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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Varjo VR-3
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise VR]], [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]], [[Enterprise VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Varjo Base]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Varjo Base]]
|Creator = [[Varjo]]
|Developer = [[Varjo]]
|Developer = [[Varjo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Varjo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Varjo]]
|Release Date = December 1, 2020
|Announcement Date = December 2020
|Price = $3,195 USD
|Release Date = February 2021
|Website = https://varjo.com/products/varjo-vr-3
|Price = $3,195 (hardware) + $795/year (subscription)
|Website = https://varjo.com/
|Versions = Varjo VR-3
|Requires = High-end PC (NVIDIA RTX 2080 Ti or better), SteamVR base stations
|Predecessor = [[Varjo VR-2]]
|Predecessor = [[Varjo VR-2]]
|Successor = [[Varjo Aero]]
|Successor = None announced
|Display = Bionic Display (uOLED + LCD hybrid)
|Operating System = [[Windows 10/11]]
|Resolution = Focus: 1920x1920 per eye (uOLED), Peripheral: 2880x2720 per eye (LCD)
|Chipset = N/A (PC-tethered)
|PPD = 70 PPD (focus), 30+ PPD (peripheral)
|CPU = N/A (host PC)
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|GPU = N/A (host PC)
|Field of View = 115°
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A (host PC)
|Memory = N/A (host PC)
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual micro-OLED (focus) + dual LCD (peripheral)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe (focus displays)
|Peak Brightness = >100 nits (focus), >150 nits (peripheral)
|Resolution = 2880 × 2720 per eye (context), 1920 × 1920 per eye (focus)
|Pixel Density = >70 PPD (focus area)
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 115° horizontal
|Horizontal FoV = 115°
|Vertical FoV = 115°
|Average Pixel Density = ~35 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = >70 PPD (focus area)
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (gaze-driven)
|Optics = Aspherical lenses with Bionic Display
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = 59-71mm (automatic)
|IPD Range = 59-71mm (automatic)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Optics = Non-Fresnel (custom ultra-wide)
|Passthrough = No (VR-only)
|Tracking = 6DoF (SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Tracking = 6DoF (SteamVR Tracking 2.0)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (200 Hz, <1° accuracy)
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz (IMU)
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap Gemini)
|Base Stations = Required (SteamVR 2.0)
|Controllers = SteamVR compatible
|Eye Tracking = Yes (integrated, 200Hz)
|Audio = 3.5mm jack
|Face Tracking = No
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap integration)
|Weight = 40% lighter than VR-1
|Body Tracking = Via SteamVR trackers
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = 90Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale (base station dependent)
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Integrated headphones
|Microphone = Yes (integrated)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = No (VR-only)
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C 3.0, proprietary cable
|Ports = Proprietary headset cable
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort 1.4)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = Powered by PC via cable
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = Not specified
|Weight = ~558g (without headband), ~944g (with headband)
|Material = Premium plastics, aluminum
|Headstrap = Precision fit headband with counterweight
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black/Silver
|Sensors = Eye tracking cameras, IMU, proximity sensor
|Input = SteamVR controllers, enterprise controllers
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Varjo VR-3''' is a professional [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Varjo]], released on December 1, 2020 at $3,195. Launched alongside the [[Varjo XR-3]], the VR-3 features Varjo's signature Bionic Display technology delivering human-eye resolution at 70 pixels per degree (PPD) in the focus area, industry-widest 115° field of view, 200 Hz eye tracking with sub-1° accuracy, Ultraleap Gemini hand tracking, and custom non-Fresnel lenses. The VR-3 represented a significant improvement over earlier Varjo models with 40% weight reduction, 33% wider FOV, and nearly 50% lower price.
The '''Varjo VR-3''' is a professional-grade [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Varjo]], announced in December 2020 and released in February 2021 at a price of $3,195 for hardware plus $795 annual subscription. As the VR-only counterpart to the XR-3 mixed reality headset, the VR-3 delivers Varjo's revolutionary Bionic Display technology—combining micro-OLED focus displays with LCD peripheral displays to achieve human-eye resolution exceeding 70 pixels per degree in the foveal region. This enables professionals to read cockpit instruments, examine fine CAD details, and perceive visual fidelity indistinguishable from reality in the center of view. With industry-leading 115° horizontal field of view, integrated 200Hz eye tracking enabling foveated rendering, automatic IPD adjustment, and optional Ultraleap hand tracking integration, the VR-3 targets the most demanding professional applications: flight simulation, automotive design, industrial training, and research where visual clarity cannot be compromised.


