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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image =  
|name = Pimax Crystal Super
|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]], [[Pimax Play]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Play]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Release Date = January 2025
|Announcement Date = January 7, 2025 (CES 2025)
|Price = $1,696 - $1,791 USD
|Release Date = Q1 2025
|Website = https://pimax.com/products/pimax-crystal-super
|Price = $1,696-$1,791 (QLED 57 PPD)
|Requirements = NVIDIA RTX 2080 minimum, RTX 3070+ recommended
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/pimax-crystal-super
|Display = 2× Custom QLED LCD with mini-LED local dimming
|Versions = QLED 50 PPD, QLED 57 PPD, Micro-OLED 8K
|Resolution = 3840×3840 per eye (29.5 million pixels total)
|Requires = Gaming PC with DisplayPort
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz, 120 Hz
|Predecessor = [[Pimax Crystal]]
|Field of View = 120° horizontal
|Successor =
|Horizontal FoV = 120°
|Operating System = [[Windows]]
|Brightness = 280 nits
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|PPD = 57 PPD
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (automatic hardware adjustment)
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = QLED with Local Dimming 2.0 or Micro-OLED
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Peak Brightness = 280 nits
|Resolution = 3840 × 3840 per eye (29.5 million pixels total)
|Pixel Density = 57 PPD (high clarity) / 50 PPD (ultrawide)
|Refresh Rate = 72Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz (lab mode)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 106° (57 PPD) / 140° (50 PPD)
|Horizontal FoV = 106° (57 PPD) / 140° (50 PPD)
|Vertical FoV = ~90°
|Average Pixel Density = 50-57 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 57 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (eye-tracked dynamic)
|Optics = Modular optical engine system
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Glass aspheric lenses
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (mechanical adjustment)
|Tracking = Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras, SLAM)
|Adjustable Diopter = Via prescription lens inserts
|Eye Tracking = Yes (120 Hz)
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 6DoF inside-out (SLAM)
|Tracking Frequency = 120Hz
|Base Stations = Optional (SteamVR compatible)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (10 IR sensors, 120fps)
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Audio = Optional DMAS deluxe audio strap
|Body Tracking = No
|Connectivity = DisplayPort
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Weight = ~975g (without audio), ~1000g+ (with DMAS)
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = 120Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms
|Audio = DMAS (Dual Magnetic Audio System) optional
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphone)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 4× tracking cameras
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4
|Ports = DisplayPort, USB-C
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = Tethered (no internal battery)
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~200mm × 100mm × 150mm
|Weight = 966g (with DMAS earphones)
|Material = Plastic, fabric
|Headstrap = Modular strap system
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Color = Black
|Sensors = 4× tracking cameras, 10× IR eye tracking sensors, IMU
|Input = Controllers, eye tracking, SteamVR controllers
|Compliance = CE, FCC
}}
}}


The '''Pimax Crystal Super''' is a high-end [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed and manufactured by [[Pimax]], released in January 2025. It is designed for enthusiast users, particularly sim racing and flight simulation players, featuring an ultra-high resolution QLED display with mini-LED local dimming technology and a wide 120° field of view.
The '''Pimax Crystal Super''' is a high-end [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], announced at CES 2025 on January 7, 2025. Marketed as the "world's first retina-level VR headset," the Crystal Super achieves an unprecedented 57 pixels per degree (PPD) in its high-clarity configuration, matching the resolving capability of human vision and setting a new benchmark for visual fidelity in consumer VR. Building upon the original Pimax Crystal platform, the Crystal Super introduces a revolutionary modular optical engine system, Local Dimming 2.0 technology, and integrated eye tracking with 10 infrared sensors capturing at 120fps.


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


The Pimax Crystal Super was first unveiled at [[CES]] 2025, where it was shown in its DVT2 (Design Validation Test 2) form. Pimax positioned the headset as the successor to the original Pimax Crystal, addressing many of the criticisms of the previous model while pushing resolution and field of view to new heights.<ref name="ces2025">{{cite web |url=https://pimax.com/blogs/blogs/the-world-meets-the-crystal-super-dvt2-at-ces2025 |title=The world meets the Crystal Super DVT2 at CES2025 |publisher=Pimax |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Pimax Legacy ===
Pimax established itself as a pioneer in ultra-wide field-of-view VR headsets, beginning with the Pimax 4K in 2016 and followed by the ambitious Pimax 8K and 5K series launched through Kickstarter campaigns. The company built a dedicated following among VR enthusiasts and sim racing communities who valued expansive fields of view over the more constrained designs of mainstream headsets.


