.com/article/these-xr-glasses-gave-me-a-120-inch-screen-to-work-with-and-theyre-surprisingly-affordable/
[3] - https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/smart-glasses/rayneo-air-3s-xr-glasses-review
[4] - https://www.rayneo.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorEo5Sj27dteOU7CbIyQ7Z30Fyh6FkUyBs4HWVed5W-edt0a278
[5] - https://www.rayneo.com/en-ca/blogs/news/from-real-reviews-by-notebookcheck-mwc-2025-rayneo-air-3s-debut-as-more-affordable-yet-upgraded-xr-glasses-than-air-2s?srsltid=AfmBOookbPyAWRnJWs3BHNxk4lXCLLNQf2-X8_k7kYDMnH5ooIl-GWp4
[6] - https://www.tomshardware.com/peripherals/wearable-tech/rayneo-air-3s-ar-glasses-review
[7] - https://www.rayneo.com/products/rayneo-air-3s-xr-glasses?srsltid=AfmBOopUOO4UpoOVeWEmktj1IJ2JRVL9p-XV39DuLjpZrLjPzaEt2BGR
[8] - https://www.techradar.com/computing/virtual-reality-augmented-reality/rayneoair-3s-review-unbeatable-value-from-these-budget-ar-smart-glasses
[9] - https://www.rayneo.com/products/rayneo-air-3s-xr-glasses?srsltid=AfmBOoqxj-OHmc0KlcW1IZfuv_jprFxAkMQZ4lzPgx46gU6yjz1Kllws
[10] - https://www.rayneo.com/products/rayneo-air-3s-xr-glasses?srsltid=AfmBOoovyMC-zgQrFk91Kw4aAs0EXui_rnSIaH0KMvWNStPdjGjs4ajw
[11] - https://www.rayneo.com/blogs/news/from-real-reviews-by-xpert-rayneo-reveals-the-latest-xr-glasses-rayneo-air-3s-on-the-mwc-2025-a-sound-miracle-eye-friendly-and-immersive?srsltid=AfmBOorKxr-_dQUZ563SOZC9Mx5h_gSYF39kQHRqv1jvfR81535UfTJv
[12] - https://www.reddit.com/r/RayNeo/comments/1jz1muj/rayneo_air_3s_xr_glasses_an_honest_look/
[13] - https://www.rayneo.com/pages/prescription-lenses-purchase?srsltid=AfmBOopFQfG3IuAPHr7TKDQ1MwNU7j-I3eAXs71_NRQUQDw5nA8MSJwU
[14] - https://www.rayneo.com/pages/prescription-lenses-installation?srsltid=AfmBOord8uWLdbafUnvSsxVHumUUyGJE27bOAjeqEklrVyboII0kPu41
[15] - https://www.rayneo.com/products/rayneo-air-3s-xr-glasses?srsltid=AfmBOop4hO49P5i_N5usObnQgY3u_dV48HRavi8DGW-yHL8GvVHtikWk
