Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Review: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

Introduction

The Appeal of Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses

One thing I’ve learned in life is to never say what I’ll never do—because chances are, I’ll end up doing it. I once swore that I would never pay more than $50 for a pair of sunglasses. Yet, here I am, strapping on a pair of $300 Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. So, what changed?

Smart glasses have always intrigued me, but they often felt like gimmicky tech with limited real-world usefulness. However, the Ray-Ban Meta glasses seemed different. They promised a seamless blend of style and technology, offering features like built-in cameras, voice control, and integrated audio—without looking like a bulky sci-fi headset.

Initial Thoughts and Purchase Decision

When I first saw the Ray-Ban Meta glasses in person, I wasn’t immediately convinced. They looked like a regular pair of stylish sunglasses, but I wondered whether their smart features were worth the premium price tag.

Initially, I was dead set on getting a pair with transition lenses. I wanted something versatile—glasses I could wear both indoors and outdoors without looking like someone trying too hard to be cool. Unfortunately, when I visited the Ray-Ban store, they didn’t have the transition lenses I wanted. That’s when I noticed the Amber-tinted model. They looked sleek, complemented my skin tone, and weren’t too dark, making them perfect for wearing all day.

After a bit of hesitation, I decided to take the plunge. I purchased the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses and have been wearing them every day for the past two months. Now, after weeks of real-world use, it’s time to dive into the good, the bad, and the ugly of these futuristic shades.

What Are Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses?

Features and Design

The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are a modern take on wearable technology, seamlessly integrating smart features into a classic sunglasses design. At first glance, they look like an ordinary pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses, but hidden within the stylish frame are several high-tech functionalities.

These glasses are developed in collaboration with Meta (formerly Facebook), meaning they come with built-in connectivity to platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Whether you want to take a quick photo, listen to music, or answer calls without pulling out your phone, these smart glasses offer a hands-free experience.

Key features of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses include:

Built-in Camera: A 12-megapixel camera positioned on the frame allows for point-of-view (POV) photo and video capture.
Audio Integration: The glasses feature open-ear speakers for music playback, podcasts, and phone calls.
Voice Control: With Meta AI integration, users can activate voice commands, make calls, and control media hands-free.
Touch Controls: A touchpad on the side of the frame enables volume adjustment, playback control, and access to Spotify’s DJ service.
Connectivity: The glasses sync seamlessly with the Meta View app for managing photos, videos, and settings.
LED Indicators: A small LED light activates when recording, ensuring privacy awareness.
Onboard Storage: The glasses come with 32GB of internal storage, capable of holding approximately 500 photos or 100 short videos.

Despite these impressive features, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses remain lightweight and comfortable for everyday use. The classic Ray-Ban frame design ensures that they blend in naturally, making them one of the most discreet wearable tech options available today.

Available Models and Variants

Ray-Ban offers multiple styles and configurations for their Meta Smart Glasses, ensuring that users can choose a design that fits their personality and needs. Currently, the two primary frame styles available are:

Wayfarer: The iconic Wayfarer design, known for its bold, square-shaped frame. This model is one of Ray-Ban’s most recognizable styles and is available in various lens colors.
Headliner: A more rounded frame that offers a sleek, modern look while maintaining the same smart features.

Additionally, users can customize their glasses with different lens options:

Standard Lenses: Classic tinted lenses for outdoor use.
Transition Lenses: Adaptive lenses that automatically adjust between clear and dark based on lighting conditions.
Prescription Lenses: Available for those who require vision correction while enjoying smart features.
Blue Light Filtering: Ideal for indoor use, reducing eye strain from screens.

Each model is available in a range of colors, from classic black to unique amber and transparent options. This customization ensures that users not only benefit from advanced technology but also express their personal style.

Now that we understand what the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses offer, let’s dive into how they perform in real-world scenarios, starting with their style and comfort.

Style and Comfort

Image Credit: RAY-BAN META

Lens Options and Aesthetic Appeal

One of the standout aspects of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is that they don’t look like typical smart glasses. Unlike other wearable tech that often appears bulky or futuristic, these glasses maintain the classic Ray-Ban aesthetic, making them stylish and versatile.

