Planning a "Fresh Start" in VR: Mac Mini (M4/M5) + Quest 3. Is it still the best productivity combo? 🖥️🥽

Hi everyone!

I’m currently working on a 2018 Intel MacBook Air, and I’m ready to ditch it for a fully virtual workspace. I haven't bought the Quest 3 yet, but I’m planning to use it as my only monitor.

My planned setup:

• Mac: Mac Mini (either M4 now or waiting for M5 this spring) with 16GB/24GB RAM.

• Headset: Meta Quest 3 (for those sweet Pancake lenses).

• Network: Upgrading to a Wi-Fi 7 router (Orange Livebox 7).

Questions for the pros:

1. Is the Quest 3 still the King? In early 2026, is the Q3 still the best value for reading text/coding, or should I consider newer "work-focused" headsets? (Please don't say Vision Pro, my wallet isn't ready lol).

2. The "Headless" Mac Mini experience: How painful is the initial setup without a physical monitor? Is a Dummy HDMI plug still mandatory in 2026?

3. Daily driver: Can anyone here honestly say they work 4+ hours a day in the Quest 3 with a Mac Mini? What's the one accessory you can't live without?

Thanks for helping a VR newbie join the club!