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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Bigscreen Beyond
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Creator = [[Bigscreen]]
|Developer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Developer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Manufacturer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Manufacturer = [[Bigscreen]]
|Announcement Date = February 2023
|Release Date = Q3 2023
|Release Date = Q3 2023
|Announcement Date = February 2023
|Price = $999
|Price = $999 USD
|Website = https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond
|Website = https://store.bigscreenvr.com/
|Versions = Bigscreen Beyond, Bigscreen Beyond 2, Bigscreen Beyond 2e
|Display = Micro-OLED (dual)
|Requires = Gaming PC, SteamVR base stations
|Resolution = 2560x2560 per eye
|Predecessor = None
|Combined Resolution = 5120x2560 (5K)
|Successor = [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
|PPD = 28 PPD
|Operating System = [[Windows]] (via SteamVR)
|Refresh Rate = 75/90 Hz
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|Field of View = 97°
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|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)
|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 = Custom pancake lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD = Custom-fitted (per order)
|IPD Range = Factory-set (based on 3D face scan)
|Audio = External (requires headphones)
|Adjustable Diopter = Via prescription lens inserts
|Tracking = SteamVR Lighthouse (external)
|Passthrough = No
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4 + USB 3.0 (fiber optic cable)
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Tracking)
|Weight = 127g (visor only)
|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 = None built-in (external required)
|Microphone = None built-in
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Via optional audio strap
|Camera = None
|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
|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
}}
}}


The '''Bigscreen Beyond''' is an ultra-compact PC-tethered [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Bigscreen]], released Q3 2023 at $999. The world's smallest and lightest VR headset featuring dual 1-inch micro-OLED displays at 2560x2560 per eye (5K combined), 90 Hz refresh rate, 97° field of view, pancake optics, custom 3D-printed facial interface, SteamVR Lighthouse tracking, 5-meter fiber optic cable, and industry-leading 127g weight (visor only).
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 ==
== History and Development ==


Bigscreen announced the Beyond in February 2023, shipping began Q3 2023 starting in the United States, expanding to Canada and Europe in Q4 2023. Known primarily for their social VR application, Bigscreen entered hardware with a focus on minimizing weight and maximizing visual quality. The unique custom-fit process involves customers submitting a 3D face scan, with Bigscreen manufacturing a personalized facial interface for each order. A second generation (Beyond 2) was announced in late 2024.<ref name="bigscreen">{{cite web |url=https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/bigscreen-beyond |title=Bigscreen Beyond |publisher=Bigscreen |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== 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.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== 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


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


Micro-OLED excellence:
=== 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


* '''2560x2560 per eye''' resolution
== Display Technology ==
* '''5120x2560 combined''' (5K)
* '''Dual 1-inch micro-OLED''' panels
* '''28 pixels per degree'''
* '''75 Hz / 90 Hz''' refresh rate
* '''97° field of view'''
* True blacks (OLED)
* Low persistence


=== Optics ===
=== 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


* '''Pancake lenses'''
=== OLED Advantages ===
* Compact design
Micro-OLED technology delivers:
* Wide sweet spot
* '''True blacks''': Zero light emission when off
* Minimal distortion
* '''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


=== Weight ===
=== Refresh Rates ===
Supported refresh rates:
* 75Hz: Lower GPU requirements
* 90Hz: Standard VR refresh rate
* Smooth motion for most content


Industry-leading lightness:
=== 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


* '''127g visor''' (without straps)
== Optical System ==
* '''170-185g total''' (with strap)
* Lightest VR headset available
* Minimal neck strain
* Extended session comfort


=== Custom Fit ===
=== 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


Personalized manufacturing:
=== Field of View ===
Balanced FOV for the size:
* '''Horizontal''': 90°
* '''Vertical''': 93°
* Slightly narrower than larger headsets
* Acceptable tradeoff for extreme weight reduction


* '''3D face scan required'''
=== Fixed IPD ===
* '''Custom 3D-printed facial interface'''
Factory-set interpupillary distance:
* Washable cushion
* Measured from customer's 3D face scan
* Complete light blocking
* Optimal clarity for that specific user
* Per-customer manufacturing
* No adjustment mechanism (reduces weight and complexity)
* Cannot be shared effectively between users with different IPDs


=== IPD ===
== Custom Facial Interface ==


* '''Custom-fitted IPD'''
=== 3D Face Scanning Process ===
* Set during manufacturing
Customers must complete face scanning before order:
* Based on face scan
* Use Bigscreen app on iPhone with Face ID
* No adjustment mechanism
* Capture multiple angles of face
* System generates facial geometry
* Custom interface manufactured to match