Ray-Ban offers a variety of lens options to cater to different preferences and needs:

Standard Tinted Lenses: Available in multiple colors, these provide a stylish look while offering UV protection for outdoor use.
Transition Lenses: These adaptive lenses adjust between clear and dark depending on the lighting conditions, making them great for both indoor and outdoor environments.
Prescription Lenses: For users who require vision correction, these lenses allow for seamless integration of smart technology into everyday eyewear.
Blue Light Filtering Lenses: Designed to reduce eye strain from screens, these are perfect for those who spend long hours working on digital devices.

The frames themselves come in several color options, including classic black, brown, and transparent designs. The Amber lenses, in particular, provide a warm tint that enhances visibility while adding a unique aesthetic touch.

Everyday Usability Indoors and Outdoors

Beyond their appearance, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are designed for everyday wear. Unlike traditional sunglasses that might be too dark for indoor use, certain models—especially those with transition or amber lenses—can comfortably be worn indoors and outdoors without feeling out of place.

One of the primary concerns with wearing smart glasses is whether they feel bulky or uncomfortable after long periods. Fortunately, Ray-Ban has kept comfort in mind. The frames are lightweight, and despite housing speakers, a camera, and sensors, they don’t feel heavy on the face. The fit is snug but not overly tight, ensuring they stay secure even during activities like walking or driving.

Another benefit is that these glasses don’t immediately stand out as a tech gadget. Unlike some AR or smart glasses with large lenses or thick arms, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses blend into everyday fashion effortlessly. Unless someone closely inspects them, they look just like regular sunglasses, making them an excellent option for those who want smart features without drawing too much attention.

Overall, the combination of stylish design, lightweight comfort, and versatile lens options makes these smart glasses a great choice for anyone looking to integrate technology into their daily wear without compromising on fashion.

Now that we’ve covered the style and comfort, let’s explore the smart features and controls that set these glasses apart.

Smart Features & Controls

Touchpad Controls

One of the most intuitive aspects of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is the inclusion of a touchpad on the right temple of the frame. This allows users to control various functions with simple gestures, eliminating the need to constantly reach for a phone.

The touch controls work as follows:

Tap Once: Play or pause music, answer an incoming call.
Double Tap: Skip to the next track or reject an incoming call.
Triple Tap: Go back to the previous track.
Swipe Forward: Increase volume.
Swipe Backward: Decrease volume.
Press and Hold: Activate Spotify’s AI DJ to curate music based on listening history.

The responsiveness of the touchpad is impressive, and the gestures feel natural once you get used to them. This touch control system makes it easy to manage audio and calls while on the move, without disrupting daily activities.

Voice Commands and Meta Integration

The glasses also feature built-in voice control, powered by Meta AI. With a simple command, users can access various functionalities hands-free. To activate the voice assistant, just say:

"Hey Meta."

Once activated, you can issue a variety of commands, such as:

“Hey Meta, play my favorite playlist.” – Starts playing music from your connected streaming service.
“Hey Meta, take a photo.” – Captures an image from the built-in camera.
“Hey Meta, record a video.” – Starts a hands-free video recording.
“Hey Meta, call [contact name].” – Initiates a phone call.
“Hey Meta, what’s the weather today?” – Provides a weather update.
“Hey Meta, send a message to [contact name].” – Dictates and sends a message.

Meta AI is still evolving, and future updates are expected to bring more advanced features. Some beta testers have reported that the AI will soon be able to recognize objects through the camera, provide shopping suggestions, and enhance real-time interactions with apps.

Another impressive feature is that the glasses can read out notifications for calls and messages. When enabled, the glasses will announce who is calling or messaging, allowing you to stay connected without constantly looking at your phone.

By combining gesture-based touch controls and voice command integration, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses offer a seamless and futuristic way to interact with technology. Whether you’re listening to music, taking a photo, or making a call, these controls make the experience intuitive and effortless.

Now, let’s move on to one of the most exciting aspects of these smart glasses—the music and audio quality.

Music and Audio Quality

Built-in Speakers and Sound Performance

One of the most frequently used features of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is their ability to play music and audio directly through built-in speakers. Unlike traditional headphones or earbuds, these glasses use open-ear speakers embedded within the arms of the frame, positioned to direct sound toward the ears without blocking external noise.

