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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Somnium VR1
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[OpenXR]]
|Developer = [[Somnium Space]], [[VRgineers]]
|Creator = [[Somnium Space]]
|Developer = [[VRgineers]], [[Somnium Space]]
|Manufacturer = [[VRgineers]]
|Manufacturer = [[VRgineers]]
|Release Date = July 12, 2024
|Announcement Date = 2023
|Price = €1,900 - €3,900 (edition dependent)
|Release Date = 2024
|Price = €1,900 (base), €2,500 (eye tracking), €3,500 (ultimate)
|Website = https://store.somniumspace.com/
|Website = https://store.somniumspace.com/
|Display = QLED MiniLED LCD
|Versions = Striker Edition, Visionary Edition, Titan Edition, Ultimate Edition
|Resolution = 2880x2880 per eye
|Requires = Gaming PC, SteamVR Tracking base stations
|Refresh Rate = Up to 144 Hz
|Predecessor = None
|Field of View = 130° horizontal / 105° vertical
|Successor = None
|Operating System = [[Windows]]
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = ~500 nits
|Resolution = 2880 × 2880 per eye (5760 × 2880 combined)
|Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz (base), 120Hz, 144Hz (upgradeable)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 130° horizontal, 105° vertical
|Horizontal FoV = 130°
|Vertical FoV = 105°
|Average Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 35 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (with eye tracking)
|Optics = Aspheric lenses (swappable)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Tracking = SteamVR (outside-in)
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (mechanical adjustment)
|Eye Tracking = Optional
|Adjustable Diopter = Yes (prescription lens inserts available)
|Hand Tracking = Optional (Ultraleap)
|Passthrough = Yes (Ultimate Edition only, color stereo)
|Passthrough = Optional (12 MP cameras)
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Lenses = Aspherical
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz (base stations)
|Connectivity = USB-C (6m hybrid cable)
|Base Stations = Required (sold separately)
|Local Dimming = Yes (HDR)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (Visionary/Titan/Ultimate editions, 120Hz)
|Brightness = 210 nits
|Face Tracking = No
|Contrast = 20,000:1 (HDR)
|Hand Tracking = Yes (Ultraleap, Striker/Titan/Ultimate editions)
|Body Tracking = Via VIVE Trackers
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = Up to 144Hz
|Tracking Volume = Lighthouse 2.0
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Integrated speakers (DMAS-style) + 3.5mm jack
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = Stereo passthrough cameras (Ultimate Edition)
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = USB powered + external power (optional)
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~200mm × 120mm × 150mm
|Weight = ~450g
|Material = Plastic, metal
|Headstrap = Modular system (multiple options)
|Haptics = Controller haptics (via SteamVR controllers)
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Lighthouse tracking photodiodes, eye tracking cameras, IMU
|Input = SteamVR controllers (Valve Index, VIVE), Ultraleap hand tracking
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Somnium VR1''' is a high-end PC [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Somnium Space]] in partnership with [[VRgineers]], launched on July 12, 2024. Targeting VR enthusiasts and enterprise users, the Somnium VR1 features QLED MiniLED LCD displays at 2880x2880 per eye with local dimming and up to 144Hz refresh rate, an ultra-wide 130° horizontal field of view, aspherical lenses, and SteamVR tracking. Available in eight editions from €1,900 to €3,900 with optional eye tracking, Ultraleap hand tracking, and mixed reality passthrough, the VR1 delivers enthusiast-grade specifications for those seeking the ultimate PC VR experience.
The '''Somnium VR1''' is a high-end [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Somnium Space]] in partnership with [[VRgineers]], announced in 2023 and released in 2024 with prices starting at €1,900 for the base edition and reaching €3,500 for the Ultimate Edition with all features. The Somnium VR1 represents a new approach to enthusiast PC VR, combining the same high-resolution 2880 × 2880 per eye QLED Mini-LED panels found in the Pimax Crystal with an industry-leading 130° horizontal × 105° vertical field of view—claimed to be the widest undistorted FOV of any consumer headset, noticeably wider than Meta Quest 3 and Valve Index. Built on an open-source philosophy with modular components, open eye-tracking APIs, and SteamVR Lighthouse tracking, the VR1 targets simulation enthusiasts, VR developers, and users who prioritize visual quality and customizability over convenience.


