The Meta Quest 3 has a redesigned soft strap by default that holds the VR headset on your head. However, it can take a little effort to adjust the top strap correctly and get the head strap to fit on the back of your head.
Below, I’ll show you some step-by-step tips and tricks on how to tighten the Meta Quest 3 head strap and how to wear it properly on your head
Key Takeaways
Despite being slightly heavier, the Meta Quest 3 features a redesigned soft strap that makes the Quest 3 headset feel lighter on the face than the Quest 2.
Proper adjustment involves spreading the back straps and tightening the top strap correctly.
Starting with a looser fit allows for more precise adjustments.
If the default strap isn’t comfortable, consider purchasing an “elite strap” for an enhanced fit.
Meta Quest 3 Head Strap Overview
The Quest 3 features a similar soft strap to its predecessor, but it has made a few smart adjustments to help it fit nicer on your head. The design features an adjustable top strap that splits into a Y-shape towards the back of your head. That y-shape connects in two places to a halo strap that runs from the headset past your ears.
One thing I didn’t find immediately obvious is that there are two places where you can adjust the strap. There is a velcro strap on the top of your head which is more obvious but less helpful overall.
The real trick is the y-shape that connects at the rear crown of your head. You can spread out and push in these two sliders to tighten and loosen the VR headset on your head.
Meta Quest 3 vs Quest 2 Head Strap
Overall, I think the Meta Quest 3 head strap is slightly better than the Quest 2 version. Where I needed a Quest 2 elite strap right from the first time I put the headset on, my opinion is more mixed here.
The Quest 3 strap fits better than the Quest 2 one in two main ways:
The y-shape design does a better job holding the strap onto your head during motion.
The new pancake lenses make the front of the headset much thinner, meaning the Quest 3 feels like it hangs off your face less. Despite being slightly heavier, the Quest 3 feels less weight than the Quest 2.
The mesh material of the strap is the same as on the Meta Quest 2.
If you want to secure the head strap to your head better, I’ll go over the step-by-step in the next section!
How to Tighten the Meta Quest 3 Head Strap (Step by Step)
Below is a picture of the Meta Quest 3 headset right after I took it out of the box. You will see that the top strap will be loose, and the back connecting straps are pushed fairly close together.
The headset will fit very loosely on your head if the strap looks like this.
You’ll want to spread apart the back straps until the soft strap fits around your head. I recommend that you practice spreading apart and pushing these two straps together with the headset off.
Once you are comfortable with how to tighten and loosen the headset, put it on your head. Then, reach your hands behind your head and spread the straps until you get the headset fit right. You should feel like you can perform basic movements without the headset slipping off your face.
While you are wearing the headset, loosen the velcro on the top strap and then pull it tight until you get a proper fit. The top strap should sit on your head, but it should not be over-tightened.
As a last step, make additional adjustments to the back straps to get a comfortable fit.
Tips to Make Sure the Head Strap Sits Comfortably
It took me a while to place the headset on and get the perfect fit. If you need some extra help, here are some tips that helped me:
Loosen Your Top Strap
Your first instinct might be to tighten the top strap too much to get the VR headset to balance on your head. This is how I got the Quest 2 strap to sit properly.
But this is wrong.
You’ll notice that you quickly run out of room for the velcro on the top strap to connect.
Instead, focus on pulling apart your y-connection points and tighten the top strap last.
Move the Firm Arms to Adjust the Angle on your Face
The solid side straps on the Quest 3 pivot with the main headset, and you can adjust the angle on your face. This should help you fine-tune the headset into position as the very last step after the strap is fitted properly.
Use the firm arms to lessen the pressure on your forehead and to get a more comfortable fit.
Use the Glasses Spacer If You Are Wearing Glasses
The Meta Quest 3 comes with a 142mm by 50mm glasses spacer that should be inserted inside the headset if you wear eyeglasses. Make sure these are installed before you adjust your head strap so that you get a perfect fit with them installed.
Start with a Looser Fit
When you initially put on the headset, it’s tempting to tighten the straps for a secure fit immediately. However, starting with a looser fit can give you more flexibility to adjust the straps accurately, ensuring comfort in the long run.
Check for Even Pressure Distribution
Once you’ve adjusted all straps, ensure the pressure evenly distributed across your face. There shouldn’t be any pinching or excessive tightness.
If you feel discomfort or see red marks after removing the headset, readjust the straps.
Unlike the Quest 2, which I felt had more of a suction feel on your face, I think the Quest 3 hangs off your forehead more instead.
Remember, achieving the perfect fit might take a few tries, especially if you’re new to the Quest 3. But with patience and these tips, you’ll find the sweet spot to have your straps set for maximum comfort and immersion.
Still Not Convinced? Buy an Elite Strap!
If you still can’t get a perfect fit after following my guide, it’s time to look at other options. There are “elite straps” for the Meta Quest with a more solid design that distributes weight on your face better. Some elite straps even have a battery pack mounted at the rear that helps make the weight even on your face and the back of your head.
The official Meta Quest 3 elite strap can be purchased from the official website here or below on Amazon. This is a great option if you want something that matches the design of your Quest 3 headset.
Third-party Quest 3 accessory manufacturers have also released their own elite straps to try. These straps often cost less and fit even better. Some of our favorites are listed below.
Can You Use a Quest 2 Elite strap on the Meta Quest 3?
NO. You cannot use a Quest 2 elite strap on the Meta Quest 3. The side arm connectors are a different size and the accessories are not backwards compatible.
