Meta AI Glasses vs. Meta Ray-Ban: I compared the latest models to decide if it's time to switch

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.Meta has unveiled its latest iteration of smart glasses, notably dropping the premium "Ray-Ban" branding that previously drove millions of units in sales. While the omission of the iconic logo might initially suggest a fracturing partnership between Meta and eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica, the reality is quite the opposite.Also: I wore Google's Android XR glasses again - and my limit-testing shows serious promiseThe new, are manufactured by EssilorLuxottica itself but hit the market at a strategic $80 price point below the flagship Meta Ray-Ban AI Glasses.This raises a critical question for consumers: Does the cheaper model compromise on performance, or simply ditch the luxury label? Below is a direct comparison of the two models to determine which offers the better value proposition. (Spoiler: There are no major changes to how the smart glasses handle security and privacy, so don't expect anything there for now.)You should buy the Meta AI Glasses if... 1. A pair of AI Glasses under $300The new Meta Glasses start at $299, which is $80 less than the latest pair of Meta Ray-Bans. You're essentially getting the same features for less.They support Meta AI for hands-off assistance, a multi-mic array to reduce wind on calls, and the ability to take photos and videos with the press of a button. The Meta Glasses are rated to last "over eight hours," which is slightly more than their Ray-Bans counterpart. And their charging case is touted to offer up to 40 hours of additional battery life on the go. 2. More styles and colorsThe Meta Glasses are compatible with prescription lenses and come in three major frame options: Adventurer (rectangular), Fury (squarish), and Meta Glasses by Kylie, which includes a special-edition case. The third option, designed in collaboration with Kylie Jenner and inspired by her personal style, gives you a more fashionable, slim oval frame, and is likely a pair you'd want to try on first before buying.Also: I compared the 3 best XR display glasses right now - the winner was not the most expensiveYou can get the new Meta Glasses in 26 styles across a range of colors, lenses, and frames. In comparison, the Ray-Ban AI Glasses won't give you as many color options, while you still get three major frames to choose from: Wayfarer, Skyler, and Headliner.3. Comfortable design changesIn my two years of owning the 1st generation Meta Ray-Ban AI Glasses, I've only wished for one thing: adjustable nose pads, and the new Meta Glasses have them!Like the Display and the Optics Styles smartglasses, the new variant supports overextension hinges and adjustable nose pads. The latter can be pressed and clicked into three separate positions. This should potentially result in a more comfortable fit for wider faces4. More flexible prescriptionsWhile I haven't added prescription lenses to my Meta Ray-Bans, I've had friends complain that they're not easy to replace and require boutique assistance. This isn't the case with the new Meta Glasses. Their prescription lenses are easier to replace. They support a wide range of prescriptions: going from -12 to +2.25. However, you'll need to visit an optician for prescriptions stronger than -6.You should buy the Meta Ray-Ban Glasses if... 1. You want a more premium experienceSome might dismiss the $80 price premium as just a branding fee, but it is more than that. I loved my Meta Ray-Bans and kept using them because their charging case looked like a lifestyle product rather than some tech-first rectangular box. The new Meta Glasses have a black charging case, unlike the Ray-Bans, which have a luxurious brown case with a textured finish. If you want a premium experience alongside the higher-end branding, the Meta Ray-Ban AI glasses are for you.2. Easier to find second-hand/refurbished models for cheapYou can find the Meta Ray-Ban Glasses for as low as $200, which is cheaper than the new model. The refurbished models are available at a good discount, and I've seen the 1st-generation pair go as low as $179 during Black Friday. In fact, you can purchase a refurbished model for as low as $179 on Meta's website right now.When buying refurbished models, just make sure you're getting your pair from a reputable seller. In this case, the refurbished Ray-Bans are available for purchase on Meta's website and include a limited one-year warranty, so you can trust it's a legitimate deal and make a smarter purchase.The Meta Glasses will take a while to appear in the but if you have to buy a pair under $250 right now, the Ray-Bans are the way to go.Writer's choiceI've owned the 1st generation Meta Ray-Ban Glasses for years now and haven't had a lot to complain about. The battery life has gotten a tad shorter than when I first bought the glasses, as is often the case with depreciating technology, and I really just wish the nose pads were more comfortable. For that, I'm tempted to upgrade to the newer model. However, I'm a big fan of the Ray-Ban branding -- specifically, the brown leather charging case that gives the glasses more personality. You might be on a different boat.