5 Best Ray Bans 2026 in the United States

The Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses blend classic design with innovative technology, making them a unique choice for users looking to stay connected and capture moments on the go. With a sleek frame made from lightweight materials, they offer comfort for extended wear. The polarized gradient lenses ensure clarity and protect against UV rays, appealing to those who prioritize eye safety while enjoying outdoor activities.

One of the standout features is the integrated ultra-wide 12 MP camera and five-mic system, which allows users to take high-quality photos and videos or even livestream their perspective on social media. This capability could particularly benefit content creators and those who wish to share experiences in real-time. The open-ear speakers enhance the user experience, providing good audio without fully isolating ambient sounds, which is great for safety and awareness in public settings.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The reliance on voice commands may not appeal to everyone, especially in noisy environments where background sounds could hinder performance. Additionally, while these glasses are visually appealing, they might not suit all face shapes perfectly, potentially limiting their fit and comfort for some users. The price point may also be higher compared to regular sunglasses, which could deter budget-conscious shoppers.

The Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) smart glasses combine classic Wayfarer style with modern wearable technology, making them a good fit for anyone interested in stylish smart eyewear. The frame is shiny black and designed to be slim and comfortable, suitable for both men and women. They feature green lenses, which offer a distinct look and help reduce glare, though they may not be ideal if you want clear, untinted vision indoors.

The ultra-wide 12 MP camera lets you capture photos and videos from your point of view hands-free, while the open-ear speakers allow you to listen to music or take calls without blocking out surrounding sounds. This is handy for staying aware of your environment. The glasses also support Bluetooth connectivity and voice commands, making it easy to call, message, or get AI-powered assistance on the go. Real-time translation in multiple languages is a noteworthy bonus for travelers.

The glasses weigh about 11 ounces, which might feel slightly heavier than regular sunglasses after long use. Privacy controls are included, but as with any smart device, some users might have concerns about always-on listening or recording. These AI glasses offer a blend of iconic Ray-Ban style with advanced smart functions, especially for capturing moments and hands-free communication, but may be more than needed if you just want traditional sunglasses.

The Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) Skyler glasses blend classic Ray-Ban style with smart technology, making them a good fit for people looking for wearable tech that doesn’t sacrifice look or comfort. They feature a shiny black frame that is slim and designed to fit comfortably on most faces, suitable for both men and women. The lenses use Transitions® Cerulean Blue, which adjusts to light changes, offering eye protection and style. The frame shape is modern and unisex, consistent with Ray-Ban's iconic designs.

What sets these apart from regular sunglasses is the built-in 12 MP ultra-wide camera and a five-mic system, allowing hands-free photo and video capture. This is useful for anyone wanting to document moments or livestream directly on social media without holding a phone. The open-ear speakers provide clear audio for music, calls, or AI interactions while keeping ears open to the environment, which is safer and more comfortable for daily wear. The Meta AI feature offers real-time answers and suggestions, plus live translation between several common languages without needing Wi-Fi, which can be handy for travelers or multitaskers. Privacy options let users control voice commands and other settings to maintain security.

On the downside, weighing 8.8 ounces, these glasses are slightly heavier than typical Ray-Bans, which might be noticeable during long wear. Also, as smart glasses, battery life can be a concern, though a lithium-ion battery is included. The price and technology might be overkill for those who only want simple sunglasses without extra features. The Ray-Ban Meta Skyler smart glasses are best suited for tech enthusiasts who want stylish eyewear combined with hands-free photography, audio, and AI assistance. They balance familiar Ray-Ban design with innovative functions, though with some compromises in weight and complexity.