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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Pimax Crystal Light
|image =
|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
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Developer = [[Pimax Innovation]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Announcement Date = April 2024
|Release Date = 2024
|Release Date = 2024
|Price = $699 USD
|Price = $699
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/crystal-light
|Website = https://pimax.com/
|Versions = Pimax Crystal Light
|Requires = VR-ready PC (RTX 2080+ minimum, RTX 3070+ recommended)
|Predecessor = [[Pimax Crystal]]
|Predecessor = [[Pimax Crystal]]
|Display = 2x QLED + Mini-LED
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
|Resolution = 2880x2880 per eye
|Operating System = [[Windows 10/11]] (SteamVR)
|PPI = 35 PPD (pixels per degree)
|Chipset = Host PC dependent
|Refresh Rate = 60 Hz, 72 Hz, 90 Hz, 120 Hz
|CPU = Host PC dependent
|Field of View = 115°
|GPU = NVIDIA RTX 2080+ minimum, RTX 3070+ recommended
|HPU =
|Storage = Host PC dependent
|Memory = Host PC dependent
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = QLED + Mini-LED LCD
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Peak Brightness = High (HDR, local dimming)
|Resolution = 2880 × 2880 per eye (16.6 megapixels combined)
|Pixel Density = High (35 PPD)
|Refresh Rate = 72Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz (variable)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 115° (up to 130° diagonal)
|Horizontal FoV = 115°
|Vertical FoV = ~105°
|Average Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (Fixed 2.0)
|Optics = Glass aspheric lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (manual)
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (manual)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Adjustable Diopter = Optional (diopter lens inserts)
|Optics = Glass aspheric lenses
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, SteamVR optional)
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out or SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Eye Tracking = No
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz IMU
|Hand Tracking = No
|Base Stations = Optional (SteamVR Lighthouse compatible)
|Controllers = Pimax controllers (optional)
|Eye Tracking = No (available in Crystal standard)
|Audio = Built-in speakers, 3.5mm jack
|Face Tracking = No
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4a, USB 3.0
|Hand Tracking = Optional (Ultraleap)
|Weight = ~410g
|Body Tracking = Compatible (SteamVR trackers)
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = Up to 120Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <15ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = 3.5mm audio jack (interchangeable)
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphones)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = Inside-out tracking cameras
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, 3.5mm
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = PC-powered
|Battery Capacity = N/A (tethered)
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = Large-format HMD
|Weight = 815g
|Material = Premium plastic
|Headstrap = Modular headstrap
|Haptics = Controllers only
|Color = Black
|Sensors = IMU, inside-out cameras
|Input = SteamVR controllers, Pimax controllers
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Pimax Crystal Light''' is a high-resolution [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], released in 2024 at $699. A streamlined version of the [[Pimax Crystal]], the Crystal Light removes standalone capabilities, eye tracking, and onboard processing to deliver the same exceptional display quality at a significantly lower price point. Featuring dual 2880x2880 QLED + Mini-LED panels with 35 pixels per degree (PPD), glass aspheric lenses, 115° field of view, and inside-out tracking (with optional Lighthouse support), the Crystal Light targets sim racing, flight simulation, and enthusiast VR users who prioritize visual clarity over standalone features.
The '''Pimax Crystal Light''' is a high-resolution [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], announced in April 2024 at $699—representing a significant price reduction from the $1,599 Pimax Crystal while maintaining the same 16.6-megapixel display. The Crystal Light features dual QLED + Mini-LED displays with 2880 × 2880 resolution per eye, delivering exceptional visual clarity with 35 pixels per degree (PPD), HDR capability, and local dimming for enhanced contrast. Unlike many competitors using pancake lenses, Pimax employs custom glass aspheric lenses that offer a large sweet spot with only 1% light loss (versus ~90% with pancake optics), achieving up to 130° diagonal field of view depending on facial geometry. The headset supports variable refresh rates of 72Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz, features fixed foveated rendering 2.0, and offers flexible tracking options including inside-out tracking for quick setup or SteamVR Lighthouse tracking for maximum precision. With manual IPD adjustment from 58-72mm and compatibility with optional diopter lens inserts, the Crystal Light targets sim racing, flight simulation, and enthusiast VR users seeking maximum visual fidelity at a more accessible price point.


