Should You Buy the Vision Pro?
The Apple Vision Pro, priced at $3,500, is seen as prohibitively expensive for many consumers. Reviews highlight its challenging integration into everyday workflows, with some users expressing regret after purchase. While this headset excels in movie watching, viewing 3D videos, and serving as a Mac display, many struggle to find practical daily applications for it.
At over 1.3 pounds, the headset's weight may lead to fatigue, despite Apple’s efforts to enhance comfort with the newly introduced Dual Knit Band alongside the M5 chip. The external battery pack adds another layer of complexity, making travel cumbersome, especially with Apple's dedicated Travel Case.
Despite its high cost, the Vision Pro is Apple's most technically advanced product, showcasing incredible engineering. However, potential buyers are advised to test it at an Apple Store and conduct thorough research before investing. It is especially recommended for movie watching and content consumption, though it currently supports a limited selection of apps and games.
The device received a refresh with an M5 chip in October 2025, indicating now is an opportune time to purchase. Another iteration isn’t expected for at least two years, as development on the next-generation headset is reportedly paused.
- M2 vs. M5 Vision Pro: 20+ Differences Compared
Apple Vision Pro Overview
The Apple Vision Pro is positioned as a mixed reality headset, marking Apple's entry into a new product category since the Apple Watch in 2015. Launched initially in February 2024, the updated version with the M5 chip became available in October 2025.
Rather than simply a headset, Apple brands this device as a spatial computer, emphasizing its capacity to integrate digital content with physical surroundings. The Vision Pro can overlay augmented reality content onto the real world and deliver entirely virtual experiences, though it is important to note that the headset does not allow for see-through viewing.
Utilizing an on-device Digital Crown, users can switch between real and immersive environments. The design of the Vision Pro resembles high-end ski goggles, featuring a laminated glass front and an aluminum alloy frame, with a soft Light Seal that blocks out external light.
Equipped with two micro-OLED displays providing over 4K resolution to each eye, the headset offers a total of 23 million pixels. EyeSight technology displays the user's eyes externally, indicating whether they are in immersive mode or aware of their surroundings. For glasses wearers, custom Zeiss Optical Inserts can be magnetically attached to the lenses.
Without physical controllers, the Vision Pro operates using eye tracking, hand gestures, and voice commands. Users can navigate applications by simply looking at them and tapping their fingers to open.
With over a dozen cameras and sensors, the Vision Pro maps the environment and tracks hand and eye movements. The Optic ID feature scans the iris for authentication, providing security similar to Face ID and Touch ID.
Inside the headset, the M5 chip works alongside a unique R1 chip, enhancing graphics and handling visual processing efficiently. The headset can capture 3D photos and videos and create immersive experiences for users, with a clear indicator for recording.
Powering the Vision Pro is an external battery pack, providing about 2.5 hours of general use. It can also be connected to a power adapter for longer sessions.
How to Buy
The M5 Vision Pro is available through Apple's online store and retail locations in various countries, including Australia, Canada, and the U.S., with an expansion to Korea and Taiwan on November 28. Starting at $3,500 for the 256GB model, customers must complete a Face ID scan for proper fitting of the Light Seal and band.
Additional costs for Zeiss reading lenses are $99, while custom prescription lenses are $149, requiring a valid prescription upload post-purchase.
What's in the Box
The Vision Pro package includes a Dual Knit Band in various sizes, a Light Seal, two Light Seal Cushions, an Apple Vision Pro Cover, a Polishing Cloth, a battery, a USB-C charging cable, and a USB-C power adapter.
No Trade-Ins
Unfortunately, Apple does not offer trade-ins for older M2 Vision Pro models when upgrading to the M5 version.
Vision Pro Reviews
Reviewers have praised the comfort of the Dual Knit Band, finding it an improvement for extended use, alleviating pressure on the face and neck. While the weight distribution has improved, some still find the headset heavy.
In terms of performance, the M5 chip enhances overall functioning, minimizing lag and providing sharper visuals. The refresh rate has increased, resulting in smoother graphics and improved user experience.
How It Works
The Vision Pro is designed as a comprehensive mixed reality device, fully covering the eyes to provide an immersive experience. Equipped with advanced exterior and interior cameras, it maps the surrounding environment, effectively creating a digital image augmented by virtual elements.
Whether for work, gaming, or entertainment, the Vision Pro aims to revolutionize how users interact with technology in various settings.
Source: MacRumors News