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


Somnium Space, known for their blockchain-based social VR platform, partnered with VRgineers (makers of professional VR headsets) to develop the Somnium VR1. The headset launched on July 12, 2024 after extended development, offering multiple configurations to suit different user needs and budgets. The VR1 targets existing SteamVR users seeking an upgrade, as well as enterprise customers requiring high-specification VR hardware.<ref name="xrtoday">{{cite web |url=https://www.xrtoday.com/reviews/somnium-vr1-review-next-generation-pc-vr-mr/ |title=Somnium VR1 Review |publisher=XR Today |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Somnium Space Background ===
Company origins:
* VR metaverse platform
* Web3 integration
* Open ecosystem philosophy
* Hardware ambition


== Design and Hardware ==
=== VRgineers Partnership ===
Manufacturing expertise:
* Professional VR headset maker
* XTAL headset experience
* Enterprise quality
* Hardware manufacturing


=== Display ===
=== Development Goals ===
Design priorities:
* Widest FOV possible
* Highest resolution accessible
* Open ecosystem
* Modular design


Premium QLED MiniLED technology:
=== 2024 Release ===
Market launch:
* Multiple editions
* Tiered pricing
* Enthusiast targeting
* Shipping worldwide


* '''2880x2880 per eye''' resolution
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''QLED MiniLED LCD''' panels
* '''Up to 144 Hz''' refresh rate
* '''Local dimming''' (HDR)
* '''210 nits brightness'''
* '''20,000:1 contrast ratio'''
* Stunning visual quality
* HDR support


=== Field of View ===
=== Open Ecosystem ===
Philosophy core:
* Open-source eye tracking
* Standard interfaces
* User modifications
* Community support


Ultra-wide immersion:
=== Maximum Visual Quality ===
Priority focus:
* Widest undistorted FOV
* Highest practical resolution
* Best panels available
* Premium optics


* '''130° horizontal FOV'''
=== Modular Architecture ===
* '''105° vertical FOV'''
Customizable design:
* Wider than most competitors
* Swappable lens options
* Increased peripheral vision
* Multiple face gaskets
* Enhanced immersion
* Strap options
* Feature editions


=== Optics ===
=== Simulation Focus ===
Target use case:
* Flight simulation
* Racing simulation
* Space simulation
* Professional training


* '''Aspherical lenses'''
== Display Technology ==
 
=== QLED Mini-LED Fast LCD ===
Premium panels:
* '''Resolution''': 2880 × 2880 per eye
* '''Total''': 5760 × 2880
* '''Type''': QLED Mini-LED
* Same panels as Pimax Crystal
 
=== Resolution Quality ===
Visual clarity:
* 35 PPD (pixels per degree)
* Near Vision Pro levels
* Excellent detail
* Minimal screen door
 
=== Refresh Rate ===
Variable options:
* 90Hz base
* 120Hz upgrade
* 144Hz maximum
* GPU dependent
 
=== Color and Contrast ===
Display quality:
* QLED color enhancement
* Mini-LED local dimming
* Good HDR support
* Vibrant imagery
 
== Field of View ==
 
=== Industry-Leading FOV ===
Widest consumer FOV:
* '''Horizontal''': 130°
* '''Vertical''': 105°
* Up to 140° render
* True peripheral vision
 
=== Undistorted View ===
Key distinction:
* No edge warping
* Full clarity across FOV
* No "tunnel vision"
* Natural viewing experience
 
=== FOV Comparison ===
Market positioning:
* Wider than Quest 3 (~110°)
* Wider than Index (~130° with distortion)
* Wider than Pimax (undistorted)
* Near-human peripheral
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Aspheric Lenses ===
Premium optics:
* Wide sweet spot
* Wide sweet spot
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Edge-to-edge clarity
* Optimized for large FOV
* Minimal distortion
* High quality


=== Tracking ===
=== Swappable Lenses ===
Modular feature:
* Multiple lens options
* User replaceable
* Prescription compatible
* Customization


* '''SteamVR tracking'''
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Mechanical range:
* '''Range''': 58-72mm
* Physical lens movement
* Precise calibration
* Wide accommodation
 
