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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Pimax Crystal
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Hybrid VR]] (Standalone + PC VR)
|Subtype = [[Hybrid VR]] (PC VR + Standalone)
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], Standalone
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Experience]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Announcement Date = May 31, 2022
|Release Date = May 2023
|Release Date = May 2023
|Announcement Date = May 31, 2022
|Price = $1,599 (launch MSRP)
|Price = $1,599 USD
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/crystal
|Website = https://pimax.com/
|Versions = Pimax Crystal (QLED), Pimax Crystal Light, Pimax Crystal Super
|Requires = High-end gaming PC (PC VR mode), standalone capable
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 8K X]]
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 8K X]]
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
|Chipset = Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 (standalone)
|Operating System = [[Pimax OS]] (Android-based), [[Windows]] (PC VR)
|Display = QLED + Mini-LED (dual)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] + PC VR engine
|Resolution = 2880x2880 per eye
|CPU = Snapdragon XR2 (standalone), PC CPU (tethered)
|Combined Resolution = 5760x2880
|GPU = Adreno 650 (standalone), PC GPU (tethered)
|PPD = 35-42 PPD
|HPU =
|Local Dimming = Yes
|Storage = 256GB
|Refresh Rate = 90/120 Hz (144/160 Hz experimental)
|Memory = 8GB LPDDR5
|Field of View = 125° horizontal / 140° diagonal
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual QLED
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 2880 × 2880 per eye (5760 × 2880 combined)
|Pixel Density = 42 PPD (center)
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz, 120Hz, 160Hz (mode dependent)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 140° (diagonal), 120° (horizontal)
|Horizontal FoV = ~120°
|Vertical FoV = ~100°
|Average Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 42 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (eye-tracked)
|Optics = Interchangeable glass aspheric lenses (35 PPD and 42 PPD options)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Eye Tracking = Tobii integrated
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (automatic with eye tracking)
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 4 cameras) or SteamVR
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|IPD = Auto-IPD (motorized)
|Passthrough = Yes (grayscale)
|Audio = Integrated speakers + 3.5mm jack
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out (4 cameras) + optional Lighthouse
|Weight = 845g
|Tracking Frequency = N/A
|Base Stations = Optional (for enhanced tracking)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Body Tracking = Via SteamVR trackers (Lighthouse mode)
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = Up to 160Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Integrated speakers (DMAS optional upgrade)
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 4× tracking cameras, 2× passthrough cameras
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 6E
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = Yes (Wi-Fi 6E or optional 60GHz WiGig)
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 6E
|Bluetooth = Yes
|Power = Internal battery (standalone) or USB powered (PC VR)
|Battery Capacity = Internal (limited standalone use)
|Battery Life = ~2 hours (standalone)
|Charge Time = ~2 hours
|Dimensions = Large form factor
|Weight = ~960g (with battery)
|Material = Plastic, metal components
|Headstrap = Modular (standard or DMAS)
|Haptics = Controller haptics
|Color = Black
|Sensors = 4× tracking cameras, eye tracking, IMU
|Input = SteamVR controllers, Pimax controllers, hand tracking
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Pimax Crystal''' is a high-end hybrid [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], announced May 31, 2022 and released May 2023 at $1,599. A premium 6K VR headset featuring dual QLED panels with mini-LED backlighting at 2880x2880 per eye, interchangeable lens system (35 PPD standard, wide FOV optional), Tobii eye tracking with auto-IPD and foveated rendering, 125° horizontal FOV, inside-out tracking (no base stations required), and Snapdragon XR2 for standalone operation.
The '''Pimax Crystal''' is a high-end hybrid [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], announced on May 31, 2022, and released in May 2023 at a price of $1,599. The Crystal represents Pimax's evolution from their ultra-wide FOV headsets toward higher clarity, featuring dual QLED displays at 2880 × 2880 per eye (6K total) with interchangeable aspheric glass lenses offering either 35 or 42 pixels per degree—among the highest in consumer VR. Uniquely, the Crystal is a hybrid device powered by both the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 for standalone operation and a custom PC VR engine for tethered high-fidelity gaming. The headset includes Tobii eye tracking at 120Hz for automatic IPD adjustment and foveated rendering, inside-out tracking with optional Lighthouse support, and wireless PC VR capability through built-in Wi-Fi 6E. The Crystal targeted enthusiasts seeking maximum visual clarity over maximum field of view.


