Here's the best smart glasses you can buy in 2024!
Hey everyone, it’s time to talk about the latest trend in tech: Smart glasses. These innovative gadgets are set to change how we interact with our digital world and possibly even replace mobile phones. It's all about connecting what you see on your screen with the world around you, in a way that's more seamless than ever.
In this guide, we're breaking down what really matters in smart glasses. We'll cover everything from essential features and specs to how they can actually make a difference in your daily life. But most importantly, we’re doing what Heyup does best– We’ve scoured the tech world and found the best smart glasses in 2024 that money can buy. This list includes not only the best tech for your face but also the most affordable AR glasses.
Ready to see what the future looks like? Join us as we walk through the world of AR smart glasses. Let's get started!
What to Look for in the Best AR Glasses?
Augmented Reality (AR) blends digital images with the real world to create a unified experience. It's set to transform everything from entertainment and education to healthcare and manufacturing.
AR glasses are the next big thing in wearable tech. They let you see digital info in your actual surroundings. Think of it as a hands-free, immersive way to mingle with virtual objects. Here's what they can do:
Entertainment
Level up gaming, stream videos, and get interactive.
Productivity & Communication
Get notifications without using your hands, find your way easily, and boost your work environment.
Learning & Training
Dive into immersive learning, try virtual simulations, and work together, even from afar.
Healthcare
See medical images clearer, get surgical guidance, and monitor patients remotely.
Retail & Customer Service
Try products virtually, enjoy interactive shopping, and get better service.
Navigation & Mapping
Get real-time help finding places and learn more about locations.
Socializing
Make your social interactions richer with virtual elements.
What are the Key Features of the Best AR Glasses?
Display Tech
Look for waveguide optics for comfort, MicroLED for clear images, or holographic displays for a deeper experience.
Field of View (FOV)
A wider FOV means more immersion but needs more power.
Resolution & Image Quality
The sharper and more lifelike, the better.
Processing Power
You want smooth, glitch-free performance.
Sensors & Tracking
These help the glasses understand and interact with your surroundings.
Battery Life
Longer is better, or consider external power sources.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE are key for online access.
Software & Apps
A diverse app ecosystem broadens your AR experience.
Compatibility
Make sure they work with your devices and OS.
Design & Comfort
Look for a good fit and style that suits you.
How are People Using AR Glasses?
Entertainment
Using AR Glasses for gaming is increasingly popular. You can also stream interactive videos, and enjoy augmented live performances.
Work & Communication
Stay updated hands-free, navigate with ease, and collaborate virtually.
Education & Training
Engage with 3D models, interactive texts, and remote guidance.
Healthcare
Enhance medical imaging and surgeries with AR precision.
What are the best AR Glasses?
Now we come to the nitty-gritty of this article: Heyup's personally curated list of the best Smart Glasses money can buy. Our team has meticulously selected a variety of models that strike the perfect balance between sleek design and the latest technology. Let's dive in!
XREAL Air 2: A New Vision in AR
The XREAL Air 2 stands out in the smart glasses landscape with its combination of Sony's latest micro OLED displays, offering a crisp 1080p resolution and up to 120Hz refresh rate. At £399 / $399, it's a competitively priced entry into the world of AR glasses.
What's New?
- Brighter displays at 500 nits, 25% more than its predecessor.
- Slimmer and lighter by 10%, enhancing comfort for extended wear.
- Six color customization options for frames and temples.
- Improved built-in stereo speakers for a richer sound experience.
- Convenient clip-on light blockers for improved situational awareness.
Why Choose XREAL Air 2?
- Experience a massive 130" screen equivalent for immersive entertainment.
- Ideal for travel and on-the-go viewing without compromising screen size.
- More comfortable and user-friendly than earlier models.
- Vibrant OLED display with accurate colors.
- Stay connected to your surroundings, unlike VR headsets.
- Simple USB-C connectivity for versatility with various devices.
