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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image = [[file:bigscreen beyond1.jpg|350px]]
|name = Bigscreen Beyond
|VR/AR = [[VR]]
|image =
|Type = [[head-mounted display]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Subtype = [[PC-powered VR]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Creator =  
|Creator = [[Bigscreen]]
|Developer =  
|Developer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Manufacturer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Manufacturer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Announcement Date = February 13, 2023
|Announcement Date = February 2023
|Release Date = September 8, 2023
|Release Date = Q3 2023
|Price = $999
|Price = $999
|Website = bigscreenvr.com  
|Website = https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond
|Versions =  
|Versions = Bigscreen Beyond, Bigscreen Beyond 2, Bigscreen Beyond 2e
|Requires =  
|Requires = Gaming PC, SteamVR base stations
|Predecessor =  
|Predecessor = None
|Successor =  
|Successor = [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
|Operating System =  
|Operating System = [[Windows]] (via SteamVR)
|Chipset =  
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|CPU =  
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|GPU =  
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|HPU =  
|HPU =
|Storage =  
|Storage = N/A
|Memory =  
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot =  
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = 2 x Micro-OLED
|Display = Dual micro-OLED (Samsung)
|Subpixel Layout = [[RGB stripe]]
|Subpixel Layout = PenTile Diamond
|Peak Brightness =  
|Peak Brightness = ~100 nits
|Resolution = 2560x2560 per-eye
|Resolution = 2560 × 2560 per eye (5120 × 2560 combined)
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Pixel Density = ~32 PPD
|Pixel Density =  
|Refresh Rate = 75Hz, 90Hz
|Persistence =  
|Persistence = Ultra-low persistence (<0.5ms)
|Precision =  
|Field of View = 90° (horizontal) × 93° (vertical)
|Field of View =  
|Horizontal FoV = 90°
|Horizontal FoV = 102°
|Vertical FoV = 93°
|Vertical FoV =
|Average Pixel Density = ~32 PPD
|Visible FoV = 102° (horizontal), 90° (vertical)
|Peak Pixel Density = ~32 PPD
|Rendered FoV =  
|Binocular Overlap =  
|Average Pixel Density =  
|Peak Pixel Density = 32 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = [[Pancake lenses]]
|Optics = Custom pancake lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = 55-72 mm
|IPD Range = Factory-set (based on 3D face scan)
|Adjustable Diopter =  
|Adjustable Diopter = Via prescription lens inserts
|Passthrough = No
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 6 DoF Marker-based
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Tracking)
|Tracking Frequency =  
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz (base station rate)
|Base Stations = 2 x SteamVR 2.0
|Base Stations = Required (SteamVR 1.0 or 2.0)
|Eye Tracking = No
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = Via SteamVR trackers
|Rotational Tracking =  
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking =  
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate =  
|Update Rate = 1000Hz
|Tracking Volume =  
|Tracking Volume = Dependent on base station setup
|Play Space =  
|Play Space = Roomscale (up to 10m × 10m with 2.0 stations)
|Latency =  
|Latency = <10ms motion-to-photon
|Audio =  
|Audio = None built-in (external required)
|Microphone = Yes
|Microphone = None built-in
|3.5mm Audio Jack =  
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Via optional audio strap
|Camera =  
|Camera = None
|Connectivity =  
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
|Ports = USB Type-C
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
|Wired Video = DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x USB 3.0
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power =  
|Power = USB-powered
|Battery Capacity =  
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life =  
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time =  
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = 143.1 x 52.4 x 24 mm
|Dimensions = ~140mm × 55mm × 50mm (visor)
|Weight = 127 g 155 g
|Weight = 127g (visor only), 170-185g (with strap)
|Material = Plastic, foam facial interface
|Material = Plastic, 3D-printed facial interface
|Headstrap = Flexible fabric strap
|Headstrap = Multiple options (rigid, comfort strap)
|Haptics = No
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Color = Black
|Sensors =  
|Sensors = IMU (gyroscope, accelerometer)
|Input =  
|Input = SteamVR controllers (Index, Vive, etc.)
|Compliance =  
|Compliance = FCC, CE
|Size =
|Cable Length =
}}
}}


