The Oculus Quest 2 128 GB and 256 GB support similar features, the major differences being the expandable storage space and price points.
The Oculus Quest 2 headset, also known as Meta Quest 2, is one of the best-selling VR headsets since it provides access to multiple immersive experiences. With an additional Elite strap accessory, most users have left rave reviews on Facebook’s Oculus Quest headsets. However, it may be confusing to choose between the 128 GB and 256 GB versions–but this choice depends on what kind of gamer you are.
A 128 GB headset is appropriate for everyday casual gamers. But if you’re a VR content creator or designer who requires speedy performance, you might need better storage and processing capacity. To guide you through this dilemma, here’s a comparison of the two Oculus Quest versions.
Product Description
Oculus Quest 2 128 GB
Although it’s best to avoid devices, especially VR equipment, with lower storage, the 128 GB model from Oculus can be sufficient for the regular casual gamer. It has good resolution, refresh rate, and 360-degree visual landscape that allows a smooth no-glitch experience.
This model is quite similar to the first generation Oculus Quest 64 GB, which was extremely durable; however, Meta discontinued it in 2021. But this year’s model offers quadruple expandable storage that works just as well, and coupled with good battery life, you can play the most popular games on it.
Moreover, the Oculus Quest 2 128 GB should accommodate screenshots and in-game footage recording for a fairly long time. Gamers who use VR technologies sparsely may prefer this model since there’s a high chance they won’t require more space, so spending more on something that won’t be used frequently isn’t needed.
However, if you’re a VR content creator and use platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Tiktok, etc., its lower memory capacity can become a problem.
Oculus Quest 2 256 GB
A VR headset with average expandable storage capabilities might not be appropriate for longer VR sessions, frequent in-game footage recording, and general heavy use. Hence, Meta Quest has launched a new version with expanded capacity, so you need not delete apps frequently to clear up storage.
Even though the Oculus Quest 2 256 GB significantly reduces strain on the operating system and battery life, it costs only slightly more than the 128 GB model. And spending a little extra to stop constantly worrying about insufficient storage sounds like a considerable bargain!
The 256 GB model also can support over 50 games and is compatible with social media platforms like Twitch or Youtube. But neither of the Oculus Quest 2 models has a separate microSD card slot.
Product Comparison
Before newer headsets arrive on the market, it is essential to learn how the existing ones can deliver performance and efficiency. To help you get an idea of the two Oculus Quest 2 models with varying storage and features, here’s a detailed comparison:
Extra Storage
It is an absolute no-brainer that spending a little more for a better virtual reality experience is profitable. If you want to purchase more quest games and apps from the Oculus store while enjoying much longer VR sessions, the 256 GB model is the best fit.
On average, a VR enthusiast can use up to 90% of the 128 GB storage in over a year. So, to get more storage for other games, you must delete other games from Oculus Quest 2 or transfer the files to a desktop or PC.
Moreover, the gaming console of Quest 2 uses substantial storage for its software, which accounts for 11.3 GB. And since it comes with pre-downloaded demos, games, and tutorials, you aren’t getting the exact storage capacity as promised. For example, you can access only 116 GB out of 128 GB until you experience noticed strain.
However, this new Quest 2 256 GB model can accommodate more than 50 games, unlike the original Oculus Quest versions. This means that it can offer more storage for immersive games like Beat Saber and Resident Evil. You should also note that a battery Elite strap is essential for a more educated jump in these games.
Better Visual Quality
The new Oculus Quest 2 has a much higher resolution than the original Quest headset, thus offering bigger and more detailed textures and applications. With such an increase in game sizes due to greater visual detail, the new Oculus Quest headsets require up to 3 times more space. Hence, it is good to see Oculus ship headsets with greater expandable storage.
This new visual feature may also affect battery life, which is why a VR headset with higher storage capacity is a must-have.
Price And Availability
Initially, this content creation device was available in only 64GB and 256 GB versions. So, then, it made sense to pay a little extra to get quadruple storage capacity. However, after the 64 GB model was discontinued in 2021, leading to a price hike of the base model, investing in the 256 GB made less sense to the average gamer.
Even though you can get the 256 GB version at a lower price during the sale, it will still cost you more than the 128GB model. And the latter might be a better option for casual gamers since it has sufficient storage for 20 to 30 installed games.
Moreover, if we look at how much space an average gamer can use, using the entirety of 256 GB is likely impossible. So, instead of spending more on storage you might never use, investing in headphones and other accessories to upgrade your headset might be fruitful.