== History and Development ==
== History and Development ==


Pimax announced the Crystal on May 31, 2022, releasing in May 2023 after development delays. Positioned as their most accessible high-end headset, the Crystal introduced inside-out tracking (eliminating base station requirements), interchangeable optics, and standalone capability while maintaining Pimax's ultra-high resolution focus. Tobii eye tracking integration enables auto-IPD calibration and dynamic foveated rendering. Succeeded by Crystal Light (budget) and Crystal Super (flagship) variants.<ref name="pimax">{{cite web |url=https://pimax.com/pages/crystal |title=Pimax Crystal |publisher=Pimax |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Pimax Evolution ===
Product line progression:
* '''Pimax 4K (2016)''': First Pimax headset
* '''Pimax 8K (2018)''': Ultra-wide FOV focus
* '''Pimax 8K X (2020)''': Native 4K per eye
* '''Pimax Crystal (2023)''': Clarity-first approach
 
=== Design Shift ===
New philosophy:
* FOV to clarity pivot
* Inside-out tracking option
* Standalone capability
* Eye tracking standard
 
=== May 2022 Announcement ===
Pimax event reveal:
* QLED displays announced
* Hybrid design explained
* Eye tracking confirmed
* 2023 availability
 
=== Development Delays ===
Extended timeline:
* Initial delays common for Pimax
* Hardware refinements
* Software development
* May 2023 shipping began
 
== Design Philosophy ==
 
=== Clarity Over FOV ===
Priority shift from 8K X:
* 42 PPD peak vs 8K X's ~20 PPD
* 120° vs 170° FOV
* Higher effective resolution
* Reduced rendering demands


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Hybrid Architecture ===
Dual-mode operation:
* Standalone Snapdragon XR2
* PC VR dedicated engine
* Best of both worlds
* Flexibility for users


=== Display ===
=== Modular Lenses ===
Interchangeable optics:
* 35 PPD glass lenses (included)
* 42 PPD glass lenses (optional)
* Future lens options
* User preference


QLED + Mini-LED:
== Display Technology ==


* '''2880x2880 per eye''' resolution
=== QLED Panels ===
* '''5760x2880 combined'''
Quantum dot LCD:
* '''QLED panels'''
* '''Resolution''': 2880 × 2880 per eye
* '''Mini-LED backlighting'''
* '''Total''': 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
* '''Local dimming'''
* '''Technology''': QLED (quantum dot)
* HDR capable
* '''Color''': Wide color gamut
* True blacks


=== Pixels Per Degree ===
=== Pixel Density ===
Best-in-class clarity:
* '''Peak''': 42 PPD (with 42 PPD lenses)
* '''Standard''': 35 PPD (with standard lenses)
* Exceptional text readability
* Near-retinal center clarity


* '''35-42 PPD''' (configuration dependent)
=== Refresh Rate ===
* Industry-leading clarity
Multiple modes:
* Minimal screen door effect
* 90Hz: Standard
* 120Hz: High refresh
* 160Hz: Maximum (limited mode)
* User configurable


=== Optics ===
=== Visual Quality ===
Premium imagery:
* Sharp text and details
* Wide color gamut
* Good HDR support
* Minimal screen door


Interchangeable system:
== Optical System ==


* '''Glass aspheric lenses''' (standard)
=== Interchangeable Glass Lenses ===
* '''35 PPD peak fidelity'''
Unique Pimax feature:
* Wide FOV lenses (optional)
* Glass aspheric optics
* Enhanced immersion mode
* 35 PPD standard lenses
* Swap between configurations
* 42 PPD upgrade lenses
* User-swappable