=== Overview ===
The '''Bigscreen Beyond''' is an ultra-compact [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Bigscreen]], announced in February 2023 and released later in 2023 at a price of $999. Weighing just 127 grams for the visor alone—less than many smartphones—the Beyond represents a radical departure from traditional VR headset design, achieving its minimal form factor through custom-manufactured facial interfaces based on individual 3D face scans. The headset features dual Samsung micro-OLED displays with 2560 × 2560 resolution per eye and custom pancake lenses, delivering premium visual quality while using SteamVR base station tracking for precise positional tracking. The Beyond's extreme emphasis on comfort and portability has made it popular among VR enthusiasts, sim racers, and users who found traditional headsets too heavy for extended use.
[[Bigscreen Beyond]] is a groundbreaking PC VR headset developed by a VR software startup. It represents a significant stride in VR technology, aiming to provide the smallest headset with the highest image quality. Notable for its compact design, Bigscreen Beyond is a fully-featured VR system that integrates high-end technology with user-centric innovations.


=== Design and Build ===
== History and Development ==
The headset's design emphasizes compactness and user comfort. It features a unique custom-fit facepad, made for each customer based on a 3D face scan. This bespoke design approach ensures a perfect fit, significantly enhancing comfort and the overall VR experience. The headset weighs between 170 and 185 grams, making it one of the lightest in the market.


=== Technical Specifications ===
=== Bigscreen Origins ===
Bigscreen Beyond is equipped with dual microOLED displays, offering a resolution of 2560x2560 per eye. The headset operates at 75Hz or 90Hz refresh rates and provides a field of view of 102 degrees. It supports SteamVR Tracking 1.0 or 2.0 and does not have on-board cameras. Notably, the headset lacks built-in audio, requiring external solutions for sound.
Bigscreen Inc. was founded in 2014 by Darshan Shankar and others, initially developing the Bigscreen VR application—a social virtual reality platform for watching movies, gaming, and hanging out in virtual environments. The application became popular across multiple VR platforms, giving the team deep insight into user pain points with existing VR hardware.


=== Visual Experience ===
=== Hardware Ambition ===
Users report excellent visual clarity with the Beyond, thanks to its high-resolution displays and custom facepads that ensure optimal eye positioning. However, there are mentions of glare and reduced clarity at the lens edges. The headset's lightweight design contributes to an immersive and comfortable VR experience, even over extended periods.
Bigscreen's hardware development began with the observation that existing VR headsets were too heavy, too bulky, and required compromise between visual quality and comfort. The team set out to create what they called "the world's smallest VR headset" by rethinking every aspect of headset design.


=== Compatibility and Usage ===
=== Custom Face Scanning Approach ===
Bigscreen Beyond is compatible with Steam VR and requires a high-end PC with robust graphics capabilities. The headset connects via DisplayPort 1.4 and USB 3.0, and it employs Display Stream Compression (DSC) for efficient data transfer. Users appreciate the headset's tracking quality, though note the absence of built-in audio as a significant drawback.
Traditional VR headsets use a one-size-fits-all approach with adjustable IPD mechanisms and universal facial interfaces. Bigscreen took a radical different approach:
* Each customer submits a 3D scan of their face
* IPD is measured from the scan
* A custom facial interface is 3D printed specifically for each customer
* The display IPD is factory-set based on measured IPD


=== Customization and Accessories ===
This approach eliminates IPD adjustment mechanisms, facial interface padding options, and much of the structural bulk needed to accommodate diverse face shapes.
The headset allows for considerable customization. Users can download CAD files to 3D print their own accessories, and an official deluxe audio strap is planned for release. This level of customization, combined with its superior visual performance, makes Bigscreen Beyond a compelling choice for VR enthusiasts.


