Enhance Apple’s $3,500 Vision Pro Headset with This $45 Headstrap

The Vision Pro headset really stands out for its top-tier features, but comfort isn’t one of its strong points, closely following its high price tag. Apple’s commitment to sleek design has resulted in a product that’s visually appealing but might leave users wishing for more comfort. Luckily, this issue isn’t too hard to solve.

Many initial reactions point to the Vision Pro’s weight as the source of discomfort, attributing it to its metal construction. But does that paint the whole picture? Not entirely. When we compare it with other headsets on the market, the Vision Pro’s weight isn’t significantly more. For example, the Quest 3’s display housing weighs in at 394g, whereas Vision Pro’s is only 81g more, coming in at 475g.

Now, weight does play a big role in how comfortable a headset feels. However, the way the headstrap disperses this weight is just as crucial. Even the Quest 3’s soft strap isn’t the most comfortable by default. Meta was quick to recognize this and offers an ‘Elite Strap’ as an upgrade, which adds 183g to the total, bringing the complete setup, including the facepad, to 642g. Surprisingly, that’s even heavier than the Vision Pro with both its strap and facepad, totaling 625g.

For Vision Pro users, adding weight can oddly lead to enhanced comfort, a phenomenon we’ve also seen with Quest 3’s design. The default ‘Solo Knit Band’ headstrap on the Vision Pro is similar in this regard; it’s not winning any comfort awards either.

In response, Apple introduced a ‘Dual Loop Band’ headstrap with each Vision Pro purchase. This version improves head comfort slightly by having a top strap for better weight distribution, but it’s still not a game-changer.

There’s a real missed opportunity here. The Solo Knit Band, despite its softness and easy adjustability, loses out without the top strap that the Dual Loop Band provides. Sadly, you can’t have the best of both worlds with the existing options.

Fortunately, this predicament has been solved, thanks to third-party suppliers. They provide strap options that blend the Solo Knit Band’s comfort with a top strap at a price point much lower than what an official Elite Strap from Apple would likely cost.

During my exploration, I discovered a third-party strap that checks all the boxes. It pairs with the Knit Band beautifully, allows me to use the Vision Pro without its facepad (cutting down on weight), and brings the lenses closer to my eyes, opening up a wider field of view.

Enter the ANNAPRO A2 strap for the Vision Pro. It essentially offers what Apple should have right from the start, all for just $45. It’s hard to argue with the value here, especially when it enhances Apple’s $3,500 headset so dramatically.

After several weeks of testing, it’s clear this addition has made lengthy sessions with the Vision Pro far more bearable. Its comfort upgrade makes it perfect for extended usage, such as utilizing the new ultrawide virtual monitor, making Vision Pro a viable option for day-to-day tasks.

Interestingly, we also have a treat for our readers. When the company sent us the strap to review, they threw in a 10% discount for anyone interested. Just use the code ROADTOVR during checkout on Amazon.

Installing the Annapro A2 is straightforward—it slides onto the Vision Pro’s struts and complements the Knit Band seamlessly. It can also work with the Dual Loop for those wanting extra top support. The package includes pads of four different thicknesses (5mm, 12mm, 18mm, and 25mm) to cater to various head shapes.

Personally, the 5mm pad was the perfect fit for me, enabling the headset to be worn sans facepad, bringing the lenses closer to my eyes while expanding my peripheral view. This setup offers a more open and natural AR experience.

Apple seemed to have favored style over function with the Vision Pro, aiming for a device that didn’t look bulkier than fashionable ski goggles. But in doing so, comfort was somewhat compromised, becoming a major talking point among users.

Lastly, it’s reassuring that third-party solutions have stepped in to bridge this gap affordably. This effective remedy might just be what Apple embraces in Vision Pro’s next iteration as a standard feature.