=== Field of View ===
=== Field of View ===
Balanced approach:
* '''Diagonal''': ~140°
* '''Horizontal''': ~120°
* Narrower than 8K X
* Prioritizes clarity
=== Lens Quality ===
Premium optics:
* Glass construction
* Minimal distortion
* Good edge clarity
* Reduced god rays


* '''125° horizontal''' (standard lenses)
=== IPD Adjustment ===
* '''140° diagonal''' (standard)
Automatic with eye tracking:
* Wider with optional lenses
* '''Range''': 58-72mm
* Auto IPD via Tobii
* Manual override available
* Wide accommodation


=== Refresh Rate ===
== Eye Tracking ==


* '''90 Hz''' standard
=== Tobii Integration ===
* '''120 Hz''' supported
Professional eye tracking:
* '''144/160 Hz''' experimental mode
* '''Frequency''': 120Hz
* '''Brand''': Tobii
* Accurate gaze detection
* Always-on capability


=== Eye Tracking ===
=== Automatic IPD ===
Convenience feature:
* Detects user IPD
* Adjusts automatically
* No manual calibration
* Optimal alignment


Tobii integration:
=== Foveated Rendering ===
Performance optimization:
* Full resolution at gaze
* Reduced peripheral rendering
* Significant performance gains
* Quality preserved where looking


* '''Tobii eye tracking'''
== Processing Architecture ==
* '''120 Hz per-eye tracking'''
* '''Auto-IPD adjustment'''
* '''Dynamic foveated rendering'''
* Performance optimization
* Gaze tracking


=== IPD ===
=== Dual-Processor Design ===
Hybrid capability:
* '''Standalone''': Snapdragon XR2
* '''PC VR''': Custom engine
* Independent operation
* Automatic switching


* '''Motorized auto-IPD'''
=== Snapdragon XR2 ===
* Automatic calibration
Standalone processor:
* Eye tracking driven
* Octa-core Kryo 585
* Adreno 650 GPU
* 8GB RAM
* 256GB storage


=== Tracking ===
=== PC VR Mode ===
Dedicated tethered:
* DisplayPort 1.4
* Full PC GPU utilization
* Higher quality possible
* Standard PC VR experience


Flexible options:
== Tracking System ==


* '''Inside-out tracking''' (default)
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
* '''4 depth cameras'''
Four-camera system:
* 6DoF head tracking
* Controller tracking
* No base stations required
* No base stations required
* '''SteamVR Lighthouse''' compatible
* Room-scale capable
* External tracking optional


=== Processing ===
=== Optional Lighthouse ===
External tracking support:
* SteamVR 1.0/2.0 compatible
* Better controller tracking
* Full-body tracking possible
* Enthusiast preference


==== Standalone ====
=== Hand Tracking ===
* '''Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2'''
Controller-free option:
* '''8GB memory'''
* Camera-based tracking
* Mobile VR capability
* Gesture recognition
* Limited application support
* Growing capability


==== PC VR ====
== Wireless Capability ==
* DisplayPort connection
* Full resolution
* Native PCVR


=== Audio ===
=== Built-in Wi-Fi 6E ===
Wireless PC VR:
* Integrated Wi-Fi 6E
* PC VR streaming
* No separate adapter
* Decent quality


* '''Integrated speakers'''
=== Optional 60GHz WiGig ===
* '''3.5mm audio jack'''
Premium wireless:
* DMAS audio module compatible
* Higher bandwidth
* Lower latency
* Additional purchase
* Best wireless quality


=== Comfort ===
== Audio System ==


* '''845g weight'''
=== Integrated Speakers ===
* Balanced design
Basic audio:
* Adjustable headstrap
* Built-in speakers
* Facial interface options
* Adequate quality
* Near-ear positioning
* Upgradeable


== Minimum PC Requirements ==
=== DMAS Upgrade ===
Premium audio option:
* Deluxe Modular Audio Strap
* Off-ear speakers
* Improved sound
* Better comfort