The headset represents Pimax's continued focus on the high-end PCVR market segment, targeting users who prioritize visual fidelity and immersion over standalone convenience.
=== Crystal Platform ===
The original Pimax Crystal, released in 2023, marked a significant shift in Pimax's approach—prioritizing optical clarity and premium build quality over maximum field of view. The Crystal introduced swappable lens modules, a feature that would evolve into the Crystal Super's more sophisticated modular optical engine system.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== CES 2025 Announcement ===
Pimax unveiled the Crystal Super at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, positioning it as the first VR headset to achieve "retina resolution"—a reference to Apple's terminology for displays that exceed the human eye's ability to perceive individual pixels. The announcement emphasized the headset's 57 PPD capability, which Pimax claimed eliminated the screen door effect entirely.


=== Display and Optics ===
=== Modular Philosophy ===
The Crystal Super embodies Pimax's modular design philosophy, offering multiple optical engine configurations that users can swap to prioritize either maximum clarity (57 PPD, 106° FOV) or expansive field of view (50 PPD, 140° FOV). This approach allows a single headset to serve different use cases, from detail-critical professional applications to immersive gaming.


The Crystal Super features dual custom QLED LCD panels with an extraordinary resolution of 3840×3840 pixels per eye, totaling nearly 30 million pixels across both displays. This results in a pixel density of 57 pixels per degree (PPD), making it one of the sharpest consumer VR headsets available.<ref name="mrtv">{{cite web |url=https://mrtv.co/2025/04/pimax-crystal-super-review/ |title=Pimax Crystal Super Review: A Hot Contender For Best High-End VR Headset Of 2025 |publisher=MRTV |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
== Display Technology ==


A key innovation is the mini-LED local dimming system, featuring up to 1000 dimming zones per eye. This technology allows the headset to achieve OLED-like contrast in many scenarios by dimming dark areas of the screen while maintaining LCD-level brightness and color accuracy. Peak brightness is rated at 280 nits.
=== QLED Panels with Local Dimming 2.0 ===
The Crystal Super utilizes custom QLED (Quantum Dot LED) display panels specifically optimized for VR applications:
* '''Resolution''': 3840 × 3840 pixels per eye (approximately 29.5 million total pixels)
* '''Panel Technology''': QLED with quantum dot enhancement
* '''Local Dimming 2.0''': Advanced zone-based backlight control designed specifically for VR, improving contrast and reducing light bleed
* '''Peak Brightness''': 280 nits
* '''Color Coverage''': Wide color gamut with quantum dot enhancement


The headset uses glass aspheric lenses that provide sharp, clear visuals across the entire 120° horizontal field of view, minimizing edge distortion and chromatic aberration.
=== Retina-Level Clarity ===
The 57 PPD configuration achieves what Pimax terms "retina resolution":
* Human visual acuity is approximately 60 PPD at the fovea
* At 57 PPD, individual pixels become imperceptible under normal viewing conditions
* Eliminates the traditional "screen door effect" that has plagued VR displays
* Enables comfortable reading of small text and fine detail observation


=== Processing and PC Requirements ===
=== Micro-OLED Option ===
Pimax also announced a premium Micro-OLED variant (Crystal Super 8K Micro-OLED) for users seeking even higher image quality:
* True black levels with infinite contrast ratio
* Faster pixel response times
* HDR capability
* Premium pricing tier


As a PC-tethered headset, the Crystal Super requires a DisplayPort connection and does not support wireless streaming or standalone operation. The headset has no onboard processing, relying entirely on a connected PC.
== Modular Optical Engine System ==


'''Minimum Requirements:'''
=== Swappable Optics Concept ===
* NVIDIA RTX 2080 or equivalent
The Crystal Super's most innovative feature is its modular optical engine system, allowing users to physically swap the entire optical assembly:
* High-end CPU
* '''Easy Installation''': Optical engines attach and detach without tools
* '''Future Upgrades''': Users can upgrade to new optical technologies as they become available
* '''Repair Simplicity''': Damaged optics can be replaced without sending the entire headset for service
* '''Configuration Flexibility''': Switch between clarity-focused and FOV-focused configurations


