Best Value Smart Glasses
Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1)
by Meta
4.3
The original Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses — still available new at a major discount. Same iconic Wayfarer style, 12MP camera, open-ear audio, and Meta AI, just without the Gen 2 battery and 3K upgrades.
Starting at
Check Best Price→$224.25
12MP ultra-wide camera with 1080p video
Open-ear audio with custom speakers
Meta AI (hands-free voice assistant)
Live streaming to Facebook/Instagram
Touch and voice controls
Wayfarer and Headliner frame options
Quick summary
The original Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses — still available new at a major discount. Same iconic Wayfarer style, 12MP camera, open-ear audio, and Meta AI, just without the Gen 2 battery and 3K upgrades.
Who it's for
Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) is best for shoppers focused on best value smart glasses who want everyday and camera before buying.
Who should skip it
Shoppers who need a lower entry price, a different ecosystem fit, or a different mix of features should compare Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) with close alternatives before buying.
Key takeaways
Best Value Smart Glasses
12MP ultra-wide camera with 1080p video
Open-ear audio with custom speakers
Meta AI (hands-free voice assistant)
How we tested
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Updated on: March 30, 2026
Full Review
Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) is the original 2023 generation of Meta's collaboration with Ray-Ban. It kicked off the smart-glasses category with a 12MP ultra-wide camera capable of 1080p video, open-ear audio, hands-free Meta AI, and live streaming to Facebook/Instagram — all in a classic Wayfarer shape. With Gen 2 now shipping, Gen 1 has become the value pick: the same everyday experience for significantly less money.
What We Like
- Heavily discounted vs Gen 2 — great entry point
- Same iconic Ray-Ban look as Gen 2
- Camera and audio quality still excellent
- Meta AI continues to get software updates
- Compatible with most Ray-Ban prescription lenses
What Could Be Better
- Roughly half the battery life of Gen 2 (~4 hrs)
- 1080p video instead of Gen 2's 3K HD
- Less internal storage for photos/videos
- No new Transitions Gen-2 coatings
Technical Specifications
weight49g
batteryUp to 4 hours (with charging case)
camera12MP ultra-wide, 1080p video
audioOpen-ear custom speakers
connectivityBluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6
compatibilityiOS 16+, Android 10+
water ResistanceIPX4 splash resistant
frame StyleWayfarer, Headliner, Skyler
lens TypeClear, Transitions, Polarized, Prescription
Where to Buy
More ways to research Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1)
Review FAQ
Common questions about Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1)
These quick answers help buyers decide whether Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) fits their budget, use case, and current live pricing.
Is Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) worth buying in 2026?
Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) is worth considering if its strengths match your needs, but the best call depends on your budget, ecosystem, and whether you value the specific features highlighted in this review.
What is the current price for Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1)?
Smart Wearables is currently tracking verified live offers for Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) starting around $224.25.
Where can I compare Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) with similar smart glasses?
Use the linked price page, related products, and the compare hub on Smart Wearables to compare Meta Ray-Ban (Gen 1) against similar options before you buy.
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