* Intel i5 12th Gen / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
* 16GB RAM
Headphone option:
* NVIDIA RTX 2070 or better
* Standard audio jack
* Use own headphones
* Better audio possible


== Technical Specifications ==
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Large Form Factor ===
Substantial headset:
* Larger than competitors
* Display and optics size
* Weight considerations
* Enthusiast acceptance
 
=== Weight ===
Heavy for VR:
* ~960g with battery
* Counterbalancing needed
* Not for all users
* Extended use comfort varies
 
=== Modular Head Strap ===
Comfort options:
* Standard strap included
* DMAS upgrade available
* Third-party options
* User preference
 
== Standalone Mode ==
 
=== Snapdragon XR2 Apps ===
Standalone capability:
* Android-based OS
* Limited app selection
* Media viewing
* Basic VR experiences
 
=== Battery Life ===
Limited runtime:
* ~2 hours standalone
* Hot-swappable consideration
* PC VR doesn't use battery
* USB-C charging
 
== PC VR Performance ==
 
=== System Requirements ===
High-end recommended:
* RTX 3080 / RX 6800 XT or better
* Intel i7 / AMD Ryzen 7
* 16GB+ RAM
* DisplayPort 1.4
 
=== Foveated Rendering Benefits ===
Performance optimization:
* Eye tracking enables foveated
* 40%+ performance improvement
* Higher settings possible
* Quality maintained at gaze
 
== Software ==
 
=== Pimax Experience ===
Control software:
* Device management
* Game profiles
* Performance settings
* Firmware updates
 
=== SteamVR Integration ===
Gaming platform:
* Full SteamVR support
* OpenVR compatible
* Steam library
* VR game ecosystem
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Pimax Crystal !! Varjo Aero !! Meta Quest Pro
|-
| Price || $1,599 || $1,990 || $999
|-
| Resolution/eye || 2880×2880 || 2880×2720 || 1800×1920
|-
| PPD (peak) || 42 || 35 || ~22
|-
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii) || Yes || Yes
|-
| Standalone || Yes || No || Yes
|-
| FOV || 120° || 115° || 106°
|-
| Weight || ~960g || ~720g || ~722g
|}
 
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* Highest PPD available
* Interchangeable lenses
* Eye tracking standard
* Hybrid standalone/PC VR
* Optional Lighthouse support
* Wireless built-in
 
=== Limitations ===
* Heavy (~960g)
* Large form factor
* Complex setup
* Premium pricing
* Software maturity
* Pimax support reputation
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 141: Line 419:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 2880x2880 QLED x2
| Display || Dual QLED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
|-
|-
| Combined || 5760x2880
| Total Resolution || 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
|-
|-
| PPD || 35-42
| PPD || 35/42 (lens dependent)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90/120 Hz (144/160 experimental)
| FOV || ~120° horizontal
|-
|-
| FOV || 125°x140° (standard)
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/160Hz
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || Tobii (120 Hz)
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
|-
|-
| IPD || Motorized auto-adjust
| Tracking || Inside-out + optional Lighthouse
|-
|-
| Tracking || Inside-out or Lighthouse
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 + PC VR engine
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2
| Wireless || Wi-Fi 6E (optional WiGig)
|-
|-
| Weight || 845g
| Weight || ~960g
|-
|-
| Price || $1,599
| Price || $1,599
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 2880x2880 exceptional clarity
* 35+ PPD industry-leading
* Mini-LED local dimming
* Tobii eye tracking
* Auto-IPD convenient
* Foveated rendering
* Inside-out no base stations
* Interchangeable optics
* Standalone + PCVR versatile
'''Criticism:'''
* $1,599 expensive
* 845g heavy
* Software polish needed
* Pimax support reputation
* Complex setup options
* Firmware updates needed
* High PC requirements
* Standalone limited<ref name="hothardware">{{cite web |url=https://hothardware.com/reviews/pimax-crystal-standalone-and-pc-vr-headset-review |title=Pimax Crystal VR Headset Review |publisher=HotHardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Pimax Crystal Light]]
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax 8K X]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
* [[Pimax 8K X]]
* [[Eye Tracking]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Hybrid VR]]