=== User Feedback and Reception ===
=== Design Philosophy ===
Most users express high satisfaction with the Bigscreen Beyond, particularly praising its comfort and visual fidelity. However, some note the inconvenience caused by the lack of built-in audio and the challenges in achieving the optimal fit and visual clarity due to the tight eyebox.
The Beyond embodies a specific philosophy:
* '''Minimize weight at all costs''': Every gram scrutinized
* '''Premium displays''': No compromise on visual quality
* '''External tracking''': Leverage existing SteamVR infrastructure
* '''No integrated audio''': Users provide their own preferred solution
* '''Customization over universality''': Better fit through personalization
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Samsung Micro-OLED Panels ===
The Beyond uses premium Samsung micro-OLED displays:
* '''Resolution''': 2560 × 2560 per eye
* '''Total Resolution''': Over 13 million pixels (5120 × 2560)
* '''Panel Size''': 1-inch diagonal per eye
* '''Technology''': Active-matrix organic LED on silicon backplane
* '''Subpixel Layout''': PenTile Diamond arrangement
 
=== OLED Advantages ===
Micro-OLED technology delivers:
* '''True blacks''': Zero light emission when off
* '''Infinite contrast''': Perfect blacks enable HDR-like experience
* '''Fast response''': Near-instantaneous pixel switching
* '''Vibrant colors''': Wide color gamut coverage
* '''Low persistence''': Reduces motion blur significantly
 
=== Refresh Rates ===
Supported refresh rates:
* 75Hz: Lower GPU requirements
* 90Hz: Standard VR refresh rate
* Smooth motion for most content
 
=== HDR Capability ===
The OLED panels support HDR content:
* Wide dynamic range between darks and highlights
* Particularly impressive in dark scenes
* Enhanced movie and video viewing
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Custom Pancake Lenses ===
Compact pancake lens design enables slim form factor:
* Multiple polarization layers fold optical path
* Significantly shorter focal length than Fresnel alternatives
* Clear edge-to-edge viewing
* Minimal god rays compared to Fresnel lenses
 
=== Field of View ===
Balanced FOV for the size:
* '''Horizontal''': 90°
* '''Vertical''': 93°
* Slightly narrower than larger headsets
* Acceptable tradeoff for extreme weight reduction
 
=== Fixed IPD ===
Factory-set interpupillary distance:
* Measured from customer's 3D face scan
* Optimal clarity for that specific user
* No adjustment mechanism (reduces weight and complexity)
* Cannot be shared effectively between users with different IPDs
 
== Custom Facial Interface ==
 
=== 3D Face Scanning Process ===
Customers must complete face scanning before order:
* Use Bigscreen app on iPhone with Face ID
* Capture multiple angles of face
* System generates facial geometry
* Custom interface manufactured to match
 
=== 3D Printed Interface ===
Each facial interface is unique:
* Manufactured to match individual face shape
* Washable material
* Light-blocking seal
* No adjustments or padding needed
 
=== Limitations ===
The custom approach has tradeoffs:
* Cannot easily share headset with others
* Replacement interfaces required for different users
* Higher barrier to purchase
* Longer order-to-delivery time
 
== Weight and Comfort ==
 
=== Ultra-Light Visor ===
Remarkable weight achievement:
* '''Visor alone''': 127 grams
* '''With standard strap''': 170-185 grams depending on strap choice
* '''Comparison''': Lighter than Meta Quest 3 (515g) or Valve Index (809g)
 
=== Comfort Benefits ===
Low weight enables:
* Extended multi-hour sessions without fatigue
* Reduced neck strain
* Better for users with neck or shoulder issues
* More natural head movement
 
=== Strap Options ===
Multiple head mounting options:
* '''Included strap''': Basic rigid strap
* '''Comfort strap''': Optional padded alternative
* '''Third-party options''': Various aftermarket solutions
 
== Tracking System ==
 
=== SteamVR Base Station Tracking ===
The Beyond uses external tracking:
* '''Compatibility''': SteamVR 1.0 and 2.0 base stations
* '''Accuracy''': Sub-millimeter positional precision
* '''Latency''': Under 1ms tracking latency
* '''Update Rate''': Up to 1000Hz
 