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


Pimax released the Crystal Light in 2024 as a PC-only variant of the Pimax Crystal, addressing demand for a more affordable option focused purely on tethered PC VR. By removing the Snapdragon XR2 processor, eye tracking, battery, and standalone functionality, Pimax reduced the price from $1,599 to $699 while maintaining the same high-quality display panels and optics.<ref name="pimax">{{cite web |url=https://pimax.com/pages/crystal-light |title=Pimax Crystal Light |publisher=Pimax |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Pimax Heritage ===
Company evolution:
* Chinese VR pioneer
* Wide-FOV specialty
* High-resolution focus
* Enthusiast market
 
=== Previous Products ===
Product line:
* Pimax 8K (wide-FOV pioneer)
* Pimax 5K series
* Pimax Crystal ($1,599)
* Crystal Light (2024)
 
=== April 2024 Announcement ===
Product reveal:
* Pimax Frontier event
* $699 pricing
* Crystal display technology
* Accessible premium VR
 
=== Crystal Super ===
Sibling product:
* Crystal Super (ultra-premium)
* Micro-OLED option
* Higher-end target
* Complete lineup
 
== Design Philosophy ==
 
=== Accessible High-End VR ===
Value proposition:
* $699 (vs $1,599 Crystal)
* Same 16.6MP display
* Premium visual quality
* Enthusiast pricing
 
=== Glass Aspheric Lenses ===
Optical innovation:
* 1% light loss only
* Large sweet spot
* Wide FOV possible
* Premium clarity


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Sim Racing Focus ===
Target users:
* Racing simulators
* Flight simulators
* Seated experiences
* Cockpit VR


=== Display ===
=== Modular Design ===
Flexibility:
* Interchangeable audio
* Tracking options
* Diopter inserts
* Customizable


Same premium panels as Crystal:
== Display Technology ==


* Dual QLED + Mini-LED panels
=== QLED + Mini-LED ===
* '''2880x2880 resolution per eye'''
Panel specifications:
* '''35 PPD''' (pixels per degree)—exceptional clarity
* '''Technology''': QLED with Mini-LED backlight
* Local dimming technology
* '''Resolution''': 2880 × 2880 per eye
* HDR support via Mini-LED backlight
* '''Combined''': 16.6 megapixels
* Wide color gamut
* '''HDR''': Local dimming support
* Deep blacks
* Nuanced lighting in dark scenes


=== Refresh Rate ===
=== Pixels Per Degree ===
Angular resolution:
* '''PPD''': 35 pixels per degree
* High clarity
* Reduced screen door
* Text readable


Multiple options:
=== Variable Refresh Rate ===
Performance modes:
* 72Hz mode
* 90Hz mode
* 120Hz mode
* User selectable


* 60 Hz
=== Color Performance ===
* 72 Hz
Visual quality:
* 90 Hz
* Wide color gamut (QLED)
* '''120 Hz'''
* HDR capability
* Smooth, responsive gameplay
* Local dimming
* Vibrant colors


=== Optics ===
== Field of View ==


Premium glass lenses:
=== Wide Coverage ===
FOV specifications:
* '''Standard''': 115°
* '''Diagonal Maximum''': Up to 130°
* Head-shape dependent
* Wider than most competitors


* '''Glass aspheric lenses'''
=== Sweet Spot ===
* Large, distortion-free sweet spot
Optical quality:
* Higher transmittance than plastic
* Large sweet spot
* Reduced aberration
* Glass aspheric design
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Comfortable viewing


=== Field of View ===
== Optics ==


* '''115° FOV'''
=== Glass Aspheric Lenses ===
* Immersive peripheral vision
Lens design:
* Balanced for clarity and immersion
* '''Type''': Custom glass aspheric
* '''Light Loss''': Only 1%
* Lighter than Fresnel
* Premium optical quality
 
=== Pancake Comparison ===
Lens efficiency:
* Pancake lenses: ~90% light loss
* Aspheric lenses: ~1% light loss
* Brighter image
* Higher efficiency


=== IPD Adjustment ===
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Eye alignment:
* '''Range''': 58-72mm
* '''Type''': Manual adjustment
* Wide accommodation
* Optimal positioning


* '''58-72mm range'''
=== Diopter Options ===
* Manual adjustment
Vision correction:
* Wide user accommodation
* Optional diopter inserts
* Prescription lenses available
* No glasses needed
* Third-party compatible


=== Tracking ===
== Tracking System ==


Flexible tracking options:
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
Self-contained option:
* No external sensors
* Quick setup
* Portable
* Convenient default