== 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:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:2023 in technology]]
[[Category:Eye Tracking]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:11, 8 January 2026

Pimax Crystal
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype Hybrid VR (PC VR + Standalone)
Platform SteamVR, Pimax Experience
Creator Pimax
Developer Pimax
Manufacturer Pimax
Announcement Date May 31, 2022
Release Date May 2023
Price $1,599 (launch MSRP)
Website https://pimax.com/pages/crystal
Versions Pimax Crystal (QLED), Pimax Crystal Light, Pimax Crystal Super
Requires High-end gaming PC (PC VR mode), standalone capable
Predecessor Pimax 8K X
Successor Pimax Crystal Super
System
Operating System Pimax OS (Android-based), Windows (PC VR)
Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 + PC VR engine
CPU Snapdragon XR2 (standalone), PC CPU (tethered)
GPU Adreno 650 (standalone), PC GPU (tethered)
Storage
Storage 256GB
Memory 8GB LPDDR5
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Dual QLED
Subpixel Layout RGB stripe
Peak Brightness Not specified
Resolution 2880 × 2880 per eye (5760 × 2880 combined)
Pixel Density 42 PPD (center)
Refresh Rate 90Hz, 120Hz, 160Hz (mode dependent)
Persistence Low persistence
Image
Field of View 140° (diagonal), 120° (horizontal)
Horizontal FoV ~120°
Vertical FoV ~100°
Average Pixel Density 35 PPD
Peak Pixel Density 42 PPD
Foveated Rendering Yes (eye-tracked)
Optics
Optics Interchangeable glass aspheric lenses (35 PPD and 42 PPD options)
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 58-72mm (automatic with eye tracking)
Adjustable Diopter No (glasses compatible)
Passthrough Yes (grayscale)
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF inside-out (4 cameras) + optional Lighthouse
Tracking Frequency N/A
Base Stations Optional (for enhanced tracking)
Eye Tracking Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking Yes
Body Tracking Via SteamVR trackers (Lighthouse mode)
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate Up to 160Hz
Tracking Volume Room-scale
Play Space Roomscale
Latency <20ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio Integrated speakers (DMAS optional upgrade)
Microphone Yes
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes
Camera 4× tracking cameras, 2× passthrough cameras
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 6E
Ports DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, 3.5mm audio
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort)
Wireless Video Yes (Wi-Fi 6E or optional 60GHz WiGig)
WiFi Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth Yes
Power Internal battery (standalone) or USB powered (PC VR)
Battery Capacity Internal (limited standalone use)
Battery Life ~2 hours (standalone)
Charge Time ~2 hours
Device
Dimensions Large form factor
Weight ~960g (with battery)
Material Plastic, metal components
Headstrap Modular (standard or DMAS)
Haptics Controller haptics
Color Black
Sensors 4× tracking cameras, eye tracking, IMU
Input SteamVR controllers, Pimax controllers, hand tracking
Compliance FCC, CE

Property "Subtype" (as page type) with input value "Hybrid VR]] (PC VR + Standalone)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process. <ul><li>Property "Operating System" (as page type) with input value "Pimax OS]] (Android-based)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.</li> <!--br--><li>Property "Operating System" (as page type) with input value "Windows]] (PC VR)" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.</li></ul> Property "Chipset" (as page type) with input value "Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] + PC VR engine" 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 Pimax Crystal is a high-end hybrid virtual reality head-mounted display developed by Pimax, announced on May 31, 2022, and released in May 2023 at a price of $1,599. The Crystal represents Pimax's evolution from their ultra-wide FOV headsets toward higher clarity, featuring dual QLED displays at 2880 × 2880 per eye (6K total) with interchangeable aspheric glass lenses offering either 35 or 42 pixels per degree—among the highest in consumer VR. Uniquely, the Crystal is a hybrid device powered by both the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 for standalone operation and a custom PC VR engine for tethered high-fidelity gaming. The headset includes Tobii eye tracking at 120Hz for automatic IPD adjustment and foveated rendering, inside-out tracking with optional Lighthouse support, and wireless PC VR capability through built-in Wi-Fi 6E. The Crystal targeted enthusiasts seeking maximum visual clarity over maximum field of view.

