Meta, in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, has introduced the Oakley Meta HSTN glasses, expanding its smart glasses portfolio. These new glasses are positioned as a more robust and sport-oriented alternative to the fashion-focused Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
Both models integrate Meta AI, cameras, and audio capabilities, yet they cater to distinct audiences through differing features, price points, and performance metrics.
Design and Build Quality
Oakley Meta Glasses
The Oakley Meta HSTN (pronounced “HOW-stuhn”) glasses are engineered for athletes and active users, boasting a rugged and flexible construction. They utilize Oakley’s proprietary O-Matter frame material, which is 25% lighter and twice as strong as traditional acetate, ensuring durability during intense activities such as running, cycling, or skiing.
These glasses feature an IPX4 water-resistant rating, capable of withstanding sweat and light rain, making them ideal for outdoor sports. Available in six frame and lens color combinations, including PRIZM, Transition, and clear lenses, they also support prescription lenses for enhanced versatility. A limited-edition model with gold accents and 24K PRIZM polarized lenses offers a premium aesthetic for $499.
Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
Ray-Ban Meta glasses prioritize style, featuring iconic designs like Wayfarer and Headliner that seamlessly integrate into casual and social settings. While also durable, they do not incorporate the ruggedized O-Matter material and possess a slightly less robust IPX4 rating compared to the Oakley variant.
The frames are somewhat bulkier due to embedded technology but remain lightweight and comfortable for daily wear. They are available in multiple styles, including matte black and Transitions lenses, with prescription support. Their design emphasizes fashion over performance, making them less suitable for extreme sports but ideal for urban and everyday use.
Battery Life
Oakley Meta Glasses
A significant upgrade in the Oakley Meta glasses is their enhanced battery performance. They offer up to 8 hours of typical use and 19 hours on standby, effectively doubling the battery life of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. The accompanying charging case provides up to 48 hours of total usage, with fast-charging capabilities delivering a 50% charge in 20 minutes and 80% in 45 minutes. This extended battery life makes them highly suitable for prolonged outdoor activities without frequent recharging.
Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
The Ray-Ban Meta glasses provide up to 4 hours of battery life for standard use, with the charging case extending total usage to 36 hours. While adequate for casual use, heavy camera or audio usage can quickly deplete the battery, necessitating a midday top-up for active users. Fast charging is supported, with a 50% charge in 20 minutes, but the overall capacity is less robust when compared to the Oakley model.
Video and Camera Quality
Oakley Meta Glasses
The Oakley Meta glasses are equipped with a 12-megapixel standard-field camera capable of recording 3K video, a notable upgrade over the Ray-Ban Meta’s 1080p capabilities. This higher resolution is optimal for capturing fast-action sports footage, providing sharper and more detailed point-of-view (POV) videos.
The camera’s placement remains on the temple, contrary to earlier rumors of a centered camera. These glasses also support hands-free photo and video capture via Meta AI voice commands, enhancing usability for athletes.
Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
Featuring a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, the Ray-Ban Meta glasses record full-HD (1080p) video at 30fps, suitable for casual photography and social media sharing. However, the video quality lacks the sharpness of 3K, and low-light performance is suboptimal, making it less ideal for dynamic or poorly lit environments.
These glasses excel in well-lit conditions and support livestreaming to Facebook and Instagram, a feature also available on the Oakley model.
Price and Availability
Oakley Meta Glasses
The Oakley Meta glasses start at $399, with the limited-edition HSTN model priced at $499. They are available for pre-order from July 11, 2025, and will be sold in multiple countries, including the US, Canada, UK, and Australia, through Meta and Oakley’s official websites. The higher price reflects their enhanced battery, superior video quality, and durable build tailored for performance users.
Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
Starting at $299, the Ray-Ban Meta glasses are more affordable, with some configurations available for as low as $240. They are widely available and have achieved significant commercial success, with over 2 million units sold since 2023. The lower price point makes them accessible to a broader audience, particularly those who prioritize style over high-performance features.
Meta AI and Functionality
Both smart glasses models incorporate Meta AI, enabling voice-activated commands for various functions such as calls, messaging, music playback, and real-time information retrieval. The Oakley Meta glasses enhance this with sports-specific AI capabilities, such as providing wind speed for golfers or surf conditions for surfers, making them more tailored for athletic use. Both models support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, requiring a phone running iOS 15.2 or Android 10 for full functionality. The Ray-Ban Meta glasses offer similar AI features but lack the sports-focused enhancements, concentrating instead on general lifestyle applications like landmark identification and recipe suggestions.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Oakley Meta Glasses if you are an athlete or outdoor enthusiast requiring durable, water-resistant glasses with superior battery life and 3K video recording for capturing high-quality action footage. The $399-$499 price range is justified for those who prioritize performance and advanced lens technology like PRIZM.
Choose Ray-Ban Meta Glasses if you desire stylish, affordable smart glasses for everyday use, social media sharing, and casual photography. At $299, they represent a cost-effective option for urban users who value aesthetics and fundamental smart features.
The Oakley Meta HSTN and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses clearly cater to distinct audiences. The Oakley model excels in durability, battery life, and video quality, making it ideal for athletes, while the Ray-Ban Meta glasses prioritize style and affordability for casual users. Both seamlessly integrate Meta AI, but the Oakley’s sports-oriented features and robust build truly distinguish it. For the latest updates and purchasing options, visit Meta or Oakley’s official websites.