* '''Inside-out tracking''' (default)
=== SteamVR Lighthouse ===
* Simple setup, no external sensors
Outside-in option:
* '''SteamVR Lighthouse''' compatible (optional)
* SteamVR 1.0/2.0 base stations
* Enhanced tracking precision with base stations
* Sub-millimeter accuracy
* Large tracking volume
* Professional precision


=== Build ===
=== Foveated Rendering ===
Performance optimization:
* '''Version''': Fixed 2.0
* GPU efficiency
* Performance improvement
* No eye tracking required


Lightweight streamlined design:
== Physical Design ==


* '''~410g weight''' (lighter than Crystal)
=== Weight ===
* Fully adjustable headband
Mass specifications:
* Designed for long sessions
* '''Weight''': 815g (29 oz)
* Comfortable ergonomics
* Heavier than compact headsets
* Wide-FOV tradeoff
* Balanced distribution


=== Audio ===
=== Build Quality ===
Construction:
* Premium materials
* Durable design
* Modular components
* Enthusiast-grade


* Built-in speakers
=== Headstrap ===
* 3.5mm headphone jack
Fit system:
* DMAS (Deluxe Modular Audio Strap) optional
* Modular headstrap
* Adjustable fit
* Counterweight option
* Extended comfort


== Comparison with Pimax Crystal ==
== Audio ==
 
=== Audio Jack ===
Sound system:
* 3.5mm audio jack
* Interchangeable
* Use any headphones
* Flexibility
 
=== Microphones ===
Voice input:
* Dual microphones
* Voice chat
* Communication
* VR social
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== PC Requirements ===
Minimum specifications:
* NVIDIA RTX 2080 (minimum)
* NVIDIA RTX 3070+ (recommended)
* DisplayPort 1.4
* USB 3.0
 
=== Connections ===
Physical ports:
* DisplayPort 1.4 (video)
* USB 3.0 (data/power)
* 3.5mm audio
* Tethered operation
 
== Software ==
 
=== Platform Support ===
Compatibility:
* SteamVR native
* Pimax Play software
* OpenXR
* Wide game support
 
=== Pimax Play ===
Configuration software:
* Display settings
* FOV adjustment
* Refresh rate selection
* Performance tuning
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Sim Racing ===
Racing applications:
* iRacing
* Assetto Corsa
* Gran Turismo
* Wide peripheral vision
 
=== Flight Simulation ===
Aviation applications:
* Microsoft Flight Simulator
* DCS World
* X-Plane
* Cockpit clarity
 
=== General VR ===
Broad use:
* SteamVR library
* Social VR
* VR cinema
* Enthusiast applications
 
== Comparison with High-End PC VR ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Feature !! Crystal Light !! Pimax Crystal
! Feature !! Crystal Light !! Pimax Crystal !! Bigscreen Beyond !! Valve Index
|-
| Display || QLED + Mini-LED || QLED + Mini-LED
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2880x2880/eye || 2880x2880/eye
| Price || $699 || $1,599 || $999 || $999
|-
|-
| PPD || 35 || 35
| Resolution || 2880×2880/eye || 2880×2880/eye || 2560×2560/eye || 1440×1600/eye
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || '''No''' || Yes (120 Hz)
| PPD || 35 || 35 || 32 || 11.5
|-
|-
| Standalone Mode || '''No''' || Yes
| FOV || 115-130° || 115-130° || 90° || 130°
|-
|-
| Processor || '''PC only''' || Snapdragon XR2 + PC
| Refresh Rate || 72/90/120Hz || 72/90/120Hz || 90Hz || 80/90/120/144Hz
|-
|-
| Battery || '''None''' || 6,000 mAh
| Lenses || Glass aspheric || Glass aspheric || Pancake || Fresnel
|-
|-
| Weight || '''~410g''' || 845g
| Eye Tracking || No || Yes || No || Optional
|-
|-
| Price || '''$699''' || $1,599
| Weight || 815g || ~980g || 127g || 809g
|}
|}


== Removed Features vs Crystal ==
== Strengths and Limitations ==


* Eye tracking (120 Hz)
=== Strengths ===
* Snapdragon XR2 processor
* High resolution (2880×2880/eye, 16.6MP)
* Internal storage (256 GB)
* 35 PPD visual clarity
* Battery (standalone mode)
* Wide 115-130° field of view
* Standalone VR capability
* QLED + Mini-LED with HDR
* Wireless streaming
* Glass aspheric lenses (1% light loss)
* Variable refresh (72/90/120Hz)
* Affordable at $699 (vs $1,599 Crystal)
* Inside-out + Lighthouse tracking options