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


Varjo launched the VR-3 on December 1, 2020 as a VR-only counterpart to the mixed reality XR-3. The VR-3 continued Varjo's focus on enterprise and professional applications requiring the highest visual fidelity, including flight simulation, automotive design, and training. The launch price of $3,195 represented nearly 50% reduction from the VR-1, making professional-grade VR more accessible.<ref name="varjo">{{cite web |url=https://varjo.com/news/varjo-launches-xr-3-and-vr-3-headsets-to-bring-the-next-generation-of-immersive-technology-to-every-workplace |title=Varjo Launches XR-3 and VR-3 |publisher=Varjo |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Varjo Vision ===
Company mission:
* Founded 2016 in Finland
* Human-eye resolution goal
* Enterprise VR focus
* Premium market position
 
=== Bionic Display Innovation ===
Technology development:
* VR-1 introduction (2019)
* VR-2 improvements
* VR-3 refinement
* Continuous advancement
 
=== December 2020 Announcement ===
VR-3 reveal:
* Improved specifications
* Wider FOV (115°)
* Better resolution
* Reduced weight and price
 
=== February 2021 Launch ===
Commercial release:
* $3,195 hardware
* $795/year subscription
* Enterprise channel
* Professional focus
 
== Design Philosophy ==


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Human-Eye Resolution ===
Visual fidelity goal:
* >70 PPD in focus area
* Read fine text naturally
* Instrument legibility
* Professional requirements


=== Bionic Display ===
=== Bionic Display ===
Dual display system:
* Micro-OLED focus area
* LCD peripheral context
* Seamless combination
* Best of both technologies
=== Enterprise VR ===
Professional design:
* Premium construction
* Reliability focus
* Support infrastructure
* Deployment tools


Dual-panel human-eye resolution system:
=== VR-Only Focus ===
Immersive design:
* No passthrough cameras
* Full immersion
* Lighter than XR-3
* Lower cost than XR-3


==== Focus Area ====
== Display Technology ==
* '''Micro-OLED (uOLED)''' displays
* '''1920x1920 resolution per eye'''
* '''70 PPD''' (pixels per degree)—human-eye resolution
* '''27° x 27°''' focus region
* Follows gaze via eye tracking


==== Peripheral Area ====
=== Bionic Display System ===
* '''LCD''' displays
Revolutionary approach:
* '''2880x2720 resolution per eye'''
* '''Focus Display''': 1920 × 1920 micro-OLED per eye
* '''30+ PPD''' peripheral clarity
* '''Context Display''': 2880 × 2720 LCD per eye
* Full 115° coverage
* '''Combined''': Seamless optical blend
* '''Technology''': Proprietary optics


=== Field of View ===
=== Focus Area Resolution ===
Human-eye class:
* >70 PPD central
* ~35 PPD peripheral
* Text legibility
* Detail perception


* '''115° FOV'''—widest in industry at launch
=== Micro-OLED Focus ===
* '''33% wider''' than earlier Varjo models (87°)
High-density core:
* Near-peripheral vision coverage
* RGB stripe layout
* Excellent contrast
* Fast response
* Premium quality


=== Optics ===
=== LCD Peripheral ===
Wide-angle context:
* Full FOV coverage
* Good resolution
* Seamless blend
* Complete immersion


* '''Custom non-Fresnel lenses'''
=== Color Calibration ===
* Ultra-wide design
Professional accuracy:
* No god rays
* 99% sRGB calibrated
* Crystal clear optics
* 93% DCI-P3 coverage
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Factory calibrated
* Professional grade