History and Development

Pimax Evolution

Product line progression:

  • Pimax 4K (2016): First Pimax headset
  • Pimax 8K (2018): Ultra-wide FOV focus
  • Pimax 8K X (2020): Native 4K per eye
  • Pimax Crystal (2023): Clarity-first approach

Design Shift

New philosophy:

  • FOV to clarity pivot
  • Inside-out tracking option
  • Standalone capability
  • Eye tracking standard

May 2022 Announcement

Pimax event reveal:

  • QLED displays announced
  • Hybrid design explained
  • Eye tracking confirmed
  • 2023 availability

Development Delays

Extended timeline:

  • Initial delays common for Pimax
  • Hardware refinements
  • Software development
  • May 2023 shipping began

Design Philosophy

Clarity Over FOV

Priority shift from 8K X:

  • 42 PPD peak vs 8K X's ~20 PPD
  • 120° vs 170° FOV
  • Higher effective resolution
  • Reduced rendering demands

Hybrid Architecture

Dual-mode operation:

  • Standalone Snapdragon XR2
  • PC VR dedicated engine
  • Best of both worlds
  • Flexibility for users

Modular Lenses

Interchangeable optics:

  • 35 PPD glass lenses (included)
  • 42 PPD glass lenses (optional)
  • Future lens options
  • User preference

Display Technology

QLED Panels

Quantum dot LCD:

  • Resolution: 2880 × 2880 per eye
  • Total: 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
  • Technology: QLED (quantum dot)
  • Color: Wide color gamut

Pixel Density

Best-in-class clarity:

  • Peak: 42 PPD (with 42 PPD lenses)
  • Standard: 35 PPD (with standard lenses)
  • Exceptional text readability
  • Near-retinal center clarity

Refresh Rate

Multiple modes:

  • 90Hz: Standard
  • 120Hz: High refresh
  • 160Hz: Maximum (limited mode)
  • User configurable

Visual Quality

Premium imagery:

  • Sharp text and details
  • Wide color gamut
  • Good HDR support
  • Minimal screen door

Optical System

Interchangeable Glass Lenses

Unique Pimax feature:

  • Glass aspheric optics
  • 35 PPD standard lenses
  • 42 PPD upgrade lenses
  • User-swappable

Field of View

Balanced approach:

  • Diagonal: ~140°
  • Horizontal: ~120°
  • Narrower than 8K X
  • Prioritizes clarity

Lens Quality

Premium optics:

  • Glass construction
  • Minimal distortion
  • Good edge clarity
  • Reduced god rays

IPD Adjustment

Automatic with eye tracking:

  • Range: 58-72mm
  • Auto IPD via Tobii
  • Manual override available
  • Wide accommodation

Eye Tracking

Tobii Integration

Professional eye tracking:

  • Frequency: 120Hz
  • Brand: Tobii
  • Accurate gaze detection
  • Always-on capability

Automatic IPD

Convenience feature:

  • Detects user IPD
  • Adjusts automatically
  • No manual calibration
  • Optimal alignment

Foveated Rendering

Performance optimization:

  • Full resolution at gaze
  • Reduced peripheral rendering
  • Significant performance gains
  • Quality preserved where looking

Processing Architecture

Dual-Processor Design

Hybrid capability:

  • Standalone: Snapdragon XR2
  • PC VR: Custom engine
  • Independent operation
  • Automatic switching

Snapdragon XR2

Standalone processor:

  • Octa-core Kryo 585
  • Adreno 650 GPU
  • 8GB RAM
  • 256GB storage

PC VR Mode

Dedicated tethered:

  • DisplayPort 1.4
  • Full PC GPU utilization
  • Higher quality possible
  • Standard PC VR experience

Tracking System

Inside-Out Tracking

Four-camera system:

  • 6DoF head tracking
  • Controller tracking
  • No base stations required
  • Room-scale capable

Optional Lighthouse

External tracking support:

  • SteamVR 1.0/2.0 compatible
  • Better controller tracking
  • Full-body tracking possible
  • Enthusiast preference

Hand Tracking

Controller-free option:

  • Camera-based tracking
  • Gesture recognition
  • Limited application support
  • Growing capability

Wireless Capability

Built-in Wi-Fi 6E

Wireless PC VR:

  • Integrated Wi-Fi 6E
  • PC VR streaming
  • No separate adapter
  • Decent quality

Optional 60GHz WiGig

Premium wireless:

  • Higher bandwidth
  • Lower latency
  • Additional purchase
  • Best wireless quality

Audio System

Integrated Speakers

Basic audio:

  • Built-in speakers
  • Adequate quality
  • Near-ear positioning
  • Upgradeable

DMAS Upgrade

Premium audio option:

  • Deluxe Modular Audio Strap
  • Off-ear speakers
  • Improved sound
  • Better comfort

3.5mm Jack

Headphone option:

  • Standard audio jack
  • Use own headphones
  • Better audio possible

Physical Design

Large Form Factor

Substantial headset:

  • Larger than competitors
  • Display and optics size
  • Weight considerations
  • Enthusiast acceptance

Weight

Heavy for VR:

  • ~960g with battery
  • Counterbalancing needed
  • Not for all users
  • Extended use comfort varies

Modular Head Strap

Comfort options:

  • Standard strap included
  • DMAS upgrade available
  • Third-party options
  • User preference

Standalone Mode

Snapdragon XR2 Apps

Standalone capability:

  • Android-based OS
  • Limited app selection
  • Media viewing
  • Basic VR experiences

Battery Life

Limited runtime:

  • ~2 hours standalone
  • Hot-swappable consideration
  • PC VR doesn't use battery
  • USB-C charging

PC VR Performance

System Requirements

High-end recommended:

  • RTX 3080 / RX 6800 XT or better
  • Intel i7 / AMD Ryzen 7
  • 16GB+ RAM
  • DisplayPort 1.4

Foveated Rendering Benefits

Performance optimization:

  • Eye tracking enables foveated
  • 40%+ performance improvement
  • Higher settings possible
  • Quality maintained at gaze

Software

Pimax Experience

Control software:

  • Device management
  • Game profiles
  • Performance settings
  • Firmware updates

SteamVR Integration

Gaming platform:

  • Full SteamVR support
  • OpenVR compatible
  • Steam library
  • VR game ecosystem

Comparison with Competitors

Feature Pimax Crystal Varjo Aero Meta Quest Pro
Price $1,599 $1,990 $999
Resolution/eye 2880×2880 2880×2720 1800×1920
PPD (peak) 42 35 ~22
Eye Tracking Yes (Tobii) Yes Yes
Standalone Yes No Yes
FOV 120° 115° 106°
Weight ~960g ~720g ~722g

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths

  • Highest PPD available
  • Interchangeable lenses
  • Eye tracking standard
  • Hybrid standalone/PC VR
  • Optional Lighthouse support
  • Wireless built-in

Limitations

  • Heavy (~960g)
  • Large form factor
  • Complex setup
  • Premium pricing
  • Software maturity
  • Pimax support reputation

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Dual QLED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
Total Resolution 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
PPD 35/42 (lens dependent)
FOV ~120° horizontal
Refresh Rate 90/120/160Hz
Eye Tracking Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
Tracking Inside-out + optional Lighthouse
Processor Snapdragon XR2 + PC VR engine
Wireless Wi-Fi 6E (optional WiGig)
Weight ~960g
Price $1,599

See Also

References

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