== System Requirements ==
=== Limitations ===
* Heavy at 815g
* No eye tracking (Crystal has it)
* Tethered only (no wireless)
* Requires powerful GPU (RTX 3070+)
* No integrated audio
* Manual IPD only
* Large form factor


=== Minimum GPU ===
== Technical Specifications Summary ==
* NVIDIA RTX 2070 / RTX 3060
* AMD RX 5700 XT / RX 6700 XT
 
=== Recommended ===
* RTX 3070 Ti / RTX 4060 Ti or higher
 
=== Other Requirements ===
* CPU: Intel i5-12xxx or i7-10xxx+
* RAM: 16 GB
* DisplayPort 1.4a
* USB 3.0
 
== Technical Specifications ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 162: Line 388:
| Display || QLED + Mini-LED
| Display || QLED + Mini-LED
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2880x2880 per eye
| Resolution || 2880 × 2880 per eye (16.6MP)
|-
| PPD || 35 pixels per degree
|-
|-
| PPD || 35
| FOV || 115° (up to 130° diagonal)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 60-120 Hz
| Refresh Rate || 72Hz / 90Hz / 120Hz
|-
|-
| Field of View || 115°
| Lenses || Glass aspheric (1% light loss)
|-
|-
| Lenses || Glass aspheric
| Tracking || Inside-out + SteamVR optional
|-
|-
| Tracking || Inside-out (Lighthouse optional)
| IPD || 58-72mm (manual)
|-
|-
| IPD Range || 58-72mm
| Weight || 815g
|-
|-
| Weight || ~410g
| GPU Required || RTX 2080+ min, RTX 3070+ recommended
|-
|-
| Price || $699
| Price || $699
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 35 PPD exceptional clarity
* Same display quality as Crystal
* $699 price (vs $1,599 Crystal) excellent value
* Glass aspheric lenses premium optics
* Local dimming enhances contrast
* ~410g much lighter than Crystal
* Inside-out tracking easy setup
* Lighthouse tracking optional
* Excellent for sim racing/flight sim
* Wide 115° FOV immersive
'''Criticism:'''
* No eye tracking (no foveated rendering)
* PC-only—no standalone mode
* Controllers sold separately
* Heavy GPU requirements
* Manual IPD (not automatic)
* Some users prefer included eye tracking<ref name="fselite">{{cite web |url=https://fselite.net/content/review-pimax-crystal-light/ |title=Review: Pimax Crystal Light |publisher=FSElite |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
<ref name="msfsaddons">{{cite web |url=https://msfsaddons.com/2024/09/03/review-pimax-crystal-light-vr-headset/ |title=Review: Pimax Crystal Light VR Headset |publisher=MSFS Addons |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Pimax 8KX]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[HP Reverb G2]]
* [[Wide-FOV 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:PC VR]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:2024 in technology]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:Wide-FOV VR]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:11, 8 January 2026

Pimax Crystal Light
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR
Platform SteamVR, Pimax Play
Creator Pimax
Developer Pimax Innovation
Manufacturer Pimax
Announcement Date April 2024
Release Date 2024
Price $699
Website https://pimax.com/
Versions Pimax Crystal Light
Requires VR-ready PC (RTX 2080+ minimum, RTX 3070+ recommended)
Predecessor Pimax Crystal
Successor Pimax Crystal Super
System
Operating System Windows 10/11 (SteamVR)
Chipset Host PC dependent
CPU Host PC dependent
GPU NVIDIA RTX 2080+ minimum, RTX 3070+ recommended
Storage
Storage Host PC dependent
Memory Host PC dependent
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display QLED + Mini-LED LCD
Subpixel Layout RGB
Peak Brightness High (HDR, local dimming)
Resolution 2880 × 2880 per eye (16.6 megapixels combined)
Pixel Density High (35 PPD)
Refresh Rate 72Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz (variable)
Persistence Low persistence
Image
Field of View 115° (up to 130° diagonal)
Horizontal FoV 115°
Vertical FoV ~105°
Average Pixel Density 35 PPD
Peak Pixel Density 35 PPD
Foveated Rendering Yes (Fixed 2.0)
Optics
Optics Glass aspheric lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 58-72mm (manual)
Adjustable Diopter Optional (diopter lens inserts)
Passthrough No
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF (inside-out or SteamVR Lighthouse)
Tracking Frequency 1000Hz IMU
Base Stations Optional (SteamVR Lighthouse compatible)
Eye Tracking No (available in Crystal standard)
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking Optional (Ultraleap)
Body Tracking Compatible (SteamVR trackers)
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate Up to 120Hz
Tracking Volume Room-scale
Play Space Roomscale
Latency <15ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio 3.5mm audio jack (interchangeable)
Microphone Yes (dual microphones)
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes
Camera Inside-out tracking cameras
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
Ports DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, 3.5mm
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth No
Power PC-powered
Battery Capacity N/A (tethered)
Battery Life N/A (tethered)
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions Large-format HMD
Weight 815g
Material Premium plastic
Headstrap Modular headstrap
Haptics Controllers only
Color Black
Sensors IMU, inside-out cameras
Input SteamVR controllers, Pimax controllers
Compliance FCC, CE