=== Eye Tracking ===
== Field of View ==


World-leading integrated system:
=== 115° Horizontal FOV ===
Industry-leading:
* Widest in class
* Near-human vision
* Peripheral awareness
* Full immersion


* '''200 Hz''' tracking rate (2x previous generation)
=== Significant Improvement ===
* '''<1° accuracy'''—world-leading for integrated VR
vs Previous generation:
* Enables foveated rendering
* 115° vs 87° (VR-2)
* Automatic IPD adjustment
* 32% increase
* Gaze analytics
* Major advancement
* Competitive advantage
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Aspherical Lenses ===
Premium optics:
* Wide sweet spot
* Minimal distortion
* Clear edge-to-edge
* Professional quality
 
=== Automatic IPD ===
Eye tracking integration:
* '''Range''': 59-71mm
* Automatic adjustment
* Per-user optimization
* Eye tracking driven
 
== Eye Tracking ==
 
=== 200Hz Eye Tracking ===
Industry-leading:
* '''Frequency''': 200Hz
* '''Technology''': Integrated cameras
* Sub-degree accuracy
* Professional grade
 
=== Foveated Rendering ===
Performance optimization:
* Gaze-driven rendering
* Full resolution at gaze point
* Reduced peripheral detail
* Significant GPU savings
 
=== Research Applications ===
Scientific use:
* Gaze data collection
* Attention analysis
* Training assessment
* Behavioral research
 
== Processing Requirements ==
 
=== High-End PC Required ===
Demanding specifications:
* NVIDIA RTX 2080 Ti minimum
* RTX 3080 recommended
* Quadro RTX 6000 supported
* High-end workstation
 
=== GPU Power ===
Computational needs:
* High resolution output
* Foveated rendering helps
* Professional graphics cards
* Enterprise workstations
 
== Tracking System ==
 
=== SteamVR Tracking 2.0 ===
External tracking:
* Base stations required
* Sub-millimeter accuracy
* Large volume capable
* Professional reliability
 
=== 6DoF Precision ===
Complete motion:
* Position tracking
* Rotation tracking
* High accuracy
* Low latency
 
=== Hand Tracking Option ===
Ultraleap integration:
* Optional add-on
* Gesture recognition
* Natural interaction
* Natural interaction
* Enterprise applications
== Audio System ==
=== Integrated Headphones ===
Built-in audio:
* Over-ear design
* Spatial audio capable
* Good isolation
* Convenient
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
Alternative audio:
* External headphones
* Custom audio
* Professional options
* User preference
== Physical Design ==
=== Premium Construction ===
Professional build:
* High-quality materials
* Precision engineering
* Durable design
* Enterprise grade
=== Comfort System ===
Extended wear:
* Counterweight design
* Adjustable fit
* Pressure distribution
* Professional use capable
=== Weight ===
Substantial device:
* ~558g without headband
* ~944g with headband
* Well-balanced
* Counterweight helps
== Connectivity ==
=== Tethered Operation ===
PC connection:
* DisplayPort 1.4
* USB-C 3.0
* Power delivery
* Proprietary cable
== Software Platform ==
=== Varjo Base ===
Management software:
* Device configuration
* Display calibration
* Eye tracking setup
* Enterprise tools


=== Hand Tracking ===
=== SteamVR Integration ===
Content access:
* SteamVR applications
* OpenXR support
* Enterprise apps
* Custom development


* '''Ultraleap Gemini''' (5th generation)
=== Enterprise SDK ===
* First Gemini integration in VR headset
Developer tools:
* High-fidelity hand and finger tracking
* Unity integration
* Controller-free interaction
* Unreal Engine support
* Native SDK
* Professional tools


=== IPD Adjustment ===
== Enterprise Applications ==


* '''Automatic IPD''' (59-71mm range)
=== Flight Simulation ===
* Eye tracking-based calibration
Aviation training:
* No manual adjustment needed
* Cockpit legibility
* Instrument reading
* Realistic visuals
* Training fidelity