== Tracking System ==
 
=== SteamVR Lighthouse ===
External tracking:
* Base stations required
* Base stations required
* Outside-in tracking
* Not included
* Lighthouse compatible
* Lighthouse 2.0 support
* Sub-millimeter precision
* Sub-millimeter accuracy


=== Connectivity ===
=== Tracking Quality ===
Professional grade:
* Reliable 6DoF
* Low latency
* Large play space
* Proven technology


Innovative cable design:
=== Controller Options ===
SteamVR ecosystem:
* Valve Index controllers
* VIVE Wands
* SteamVR compatible
* Full ecosystem access


* '''6-meter (20 ft.) hybrid cable'''
== Eye Tracking ==
* '''USB Type-C''' all-in-one
* '''DisplayPort'''
* '''USB 3 Gen 2'''
* '''Power'''
* Single cable solution


== Optional Modules ==
=== 120Hz Eye Tracking ===
Available in Visionary+:
* '''Frequency''': 120Hz
* Open-source API
* Single-point calibration
* Advanced technology


=== Eye Tracking ===
=== Open-Source API ===
* Foveated rendering support
Developer friendly:
* Gaze-based interaction
* Public documentation
* Performance optimization
* Standard interfaces
* Analytics capability
* Application support
* Community development


=== Hand Tracking ===
=== Foveated Rendering ===
* '''Ultraleap''' integration
Performance optimization:
* Controller-free interaction
* Dynamic quality adjustment
* Natural gestures
* GPU load reduction
* Module add-on
* Better performance
* Visual quality maintained


=== Mixed Reality Passthrough ===
== Hand Tracking ==
* '''12 MP RGB cameras''' (each)
* High-resolution passthrough
* MR application support
* Module add-on


== Editions ==
=== Ultraleap Integration ===
Premium hand tracking:
* '''FOV''': 170° × 170°
* '''Refresh''': 120Hz
* Top-tier technology
* Natural interaction
 
=== Available Editions ===
Feature configuration:
* Striker Edition (hand tracking)
* Titan Edition (eye + hand)
* Ultimate Edition (all features)
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== Integrated Speakers ===
Built-in audio:
* Off-ear design
* Spatial audio
* Good quality
* Convenience
 
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
Headphone option:
* Private listening
* Higher quality option
* Professional use
* User choice
 
== Passthrough ==
 
=== Mixed Reality (Ultimate Edition) ===
Passthrough capability:
* Stereo cameras
* Color passthrough
* Room awareness
* MR applications
 
=== Ultimate Edition Exclusive ===
Premium feature:
* €3,500 configuration
* Full MR capability
* All features included
* Complete package
 
== Product Editions ==
 
=== Striker Edition ===
Hand tracking focus:
* Base VR headset
* Ultraleap hand tracking
* No eye tracking
* €1,900+
 
=== Visionary Edition ===
Eye tracking focus:
* Base VR headset
* 120Hz eye tracking
* Foveated rendering
* €2,500
 
=== Titan Edition ===
Eye + Hand:
* Eye tracking
* Hand tracking
* Combined features
* Premium price
 
=== Ultimate Edition ===
Full featured:
* Eye tracking
* Hand tracking
* MR passthrough
* All features included
* €3,500
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Build Quality ===
Premium construction:
* Quality materials
* Solid build
* Professional feel
* Durable design
 
=== Weight ===
Reasonable mass:
* ~450g
* Well balanced
* Comfortable wear
* Good distribution
 
=== Modular Straps ===
Comfort options:
* Multiple strap choices
* User preference
* Aftermarket support
* Customizable fit
 
== PC Requirements ==
 
=== High-End Hardware ===
Demanding specifications:
* '''Recommended GPU''': RTX 3080+
* High VRAM needed
* Modern CPU
* 32GB+ RAM recommended
 
=== DisplayPort 1.4 ===
Connection requirements:
* Full bandwidth needed
* High resolution support
* Modern GPU required
* Quality cable essential
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Flight Simulation ===
Ideal application:
* Peripheral vision critical
* High resolution cockpit
* Immersive experience
* DCS, MSFS optimized
 