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The Pimax Crystal Light is a high-resolution PC VR head-mounted display developed by Pimax, announced in April 2024 at $699—representing a significant price reduction from the $1,599 Pimax Crystal while maintaining the same 16.6-megapixel display. The Crystal Light features dual QLED + Mini-LED displays with 2880 × 2880 resolution per eye, delivering exceptional visual clarity with 35 pixels per degree (PPD), HDR capability, and local dimming for enhanced contrast. Unlike many competitors using pancake lenses, Pimax employs custom glass aspheric lenses that offer a large sweet spot with only 1% light loss (versus ~90% with pancake optics), achieving up to 130° diagonal field of view depending on facial geometry. The headset supports variable refresh rates of 72Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz, features fixed foveated rendering 2.0, and offers flexible tracking options including inside-out tracking for quick setup or SteamVR Lighthouse tracking for maximum precision. With manual IPD adjustment from 58-72mm and compatibility with optional diopter lens inserts, the Crystal Light targets sim racing, flight simulation, and enthusiast VR users seeking maximum visual fidelity at a more accessible price point.

History and Development

Pimax Heritage

Company evolution:

  • Chinese VR pioneer
  • Wide-FOV specialty
  • High-resolution focus
  • Enthusiast market

Previous Products

Product line:

  • Pimax 8K (wide-FOV pioneer)
  • Pimax 5K series
  • Pimax Crystal ($1,599)
  • Crystal Light (2024)

April 2024 Announcement

Product reveal:

  • Pimax Frontier event
  • $699 pricing
  • Crystal display technology
  • Accessible premium VR

Crystal Super

Sibling product:

  • Crystal Super (ultra-premium)
  • Micro-OLED option
  • Higher-end target
  • Complete lineup

Design Philosophy

Accessible High-End VR

Value proposition:

  • $699 (vs $1,599 Crystal)
  • Same 16.6MP display
  • Premium visual quality
  • Enthusiast pricing

Glass Aspheric Lenses

Optical innovation:

  • 1% light loss only
  • Large sweet spot
  • Wide FOV possible
  • Premium clarity

Sim Racing Focus

Target users:

  • Racing simulators
  • Flight simulators
  • Seated experiences
  • Cockpit VR

Modular Design

Flexibility:

  • Interchangeable audio
  • Tracking options
  • Diopter inserts
  • Customizable

Display Technology

QLED + Mini-LED

Panel specifications:

  • Technology: QLED with Mini-LED backlight
  • Resolution: 2880 × 2880 per eye
  • Combined: 16.6 megapixels
  • HDR: Local dimming support

Pixels Per Degree

Angular resolution:

  • PPD: 35 pixels per degree
  • High clarity
  • Reduced screen door
  • Text readable

Variable Refresh Rate

Performance modes:

  • 72Hz mode
  • 90Hz mode
  • 120Hz mode
  • User selectable

Color Performance

Visual quality:

  • Wide color gamut (QLED)
  • HDR capability
  • Local dimming
  • Vibrant colors

Field of View

Wide Coverage

FOV specifications:

  • Standard: 115°
  • Diagonal Maximum: Up to 130°
  • Head-shape dependent
  • Wider than most competitors

Sweet Spot

Optical quality:

  • Large sweet spot
  • Glass aspheric design
  • Edge-to-edge clarity
  • Comfortable viewing

Optics

Glass Aspheric Lenses

Lens design:

  • Type: Custom glass aspheric
  • Light Loss: Only 1%
  • Lighter than Fresnel
  • Premium optical quality

