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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 = PC VR / Standalone VR
|Subtype = [[Hybrid VR]] (PC VR + Standalone)
|Platform = [[PC]], [[SteamVR]], Standalone
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Experience]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Announced = 2022
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Release = 2023
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Price = $1,599
|Announcement Date = May 31, 2022
|Website = https://pimax.com
|Release Date = May 2023
|OS = Android (standalone) / Windows (PCVR)
|Price = $1,599 (launch MSRP)
|CPU = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] (standalone)
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/crystal
|GPU = Host PC dependent (PCVR)
|Versions = Pimax Crystal (QLED), Pimax Crystal Light, Pimax Crystal Super
|Storage = Internal (standalone)
|Requires = High-end gaming PC (PC VR mode), standalone capable
|RAM = 8 GB
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 8K X]]
|Display = 2 x QLED Mini-LED
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
|Resolution = 5760 x 2880 (2880 x 2880 per eye)
|Operating System = [[Pimax OS]] (Android-based), [[Windows]] (PC VR)
|Refresh = 90/120 Hz (144/160 Hz testing mode)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] + PC VR engine
|Brightness =
|CPU = Snapdragon XR2 (standalone), PC CPU (tethered)
|FOV = 125° H / 140° diagonal
|GPU = Adreno 650 (standalone), PC GPU (tethered)
|PPD = 35 (peak)
|HPU =
|Lenses = Glass aspheric (interchangeable)
|Storage = 256GB
|IPD = Motorized automatic adjustment
|Memory = 8GB LPDDR5
|Eye Tracking = Yes (120 Hz)
|SD Card Slot = No
|Hand Tracking =
|Display = Dual QLED
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 4 cameras)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Spatial Mapping =
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Speakers = Integrated
|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
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (automatic with eye tracking)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Passthrough = Yes (grayscale)
|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 = Integrated speakers (DMAS optional upgrade)
|Microphone = Yes
|Microphone = Yes
|Audio Jack = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6E, optional 60GHz WiGig
|Camera = 4× tracking cameras, 2× passthrough cameras
|Ports = USB-C, DisplayPort
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 6E
|Battery = Included (standalone mode)
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, 3.5mm audio
|Weight = 845g
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Materials =
|Wireless Video = Yes (Wi-Fi 6E or optional 60GHz WiGig)
|Colors = Black
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 6E
|Sensors = 4 external DoF cameras
|Bluetooth = Yes
|Input = Pimax controllers, SteamVR controllers
|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 [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]]. Released in 2023, the Crystal features dual 2880 x 2880 QLED Mini-LED displays with local dimming, delivering 35 pixels per degree (PPD) peak fidelity. The headset operates in both PCVR mode and standalone mode via the built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor. Key features include eye tracking with automatic IPD adjustment, inside-out 6DoF tracking without base stations, and an interchangeable lens system offering standard or wide FOV options.<ref name="pimax">{{cite web|url=https://pimax.com/pages/crystal|title=Pimax Crystal|publisher=Pimax}}</ref>
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 High-End Focus ===
=== Pimax Evolution ===
Pimax continued their focus on high-resolution, wide-FOV VR with the Crystal as a more refined successor to their 8K series.
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


=== 2023 Release ===
=== Design Shift ===
The Crystal launched at $1,599, lower than the originally announced $1,899 MSRP.
New philosophy:
* FOV to clarity pivot
* Inside-out tracking option
* Standalone capability
* Eye tracking standard


== Design and Hardware ==
=== May 2022 Announcement ===
Pimax event reveal:
* QLED displays announced
* Hybrid design explained
* Eye tracking confirmed
* 2023 availability


=== Display System ===
=== Development Delays ===
* '''Resolution:''' 2880 x 2880 per eye (5760 x 2880 total)
Extended timeline:
* '''Display Type:''' QLED + Mini-LED
* Initial delays common for Pimax
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 90 Hz / 120 Hz (144/160 Hz in testing mode)
* Hardware refinements
* '''Local Dimming:''' Enhanced contrast with deeper blacks and brighter whites
* Software development
* '''Pixel Density:''' 35 PPD peak fidelity
* 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 ===
=== Field of View ===
* '''Horizontal:''' 125 degrees
Balanced approach:
* '''Diagonal:''' 140 degrees
* '''Diagonal''': ~140°
* '''Horizontal''': ~120°
* Narrower than 8K X
* Prioritizes clarity