=== Build ===
=== Automotive Design ===
Vehicle development:
* Full-scale review
* Design validation
* Detail assessment
* Collaborative review


Significantly improved ergonomics:
=== Industrial Training ===
Workforce development:
* Procedure training
* Safety simulation
* Skill development
* Assessment capable


* '''40% lighter''' than VR-1
=== Research ===
* New materials and design
Scientific use:
* Active cooling system
* Visual perception
* Premium build quality
* Attention studies
* 90 Hz refresh rate
* Human factors
* Behavioral research


== Comparison with Varjo XR-3 ==
== Subscription Model ==
 
=== Hardware + Subscription ===
Pricing structure:
* $3,195 hardware purchase
* $795/year subscription
* Software updates included
* Support included
 
=== vs XR-3 ===
Cost comparison:
* VR-3: $3,195 + $795/year
* XR-3: $5,495 + $1,495/year
* No passthrough cameras
* Lower total cost
 
== Comparison with XR-3 ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 108: Line 397:
! Feature !! Varjo VR-3 !! Varjo XR-3
! Feature !! Varjo VR-3 !! Varjo XR-3
|-
|-
| Type || VR only || Mixed Reality
| Price || $3,195 + $795/yr || $5,495 + $1,495/yr
|-
|-
| Bionic Display || Yes || Yes
| Passthrough || No || 12MP stereo
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || 200 Hz || 200 Hz
| LiDAR || No || Yes
|-
|-
| Passthrough || '''No''' || 12MP RGB cameras
| Weight || ~558g || ~594g
|-
|-
| LiDAR || '''No''' || Yes
| Mixed Reality || No || Yes
|-
|-
| Price || '''$3,195''' || $5,495
| Display || Same Bionic Display || Same Bionic Display
|-
| FOV || 115° || 115°
|}
|}


== Technical Specifications ==
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* Human-eye resolution (>70 PPD focus)
* 200Hz integrated eye tracking
* 115° horizontal FOV (industry-leading)
* Automatic IPD adjustment
* Lower price than XR-3
* Professional color calibration
* Foveated rendering support
 
=== Limitations ===
* Expensive ($3,195 + subscription)
* Requires SteamVR base stations
* Heavy (~944g with headband)
* Tethered only
* High PC requirements
* No passthrough/mixed reality
* VR-only (no AR capability)
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 127: Line 438:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || Bionic (uOLED + LCD)
| Display || Bionic: micro-OLED focus + LCD peripheral
|-
|-
| Focus Resolution || 1920x1920 per eye (uOLED)
| Focus Resolution || 1920 × 1920 per eye
|-
|-
| Peripheral Resolution || 2880x2720 per eye (LCD)
| Context Resolution || 2880 × 2720 per eye
|-
|-
| PPD || 70 (focus) / 30+ (peripheral)
| PPD || >70 (focus), ~35 (peripheral)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90 Hz
| FOV || 115° horizontal
|-
|-
| Field of View || 115°
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || 200 Hz, <1° accuracy
| Eye Tracking || 200Hz integrated
|-
|-
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap Gemini
| Tracking || SteamVR 2.0 (base stations)
|-
|-
| IPD Range || 59-71mm (automatic)
| Weight || ~558g (without headband)
|-
|-
| Price || $3,195
| Price || $3,195 + $795/year
|}
|}
== Enterprise Applications ==
=== Flight Simulation ===
* Human-eye resolution for cockpit instruments
* Wide FOV for peripheral awareness
* Eye tracking for pilot training analytics
=== Automotive Design ===
* True-to-life vehicle visualization
* Design review and collaboration
* Interior/exterior assessment
=== Training and Simulation ===
* Military and defense training
* Medical simulation
* Industrial training
=== Research ===
* Eye tracking research
* Human factors studies
* Cognitive science
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 70 PPD human-eye resolution in focus area
* 115° FOV widest at launch
* 200 Hz eye tracking industry-leading
* <1° eye tracking accuracy exceptional
* Non-Fresnel optics no god rays
* 40% lighter than predecessor
* Ultraleap Gemini hand tracking first
* Automatic IPD convenient
* $3,195 price (50% reduction from VR-1)
* Foveated rendering GPU optimization
'''Criticism:'''
* $3,195 still enterprise-priced
* No mixed reality/passthrough
* Requires powerful PC
* SteamVR Lighthouse tracking needed
* Tethered operation only
* 90 Hz (not 120 Hz)<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/news/varjo-vr-3-and-xr-3-virtual-reality-headsets |title=Varjo VR-3 and XR-3 VR Headsets Raise the Resolution Bar With Bionic Displays |publisher=Tom's Hardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
<ref name="knoxlabs">{{cite web |url=https://www.knoxlabs.com/products/varjo-vr-3 |title=Varjo VR-3: High-Resolution VR Headset for Professionals and Enterprise |publisher=Knoxlabs |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Varjo]]
* [[Varjo XR-3]]
* [[Varjo XR-3]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[Varjo XR-4]]
* [[Enterprise VR]]
* [[Pimax 8KX]]
* [[Bionic Display]]
* [[HP Reverb G2]]
* [[Foveated Rendering]]