The dual speaker system delivers surprisingly clear and immersive audio. Here’s what you can expect:

Sound Clarity: The audio is crisp and well-balanced, making it great for listening to music, podcasts, or phone calls.
Volume Levels: Between 50% to 70% volume, the sound remains personal and doesn’t leak much, ensuring a more private listening experience.
Bass Response: Since the speakers are small, bass is limited, but it’s sufficient for casual listening.
Maximum Volume: At 100%, the sound can become slightly distorted, and audio leakage is more noticeable.

While these aren’t a replacement for high-end headphones, they offer a unique wireless listening experience that feels natural and convenient. Whether walking through the city, commuting, or simply lounging at home, the ability to hear music while staying aware of the surroundings makes these glasses an excellent alternative to earbuds.

Privacy and Ambient Listening Experience

One concern with open-ear audio is sound leakage—how much of what you’re listening to can be heard by those nearby. Fortunately, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses do a decent job of keeping audio personal at moderate volumes.

Here’s how they perform in different environments:

Quiet Environments: In silent settings like libraries or offices, sound leakage can be noticeable if the volume is above 70%.
Outdoor or Busy Spaces: In places with background noise, such as streets or coffee shops, audio remains discreet even at higher volumes.
Phone Calls: Call audio is directed toward the user, but at maximum volume, people nearby might hear parts of the conversation.

One of the best aspects of these glasses is that they allow users to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music or taking calls. Unlike traditional headphones, which can isolate users, the open-ear design ensures that external sounds, such as traffic or conversations, remain audible. This makes the glasses ideal for activities like walking, driving, or cycling.

Overall, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses provide a solid audio experience for casual listeners who value convenience over audiophile-grade quality. They excel in allowing users to enjoy music without the discomfort of earbuds and while remaining fully engaged with their environment.

Next, let’s explore the camera and video capabilities to see how well these glasses handle capturing moments.

Camera and Video Capabilities

POV Photography and Videography

One of the most exciting features of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is their ability to capture point-of-view (POV) photos and videos. With a 12-megapixel camera embedded in the left side of the frame, these glasses allow users to take hands-free photos and record videos without needing to pull out their smartphone.

The camera offers a truly unique perspective, capturing moments exactly as you see them. This makes them perfect for:

Casual Photography: Capture everyday moments without interrupting the experience.
Action Shots: Film activities like biking, walking, or cooking without using your hands.
Social Media Content: Quickly create and share first-person perspective videos for platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
Live Streaming: Stream directly to Facebook or Instagram, allowing followers to see what you see in real time.

The camera is simple to use, with controls integrated into the glasses:

Single Press: Takes a photo.
Long Press: Records a 1080p, 30fps video.

Additionally, a small LED indicator lights up whenever recording is in progress, ensuring that people around you are aware that the camera is active. For privacy reasons, the camera won’t function if the LED is covered.

Strengths and Limitations of the 12MP Camera

While the camera is a great addition, it does come with a few trade-offs. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:

✅ Strengths:

Hands-Free POV: Capturing moments without holding a device is a major convenience.
Good Outdoor Performance: In bright conditions, the camera delivers clear and well-exposed images.
Decent Stabilization: Videos are relatively smooth, making them usable for everyday activities.
Fast and Easy Sharing: Photos and videos transfer quickly to the Meta View app, making it easy to edit and share content.

❌ Limitations:

Only 1080p Video: There’s no option for 4K recording, which would have been a great addition.
No Manual Settings: Users cannot adjust shutter speed, ISO, or focus—everything is handled automatically.
Low-Light Struggles: In dim environments, photos and videos become grainy and lose detail.
Fixed Portrait Mode: The camera only records in portrait orientation, with no option for landscape.

Another minor issue is the placement of the camera. Since it’s positioned on the left side of the frame, photos and videos may sometimes appear slightly off-center, requiring users to adjust their head positioning for proper framing.

Despite these limitations, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses provide an easy and fun way to capture content on the go. They won’t replace a dedicated camera or smartphone, but for quick, hands-free shots, they work surprisingly well.