=== Racing Simulation ===
Sim racing benefits:
* Wide FOV mirrors
* Peripheral awareness
* Track visibility
* iRacing, ACC
 
=== VR Development ===
Developer features:
* Open APIs
* Standard interfaces
* Testing platform
* Professional quality
 
=== Professional Training ===
Enterprise potential:
* Simulation training
* Medical visualization
* Design review
* Professional applications
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Edition !! Features !! Price
! Feature !! Somnium VR1 !! Pimax Crystal !! Valve Index
|-
| Classic || VR only || €1,900
|-
|-
| Striker || VR + Hand Tracking || €2,300
| Price || €1,900-€3,500 || $1,599+ || $999 kit
|-
|-
| Visionary || VR + Eye Tracking || €2,500
| Resolution/eye || 2880×2880 || 2880×2880 || 1440×1600
|-
|-
| Titan || VR + ET + HT || €2,900
| FOV || 130°×105° || ~120° || ~130°*
|-
|-
| Specter || VR + HT + Passthrough || €3,100
| Refresh Rate || 90-144Hz || 90-120Hz || 80-144Hz
|-
|-
| Ultimate || VR + ET + HT + PT || €3,500
| Panels || QLED Mini-LED || QLED Mini-LED || LCD
|-
|-
| Translucent Limited || Ultimate (transparent) || €3,900
| Eye Tracking || Optional (120Hz) || Optional || No
|-
|-
| Military || TAA-compliant || Price on request
| Tracking || Lighthouse || Lighthouse/Inside-out || Lighthouse
|}
|}
''*Index 130° includes some distortion at edges''


''ET = Eye Tracking, HT = Hand Tracking, PT = Passthrough''
== Strengths and Limitations ==


== Technical Specifications ==
=== Strengths ===
* Widest undistorted FOV (130°×105°)
* Extremely high resolution (2880×2880)
* Open-source eye tracking
* Modular design
* Premium displays
* Ultraleap hand tracking option
* SteamVR ecosystem
 
=== Limitations ===
* High price (€1,900-€3,500)
* Base stations not included
* Very demanding on PC
* No wireless option
* Limited availability
* Complex setup
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 134: Line 459:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 2880x2880 per eye QLED MiniLED
| Display || Dual QLED Mini-LED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || Up to 144 Hz
| Total Resolution || 5760 × 2880
|-
|-
| FOV || 130° x 105°
| FOV || 130° horizontal, 105° vertical
|-
|-
| Contrast || 20,000:1 (HDR)
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/144Hz
|-
|-
| Brightness || 210 nits
| PPD || 35 pixels per degree
|-
|-
| Lenses || Aspherical
| Tracking || SteamVR Lighthouse
|-
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR (base stations)
| Eye Tracking || 120Hz (Visionary/Titan/Ultimate)
|-
|-
| Cable || 6m USB-C hybrid
| Hand Tracking || Ultraleap (Striker/Titan/Ultimate)
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || Optional
| IPD || 58-72mm mechanical
|-
|-
| Hand Tracking || Optional (Ultraleap)
| Weight || ~450g
|-
|-
| Passthrough || Optional (12 MP)
| Price || €1,900 - €3,500 (by edition)
|-
| Price || €1,900 - €3,900
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 2880x2880 per eye highest tier
* 130° FOV ultra-wide
* 144Hz smooth performance
* QLED MiniLED excellent
* Local dimming/HDR impressive
* 20,000:1 contrast stunning
* Modular configuration options
* 6m hybrid cable convenient
* Enterprise-grade build
* SteamVR ecosystem compatible
'''Criticism:'''
* €1,900+ extremely expensive
* Base stations required
* Complex edition pricing
* Niche enthusiast market
* Quest 3 fraction of cost
* PC tethered only
* Heavy for extended use
* Modules add significant cost
* New brand track record
* Limited mainstream appeal<ref name="roadtovr">{{cite web |url=https://www.roadtovr.com/somnium-vr1-hands-on/ |title=Somnium VR1 Hands-on |publisher=Road to VR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Somnium Space]]
* [[VRgineers]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Varjo Aero]]
* [[Bigscreen Beyond 2]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[Valve Index]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Wide FOV VR]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:2024 in technology]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:Wide FOV]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Somnium_VR1"