However, if you want to future-proof your Quest 2 console, consider purchasing the 256 GB version. Since most games on Quest range between eight to 12 GB, this extra space may actually help hardcore VR enthusiasts and gamers.
Gaming And Multimedia
Besides storing official Oculus games, you may need to store custom media and external content for content creation and design. So, before choosing which version to buy, you need to consider how many games and files you need to store.
While some popular classics, like Beat Saber, Echo VR, Rec Room, etc., require very little space to run, bulkier graphical games such as Resident Evil 4 VR need more space. Nonetheless, you’ll still be left with 10 GB in the 128 models unless you spend thousands of dollars to buy new games.
So, the average gamer might not require the Meta Quest 2 headset with the largest available storage. And if you do run out, there will surely be some mediocre games that you can delete to free up the device.
Moreover, the new Quest 2 headphones have an advanced feature called the cloud save system that preserves the saved game data. So, now you can delete old games and files to free up space without losing saved data.
But if you wish to download personal content, videos, and multimedia from platforms like YouTube, Prime Video, Netflix, etc., 128 GB will fill up pretty soon. In this case, we strongly recommend purchasing the 256 GB model since it will provide better performance besides more space for multimedia.
Oculus Quest 2 128 VS 256
When faced with these two options you may be wondering: is 128gb enough for Oculus Quest 2? Or is it too less for a smooth gaming experience and content creation? Keep reading to find out how each model may benefit you.
Buy Oculus Quest 2 128GB if…
1. You Play Only Quest-native Games
If you intend to use the Meta Quest 2 to primarily play games from the Quest store, 128 GB is sufficient space to store up to 30 of these games. This model is the best-priced headset among all the headsets from Meta. Moreover, you can avoid running out of space by playing VR games for PC. Using wireless Air Link, you can enjoy large VR games stored in the PC without tethering your headset.
2. You Want To Buy The Cheapest Quest 2 Headset
It is obvious that the starting Quest 2 model will be cheaper than the 256 GB one–but it is one of the best deals on the VR equipment market. With almost the same features and specifications, you will technically not lose out on any benefits if you go for the starting model; so you can ideally buy separate equipment to boost your experience.
3. You Use Quest 2 Casually
The Quest 2 128 GB is the perfect choice for the average gamer who enjoys the VR experience less frequently. And since the Quest games and apps, including higher-end titles, don’t take up a lot of space, it is pretty unlikely that you’ll fill up 128 GB entirely.
However, if you manage to fill up the space, deleting games or apps not required any longer can offer enough space for more downloads.
4. You Want to Invest In Gaming Accessories
With the money you’ll save by buying the 128 GB model, you can purchase the best battery packs to help the headset last longer. Also, consider the Elite strap for your headset to ensure user comfort and enhance wearability. Moreover, investing in a good WiFi 6 router will tremendously help apps like Air Link or Virtual Desktop for a wireless VR experience.
Many gamers might also prefer purchasing extra games or apps with that money; however, it depends on whether an individual uses the headset frequently or just casually.
Buy Oculus Quest 2 256 GB if…
1. You Want To Download And Keep Many Games And Apps
With the 256 GB Quest 2, you won’t have to delete and re-download games to free up space. Contrarily, you’ll find it difficult to fill up the space, so this is ideal for people who will download and keep many games and apps simultaneously. Also, it is likely that Quest and other future brands will come out with new software and game design, so having extra space will keep you updated.
2. You Create VR Content
Besides the regular games and apps, other media like screenshots, videos, and recordings of in-game footage can further take up memory space. Each high-quality video can range from 500 MB to one GB, so if you need to capture a lot of footage, using the 256 GB version is appropriate. Whether you record footage for a YouTube video or personal use, this headset will ensure smooth, glitch-free recording without having to delete older footage.
3. You’re Upgrading The 64 GB Model
If you already own the Oculus 64 GB model from 2020 and want to upgrade it for a better one, you should consider it. Not only will you get four times the storage space, but you are also guaranteed to have enough space to download thousands of games of your choice.
Final Thoughts
Since most smartphone vendors ship products with 128 GB storage, the 128GB Quest 2 version with expandable storage has become a VR standard. Even a daily gamer with a varied selection of games and VR apps does not require more than this. However, power users who download multiple files at once may benefit from all the extra space.
Ultimately, the choice depends on the kind of games preferred, their storage requirements, and other required functions such as video recording, screenshots, etc. Regardless of the memory capacity, casual gamers and power users can benefit from its same core design and Qualcomm XR2 processor.
