Meta Quest Elite Strap

Overview

The Meta Quest Elite Strap is Meta's official replacement head strap for its current headsets. It launched on October 10, 2023 as the Meta Quest 3 Elite Strap, at $69.99, alongside the Meta Quest 3. Meta now sells it simply as the Meta Quest Elite Strap, still at $69.99, and lists it for both Quest 3 and the Meta Quest 3S. This is the version without a battery. Meta also sells the Meta Quest Elite Strap with Battery for $129.99.

Design

The Elite Strap replaces the soft fabric strap that ships in the box. It uses rigid side arms, a soft silicone support that cradles the back of the head, and an adjustable top strap. A dial at the back tightens or loosens the side arms. Meta says the design takes pressure off the face and spreads the headset's weight more evenly. The box includes the head strap, a quick start guide and a safety and warranty guide. Meta does not publish a weight for the strap.

Compatibility

Meta lists Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S as the compatible headsets. Owners of the Meta Quest 2 need the separate Quest 2 Elite Strap. A headset fitted with the Elite Strap still fits in the Meta Quest 3 Carrying Case and the Carrying Case for Meta Quest 3/3S. The Compact Carrying Case for Quest 3/3S is not suitable for Elite Straps. The strap also works with the Meta Quest 3 Charging Dock, but only when used on a Quest 3.

Setup and use

Installation takes a few minutes and needs no tools. You first unsnap the facial interface, then twist the soft strap arms downward to detach them and remove the top strap from its bracket. Next you loosen the Elite Strap with the dial, snap its side arms onto the headset arms, thread the top strap through the front bracket and put the facial interface back. To fit it, loosen the top strap, place the silicone support at the back of your head, turn the dial until the headset sits comfortably, then tighten the top strap so it carries part of the weight.

Who it is for

The Elite Strap suits Quest 3 and Quest 3S owners who find the stock fabric strap uncomfortable or loose, especially in active games and fitness apps. It is the cheaper option if you do not need extra battery life. If you play long sessions, for example when you play PC VR games over a cable or Wi-Fi, the battery version is the better fit. Check that any case or dock you plan to use is on Meta's compatibility list.