The Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Gen 1 has become even more appealing with the release of Gen 2.

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      With the release of Gen 2, the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Gen 1 priced at $224.25 is the wiser choice for most consumers.

      Whenever a new tech generation is launched, the real value often emerges with the previous version. This is exactly the case here. Now that the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 models are available, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) Wayfarer smart glasses in Shiny Black with clear lenses have been reduced to $224.25 from $299, reflecting a 25% discount.

      You are getting the original model that made this collaboration appealing: the classic Wayfarer style featuring a 12MP ultra-wide camera, open-ear speakers, and Bluetooth integrated into the frame. Unless you absolutely require the updates from the latest generation, Gen 1 at this price is an easy decision.

      What you’re receiving:

      These glasses excel at the fundamental smart-glasses functions: looking like traditional Ray-Bans while discreetly offering much more.

      You get:

      - The iconic Wayfarer frame in Shiny Black with clear lenses.

      - A built-in 12MP ultra-wide camera for taking photos and videos hands-free.

      - Open-ear speakers integrated into the arms for music, podcasts, and calls without covering your ears.

      - Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with your phone (compatible with Apple and Android).

      - A design intended for everyday use — whether commuting, traveling, enjoying walks, attending events, or casually capturing content.

      Even with Gen 2 available, this first-generation device still fulfills the needs that most users prioritize: capturing POV content without needing to take out your phone and listening privately without inserting anything into your ears.

      Reasons to consider it in the Gen 2 era:

      The newest generation often captures the spotlight, but Gen 1 becomes much more appealing once the price drops.

      Here are several reasons this deal is still worthwhile:

      - Significant discount from the original price: At $224.25, you save a substantial amount from the initial $299, bringing these closer to regular premium eyewear pricing.

      - Core experience remains: For many users, the main attraction is still hands-free photography and open-ear audio in aesthetically appealing glasses — and Gen 1 delivers on that.

      - Timeless design: The Wayfarer shape is classic. You’re not buying an outdated look; you’re investing in the same iconic Ray-Ban style that remains relevant.

      - Excellent entry-level smart glasses: If you’re interested in wearable tech but hesitant to pay full price for Gen 2, this option offers a lower-risk introduction to the category while retaining essential features.

      - You're not paying for unused features: If your primary intention is to take quick photos, record videos, answer calls, and listen to audio while keeping your ears unblocked, Gen 1 already meets those needs effectively.

      Unless you are certain you want the latest improvements, purchasing Gen 1 at a discount is usually the more rational choice, especially if this is your first pair of smart glasses.

      In conclusion:

      With the arrival of the new generation, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) Wayfarer smart glasses have quietly become the more economical option. You still enjoy classic Wayfarer styling, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, open-ear speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity all in a pair of glasses you would actually wear daily.

      At $224.25, reduced from $299, they are no longer priced like a newly launched gadget, but they function just as effectively, making them a smart choice for entering the smart-glasses market without the Gen 2 price tag.

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