Next, let’s discuss a major drawback—call quality and microphone performance.

Call Quality and Microphone Issues

Major Flaws with Voice Calls

While the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses excel in several areas, one of their biggest shortcomings is their call quality. Despite having five built-in microphones, users have reported significant issues with voice clarity during phone calls.

At first, many assumed the call quality would be as good as or better than traditional earbuds. However, in real-world use, several problems quickly became apparent:

Muffled Audio: Call recipients often complain that the user’s voice sounds distant or unclear.
Inconsistent Performance: In quiet environments, calls may sound fine, but in noisy areas, the microphone struggles to isolate speech.
One Microphone Handling Calls: Surprisingly, only one of the five microphones is primarily responsible for handling voice calls.

The main issue stems from the placement of this primary microphone, which sits directly above the nose bridge. For users with larger noses, this positioning can physically block the microphone, making voice transmission even worse.

Many users, especially those with this issue, turned to Reddit forums and tech support communities, where they discovered that the problem was widespread. Some even resorted to buying third-party nose pads to slightly lift the glasses off their face, improving call clarity.

Ray-Ban’s Software Update to Address the Issue

After numerous complaints, Ray-Ban and Meta responded by releasing a software update aimed at improving microphone performance.

The update, found under the Meta View app’s Help and Support section, introduces a setting called:

"Microphone Adjustment"

Enabling this setting allows the glasses to utilize additional microphones for voice calls, instead of relying solely on the poorly placed primary microphone.

Users who activated the update reported some improvements:

Clearer Calls: Voices sound more natural, though still not as good as dedicated earbuds.
Less Muffled Audio: The new microphone balancing helps reduce distortion.
Increased Volume: Call recipients found it easier to hear the speaker without them needing to raise their voice.

However, the update doesn’t fully resolve the issue. Many users still report occasional complaints about low volume or background noise interference. While the software patch makes the glasses usable for short calls, they are still not ideal for long or professional conversations.

For now, if call quality is a top priority, AirPods or other wireless earbuds remain a better option. The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses can handle calls in a pinch, but they are not the best tool for the job.

Next, let’s explore the battery life and charging case to see how long these glasses last in daily use.

Battery Life and Charging Case

How Long Do They Last?

One of the key concerns with any wearable tech is battery life. Given the compact design of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, expectations for battery longevity should be realistic. The glasses house a small internal battery that provides around 3 to 4 hours of continuous use under normal conditions.

The actual battery life depends on usage patterns:

Music Streaming: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours of continuous playback.
Voice Calls: Expect around 3 hours before the battery drains.
Photo & Video Recording: Frequent use of the camera significantly reduces battery life, with video recording consuming power the fastest.
Standby Mode: When not actively used, the glasses conserve energy and can last most of the day on a single charge.

For casual daily use—taking a few calls, listening to music intermittently, and snapping occasional photos—the battery will typically last a half-day before needing a recharge. However, for extended outings, users may find themselves needing to recharge sooner than expected.

Fast Charging Capabilities

To counterbalance the limited battery life, Ray-Ban includes a charging case that also serves as a stylish and compact carrying case. The case itself holds up to 32 additional hours of battery life, effectively allowing users to recharge the glasses multiple times throughout the day.

Charging is fast and efficient:

50% Charge: Takes around 20 minutes.
Full Charge: Achieved in about 75 minutes when placed inside the case.

The case is designed with a built-in USB-C port for charging and includes an LED indicator that displays battery levels. When the glasses are stored inside, they begin charging automatically, ensuring they are ready to go when needed.

One of the biggest advantages of the case is its ability to act as a power bank. Since most people remove their sunglasses when indoors or during breaks, simply placing them inside the case provides quick, passive recharging.

However, it’s worth noting:

The glasses cannot be used while charging inside the case.
Unlike some premium earbuds, the case does not support wireless charging.
Heavy users may still find the battery life limiting, especially for extended video recording sessions.

Overall, while the 3 to 4-hour battery life may not be enough for all-day use, the fast-charging case helps compensate by providing quick top-ups on the go. For most users, this system works well, ensuring the glasses are usable throughout the day with occasional breaks for charging.

