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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 = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Play]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Experience]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Announcement Date = May 31, 2022
|Announcement Date = May 31, 2022
|Release Date = May 2023
|Release Date = May 2023
|Price = $1,599 USD
|Price = $1,599 (launch MSRP)
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/crystal
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/crystal
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 8KX]]
|Versions = Pimax Crystal (QLED), Pimax Crystal Light, Pimax Crystal Super
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Light]]
|Requires = High-end gaming PC (PC VR mode), standalone capable
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] + Custom PC VR Engine (Dual processor)
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 8K X]]
|Memory = 8 GB
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
|Storage = 256 GB
|Operating System = [[Pimax OS]] (Android-based), [[Windows]] (PC VR)
|Display = 2x QLED + Mini-LED
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] + PC VR engine
|Resolution = 2880x2880 per eye (5760x2880 combined)
|CPU = Snapdragon XR2 (standalone), PC CPU (tethered)
|PPI = 35 PPD (pixels per degree)
|GPU = Adreno 650 (standalone), PC GPU (tethered)
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz, 120 Hz (144 Hz, 160 Hz experimental)
|HPU =
|Field of View = 125° horizontal, 140° diagonal (swappable lenses)
|Storage = 256GB
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (automatic)
|Memory = 8GB LPDDR5
|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
|Optics = Interchangeable glass aspheric lenses
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (automatic with eye tracking)
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 4 cameras)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (120 Hz)
|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
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Foveated Rendering = Yes
|Body Tracking = Via SteamVR trackers (Lighthouse mode)
|Controllers = Pimax Sword controllers (optional)
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Audio = Built-in speakers, 3.5mm jack
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
|Update Rate = Up to 160Hz
|Battery = 6,000 mAh (standalone mode)
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Weight = 845g
|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 [[PC VR]] and [[standalone VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], released in May 2023. The headset is notable for its exceptional display quality featuring dual 2880x2880 QLED + Mini-LED panels delivering 35 pixels per degree (PPD)—among the highest clarity in consumer VR. Key features include interchangeable glass aspheric lenses with 125° or 140° FOV options, automatic IPD adjustment via eye tracking, refresh rates up to 160 Hz, and dual-processor architecture with Snapdragon XR2 for standalone use and a custom PC VR engine for tethered 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 as a more refined follow-up to the wide-FOV Pimax 8K series, focusing on visual clarity over extreme field of view. Originally expected to retail at $1,899, the Crystal launched in May 2023 at $1,599. The headset targets sim racing, flight simulation, and enthusiast VR users who prioritize image quality.<ref name="hothardware">{{cite web |url=https://hothardware.com/reviews/pimax-crystal-standalone-and-pc-vr-headset-review |title=Pimax Crystal VR Headset Review: High Res And High-End VR In Need Of Polish |publisher=HotHardware |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


The Crystal was followed by the [[Pimax Crystal Light]] variant, a PC-only version at a lower price point.<ref name="pimax">{{cite web |url=https://pimax.com/pages/crystal |title=Pimax Crystal |publisher=Pimax |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Design Shift ===
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 ===
=== Development Delays ===
Extended timeline:
* Initial delays common for Pimax
* Hardware refinements
* Software development
* May 2023 shipping began


Industry-leading clarity:
== Design Philosophy ==


* Dual QLED + Mini-LED panels
=== Clarity Over FOV ===
* '''2880x2880 resolution per eye'''
Priority shift from 8K X:
* 5760x2880 combined resolution
* 42 PPD peak vs 8K X's ~20 PPD
* '''35 PPD''' (pixels per degree)—exceptional clarity
* 120° vs 170° FOV
* HDR support via Mini-LED backlight
* 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
* Wide color gamut
* Local dimming zones
* Good HDR support
* Deep blacks with bright highlights
* Minimal screen door


=== Refresh Rate ===
== 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


Multiple options:
== Tracking System ==


* 90 Hz (standard)
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
* 120 Hz
Four-camera system:
* 144 Hz (experimental)
* 6DoF head tracking
* '''160 Hz''' (experimental)
* Controller tracking
* No base stations required
* Room-scale capable


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


Premium interchangeable glass lenses:
=== Hand Tracking ===
Controller-free option:
* Camera-based tracking
* Gesture recognition
* Limited application support
* Growing capability


* '''Glass aspheric lenses''' (not plastic)
== Wireless Capability ==
* Higher transmittance than competitors
* Reduced stray light and aberration
* '''Swappable lens modules:'''
** 120° FOV lenses
** 140° FOV lenses
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Minimal sweet spot issues


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


Flexible FOV options:
=== Optional 60GHz WiGig ===
Premium wireless:
* Higher bandwidth
* Lower latency
* Additional purchase
* Best wireless quality


* '''125° horizontal''' (standard lenses)
== Audio System ==
* '''140° diagonal''' (wide lenses)
* Adjustable via lens swap
* Balance between clarity and immersion


=== Processing ===
=== Integrated Speakers ===
Basic audio:
* Built-in speakers
* Adequate quality
* Near-ear positioning
* Upgradeable


Dual-processor hybrid design:
=== DMAS Upgrade ===
Premium audio option:
* Deluxe Modular Audio Strap
* Off-ear speakers
* Improved sound
* Better comfort