== 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:Enterprise VR]]
[[Category:Enterprise VR]]
[[Category:Varjo]]
[[Category:Varjo]]
[[Category:2020 in technology]]
[[Category:Eye Tracking]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:13, 8 January 2026

Varjo VR-3
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR, Enterprise VR
Platform SteamVR, Varjo Base
Creator Varjo
Developer Varjo
Manufacturer Varjo
Announcement Date December 2020
Release Date February 2021
Price $3,195 (hardware) + $795/year (subscription)
Website https://varjo.com/
Versions Varjo VR-3
Requires High-end PC (NVIDIA RTX 2080 Ti or better), SteamVR base stations
Predecessor Varjo VR-2
Successor None announced
System
Operating System Windows 10/11
Chipset N/A (PC-tethered)
CPU N/A (host PC)
GPU N/A (host PC)
Storage
Storage N/A (host PC)
Memory N/A (host PC)
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Dual micro-OLED (focus) + dual LCD (peripheral)
Subpixel Layout RGB stripe (focus displays)
Peak Brightness >100 nits (focus), >150 nits (peripheral)
Resolution 2880 × 2720 per eye (context), 1920 × 1920 per eye (focus)
Pixel Density >70 PPD (focus area)
Refresh Rate 90Hz
Persistence Low persistence
Image
Field of View 115° horizontal
Horizontal FoV 115°
Vertical FoV 115°
Average Pixel Density ~35 PPD
Peak Pixel Density >70 PPD (focus area)
Foveated Rendering Yes (gaze-driven)
Optics
Optics Aspherical lenses with Bionic Display
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 59-71mm (automatic)
Adjustable Diopter No (glasses compatible)
Passthrough No (VR-only)
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF (SteamVR Tracking 2.0)
Tracking Frequency 1000Hz (IMU)
Base Stations Required (SteamVR 2.0)
Eye Tracking Yes (integrated, 200Hz)
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking Yes (Ultraleap integration)
Body Tracking Via SteamVR trackers
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate 90Hz
Tracking Volume Room-scale (base station dependent)
Play Space Roomscale
Latency <20ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio Integrated headphones
Microphone Yes (integrated)
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes
Camera No (VR-only)
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C 3.0, proprietary cable
Ports Proprietary headset cable
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort 1.4)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth No
Power Powered by PC via cable
Battery Capacity N/A
Battery Life N/A (tethered)
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions Not specified
Weight ~558g (without headband), ~944g (with headband)
Material Premium plastics, aluminum
Headstrap Precision fit headband with counterweight
Haptics No
Color Black/Silver
Sensors Eye tracking cameras, IMU, proximity sensor
Input SteamVR controllers, enterprise controllers
Compliance FCC, CE