'''Recommended Requirements:'''
=== 57 PPD High Clarity Engine ===
* NVIDIA RTX 3070 or higher
The clarity-optimized configuration prioritizes pixel density:
* Modern high-end CPU
* 106° horizontal field of view
* 57 pixels per degree
* Ideal for simulators, professional applications, and detail-critical content
* Sharpest consumer VR experience available


=== Tracking System ===
=== 50 PPD Ultrawide Engine ===
The field-of-view-optimized configuration emphasizes immersion:
* 140° horizontal field of view
* 50 pixels per degree
* Enhanced peripheral vision for spatial awareness
* Preferred for action games and immersive experiences


The Crystal Super uses inside-out tracking with four external cameras and a SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) algorithm. This eliminates the need for external base stations, simplifying setup while providing 6 degrees of freedom tracking for both the headset and controllers.<ref name="boosted">{{cite web |url=https://boostedmedia.net/sim-racing/hardware-reviews/pimax/pimax-crystal-super-detailed-review/ |title=Pimax Crystal Super - Detailed Review |publisher=Boosted Media |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
== Eye Tracking System ==


=== Eye Tracking ===
=== Integrated Eye Tracking ===
The Crystal Super features an advanced eye tracking system built directly into the lens barrel:
* '''IR Sensors''': 10 infrared sensors surrounding each lens
* '''Capture Rate''': 120fps eye tracking refresh rate
* '''Accuracy''': Sub-degree gaze tracking precision
* '''Calibration''': Quick initial calibration with automatic adjustment


Integrated eye tracking operates at 120 Hz and enables several features:
=== Dynamic Foveated Rendering ===
* Automatic IPD adjustment (58-72mm range)
Eye tracking enables real-time foveated rendering:
* Dynamic foveated rendering for supported titles
* Full resolution rendering only where the user is looking
* Gaze-based interactions
* Reduced resolution in peripheral vision
* Significant performance improvements (40-50% GPU savings reported)
* Imperceptible quality reduction when properly calibrated


=== Ergonomics and Build ===
=== Gaze-Based Interaction ===
Applications can utilize gaze data for:
* Menu navigation by looking at elements
* Social presence in multiplayer experiences
* Training and simulation analytics
* Accessibility features for users with limited mobility


The headset weighs approximately 975 grams without the optional DMAS (Deluxe Modular Audio Strap) headphones, and over 1 kilogram with the audio accessory attached. This makes it one of the heavier consumer VR headsets, though Pimax has worked to improve weight distribution and comfort compared to previous models.
== Tracking System ==


== Modular Design ==
=== Inside-Out SLAM Tracking ===
The Crystal Super employs markerless inside-out tracking:
* '''Cameras''': Four tracking cameras positioned around the headset
* '''Algorithm''': Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM)
* '''Range''': Full room-scale tracking capability
* '''Lighting Tolerance''': Works in varied lighting conditions


One of the Crystal Super's most innovative features is its modular architecture. The headset supports removable and interchangeable display modules, allowing users to upgrade components without specialized tools. This extends the device's lifespan and provides a cost-effective upgrade path as new display technologies emerge.<ref name="geeky">{{cite web |url=https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/pimax-crystal-super-vr-headset-2025/ |title=Pimax Crystal Super Review: High-Resolution VR Headset Review |publisher=Geeky Gadgets |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Optional Base Station Support ===
For applications requiring maximum precision, the Crystal Super supports SteamVR base station tracking:
* Compatible with Valve Index base stations (1.0 and 2.0)
* Sub-millimeter positional accuracy
* Preferred for professional simulation applications
* Dual-mode operation allows switching between inside-out and outside-in tracking


A variant called the '''Pimax Crystal Super 8K Micro-OLED''' is available with Sony micro-OLED panels for users who prefer OLED technology.
=== Controller Support ===
The headset supports multiple controller ecosystems:
* Pimax Sword controllers (native)
* Valve Index controllers (via SteamVR)
* HTC Vive controllers (via SteamVR)
* Any OpenXR-compatible controllers


== Software and Compatibility ==
== Audio System ==


The Crystal Super is compatible with:
=== DMAS (Dual Magnetic Audio System) ===
* [[SteamVR]] with native OpenXR support
Optional high-end audio solution:
* [[Pimax Play]] software suite
* Planar magnetic drivers for audiophile-grade sound
* Most PCVR titles
* Off-ear design for comfort during extended sessions
* Precise spatial audio positioning
* Integrated into headstrap design