=== Why External Tracking ===
The choice of outside-in tracking serves the weight goal:
* No tracking cameras add weight to headset
* No processing overhead for optical tracking
* Leverages existing SteamVR ecosystem
* Highest possible tracking accuracy
 
=== Base Station Requirements ===
Users need to provide:
* Minimum 2 base stations (1.0 or 2.0)
* Mounting points around play space
* Power outlets for each station
* Line-of-sight to headset
 
=== Controller Support ===
Works with SteamVR controllers:
* Valve Index controllers (recommended)
* HTC Vive controllers
* Any SteamVR-compatible controllers
* Third-party tracked devices
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== No Built-In Audio ===
The Beyond includes no integrated audio:
* Reduces weight
* Users choose preferred solution
* Must bring own headphones/earbuds
 
=== Audio Options ===
Users typically use:
* Wireless earbuds
* Wired IEMs (in-ear monitors)
* Over-ear headphones
* Optional Bigscreen audio strap accessory
 
=== Optional Audio Strap ===
Bigscreen offers audio strap accessory:
* Integrated speakers near ears
* Similar approach to Index audio
* Adds to total weight
* Additional purchase required
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== DisplayPort Connection ===
Primary video interface:
* DisplayPort 1.4
* High bandwidth for full resolution at 90Hz
* Standard PC graphics card compatibility
 
=== USB Connection ===
Secondary data and power:
* USB-A for tracking data
* Provides power to headset
* No separate power adapter needed
 
=== Cable ===
Tethered operation:
* Combined DisplayPort + USB cable
* Cable management required
* No wireless option available
 
== Target Audience ==
 
=== Sim Racing and Flight Sim ===
Particularly popular with simulator users:
* Light weight reduces neck fatigue during long sessions
* Sharp displays for reading gauges and text
* SteamVR tracking works well in seated experiences
* Premium visuals for immersion
 
=== VR Enthusiasts ===
Appeal to experienced VR users who:
* Already own SteamVR base stations
* Prioritize comfort over features
* Value display quality
* Want dedicated PC VR headset
 
=== Users With Comfort Issues ===
Attractive to users who:
* Found other headsets too heavy
* Have neck or shoulder problems
* Need extended wear for work
* Prefer minimal bulk
 
== Comparison with Traditional Headsets ==
 
=== vs. Valve Index ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Bigscreen Beyond !! Valve Index
|-
| Weight || 127g (visor) || 809g
|-
| Resolution per eye || 2560 × 2560 || 1440 × 1600
|-
| Display Type || Micro-OLED || LCD
|-
| FOV || 90° || 130°
|-
| Refresh Rate || Up to 90Hz || Up to 144Hz
|-
| Built-in Audio || No || Yes
|-
| IPD Adjustment || Factory-set || Manual
|-
| Price || $999 || $999
|}
 
=== vs. Meta Quest 3 ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Bigscreen Beyond !! Meta Quest 3
|-
| Weight || 127g (visor) || 515g
|-
| Standalone || No || Yes
|-
| Tracking || External (base stations) || Inside-out
|-
| Display Type || Micro-OLED || LCD
|-
| Resolution per eye || 2560 × 2560 || 2064 × 2208
|-
| Passthrough || No || Yes
|}
 
== Bigscreen Beyond 2 ==
 
In 2025, Bigscreen announced the Beyond 2 with improvements:
* '''Weight''': 107 grams (16% lighter)
* '''FOV''': Increased to 108-116°
* '''Eye Tracking''': Now included
* '''IPD''': Adjustable (no longer factory-fixed)
* '''Halo Mount''': New mounting option
 
== Pricing ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Configuration !! Price !! Notes
|-
| Bigscreen Beyond || $999 || Headset only, requires base stations
|-
| Base Stations || ~$150-200 each || Sold separately
|-
| Prescription Inserts || Varies || Third-party (VR Optician, etc.)
|}
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Specification !! Details
|-
| Display || Dual Samsung micro-OLED, 2560 × 2560 per eye
|-
| Total Pixels || 13.1 million
|-
| FOV || 90° × 93°
|-
| Refresh Rate || 75Hz / 90Hz
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR outside-in (base stations required)
|-
| IPD || Factory-set via 3D face scan
|-
| Built-in Audio || None
|-
| Weight || 127g (visor), 170-185g (with strap)
|-
| Connection || DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
|-
| Price || $999
|}
 