=== Tracking ===
=== 3D Printed Interface ===
Each facial interface is unique:
* Manufactured to match individual face shape
* Washable material
* Light-blocking seal
* No adjustments or padding needed


* '''SteamVR Lighthouse''' tracking
=== Limitations ===
* '''External base stations''' required
The custom approach has tradeoffs:
* 6DoF tracking
* Cannot easily share headset with others
* Sub-millimeter precision
* Replacement interfaces required for different users
* Compatible with Lighthouse 1.0/2.0
* Higher barrier to purchase
* Longer order-to-delivery time


=== Connectivity ===
== Weight and Comfort ==


* '''5-meter fiber optic cable'''
=== Ultra-Light Visor ===
* '''Link Box included'''
Remarkable weight achievement:
* '''DisplayPort 1.4'''
* '''Visor alone''': 127 grams
* '''Dual USB 3.0'''
* '''With standard strap''': 170-185 grams depending on strap choice
* Low-loss signal transmission
* '''Comparison''': Lighter than Meta Quest 3 (515g) or Valve Index (809g)


=== Audio ===
=== 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


* '''No integrated audio'''
=== Strap Options ===
* External headphones required
Multiple head mounting options:
* Works with any headphones
* '''Included strap''': Basic rigid strap
* Optional earphone clips
* '''Comfort strap''': Optional padded alternative
* '''Third-party options''': Various aftermarket solutions


== Controllers ==
== Tracking System ==


Compatible controllers:
=== 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


* '''Valve Index Controllers''' (recommended)
=== Why External Tracking ===
* '''Vive Controllers'''
The choice of outside-in tracking serves the weight goal:
* Any SteamVR-compatible controller
* No tracking cameras add weight to headset
* Controllers sold separately
* No processing overhead for optical tracking
* Leverages existing SteamVR ecosystem
* Highest possible tracking accuracy


== Ordering Process ==
=== 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


1. Purchase headset ($999)
=== Controller Support ===
2. Submit 3D face scan (app provided)
Works with SteamVR controllers:
3. Custom facial interface manufactured
* Valve Index controllers (recommended)
4. Headset shipped with personal fit
* HTC Vive controllers
* Any SteamVR-compatible controllers
* Third-party tracked devices


== Technical Specifications ==
== 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"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Specification !! Details
! 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
|-
|-
| Display || 2560x2560 micro-OLED x2
| IPD Adjustment || Factory-set || Manual
|-
|-
| Combined || 5120x2560 (5K)
| Price || $999 || $999
|}
 
=== vs. Meta Quest 3 ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
| PPD || 28
! Feature !! Bigscreen Beyond !! Meta Quest 3
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 75/90 Hz
| Weight || 127g (visor) || 515g
|-
|-
| FOV || 97°
| Standalone || No || Yes
|-
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR Lighthouse
| Tracking || External (base stations) || Inside-out
|-
|-
| Weight || 127g (visor)
| Display Type || Micro-OLED || LCD
|-
|-
| Cable || 5m fiber optic
| Resolution per eye || 2560 × 2560 || 2064 × 2208
|-
|-
| Price || $999
| Passthrough || No || Yes
|}
|}


== Reception ==
== 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


'''Praise:'''
== Pricing ==
* 127g revolutionary weight
* Micro-OLED quality
* 2560x2560 per eye sharp
* 28 PPD clarity
* True blacks
* Pancake lenses compact
* Custom fit comfortable
* Light blocking excellent
* Extended session capable
* Premium build quality


'''Criticism:'''
{| class="wikitable"
* $999 expensive
|-
* No integrated audio
! Configuration !! Price !! Notes
* External tracking required
|-
* Base stations extra cost
| Bigscreen Beyond || $999 || Headset only, requires base stations
* Controllers sold separately
|-
* Custom fit non-returnable
| Base Stations || ~$150-200 each || Sold separately
* Fixed IPD post-manufacture
|-
* SteamVR ecosystem only
| Prescription Inserts || Varies || Third-party (VR Optician, etc.)
* Limited availability regions<ref name="uploadvr">{{cite web |url=https://www.uploadvr.com/bigscreen-beyond-weight-specs/ |title=Bigscreen Beyond Weight and Specs |publisher=UploadVR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
|}
 
== 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 ==
== See Also ==
* [[Bigscreen]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[HP Reverb G2]]
* [[Micro-OLED]]
* [[Pancake Lenses]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Bigscreen]]
[[Category:Bigscreen]]
[[Category:2023 in technology]]
[[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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