The headset supports dynamic foveated rendering in compatible titles such as [[DCS World]], using eye tracking data to render the area of focus at full resolution while reducing quality in peripheral vision.
=== Standard Audio Options ===
* 3.5mm audio jack for personal headphones
* Compatible with third-party audio solutions
* Integrated dual microphones for voice chat


== Reception ==
== Physical Design ==


The Pimax Crystal Super has received generally positive reviews from the VR enthusiast community, particularly from sim racing and flight simulation users.
=== Build Quality ===
Premium construction throughout:
* Durable plastic housing with soft-touch surfaces
* Comfortable facial interface with replaceable cushions
* Adjustable IPD mechanism (58-72mm)
* Tool-free optical engine swapping


=== Praise ===
=== Weight Distribution ===
* "An ambitious, high-performance headset that brings Pimax closer than ever to delivering the ultimate PCVR experience"<ref name="mrtv"/>
At 966g (with DMAS), weight management is critical:
* Exceptional visual clarity at 57 PPD
* Rear counterweight for balance
* Wide 120° field of view
* Wide headstrap for pressure distribution
* Improved software experience with native OpenXR support
* Multiple strap configurations available
* Effective local dimming for improved contrast
* Eye-tracked foveated rendering in supported titles


=== Criticism ===
=== Cooling ===
* Heavy weight (~1kg) affects long-term comfort
Active cooling system prevents overheating:
* Controller tracking described as "functional but not reliable enough for FPS players"
* Integrated fans for heat dissipation
* Playspace sometimes forgotten between sessions
* Thermal management for extended sessions
* Inconsistent dynamic foveated rendering activation
* Quiet operation design
* Significant tweaking required for optimal experience
 
* Premium pricing compared to competitors<ref name="simracing">{{cite web |url=https://simracing-pc.de/en/2025/09/19/pimax-crystal-super-vr-headset-simracing-review/ |title=Pimax Crystal Super VR-Headset – Simracing-Review |publisher=Simracing-PC |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
== Connectivity and Requirements ==
 
=== Connection Requirements ===
As a tethered PCVR headset, the Crystal Super requires:
* '''DisplayPort 1.4''': Primary video connection
* '''USB''': For tracking and peripheral data
* '''Power''': External power adapter for cooling system
 
=== PC Requirements ===
Recommended specifications for optimal performance:
* '''GPU''': NVIDIA RTX 4080 or AMD RX 7900 XT (minimum RTX 3080/RX 6800 XT)
* '''CPU''': Intel Core i7-12700K or AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
* '''RAM''': 32GB recommended
* '''Storage''': NVMe SSD for fast loading
 
== Target Markets ==
 
=== Simulation ===
The Crystal Super excels in simulation applications:
* Flight simulation (MSFS, DCS World, X-Plane)
* Racing simulation (iRacing, Assetto Corsa, rFactor 2)
* Space simulation (Star Citizen, Elite Dangerous)
* Professional training simulators
 
=== Professional Applications ===
Enterprise and professional use cases:
* Architectural visualization
* Medical training
* Engineering review
* Scientific visualization
 
=== Enthusiast Gaming ===
High-end gaming experiences:
* AAA VR titles
* Competitive VR gaming
* Immersive open-world experiences
 
== Pricing and Configurations ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Configuration !! Price (USD) !! Key Features
|-
| QLED 57 PPD || $1,696-$1,791 || Maximum clarity, 106° FOV
|-
| QLED 50 PPD || TBA || Ultrawide 140° FOV
|-
| Micro-OLED 8K || TBA || Premium contrast and HDR
|}
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Specification !! Details
|-
| Display || QLED with Local Dimming 2.0
|-
| Resolution || 3840 × 3840 per eye
|-
| Pixel Density || 57 PPD (clarity) / 50 PPD (ultrawide)
|-
| Field of View || 106° (clarity) / 140° (ultrawide)
|-
| Refresh Rate || 72Hz / 90Hz / 120Hz
|-
| Eye Tracking || Yes (10 IR sensors, 120fps)
|-
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out + optional base stations
|-
| Audio || DMAS optional, 3.5mm jack
|-
| Weight || 966g (with DMAS)
|-
| Connection || DisplayPort 1.4, USB
|-
| Price || From $1,696
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Light]]
* [[Pimax 8K X]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Super 8K Micro-OLED]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2e]]
* [[Eye Tracking]]
* [[Varjo XR-4]]
* [[Foveated Rendering]]
* [[SteamVR]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:2025 in technology]]
[[Category:Eye Tracking]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Pimax_Crystal_Super"