Samsung Galaxy XR: affordable alternative to the Apple Vision Pro

Table of Contents

TL;DR: Samsung Galaxy XR: an affordable alternative to the Apple Vision Pro

  • Price: Galaxy XR costs $1,799, significantly cheaper than the Vision Pro at $3,499.
  • Comfort: Lighter and more comfortable than the Vision Pro, with a user-centered design.
  • Specs: 4K micro-OLED displays, Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 processor, battery life of up to 2.5 hours.
  • Interface: Runs on Android XR and features AI integration via Gemini.
  • Release: Available in the U.S. and Korea starting October 22, 2025.

Samsung Galaxy XR price vs. Apple Vision Pro

The Samsung Galaxy XR launches at a price of $1,799, representing a $1,700 difference compared to the Apple Vision Pro, which costs $3,499. This aggressive pricing strategy aims to attract a broader audience and challenge the perception that extended reality (XR) devices are out of reach for the average consumer.

Samsung also offers an “explorer pack” that includes one year of subscriptions to Google AI Pro, YouTube Premium, and Google Play Pass, plus a promotional rate of $1 per month for three months for YouTube TV. This adds significant value to the bundle, making the Galaxy XR not only more affordable but also more attractive in terms of content and services.

The price difference can be attributed to several factors, including the absence of a front display that shows the user’s eyes, a feature of the Vision Pro that adds additional costs. In addition, the Galaxy XR is designed to deliver a more user-centered XR experience, with a focus on comfort and functionality.

Galaxy XR launch in the United States and Korea

The Galaxy XR was officially launched on October 22, 2025, available in the U.S. and South Korean markets. This launch marks an important milestone for Samsung, as it positions itself as a direct competitor to the Apple Vision Pro and other XR devices on the market.

Early buyers have had the opportunity to experience the device at demo events, where its lightness and comfort have been highlighted compared to other models. Samsung’s launch strategy includes a strong marketing campaign that emphasizes the Galaxy XR’s accessibility compared to its competitors.

Immediate availability in these two key markets is a strategic move, as Samsung seeks to capture the attention of consumers interested in XR technology before other comp

etitors can respond with their own offers.

Exploring Samsung and Google’s ‘explorer pack’

The “explorer pack” that accompanies the Galaxy XR is an additional perk that includes a series of subscriptions and services designed to enhance the user experience. This package includes:

  • Google AI Pro: One year of access to artificial intelligence tools that improve the user’s interaction with the device.
  • YouTube Premium: Ad-free access to YouTube content, allowing you to enjoy videos and series without interruptions.
  • Google Play Pass: Access to a wide range of premium apps and games with no ads or in-app purchases.
  • YouTube TV: A promotional rate of $1 per month for three months, allowing users to enjoy a variety of live channels.

This approach not only adds value to the device, but also positions Samsung as a leader in integrating digital services with XR hardware. The combination of a competitive price and a robust services bundle can attract a broader audience looking for a complete and accessible XR experience.

Comfort and design of the Galaxy XR

The design of the Galaxy XR has been carefully considered to maximize user comfort. At approximately 545 grams, it is notably lighter than the Vision Pro, which weighs between 750 and 800 grams. This weight difference translates into a more comfortable wearing experience, especially over extended periods.

The Galaxy XR features a human-centered design, with a frame that distributes pressure evenly across the forehead and the back of the head. This minimizes facial discomfort, a common issue in heavier XR devices. In addition, the headset includes a removable light seal, which enables greater immersion by blocking external light.

The materials used in the construction of the Galaxy XR are primarily plastics, which makes cleaning and maintenance easier. Although some critics have noted that these materials don’t have the same premium feel as the Vision Pro, the Galaxy XR’s lightness and comfort are aspects many users will value positively.

Technical specifications of the Galaxy XR

The Galaxy XR is equipped with advanced technology that puts it in a competitive position against the Vision Pro. Some of its most notable specifications include:

  • Displays: Two 4K micro-OLED panels with a resolution of 3,552 x 3,840 pixels, offering a 109-degree horizontal field of view.
  • Processor: Uses the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2, which provides robust performance for XR applications.
  • Cameras and sensors: Includes two high-resolution cameras for viewing the environment, six world-tracking cameras, and four eye-tracking cameras.
  • Connectivity: Supports Wi‑Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring a fast and stable connection.

Resolution and refresh rates

The Galaxy XR offers an impressive 4K resolution on its micro‑OLED displays, enabling a sharp and detailed visual experience. Refresh rates are adjustable, with options of 60Hz, 72Hz, and up to 90Hz, improving smoothness when viewing content and interacting with apps.

Battery life

The Galaxy XR’s battery life is up to 2.5 hours during video playback, and approximately 2 hours during mixed use. Although this may seem limited, it is comparable to the Vision Pro. However, the Galaxy XR allows the device to be used while charging, which can be a significant advantage for users planning long sessions of use.

Interface and user experience on the Galaxy XR

The Galaxy XR interface is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, especially for users familiar with the Android ecosystem. It uses a gesture- and eye-tracking-based control system, allowing users to interact with content naturally.

The integration of Google Gemini, Google’s artificial intelligence, allows users to perform contextual searches and receive information about their surroundings. For example, when using Google Maps, users can ask Gemini about nearby points of interest or receive personalized recommendations.

In addition, the device is compatible with Android apps, meaning users can access a wide range of content and services from day one. The user experience is complemented by features such as automatic spatialization of 2D content, which adds depth to images and videos, enhancing immersion.

Feature comparison between Galaxy XR and Vision Pro

When comparing the Galaxy XR with the Apple Vision Pro, there are several aspects to consider:

Feature Samsung Galaxy XR Apple Vision Pro
Price $1,799 $3,499
Weight 545 grams 750-800 grams
Display 4K micro‑OLED 4K Retina
Processor Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 M2
Battery life 2.5 hours 2 hours
Interface Android XR iOS XR

The Galaxy XR offers a comparable experience at a significantly lower price, making it an attractive option for those looking to enter the world of extended reality without breaking the bank.

Potential impact of the Galaxy XR on the XR market

The launch of the Galaxy XR could have a significant impact on the XR market. By offering a high-quality device at a more accessible price, Samsung could attract a broader audience and encourage greater adoption of XR technology.

In addition, direct competition with the Apple Vision Pro could force Apple to reconsider its pricing and feature strategy, which could result in price decreases in the future or the introduction of more affordable models.

The Galaxy XR could also drive the development of XR-optimized content and applications, as more users adopt this technology. This, in turn, could lead to greater innovation in the XR space, benefiting both consumers and developers.

Samsung Galaxy XR: An Attractive Alternative to the Apple Vision Pro

Price and Feature Comparison

The Galaxy XR presents itself as a viable option for those looking for a quality XR device without the high cost associated with the Vision Pro. With a more accessible price and competitive features, Samsung has created a product that could change the market dynamics.

User Experience and Comfort

The comfort and design of the Galaxy XR are strong points that could appeal to users seeking a lighter, less restrictive XR experience. The integration of artificial intelligence and an intuitive interface also enhance the overall user experience.

Artificial Intelligence Integration

The inclusion of Google Gemini in the Galaxy XR enables richer, more contextual interaction with the device, which can significantly improve the user experience. This AI integration could be a deciding factor for many consumers when choosing between the Galaxy XR and the Vision Pro.

Market Outlook and the Future of Extended Reality

As more consumers adopt XR technology, the Galaxy XR could play a crucial role in expanding this market. The combination of an affordable price, advanced features, and an optimized user experience could

position Samsung as a leader in the XR space in the coming years.