The rising popularity of smart glasses is attributed to their exceptional eye protection and convenient, open-ear functionality for calls and music while on the move, eliminating the necessity for separate wireless earbuds. Leading smart glasses models, resembling traditional styles like wayfarers or wraparounds, feature Bluetooth connectivity, miniature speakers, and microphones for seamless music playback and call handling. This article will delve into our top recommendations with our best smart glasses tips in 2024.
Best Smart Glasses Tips: Top 5 Multifunctional Eye Protection!
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
It is the top choice for overall smart glasses, combining everyday comfort and style. Featuring iconic designs, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses offer a 12MP camera and impressive sound and voice quality.
Pros:
- Wide range of colour options
- IPX4 rating for water resistance
- 12MP camera for high-quality captures
Cons:
- Meta account required for operation
- The abundance of design choices may be overwhelming
The latest Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses represent a step forward from the Stories series, offering an expanded colour palette and notable hardware enhancements. Available styles include the classic Wayfarer and the newer, more rounded Headliner version. With over 150 frame and lens combinations, including traditional options like Shiny Black and Charcoal or more unique choices like Shiny Caramel and Blue Jeans, there’s something to suit every taste. Finding the ideal fit is simple, with the Wayfarer available in both Large and Standard sizes, while the Headliner is currently only offered in Standard size.
The Meta smart glasses leap technology boasts a faster Qualcomm chip and a 12MP camera capable of recording up to 1080p video. Enhanced sound quality is achieved through a five-microphone array and robust speakers, delivering approximately 50% more output than the previous model. With a battery life of around four hours, supplemented by an additional eight hours from the case, these glasses ensure you stay powered up for nearly three days.
The Ray-Ban Metas epitomize the evolution of smart glasses from niche technology for early adopters to practical, mainstream options for everyday users. Despite requiring a Meta account for optimal functionality, their extensive upgrades and functional features make them the top choice for smart glasses. However, navigating the many options available can be challenging when searching for the perfect fit.
Carrera Smart Glasses
Top choice for premium smart glasses: Embrace rock star style
Carrera Smart Glasses boast exceptional Alexa integration, available in the striking Black and gold Cruiser Style or the understated all-black Sprinter.
Pros:
- Striking aesthetics
- Seamless Alexa integration
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Charging stand included instead of case
Since 1956, Carrera has been synonymous with premium eyewear for celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. Collaborating with Amazon, Carrera infused innovative technology into some of its most iconic styles. The Carrera Smart Glasses are available in the Black and Gold Cruiser style, featuring an oversized look ideal for evading paparazzi. At the same time, the more discreet all-black Sprinter option is perfect for reducing glare on the journey home from an afterparty.
The slightly thicker arms, which house dual beamforming microphones and speakers within the temples, are what sets them apart from traditional models. Additionally, volume controls are located on the left arm, with action buttons on the right. Carrera Smart Glasses are ideal for enjoying music or managing calls on the move, boasting exceptional Alexa compatibility for effortless voice commands. With a battery life of up to six hours for continuous playback or calls at 80% volume, they can be recharged in approximately 2.5 hours using the USB-C cable.
Renowned for making a fashion statement, Carrera sunglasses now incorporate cutting-edge technology and voice assistant compatibility, making them perfect companions for outings. Their premium quality and robust design make them the top choice for smart glasses, albeit at a higher price point. They also come with a substantial charging stand rather than a sleek case.
Razer Anzu Smart Glasses
Top choice for value smart glasses. Versatile eye protection for both indoor and outdoor use. Razer Anzu smart glasses offer exceptional value and are often available at discounted prices. They feature clear blue light and dark polarized lenses suitable for various environments.
Pros:
- Two sets of lenses included
- Choice of two styles
- Reliable connectivity
Cons:
- Average sound quality
- Switching lenses may be challenging
People dedicating extended periods in front of screens may benefit from wearing Razer’s Anzu smart glasses, which effectively filter blue light, reducing eye fatigue and strain. Available in Razer’s signature all-black colour, these smart glasses come in round or square styles, with options for small and large sizes to accommodate most users. Often offered at discounted prices, they provide even more value by including clear lenses that filter 35% of blue light for indoor use and interchangeable black polarized lenses for outdoor activities.