XREAL Air 2 Pro: Advanced Viewing Experience
The Pro version of the XREAL Air 2, priced at £449 / $449, includes all the core features of the Air 2 but introduces electronic dimming, a game-changer for AR glasses.
Pro Features
- Electrochromic dimming switches lens tint instantly, perfect for bright conditions.
- Three levels of dimming, with the darkest blocking over 99% of incoming light.
- Even in the darkest mode, maintains some transparency for safety.
Why Go Pro?
- Comfortable even in sunny conditions.
- Creates a theater-like experience for immersive viewing.
- An essential upgrade for those looking for the latest in AR tech.
Rokid Max: A Step Forward in AR
The Rokid Max, released in 2022 by Rokid, is priced at $379 (down from $599), marking its place in the AR smart glasses sector.
Key Specs
- Ultra-light at 75g.
- 1080p micro OLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Maximum brightness of 600 nits.
- Built-in diopter adjustment.
- Proximity sensor and built-in speakers.
- USB-C connectivity, compatible with a range of devices.
What Makes Rokid Max Special?
- Sharp, high-resolution displays.
- Customizable for eyeglass wearers.
- Lightweight and portable, doubling as an external display.
- Suitable for media, gaming, and potentially productivity.
The Verdict on Rokid Max
While it shows promise, the Rokid Max isn't quite a mainstream hit yet. It excels as a portable external monitor but falls short in offering a fully immersive AR experience. The design could be sleeker, and the price point remains high for the features offered.
TCL NXTWEAR S: Extended Reality Unleashed
At $349, the TCL NXTWEAR S brings to the table an extended reality experience that's hard to ignore.
Notable Features
- Micro OLED displays project a 130" screen size.
- Full HD 1080p resolution.
- Super lightweight at 89 grams.
- Adjustable brightness and low blue light certification.
- Built-in stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience.
- Magnetic USB-C cable for easy connectivity.
Why TCL NXTWEAR S?
- Unbeatable portability and lightweight design.
- Vibrant and immersive visuals.
- Versatile for media, gaming, and productivity.
- Offers privacy and a lag-free experience for gaming.
- Doesn't block peripheral vision entirely.
Considerations
- Requires compatible devices with DisplayPort.
- Some non-mobile devices need an HDMI adapter.
- Slight warmth on the forehead section.
- A built-in battery would enhance its mobility.
INMO Air 2: AR at Your Fingertips
Launching on Kickstarter in 2023, the INMO Air 2 sets its price at $599, with retail expected at $799, marking its entry into the AR glasses market.
Unique Aspects
- Dual micro OLED displays with a 640x400 resolution.
- Quad-core processor, 2GB RAM, and 32GB storage.
- Front-facing cameras for 1080p recording.
- Bluetooth 5.0, with built-in apps like YouTube, TikTok, and Zoom.
- Includes a chatGPT assistant and ring controller.
- Impressive 25-hour battery life.
Why Consider INMO Air 2?
- Subtle design for everyday wear.
- Integrated features like recording, translating, and navigation.
- AI assistant chatGPT for futuristic interactions.
- A good entry price for exploring AR technology.
Overall Perspective
The INMO Air 2 offers a glimpse into the potential of AR glasses. It's not quite there for mainstream adoption but shows promise with its design and integrated features. Ideal for tech enthusiasts eager to experience AR's capabilities today.
The Road Ahead
While AR smart glasses still have room to evolve, the foundations are solidifying quickly. We're optimistic that within a few years, reductions in size, weight and cost coupled with enhanced AR functionality will make these glasses indispensable tech accessories.
For those eager to join this wearable tech revolution early, our guide highlights compelling choices to provide a glimpse into the experiential possibilities of AR. As always, the team at Heyup will continue testing and curating the most exciting innovations to give you the edge in navigating the road ahead.
Stay tuned to Heyup for more dispatches from the future frontier! And let us know which AR glasses catch your eye the most in the comments.
