Snapchat glasses, also known as Spectacles, allow you to record videos and take pictures and upload them directly to your Snapchat account. But are they worth the price tag that comes along with them? Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of Snapchat glasses to help you decide if they are worth investing in.
What are Snapchat glasses?
Snapchat glasses are sunglasses with a built-in camera that allows you to take videos and pictures without using your smartphone. The glasses connect directly to your Snapchat account via Bluetooth or WiFi so you can upload your snaps instantly.
The glasses have a 115° lens to mimic human vision and each tap records a 10 second video or snaps a picture. The videos and pictures sync automatically with your phone’s Snapchat app once you connect the glasses to WiFi or Bluetooth.
The original Snapchat glasses could only record 10 second videos. But the latest generation, Spectacles 3, allow you to record videos in HD for up to 60 seconds. The glasses also have dual HD cameras to add depth and dimension to your videos.
What are the pros of Snapchat glasses?
Hands-free recording
One of the biggest advantages of Snapchat glasses is the ability to record hands-free. You don’t need to hold your phone up or switch between apps to capture a moment. Just tap the button on the glasses to start recording instantly.
This makes the glasses ideal for activities where you want to be hands-free like at concerts, festivals, or playing sports. You can enjoy the moment while your Snapchat glasses document it for you.
First person point-of-view
Snapchat glasses allow you to capture snaps from your own point-of-view. The 115° filming angle closely mimics human vision, providing a unique first-person perspective you can’t get from your smartphone camera.
POV videos shot on Snapchat glasses have become popular for giving viewers an immersive look at different activities and experiences like amusement park rides, traveling, concerts, and more.
Compatibility with smartphones
Snapchat glasses seamlessly sync with your smartphone and Snapchat app. Once you connect the glasses via Bluetooth or WiFi, your snaps will automatically import to your camera roll and memories on Snapchat.
You can also use your smartphone screen as a viewfinder when wearing the glasses. This lets you see exactly what you are capturing for easier framing of shots.
Creative possibilities
The unique capabilities of Snapchat glasses open up new creative possibilities for making videos and art. Artists, content creators, and directors are using Snapchat glasses to produce innovative first-person films, music videos, AR effects, and more.
Snap even collaborated with Major Lazer to produce a documentary concert film called Lazerism shot entirely on Spectacles.
What are the cons of Snapchat glasses?
Limited recording time
While the latest Spectacles 3 allow you to record for 60 seconds, that is still a limited duration. You have to tap to record again if something goes longer than 60 seconds.
The original Snapchat glasses were even more restrictive with just 10 seconds of recording time. This can make it difficult to capture full moments and events.
Video quality
The HD video quality on Spectacles 3 is an improvement from past models. But it still isn’t as high-quality as recordings from premium smartphones and cameras.
If you want professional-level image quality, Snapchat glasses likely won’t meet your needs. The built-in cameras are fun for casual sharing but have limitations.
Need to charge frequently
One downside of Snapchat glasses is the battery life drains quickly with use. You’ll need to charge the glasses in the included case frequently to keep them powered on.
Most users report only being able to record 4-5 videos before needing to recharge. Frequent charging makes the glasses less convenient for all-day use.
No water resistance
None of the Snapchat glasses models so far have been water resistant. This makes them risky to wear in the rain, snow, or at the beach or pool.
Water damage could easily destroy your Snapchat glasses. So you need to be careful about exposing them to the elements.
Price
The latest Snapchat Spectacles 3 cost $380. The price puts them out of reach for many social media users who would be otherwise interested.
Given the limitations on recording time and video quality, some consumers feel Snapchat glasses are overpriced.
Snapchat glasses specs
Here is a breakdown of the key specs and features for the Snapchat Spectacles 3 model:
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Recording resolution | HD video up to 1216 x 1216 pixels at 60 fps |
| Camera | Dual lenses with depth capture |
| Field of view | 115 degrees |
| Photo features | 164 x 164 resolution photos |
| Battery life | Approximately 70 videos per charge |
| Audio | Spatial audio with 4 built-in microphones |
| Storage | 4GB storage (approx. 100 videos) |
| Water resistance | None |
How much do Snapchat glasses cost?
Snapchat glasses are a significant investment, here is a breakdown of the pricing:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Snapchat Spectacles 3 | $380 |
| Snapchat Spectacles 2 | $350 |
| Original Snapchat Spectacles | $130 |
As you can see, the original Spectacles were the most affordable at $130. But the later models retail for $350 – $380 as more features were added.
The glasses also come with a charging case and cable. There are currently no lower-cost ways to buy Spectacles besides direct from Snapchat.
How can you buy Snapchat glasses?
Snapchat glasses are not carried by third-party retailers and can only be purchased directly from Snapchat. They are not available in stores.
Here are the ways you can get Snapchat glasses:
Order online
You can order Snapchat Spectacles for home delivery directly through Spectacles.com, Snapchat’s official website. The glasses will ship to your door.
Pop-up vending machines
Occasionally Snap will set up Snapbot vending machines in various locations that dispense Spectacles. You can search online to see if any Snapbots are available in your area.
In-app notifications
Sometimes Snapchat will send in-app notifications about pop-up Spectacles locations near you. Keep an eye out for notifications directing you where to find a Snapbot machine.
Should you buy Snapchat glasses?
Here are some key pros and cons to consider about whether Snapchat glasses are worth buying:
Pros
- Create hands-free videos from unique POV
- Seamlessly upload content to Snapchat
- Fun way to make social media content
- Opens up new creative possibilities
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Limited battery life and recording time
- Not high video/photo quality
- No water resistance
Conclusion
Snapchat glasses offer a fun new way to create social content and give your Snapchat a boost. The ability to record hands-free from your own POV is a unique advantage. But the high cost and tech limitations may make them not worth it for many users.
Casual Snapchat users will get the most enjoyment from Spectacles for their novelty and creative opportunities. Serious content creators may be disappointed by the overall video quality and battery life restrictions though.
If you have disposable income and love testing new social media tech, Snapchat glasses could be a cool gadget to try out. But their price and drawbacks may not justify the cost for many Snapchatters.