== See Also ==
* [[Bigscreen]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[Micro-OLED]]
* [[Pancake Lenses]]
 
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
 
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Bigscreen]]
[[Category:Micro-OLED]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:06, 8 January 2026

Bigscreen Beyond
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR
Platform SteamVR
Creator Bigscreen
Developer Bigscreen
Manufacturer Bigscreen
Announcement Date February 2023
Release Date Q3 2023
Price $999
Website https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond
Versions Bigscreen Beyond, Bigscreen Beyond 2, Bigscreen Beyond 2e
Requires Gaming PC, SteamVR base stations
Predecessor None
Successor Bigscreen Beyond 2
System
Operating System Windows (via SteamVR)
Chipset N/A (tethered PCVR)
CPU N/A (PC-powered)
GPU N/A (PC-powered)
Storage
Storage N/A
Memory N/A
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Dual micro-OLED (Samsung)
Subpixel Layout PenTile Diamond
Peak Brightness ~100 nits
Resolution 2560 × 2560 per eye (5120 × 2560 combined)
Pixel Density ~32 PPD
Refresh Rate 75Hz, 90Hz
Persistence Ultra-low persistence (<0.5ms)
Image
Field of View 90° (horizontal) × 93° (vertical)
Horizontal FoV 90°
Vertical FoV 93°
Average Pixel Density ~32 PPD
Peak Pixel Density ~32 PPD
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics Custom pancake lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range Factory-set (based on 3D face scan)
Adjustable Diopter Via prescription lens inserts
Passthrough No
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Tracking)
Tracking Frequency 1000Hz (base station rate)
Base Stations Required (SteamVR 1.0 or 2.0)
Eye Tracking No
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Body Tracking Via SteamVR trackers
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate 1000Hz
Tracking Volume Dependent on base station setup
Play Space Roomscale (up to 10m × 10m with 2.0 stations)
Latency <10ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio None built-in (external required)
Microphone None built-in
3.5mm Audio Jack Via optional audio strap
Camera None
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
Ports DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth No
Power USB-powered
Battery Capacity N/A
Battery Life N/A (tethered)
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions ~140mm × 55mm × 50mm (visor)
Weight 127g (visor only), 170-185g (with strap)
Material Plastic, 3D-printed facial interface
Headstrap Multiple options (rigid, comfort strap)
Haptics No
Color Black
Sensors IMU (gyroscope, accelerometer)
Input SteamVR controllers (Index, Vive, etc.)
Compliance FCC, CE

Property "Operating System" (as page type) with input value "Windows]] (via SteamVR)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. Property "Persistence" (as page type) with input value "Ultra-low persistence (" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. Property "Latency" (as page type) with input value "" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


The Bigscreen Beyond is an ultra-compact PC VR head-mounted display developed by Bigscreen, announced in February 2023 and released later in 2023 at a price of $999. Weighing just 127 grams for the visor alone—less than many smartphones—the Beyond represents a radical departure from traditional VR headset design, achieving its minimal form factor through custom-manufactured facial interfaces based on individual 3D face scans. The headset features dual Samsung micro-OLED displays with 2560 × 2560 resolution per eye and custom pancake lenses, delivering premium visual quality while using SteamVR base station tracking for precise positional tracking. The Beyond's extreme emphasis on comfort and portability has made it popular among VR enthusiasts, sim racers, and users who found traditional headsets too heavy for extended use.

History and Development

Bigscreen Origins

Bigscreen Inc. was founded in 2014 by Darshan Shankar and others, initially developing the Bigscreen VR application—a social virtual reality platform for watching movies, gaming, and hanging out in virtual environments. The application became popular across multiple VR platforms, giving the team deep insight into user pain points with existing VR hardware.

