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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 highly innovative and compact dedicated PC VR headset. It was developed by Bigscreen, a company primarily known for its VR software solutions, and represents their first foray into hardware. The headset is designed with the primary goal of minimizing size while maximizing image quality.


==Design and Features==
== History and Development ==
The Bigscreen Beyond VR headset is notable for its extremely compact design, being significantly smaller and lighter than most other PC VR headsets. It weighs approximately 127g and comes with a custom-fit facepad, made for each customer using a 3D face scan. This custom fit ensures a perfect seal against light leakage and optimal comfort during extended use.


===Technical Specifications===
=== Bigscreen Origins ===
* Resolution: 2,560 × 2,560 (6.5MP) per eye
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.
* Display: MicroOLED with RGB stripe
* Refresh Rate: 75Hz, 90Hz
* Field of View: 102° diagonal
* Optical Adjustments: IPD (customized per headset)
* Connectors: DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
* Tracking: SteamVR Tracking 1.0 or 2.0
* Weight: 170–185g
* Price: $1,000 (basic), $1,580 (with tracking & controllers)


==User Experience==
=== Hardware Ambition ===
The Bigscreen Beyond VR headset has been praised for its visual clarity, comfort, and tracking quality. However, there are some concerns regarding the lack of built-in audio and its bright-light performance. The headset also requires a powerful gaming PC and compatible VR accessories, which could add to the total cost of ownership.
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.


===Visual Performance===
=== Custom Face Scanning Approach ===
The headset's microOLED displays provide deep blacks and high resolution, with minimal screen-door effect. Users have noted that the clarity and comfort of the visuals are exceptional. However, there is some glare and 'God Rays' effect in high-contrast scenes, and the clarity decreases at the edges.
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


===Comfort and Fit===
This approach eliminates IPD adjustment mechanisms, facial interface padding options, and much of the structural bulk needed to accommodate diverse face shapes.
One of the standout features of the Bigscreen Beyond is its comfort. The custom-fit facepad and light weight of the headset allow for extended periods of use without discomfort. However, some users have reported discomfort in hot weather.


===Audio and Usability===
=== Design Philosophy ===
The headset currently lacks built-in audio, which has been a point of contention among users. An official deluxe audio strap is expected to be released to address this issue. The headset's lack of a nose gap and pass-through camera means users are completely isolated from the real world when wearing the headset, which can be inconvenient.
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


==Market Position and Reception==
== Display Technology ==
The Bigscreen Beyond is positioned as a high-end, premium VR headset, with its price reflecting this status. It has received mixed reviews, with many users praising its innovative design and comfort, while others have highlighted its limitations and the need for additional accessories for the best experience.


===Target Audience===
=== Samsung Micro-OLED Panels ===
The Bigscreen Beyond is best suited for VR enthusiasts and early adopters within the PC VR market who value comfort and visual clarity. It is less recommended for first-time VR users due to the required additional investments and the technical knowledge needed for optimal setup.
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


===Future Developments===
=== OLED Advantages ===
Bigscreen has announced updates to the headset's optical components and is working on additional accessories, such as the deluxe audio strap, to enhance the user experience. There is potential for further improvements and additional features in future iterations of the product.
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]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Bigscreen_Beyond"