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The Varjo VR-3 is a professional-grade virtual reality head-mounted display developed by Varjo, announced in December 2020 and released in February 2021 at a price of $3,195 for hardware plus $795 annual subscription. As the VR-only counterpart to the XR-3 mixed reality headset, the VR-3 delivers Varjo's revolutionary Bionic Display technology—combining micro-OLED focus displays with LCD peripheral displays to achieve human-eye resolution exceeding 70 pixels per degree in the foveal region. This enables professionals to read cockpit instruments, examine fine CAD details, and perceive visual fidelity indistinguishable from reality in the center of view. With industry-leading 115° horizontal field of view, integrated 200Hz eye tracking enabling foveated rendering, automatic IPD adjustment, and optional Ultraleap hand tracking integration, the VR-3 targets the most demanding professional applications: flight simulation, automotive design, industrial training, and research where visual clarity cannot be compromised.

History and Development

Varjo Vision

Company mission:

  • Founded 2016 in Finland
  • Human-eye resolution goal
  • Enterprise VR focus
  • Premium market position

Bionic Display Innovation

Technology development:

  • VR-1 introduction (2019)
  • VR-2 improvements
  • VR-3 refinement
  • Continuous advancement

December 2020 Announcement

VR-3 reveal:

  • Improved specifications
  • Wider FOV (115°)
  • Better resolution
  • Reduced weight and price

February 2021 Launch

Commercial release:

  • $3,195 hardware
  • $795/year subscription
  • Enterprise channel
  • Professional focus

Design Philosophy

Human-Eye Resolution

Visual fidelity goal:

  • >70 PPD in focus area
  • Read fine text naturally
  • Instrument legibility
  • Professional requirements

Bionic Display

Dual display system:

  • Micro-OLED focus area
  • LCD peripheral context
  • Seamless combination
  • Best of both technologies

Enterprise VR

Professional design:

  • Premium construction
  • Reliability focus
  • Support infrastructure
  • Deployment tools

VR-Only Focus

Immersive design:

  • No passthrough cameras
  • Full immersion
  • Lighter than XR-3
  • Lower cost than XR-3

Display Technology

Bionic Display System

Revolutionary approach:

  • Focus Display: 1920 × 1920 micro-OLED per eye
  • Context Display: 2880 × 2720 LCD per eye
  • Combined: Seamless optical blend
  • Technology: Proprietary optics

Focus Area Resolution

Human-eye class:

  • >70 PPD central
  • ~35 PPD peripheral
  • Text legibility
  • Detail perception

Micro-OLED Focus

High-density core:

  • RGB stripe layout
  • Excellent contrast
  • Fast response
  • Premium quality

LCD Peripheral

Wide-angle context:

  • Full FOV coverage
  • Good resolution
  • Seamless blend
  • Complete immersion

Color Calibration

Professional accuracy:

  • 99% sRGB calibrated
  • 93% DCI-P3 coverage
  • Factory calibrated
  • Professional grade

Field of View

115° Horizontal FOV

Industry-leading:

  • Widest in class
  • Near-human vision
  • Peripheral awareness
  • Full immersion

Significant Improvement

vs Previous generation:

  • 115° vs 87° (VR-2)
  • 32% increase
  • Major advancement
  • Competitive advantage

Optical System

Aspherical Lenses

Premium optics:

  • Wide sweet spot
  • Minimal distortion
  • Clear edge-to-edge
  • Professional quality

Automatic IPD

Eye tracking integration:

  • Range: 59-71mm
  • Automatic adjustment
  • Per-user optimization
  • Eye tracking driven

Eye Tracking

200Hz Eye Tracking

Industry-leading:

  • Frequency: 200Hz
  • Technology: Integrated cameras
  • Sub-degree accuracy
  • Professional grade

Foveated Rendering

Performance optimization:

  • Gaze-driven rendering
  • Full resolution at gaze point
  • Reduced peripheral detail
  • Significant GPU savings

Research Applications

Scientific use:

  • Gaze data collection
  • Attention analysis
  • Training assessment
  • Behavioral research

Processing Requirements

High-End PC Required

Demanding specifications:

  • NVIDIA RTX 2080 Ti minimum
  • RTX 3080 recommended
  • Quadro RTX 6000 supported
  • High-end workstation

GPU Power

Computational needs:

  • High resolution output
  • Foveated rendering helps
  • Professional graphics cards
  • Enterprise workstations

Tracking System

SteamVR Tracking 2.0

External tracking:

  • Base stations required
  • Sub-millimeter accuracy
  • Large volume capable
  • Professional reliability

6DoF Precision

Complete motion:

  • Position tracking
  • Rotation tracking
  • High accuracy
  • Low latency

Hand Tracking Option

Ultraleap integration:

  • Optional add-on
  • Gesture recognition
  • Natural interaction
  • Enterprise applications

Audio System

Integrated Headphones

Built-in audio:

  • Over-ear design
  • Spatial audio capable
  • Good isolation
  • Convenient

3.5mm Jack

Alternative audio:

  • External headphones
  • Custom audio
  • Professional options
  • User preference

Physical Design

Premium Construction

Professional build:

  • High-quality materials
  • Precision engineering
  • Durable design
  • Enterprise grade

Comfort System

Extended wear:

  • Counterweight design
  • Adjustable fit
  • Pressure distribution
  • Professional use capable

Weight

Substantial device:

  • ~558g without headband
  • ~944g with headband
  • Well-balanced
  • Counterweight helps

Connectivity

Tethered Operation

PC connection:

  • DisplayPort 1.4
  • USB-C 3.0
  • Power delivery
  • Proprietary cable

Software Platform

Varjo Base

Management software:

  • Device configuration
  • Display calibration
  • Eye tracking setup
  • Enterprise tools

SteamVR Integration

Content access:

  • SteamVR applications
  • OpenXR support
  • Enterprise apps
  • Custom development

Enterprise SDK

Developer tools:

  • Unity integration
  • Unreal Engine support
  • Native SDK
  • Professional tools

Enterprise Applications

Flight Simulation

Aviation training:

  • Cockpit legibility
  • Instrument reading
  • Realistic visuals
  • Training fidelity

Automotive Design

Vehicle development:

  • Full-scale review
  • Design validation
  • Detail assessment
  • Collaborative review

Industrial Training

Workforce development:

  • Procedure training
  • Safety simulation
  • Skill development
  • Assessment capable

Research

Scientific use:

  • Visual perception
  • Attention studies
  • Human factors
  • Behavioral research

Subscription Model

Hardware + Subscription

Pricing structure:

  • $3,195 hardware purchase
  • $795/year subscription
  • Software updates included
  • Support included

vs XR-3

Cost comparison:

  • VR-3: $3,195 + $795/year
  • XR-3: $5,495 + $1,495/year
  • No passthrough cameras
  • Lower total cost

Comparison with XR-3

Feature Varjo VR-3 Varjo XR-3
Price $3,195 + $795/yr $5,495 + $1,495/yr
Passthrough No 12MP stereo
LiDAR No Yes
Weight ~558g ~594g
Mixed Reality No Yes
Display Same Bionic Display Same Bionic Display
FOV 115° 115°

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths

  • Human-eye resolution (>70 PPD focus)
  • 200Hz integrated eye tracking
  • 115° horizontal FOV (industry-leading)
  • Automatic IPD adjustment
  • Lower price than XR-3
  • Professional color calibration
  • Foveated rendering support

Limitations

  • Expensive ($3,195 + subscription)
  • Requires SteamVR base stations
  • Heavy (~944g with headband)
  • Tethered only
  • High PC requirements
  • No passthrough/mixed reality
  • VR-only (no AR capability)

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Bionic: micro-OLED focus + LCD peripheral
Focus Resolution 1920 × 1920 per eye
Context Resolution 2880 × 2720 per eye
PPD >70 (focus), ~35 (peripheral)
FOV 115° horizontal
Refresh Rate 90Hz
Eye Tracking 200Hz integrated
Tracking SteamVR 2.0 (base stations)
Weight ~558g (without headband)
Price $3,195 + $795/year

See Also

References

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