* '''[[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]]''' for standalone mode
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
* '''Custom Pimax PC VR Engine''' for tethered mode
Headphone option:
* 8 GB RAM
* Standard audio jack
* 256 GB storage
* Use own headphones
* Dedicated processing for each mode
* Better audio possible


=== Eye Tracking ===
== Physical Design ==


Advanced eye tracking system:
=== Large Form Factor ===
Substantial headset:
* Larger than competitors
* Display and optics size
* Weight considerations
* Enthusiast acceptance


* '''120 Hz''' tracking rate
=== Weight ===
* '''Automatic IPD adjustment'''
Heavy for VR:
* Foveated rendering support
* ~960g with battery
* Dynamic resolution optimization
* Counterbalancing needed
* Natural eye-based interaction
* Not for all users
* Extended use comfort varies


=== IPD Adjustment ===
=== Modular Head Strap ===
Comfort options:
* Standard strap included
* DMAS upgrade available
* Third-party options
* User preference


* '''58-72mm range'''
== Standalone Mode ==
* Automatic motorized adjustment
* Eye tracking-based calibration
* Software fine-tuning


=== Tracking ===
=== Snapdragon XR2 Apps ===
Standalone capability:
* Android-based OS
* Limited app selection
* Media viewing
* Basic VR experiences


Inside-out tracking system:
=== Battery Life ===
Limited runtime:
* ~2 hours standalone
* Hot-swappable consideration
* PC VR doesn't use battery
* USB-C charging


* 4 cameras
== PC VR Performance ==
* 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DoF)
* SLAM-based tracking
* No external base stations required (standalone)
* SteamVR Lighthouse compatible (optional)


=== Build ===
=== System Requirements ===
High-end recommended:
* RTX 3080 / RX 6800 XT or better
* Intel i7 / AMD Ryzen 7
* 16GB+ RAM
* DisplayPort 1.4


* '''845g weight'''
=== Foveated Rendering Benefits ===
* Premium build quality
Performance optimization:
* Adjustable headstrap
* Eye tracking enables foveated
* Face gasket options
* 40%+ performance improvement
* Higher settings possible
* Quality maintained at gaze


=== Battery ===
== Software ==


For standalone mode:
=== Pimax Experience ===
Control software:
* Device management
* Game profiles
* Performance settings
* Firmware updates


* 6,000 mAh capacity
=== SteamVR Integration ===
* Approximately 2.5-3 hours use
Gaming platform:
* Hot-swappable battery option
* Full SteamVR support
* OpenVR compatible
* Steam library
* VR game ecosystem


=== Audio ===
== Comparison with Competitors ==


* Built-in off-ear speakers
{| class="wikitable"
* 3D spatial audio
|-
* 3.5mm headphone jack
! 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
|}


== Operating Modes ==
== Strengths and Limitations ==


=== PC VR Mode ===
=== Strengths ===
* DisplayPort 1.4 connection
* Highest PPD available
* Full resolution at high refresh rates
* Interchangeable lenses
* SteamVR compatible
* Eye tracking standard
* Lighthouse tracking optional
* Hybrid standalone/PC VR
* Optional Lighthouse support
* Wireless built-in


=== Standalone Mode ===
=== Limitations ===
* Qualcomm XR2 powered
* Heavy (~960g)
* Android-based apps
* Large form factor
* Pimax Play store
* Complex setup
* Wireless PCVR streaming
* Premium pricing
* Software maturity
* Pimax support reputation


== Technical Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 167: Line 419:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || QLED + Mini-LED
| Display || Dual QLED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2880x2880 per eye
| Total Resolution || 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
|-
|-
| PPD || 35
| PPD || 35/42 (lens dependent)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90-160 Hz
| FOV || ~120° horizontal
|-
|-
| Field of View || 125° H / 140° diagonal
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/160Hz
|-
|-
| Lenses || Glass aspheric (interchangeable)
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || Yes (120 Hz)
| Tracking || Inside-out + optional Lighthouse
|-
|-
| IPD Range || 58-72mm (automatic)
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 + PC VR engine
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 + Custom PC Engine
| Wireless || Wi-Fi 6E (optional WiGig)
|-
|-
| Weight || 845g
| Weight || ~960g
|-
|-
| Price || $1,599
| Price || $1,599
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 35 PPD exceptional visual clarity
* QLED + Mini-LED impressive colors and contrast
* Interchangeable lenses unique flexibility
* Automatic IPD adjustment convenient
* Glass lenses superior optics
* High refresh rate options (up to 160 Hz)
* Dual standalone and PC modes
* Eye tracking enables foveated rendering
* Excellent for sim racing/flight sim
* HDR support enhances visuals
'''Criticism:'''
* 845g weight quite heavy
* $1,599 price premium
* Software polish needs improvement
* Complex setup for some features
* Standalone mode limited vs dedicated devices
* Heavy GPU requirements for full resolution
* 120° FOV narrower than Pimax 8KX
* Controllers sold separately<ref name="allvr">{{cite web |url=https://allvirtualreality.com/tutorials/what-pimax-crystal-vr-headset-specifications.html |title=What is Pimax Crystal VR Headset & Its Specifications? |publisher=All Virtual Reality |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
<ref name="digitaltrends">{{cite web |url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/pimax-crystal-vr-headset-take-clarity-to-another-level/ |title=New mini-LED VR headset to 'take clarity to another level' |publisher=Digital Trends |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


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


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Standalone VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:2023 in technology]]
[[Category:Eye Tracking]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Pimax_Crystal"