Hardware Ambition

Bigscreen's hardware development began with the observation that existing VR headsets were too heavy, too bulky, and required compromise between visual quality and comfort. The team set out to create what they called "the world's smallest VR headset" by rethinking every aspect of headset design.

Custom Face Scanning Approach

Traditional VR headsets use a one-size-fits-all approach with adjustable IPD mechanisms and universal facial interfaces. Bigscreen took a radical different approach:

  • Each customer submits a 3D scan of their face
  • IPD is measured from the scan
  • A custom facial interface is 3D printed specifically for each customer
  • The display IPD is factory-set based on measured IPD

This approach eliminates IPD adjustment mechanisms, facial interface padding options, and much of the structural bulk needed to accommodate diverse face shapes.

Design Philosophy

The Beyond embodies a specific philosophy:

  • Minimize weight at all costs: Every gram scrutinized
  • Premium displays: No compromise on visual quality
  • External tracking: Leverage existing SteamVR infrastructure
  • No integrated audio: Users provide their own preferred solution
  • Customization over universality: Better fit through personalization

Display Technology

Samsung Micro-OLED Panels

The Beyond uses premium Samsung micro-OLED displays:

  • Resolution: 2560 × 2560 per eye
  • Total Resolution: Over 13 million pixels (5120 × 2560)
  • Panel Size: 1-inch diagonal per eye
  • Technology: Active-matrix organic LED on silicon backplane
  • Subpixel Layout: PenTile Diamond arrangement

OLED Advantages

Micro-OLED technology delivers:

  • True blacks: Zero light emission when off
  • Infinite contrast: Perfect blacks enable HDR-like experience
  • Fast response: Near-instantaneous pixel switching
  • Vibrant colors: Wide color gamut coverage
  • Low persistence: Reduces motion blur significantly

Refresh Rates

Supported refresh rates:

  • 75Hz: Lower GPU requirements
  • 90Hz: Standard VR refresh rate
  • Smooth motion for most content

HDR Capability

The OLED panels support HDR content:

  • Wide dynamic range between darks and highlights
  • Particularly impressive in dark scenes
  • Enhanced movie and video viewing

Optical System

Custom Pancake Lenses

Compact pancake lens design enables slim form factor:

  • Multiple polarization layers fold optical path
  • Significantly shorter focal length than Fresnel alternatives
  • Clear edge-to-edge viewing
  • Minimal god rays compared to Fresnel lenses

Field of View

Balanced FOV for the size:

  • Horizontal: 90°
  • Vertical: 93°
  • Slightly narrower than larger headsets
  • Acceptable tradeoff for extreme weight reduction

Fixed IPD

Factory-set interpupillary distance:

  • Measured from customer's 3D face scan
  • Optimal clarity for that specific user
  • No adjustment mechanism (reduces weight and complexity)
  • Cannot be shared effectively between users with different IPDs

Custom Facial Interface

3D Face Scanning Process

Customers must complete face scanning before order:

  • Use Bigscreen app on iPhone with Face ID
  • Capture multiple angles of face
  • System generates facial geometry
  • Custom interface manufactured to match

3D Printed Interface

Each facial interface is unique:

  • Manufactured to match individual face shape
  • Washable material
  • Light-blocking seal
  • No adjustments or padding needed

Limitations

The custom approach has tradeoffs:

  • Cannot easily share headset with others
  • Replacement interfaces required for different users
  • Higher barrier to purchase
  • Longer order-to-delivery time

Weight and Comfort

Ultra-Light Visor

Remarkable weight achievement:

  • Visor alone: 127 grams
  • With standard strap: 170-185 grams depending on strap choice
  • Comparison: Lighter than Meta Quest 3 (515g) or Valve Index (809g)

Comfort Benefits

Low weight enables:

  • Extended multi-hour sessions without fatigue
  • Reduced neck strain
  • Better for users with neck or shoulder issues
  • More natural head movement

Strap Options

Multiple head mounting options:

  • Included strap: Basic rigid strap
  • Comfort strap: Optional padded alternative
  • Third-party options: Various aftermarket solutions

Tracking System

SteamVR Base Station Tracking

The Beyond uses external tracking:

  • Compatibility: SteamVR 1.0 and 2.0 base stations
  • Accuracy: Sub-millimeter positional precision
  • Latency: Under 1ms tracking latency
  • Update Rate: Up to 1000Hz

Why External Tracking

The choice of outside-in tracking serves the weight goal:

  • No tracking cameras add weight to headset
  • No processing overhead for optical tracking
  • Leverages existing SteamVR ecosystem
  • Highest possible tracking accuracy

Base Station Requirements

Users need to provide:

  • Minimum 2 base stations (1.0 or 2.0)
  • Mounting points around play space
  • Power outlets for each station
  • Line-of-sight to headset

Controller Support

Works with SteamVR controllers:

  • Valve Index controllers (recommended)
  • HTC Vive controllers
  • Any SteamVR-compatible controllers
  • Third-party tracked devices

Audio System

No Built-In Audio

The Beyond includes no integrated audio:

  • Reduces weight
  • Users choose preferred solution
  • Must bring own headphones/earbuds

Audio Options

Users typically use:

  • Wireless earbuds
  • Wired IEMs (in-ear monitors)
  • Over-ear headphones
  • Optional Bigscreen audio strap accessory

Optional Audio Strap

Bigscreen offers audio strap accessory:

  • Integrated speakers near ears
  • Similar approach to Index audio
  • Adds to total weight
  • Additional purchase required

Connectivity

DisplayPort Connection

Primary video interface:

  • DisplayPort 1.4
  • High bandwidth for full resolution at 90Hz
  • Standard PC graphics card compatibility

USB Connection

Secondary data and power:

  • USB-A for tracking data
  • Provides power to headset
  • No separate power adapter needed

Cable

Tethered operation:

  • Combined DisplayPort + USB cable
  • Cable management required
  • No wireless option available

Target Audience

Sim Racing and Flight Sim

Particularly popular with simulator users:

  • Light weight reduces neck fatigue during long sessions
  • Sharp displays for reading gauges and text
  • SteamVR tracking works well in seated experiences
  • Premium visuals for immersion

VR Enthusiasts

Appeal to experienced VR users who:

  • Already own SteamVR base stations
  • Prioritize comfort over features
  • Value display quality
  • Want dedicated PC VR headset

Users With Comfort Issues

Attractive to users who:

  • Found other headsets too heavy
  • Have neck or shoulder problems
  • Need extended wear for work
  • Prefer minimal bulk

Comparison with Traditional Headsets

vs. Valve Index

Feature Bigscreen Beyond Valve Index
Weight 127g (visor) 809g
Resolution per eye 2560 × 2560 1440 × 1600
Display Type Micro-OLED LCD
FOV 90° 130°
Refresh Rate Up to 90Hz Up to 144Hz
Built-in Audio No Yes
IPD Adjustment Factory-set Manual
Price $999 $999

vs. Meta Quest 3

Feature Bigscreen Beyond Meta Quest 3
Weight 127g (visor) 515g
Standalone No Yes
Tracking External (base stations) Inside-out
Display Type Micro-OLED LCD
Resolution per eye 2560 × 2560 2064 × 2208
Passthrough No Yes

Bigscreen Beyond 2

In 2025, Bigscreen announced the Beyond 2 with improvements:

  • Weight: 107 grams (16% lighter)
  • FOV: Increased to 108-116°
  • Eye Tracking: Now included
  • IPD: Adjustable (no longer factory-fixed)
  • Halo Mount: New mounting option

Pricing

Configuration Price Notes
Bigscreen Beyond $999 Headset only, requires base stations
Base Stations ~$150-200 each Sold separately
Prescription Inserts Varies Third-party (VR Optician, etc.)

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Dual Samsung micro-OLED, 2560 × 2560 per eye
Total Pixels 13.1 million
FOV 90° × 93°
Refresh Rate 75Hz / 90Hz
Tracking SteamVR outside-in (base stations required)
IPD Factory-set via 3D face scan
Built-in Audio None
Weight 127g (visor), 170-185g (with strap)
Connection DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A
Price $999

See Also

References

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