Pancake Comparison

Lens efficiency:

  • Pancake lenses: ~90% light loss
  • Aspheric lenses: ~1% light loss
  • Brighter image
  • Higher efficiency

IPD Adjustment

Eye alignment:

  • Range: 58-72mm
  • Type: Manual adjustment
  • Wide accommodation
  • Optimal positioning

Diopter Options

Vision correction:

  • Optional diopter inserts
  • Prescription lenses available
  • No glasses needed
  • Third-party compatible

Tracking System

Inside-Out Tracking

Self-contained option:

  • No external sensors
  • Quick setup
  • Portable
  • Convenient default

SteamVR Lighthouse

Outside-in option:

  • SteamVR 1.0/2.0 base stations
  • Sub-millimeter accuracy
  • Large tracking volume
  • Professional precision

Foveated Rendering

Performance optimization:

  • Version: Fixed 2.0
  • GPU efficiency
  • Performance improvement
  • No eye tracking required

Physical Design

Weight

Mass specifications:

  • Weight: 815g (29 oz)
  • Heavier than compact headsets
  • Wide-FOV tradeoff
  • Balanced distribution

Build Quality

Construction:

  • Premium materials
  • Durable design
  • Modular components
  • Enthusiast-grade

Headstrap

Fit system:

  • Modular headstrap
  • Adjustable fit
  • Counterweight option
  • Extended comfort

Audio

Audio Jack

Sound system:

  • 3.5mm audio jack
  • Interchangeable
  • Use any headphones
  • Flexibility

Microphones

Voice input:

  • Dual microphones
  • Voice chat
  • Communication
  • VR social

Connectivity

PC Requirements

Minimum specifications:

  • NVIDIA RTX 2080 (minimum)
  • NVIDIA RTX 3070+ (recommended)
  • DisplayPort 1.4
  • USB 3.0

Connections

Physical ports:

  • DisplayPort 1.4 (video)
  • USB 3.0 (data/power)
  • 3.5mm audio
  • Tethered operation

Software

Platform Support

Compatibility:

  • SteamVR native
  • Pimax Play software
  • OpenXR
  • Wide game support

Pimax Play

Configuration software:

  • Display settings
  • FOV adjustment
  • Refresh rate selection
  • Performance tuning

Use Cases

Sim Racing

Racing applications:

  • iRacing
  • Assetto Corsa
  • Gran Turismo
  • Wide peripheral vision

Flight Simulation

Aviation applications:

  • Microsoft Flight Simulator
  • DCS World
  • X-Plane
  • Cockpit clarity

General VR

Broad use:

  • SteamVR library
  • Social VR
  • VR cinema
  • Enthusiast applications

Comparison with High-End PC VR

Feature Crystal Light Pimax Crystal Bigscreen Beyond Valve Index
Price $699 $1,599 $999 $999
Resolution 2880×2880/eye 2880×2880/eye 2560×2560/eye 1440×1600/eye
PPD 35 35 32 11.5
FOV 115-130° 115-130° 90° 130°
Refresh Rate 72/90/120Hz 72/90/120Hz 90Hz 80/90/120/144Hz
Lenses Glass aspheric Glass aspheric Pancake Fresnel
Eye Tracking No Yes No Optional
Weight 815g ~980g 127g 809g

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths

  • High resolution (2880×2880/eye, 16.6MP)
  • 35 PPD visual clarity
  • Wide 115-130° field of view
  • QLED + Mini-LED with HDR
  • Glass aspheric lenses (1% light loss)
  • Variable refresh (72/90/120Hz)
  • Affordable at $699 (vs $1,599 Crystal)
  • Inside-out + Lighthouse tracking options

Limitations

  • Heavy at 815g
  • No eye tracking (Crystal has it)
  • Tethered only (no wireless)
  • Requires powerful GPU (RTX 3070+)
  • No integrated audio
  • Manual IPD only
  • Large form factor

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display QLED + Mini-LED
Resolution 2880 × 2880 per eye (16.6MP)
PPD 35 pixels per degree
FOV 115° (up to 130° diagonal)
Refresh Rate 72Hz / 90Hz / 120Hz
Lenses Glass aspheric (1% light loss)
Tracking Inside-out + SteamVR optional
IPD 58-72mm (manual)
Weight 815g
GPU Required RTX 2080+ min, RTX 3070+ recommended
Price $699

See Also

References

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