Should You Buy the Vision Pro?
The Apple Vision Pro, priced at $3,500, is considered too expensive for many consumers, and users have reported difficulty in incorporating it into their existing workflows. While it excels in providing an immersive experience for watching movies, viewing 3D videos, and as a display for a Mac, some users have struggled to find practical daily applications for the device.
Weighing over 1.3 pounds, the Vision Pro can lead to fatigue during extended use. However, Apple has enhanced comfort levels with the introduction of the Dual Knit Band, which launched with the M5 chip. The headset is accompanied by an external battery pack, complicating portability, especially when used with Apple's Travel Case.
Undeniably, the Vision Pro is Apple's most advanced product, showcasing impressive engineering. Prospective buyers should test the device at an Apple Store and conduct thorough research on its capabilities before making a purchase. While superb for content consumption, its app and game availability remains limited.
In October 2025, Apple refreshed the Vision Pro with an M5 chip, making this an opportune time for potential buyers, given that another update is not expected for at least two years, and development on the next-generation headset has been paused.
Apple Vision Pro Overview
Apple Vision Pro is characterized as a spatial computer, blurring the lines between augmented and virtual realities. It represents Apple's entry into a new product category since the 2015 launch of the Apple Watch. The first iteration launched in February 2024, with an updated version featuring the M5 chip released in October 2025.
As a mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro overlays augmented reality content on the real world while also allowing for fully immersive virtual experiences. Notably, the headset is not see-through; everything displayed is digital. For augmented reality, cameras map the user's surroundings, creating a digital image enhanced with virtual elements, whereas virtual reality is achieved by disabling the cameras, immersing users entirely in the headset's display.
The design resembles high-end ski goggles, featuring a laminated glass front connected to an aluminum alloy frame. A soft, fitted Light Seal attaches to the frame and adjusts to the user's face to block out external light, crucial for optimal performance. The headset incorporates two Audio Straps with built-in speakers for Spatial Audio, enhancing the immersive experience.
Inside, the Vision Pro houses two micro-OLED displays offering over 4K resolution to each eye, totaling 23 million pixels. The external display, EyeSight, projects images of the user's eyes, indicating whether they are in immersive mode or aware of their surroundings. For users who wear glasses, custom Zeiss Optical Inserts can be magnetically attached to the headset's lenses.
Control is achieved through eye tracking, hand gestures, and voice commands, with no physical controllers required. Navigation involves looking at an app to highlight it and tapping fingers to open it, while scrolling can be done with a flick of the fingers.
How to Buy the Vision Pro
The M5 Vision Pro is purchasable through the Apple online store and retail locations across several countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, and others, with expansion to Korea and Taiwan on November 28. Starting at $3,500 for 256GB, the ordering process includes a Face ID scan to ensure proper fit of the Light Seal and headband. Zeiss reading lenses cost an additional $99, while custom prescription lens inserts are priced at $149, requiring an uploaded valid prescription after 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 power adapter.
No Trade-Ins
Apple does not offer trade-ins for the M2 version of the Vision Pro.
Vision Pro Reviews
Reviewers praised the comfort of the Dual Knit Band, noting a reduction in pressure on the face and neck during extended use. Performance improvements from the M5 chip were evident, with faster processing and enhanced visual clarity. The increase in pixel rendering and support for 120Hz refresh rates contributed to a more immersive visual experience.
How It Works
The Vision Pro operates as a mixed reality headset, utilizing exterior and interior cameras to display both augmented and virtual reality content. Users can experience 3D windows and objects in their environment, or engage completely with the virtual world.
Design
The headset’s design features a laminated glass front attached to a flexible aluminum frame, available only in silver with matching gray Light Seals. The Light Seal offers a customizable fit, essential for blocking light effectively.
Display
With two micro-OLED displays, the Vision Pro provides a total of 23 million pixels, significantly enhancing visual detail. The M5 version improves refresh rates to 120Hz, reducing motion blur and enhancing overall user experience.
Battery Life
The M5 Vision Pro improves battery life, lasting up to 2.5 hours during general use. Users can swap out the battery pack for extended use, while a power adapter allows for all-day operation.
visionOS
Running on visionOS, the Vision Pro features a dynamic three-dimensional interface, allowing users to navigate apps through eye movements and gestures. The operating system supports a variety of apps, including those specifically designed for the device.
What's Next for Vision Pro
Future developments include the potential for smart glasses and a lighter, more affordable headset model. Apple's long-term vision encompasses accessibility in mental health diagnostics and exploring augmented reality contact lenses.
Source: MacRumors News