Equipped with speakers, omnidirectional microphones, and touch controls on each arm, the Razer Anzu smart glasses allow users to easily play and pause tracks or access voice assistants like Siri. Their open-ear design enables users to remain aware of their surroundings, which is particularly useful when navigating busy streets. At the same time, the low-latency Bluetooth connection ensures smooth communication during calls.
With an IPX4 rating, the Razer Anzu smart glasses are resistant to rain and sweat, making them suitable for various conditions. Offering the versatility of both clear and dark lenses, they are a 2-in-1 solution for different lighting environments. Although swapping out the lenses may pose a challenge, and the sound quality is better suited for calls and podcasts than music, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the Anzu’s affordable price and exceptional value.
XREAL Air 2 Pro AR Glasses
Top choice for augmented reality eyewear: Step into tomorrow’s world today
Equipped with built-in 1080p displays featuring Sony micro-OLED technology, the XREAL Air 2 Pro AR Glasses allow you to enjoy movies and games wherever you go.
Pros:
- Resembles regular sunglasses
- Three levels of electrochromic dimming
- Integrated augmented reality displays
Cons:
- Higher price point
- May become uncomfortable after extended wear
Xreal’s Air 2 Pros elevate the experience with an integrated display for watching movies, shows, or playing games. In contrast to the Apple Vision and other distinctive-looking competitors, they sport a stylish black wayfarer-like design, with minimal indication of their advanced capabilities, except for a slightly chunky appearance. Setting them apart from most competitors are the dual 0.55-inch 1080p screens, powered by Sony Micro-OLED technology, providing users with the sensation of viewing content on a massive 130-inch display with a rapid 120Hz refresh rate.
The expansive display and the speakers embedded in the arms deliver an immersive viewing experience wherever you go. Additionally, you can utilize it to mirror the display of your PC or smartphone for added convenience. In addition to serving as a portable monitor, the Air 2 Pro sunglasses offer an augmented reality experience through the Nebula app, allowing you to have your favourite apps’ icons “floating” in front of you for easy access at any time. Not compromising on eye protection, they feature three levels of electrochromic dimming that are accessible with a button on the left temple.
It’s refreshing to encounter advanced smart glasses that don’t resemble props from a sci-fi movie, and Xreal’s Air 2 Pros excel in this regard with a discreet design that seamlessly blends in. Despite their unassuming appearance, they offer remarkable versatility as a portable monitor, enabling you to enjoy games or multimedia content wherever you are. However, they come at a premium price and may become uncomfortable after prolonged wear.
Bose Frames Tempo
Top choice for sports smart glasses: Enhance your sports experience with sound.
Boasting a lightweight yet robust wraparound design, the Bose Frames Tempo offer exceptional sound quality and extended battery life, which is ideal for sports and outdoor activities.
Pros:
- Lightweight wraparound design
- Superior sound experience
- Bose’s renowned quality
Cons:
- Limited to one colour option
- Protective case not included
Bose is famous for its outstanding sound quality, and its Frames Tempo stands out as the top choice for runners, cyclists, or anyone seeking durable polarized smart glasses for outdoor pursuits. These glasses offer a secure fit, with three sizes of nose pads included for customization. They also have a wraparound design to shield them from sunlight from all angles and a textured finish on the lightweight nylon frame to ensure they stay in place during your activities.
Buyers will undoubtedly appreciate the remarkable sound and voice quality for calls and music playback while on the move. The open-ear design poses no safety concerns, allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings, including traffic and potential hazards. With an impressive eight-hour battery life, the Frames Tempo ensures uninterrupted usage throughout the day, and it can be fully charged in just one hour via USB-C cable.
The Frames Tempo offers everything one could desire in sports sunglasses, featuring a lightweight wraparound design with IPX4 sweat and water resistance. Bose enhances their appeal by incorporating premium audio components for music playback and calls. However, it’s unfortunate that they are only available in one colour and lack a protective case.
Conclusion:
The widespread appeal of smart glasses stems from their excellent eye protection and convenient open-ear functionality. They enable users to handle calls and enjoy music while on the move without requiring separate wireless earbuds. However, they may need to match the superior bass and depth of top-tier earbuds and headphones. Specific premium models offer a glimpse into the future with built-in displays for enjoying movies or shows, while others boast integrated cameras for capturing pictures and recording HD videos. Plan your purchase now and enjoy the convenience of smart glasses.