Next, let’s explore the Meta AI integration and how it enhances the smart experience.

Meta AI Integration

What Can It Do?

One of the standout features of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is the integration of Meta AI. This built-in voice assistant enhances the user experience by allowing hands-free access to essential functions. With a simple voice command, users can control their glasses without ever touching them.

To activate the AI, simply say:

"Hey Meta."

Once activated, Meta AI can perform various tasks, including:

Playing Music: "Hey Meta, play my favorite playlist."
Taking Photos & Videos: "Hey Meta, take a photo" or "Hey Meta, record a video."
Making Calls: "Hey Meta, call [contact name]."
Checking the Weather: "Hey Meta, what’s the weather like today?"
Sending Messages: "Hey Meta, send a message to [contact name]."
Reading Notifications: Meta AI can read out text messages and caller names for hands-free convenience.

One particularly useful feature is Spotify’s AI DJ. By pressing and holding the touchpad, users can activate an AI-powered DJ that curates playlists based on listening habits. It can even adjust the mood of the music, providing a personalized experience.

Future Updates and Enhancements

Since Meta AI is still in its early stages, additional features and improvements are expected in future software updates. Some beta users have already reported upcoming enhancements that could make these smart glasses even more powerful.

Planned updates and potential enhancements include:

Object Recognition: The ability to scan and identify objects using the built-in camera.
Real-Time Translations: Live translation of signs, menus, and spoken language.
Shopping Assistance: Taking a picture of a product and receiving instant online shopping recommendations.
Expanded Smart Home Controls: Voice commands for controlling connected smart devices.
AI-Powered Photo Enhancements: Automatically improving image quality after capturing photos.

As Meta continues to develop its AI assistant, these glasses have the potential to evolve beyond simple voice commands into a more interactive, AI-driven experience. Future updates may transform them into a powerful tool for everyday tasks, making them an even more valuable wearable device.

Next, let’s wrap things up with a final verdict on whether these smart glasses are worth the investment.

Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?

Pros and Cons Summary

After spending weeks with the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, it’s clear that they offer a unique and futuristic experience. However, like any piece of technology, they come with both advantages and drawbacks.

✅ Pros:

Stylish and Comfortable: Retains the classic Ray-Ban look while integrating smart features.
Hands-Free Convenience: Voice commands allow for music control, calls, and photo-taking without touching your phone.
Decent Audio Quality: Open-ear speakers provide clear music and call audio without blocking ambient sounds.
Fun POV Camera: A great tool for capturing first-person photos and videos on the go.
Meta AI Integration: Offers helpful voice-assisted features with future potential for AI-driven enhancements.
Fast Charging Case: Extends battery life with multiple recharges throughout the day.

❌ Cons:

Limited Battery Life: Only lasts around 3 to 4 hours before needing a recharge.
Average Camera Quality: Only 1080p video with no 4K support, and poor low-light performance.
Call Quality Issues: The microphone placement leads to muffled audio, although a software update has improved it slightly.
Privacy Concerns: Some users may feel uneasy about Meta's data collection and the built-in camera.
High Price Tag: At $300–$400, they are significantly more expensive than regular Ray-Ban sunglasses.

Who Should Buy Them?

The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are best suited for individuals who appreciate wearable tech and value convenience in their daily lives. They are ideal for:

Tech Enthusiasts: Those who love experimenting with new gadgets and smart accessories.
Content Creators: Social media influencers or vloggers who want a simple way to capture first-person POV footage.
Active Users: People who walk, bike, or commute and want hands-free audio and calling capabilities.
Fashion-Conscious Users: Those who want smart glasses that actually look good and blend seamlessly into their wardrobe.

Who Should Skip Them? If you need high-quality calls, longer battery life, or a powerful camera, these may not be the best investment. Traditional wireless earbuds and a smartphone camera will still outperform these glasses in those areas.

Final Thoughts: The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are a fun, stylish, and innovative piece of wearable tech. They aren’t perfect, but they offer a glimpse into the future of smart eyewear. If you’re willing to pay the premium price and can live with their limitations, they make for an exciting addition to any tech collection.