=== Interchangeable Lens System ===
=== Lens Quality ===
* '''Standard Lenses:''' Glass aspheric at 35 PPD
Premium optics:
* '''Wide FOV Lenses:''' Optional for enhanced immersion
* Glass construction
* '''Design:''' Revolutionary swappable lens system
* Minimal distortion
* Good edge clarity
* Reduced god rays


=== Physical Specifications ===
=== IPD Adjustment ===
* '''Weight:''' 845 grams
Automatic with eye tracking:
* '''Range''': 58-72mm
* Auto IPD via Tobii
* Manual override available
* Wide accommodation


== Eye Tracking ==
== Eye Tracking ==


=== Specifications ===
=== Tobii Integration ===
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 120 Hz
Professional eye tracking:
* '''Features:''' Dynamic foveated rendering
* '''Frequency''': 120Hz
* '''Brand''': Tobii
* Accurate gaze detection
* Always-on capability


=== Automatic IPD ===
=== Automatic IPD ===
Motorized automatic IPD adjustment based on eye tracking.
Convenience feature:
* Detects user IPD
* Adjusts automatically
* No manual calibration
* Optimal alignment


== Tracking ==
=== 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 ===
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
* 4 external depth-of-field cameras
Four-camera system:
* 6DoF head tracking
* Controller tracking
* No base stations required
* No base stations required
* 6DoF head and controller tracking
* 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


=== Base Station Support ===
== Physical Design ==
Optional SteamVR base station support for enhanced tracking precision.


== Dual Mode Operation ==
=== Large Form Factor ===
Substantial headset:
* Larger than competitors
* Display and optics size
* Weight considerations
* Enthusiast acceptance


=== PCVR Mode ===
=== Weight ===
* Connects to gaming PC
Heavy for VR:
* Leverages dedicated graphics card
* ~960g with battery
* Full SteamVR library access
* Counterbalancing needed
* Not for all users
* Extended use comfort varies


=== Standalone Mode (AIO) ===
=== Modular Head Strap ===
* Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 powered
Comfort options:
* 8 GB RAM
* Standard strap included
* Mobile VR flexibility
* DMAS upgrade available
* Third-party options
* User preference


== Wireless Options ==
== Standalone Mode ==


* '''Built-in:''' Wi-Fi 6E
=== Snapdragon XR2 Apps ===
* '''Optional:''' 60 GHz WiGig adapter for wireless PCVR
Standalone capability:
* Android-based OS
* Limited app selection
* Media viewing
* Basic VR experiences


== System Requirements (PCVR) ==
=== 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"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Component !! Minimum
! Feature !! Pimax Crystal !! Varjo Aero !! Meta Quest Pro
|-
|-
| CPU || Intel Core i5 12th Gen / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
| Price || $1,599 || $1,990 || $999
|-
|-
| RAM || 16 GB+
| Resolution/eye || 2880×2880 || 2880×2720 || 1800×1920
|-
|-
| GPU || NVIDIA RTX 2070+
| PPD (peak) || 42 || 35 || ~22
|-
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii) || Yes || Yes
|-
| Standalone || Yes || No || Yes
|-
| FOV || 120° || 115° || 106°
|-
| Weight || ~960g || ~720g || ~722g
|}
|}


== Specifications ==
== 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 126: Line 419:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || QLED Mini-LED (2880 x 2880/eye)
| Display || Dual QLED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
|-
|-
| Total Resolution || 5760 x 2880
| Total Resolution || 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90/120 Hz
| PPD || 35/42 (lens dependent)
|-
|-
| Peak PPD || 35
| FOV || ~120° horizontal
|-
|-
| Field of View || 125° H / 140° diagonal
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/160Hz
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || 120 Hz
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
|-
|-
| IPD || Motorized automatic
| Tracking || Inside-out + optional Lighthouse
|-
|-
| Tracking || Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras)
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 + PC VR engine
|-
|-
| Processor (AIO) || Snapdragon XR2
| Wireless || Wi-Fi 6E (optional WiGig)
|-
|-
| Wireless || Wi-Fi 6E, optional WiGig
| Weight || ~960g
|-
| Weight || 845g
|-
|-
| Price || $1,599
| Price || $1,599
|}
|}
== Product Line ==
Pimax Crystal variants:
* [[Pimax Crystal Light]] - Lightweight version
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]] - Enhanced specifications


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax Vision 8KX]]
* [[Pimax 8K X]]
* [[Wide FOV VR]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
* [[QLED displays]]
* [[Eye Tracking]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Hybrid VR]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 172: Line 459:
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Wide FOV VR]]
[[Category:Eye tracking]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:QLED displays]]
[[Category:Eye Tracking]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
[[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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