Oakley Meta vs Ray-Ban Meta: Which Smart Glasses Are Worth It in 2025?

(Updated for UAE launch – May 2025)

Smart glasses are no longer a concept. In 2025, both Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta are here — blending eyewear design with connected tech. But how do they differ? And which should you actually buy in the UAE?

This quick guide breaks it down — from features to local availability, so you can make the right choice before adding to cart.

What Are Ray-Ban Meta Glasses?

Ray-Ban Meta is the result of a partnership between Meta (yes, the company behind Facebook) and EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Ray-Ban.

Gen 1 launched globally in 2021, offering built-in speakers and a 5-MP camera for capturing short videos and photos hands-free.
Gen 2, announced September 2024, brought a major redesign — a lighter frame, better touch controls, and an upgraded 12-MP ultra-wide camera capable of 3K video.
It also doubled down on battery life — up to 8 hours typical use — and improved noise-cancelling microphones.

UAE Launch: The new Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 officially landed in the UAE in May 2025, with regional support, warranty, and prescription lens options available through authorised retailers (including us, Dubai Optical).

What Are Oakley Meta Glasses?

Unveiled in June 2025, Oakley Meta is Meta’s second collaboration — but built for performance, not selfies.

Think of them as “smart sports eyewear”:

Prizm™ Lens Technology for enhanced colour and contrast outdoors.
Lightweight O Matter™ frames engineered for movement.
Built-in open-ear speakers, voice commands, and fitness-friendly durability.
Focused on cycling, running, driving, and outdoor activities, where Oakley already dominates.

They’re the first Oakley glasses with full Meta integration — meaning you can listen to music, take calls, and capture POV videos without pulling out your phone.

Ray-Ban Meta vs Oakley Meta: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2	Oakley Meta (HSTN Series)
Design Focus	Lifestyle / fashion	Sport / performance
Camera	12 MP (3K video)	12 MP (wide-angle, outdoor optimized)
Audio	Open-ear speakers	Open-ear speakers (higher output)
Lens Tech	Standard + prescription	PRIZM™ lens technology
Battery Life	Up to 8 hours typical use	Up to 10 hours (active mode varies)
Water Resistance	Light splash only	Sweat and weather resistant
Prescription Option	Yes (available in UAE)	Expected (coming Q4 2025)
Style Options	Wayfarer, Headliner (Gen 2)	HSTN, Holbrook, Sutro inspired frames
Ideal For	Everyday wear and social use	Training, cycling, driving
UAE Availability	Available since May 2025	Expected late 2025

Which One Should You Buy in Dubai or the UAE?

Choose Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 if:

You want smart glasses that look like stylish everyday eyewear.
You use social media or love capturing quick POV content.
You need immediate UAE availability and support.

Choose Oakley Meta if:

You live an active lifestyle — sports, cycling, driving, outdoor work.
You value durability, comfort, and visual performance over content creation.
You don’t mind waiting a few months for UAE release.

Final Verdict

Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2: The smarter fashion statement — perfect for city life, content creation, or connected commuting.
Oakley Meta: The athlete’s choice — powerful optics, stronger build, and sport-grade performance.

Both share Meta’s ecosystem, but they target totally different lifestyles.

Whichever you choose, make sure it matches how you live, not just how you look.

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