Jump to content

Pimax Crystal: Difference between revisions

← Older edit
VisualWikitext
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{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 = [[PC]], [[SteamVR]], Standalone
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Experience]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Announced = 2022
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Release = 2023
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Price = $1,599
|Announcement Date = May 31, 2022
|Website = https://pimax.com
|Release Date = May 2023
|OS = Android (standalone) / Windows (PCVR)
|Price = $1,599 (launch MSRP)
|CPU = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] (standalone)
|Website = https://pimax.com/pages/crystal
|GPU = Host PC dependent (PCVR)
|Versions = Pimax Crystal (QLED), Pimax Crystal Light, Pimax Crystal Super
|Storage = Internal (standalone)
|Requires = High-end gaming PC (PC VR mode), standalone capable
|RAM = 8 GB
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 8K X]]
|Display = 2 x QLED Mini-LED
|Successor = [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
|Resolution = 5760 x 2880 (2880 x 2880 per eye)
|Operating System = [[Pimax OS]] (Android-based), [[Windows]] (PC VR)
|Refresh = 90/120 Hz (144/160 Hz testing mode)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2]] + PC VR engine
|Brightness =
|CPU = Snapdragon XR2 (standalone), PC CPU (tethered)
|FOV = 125° H / 140° diagonal
|GPU = Adreno 650 (standalone), PC GPU (tethered)
|PPD = 35 (peak)
|HPU =
|Lenses = Glass aspheric (interchangeable)
|Storage = 256GB
|IPD = Motorized automatic adjustment
|Memory = 8GB LPDDR5
|Eye Tracking = Yes (120 Hz)
|SD Card Slot = No
|Hand Tracking =
|Display = Dual QLED
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out, 4 cameras)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Spatial Mapping =
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Speakers = Integrated
|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
|IPD Range = 58-72mm (automatic with eye tracking)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|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
|Body Tracking = Via SteamVR trackers (Lighthouse mode)
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = Up to 160Hz
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <20ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Integrated speakers (DMAS optional upgrade)
|Microphone = Yes
|Microphone = Yes
|Audio Jack = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 6E, optional 60GHz WiGig
|Camera = 4× tracking cameras, 2× passthrough cameras
|Ports = USB-C, DisplayPort
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 6E
|Battery = Included (standalone mode)
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, 3.5mm audio
|Weight = 845g
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Materials =
|Wireless Video = Yes (Wi-Fi 6E or optional 60GHz WiGig)
|Colors = Black
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 6E
|Sensors = 4 external DoF cameras
|Bluetooth = Yes
|Input = Pimax controllers, SteamVR controllers
|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 [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]]. Released in 2023, the Crystal features dual 2880 x 2880 QLED Mini-LED displays with local dimming, delivering 35 pixels per degree (PPD) peak fidelity. The headset operates in both PCVR mode and standalone mode via the built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor. Key features include eye tracking with automatic IPD adjustment, inside-out 6DoF tracking without base stations, and an interchangeable lens system offering standard or wide FOV options.<ref name="pimax">{{cite web|url=https://pimax.com/pages/crystal|title=Pimax Crystal|publisher=Pimax}}</ref>
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 High-End Focus ===
=== Pimax Evolution ===
Pimax continued their focus on high-resolution, wide-FOV VR with the Crystal as a more refined successor to their 8K series.
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


=== 2023 Release ===
=== Design Shift ===
The Crystal launched at $1,599, lower than the originally announced $1,899 MSRP.
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 System ===
=== Development Delays ===
* '''Resolution:''' 2880 x 2880 per eye (5760 x 2880 total)
Extended timeline:
* '''Display Type:''' QLED + Mini-LED
* Initial delays common for Pimax
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 90 Hz / 120 Hz (144/160 Hz in testing mode)
* Hardware refinements
* '''Local Dimming:''' Enhanced contrast with deeper blacks and brighter whites
* Software development
* '''Pixel Density:''' 35 PPD peak fidelity
* May 2023 shipping began
 
== Design Philosophy ==
 
=== Clarity Over FOV ===
Priority shift from 8K X:
* 42 PPD peak vs 8K X's ~20 PPD
* 120° vs 170° FOV
* 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
* Good HDR support
* Minimal screen door
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Interchangeable Glass Lenses ===
Unique Pimax feature:
* Glass aspheric optics
* 35 PPD standard lenses
* 42 PPD upgrade lenses
* User-swappable


=== Field of View ===
=== Field of View ===
* '''Horizontal:''' 125 degrees
Balanced approach:
* '''Diagonal:''' 140 degrees
* '''Diagonal''': ~140°
* '''Horizontal''': ~120°
* Narrower than 8K X
* Prioritizes clarity


=== Interchangeable Lens System ===
=== Lens Quality ===
* '''Standard Lenses:''' Glass aspheric at 35 PPD
Premium optics:
* '''Wide FOV Lenses:''' Optional for enhanced immersion
* Glass construction
* '''Design:''' Revolutionary swappable lens system
* Minimal distortion
* Good edge clarity
* Reduced god rays


=== Physical Specifications ===
=== IPD Adjustment ===
* '''Weight:''' 845 grams
Automatic with eye tracking:
* '''Range''': 58-72mm
* Auto IPD via Tobii
* Manual override available
* Wide accommodation


== Eye Tracking ==
== Eye Tracking ==


=== Specifications ===
=== Tobii Integration ===
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 120 Hz
Professional eye tracking:
* '''Features:''' Dynamic foveated rendering
* '''Frequency''': 120Hz
* '''Brand''': Tobii
* Accurate gaze detection
* Always-on capability


=== Automatic IPD ===
=== Automatic IPD ===
Motorized automatic IPD adjustment based on eye tracking.
Convenience feature:
* Detects user IPD
* Adjusts automatically
* No manual calibration
* Optimal alignment


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


=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
* 4 external depth-of-field cameras
Four-camera system:
* 6DoF head tracking
* Controller tracking
* No base stations required
* No base stations required
* 6DoF head and controller tracking
* Room-scale capable
 
=== Optional Lighthouse ===
External tracking support:
* SteamVR 1.0/2.0 compatible
* Better controller tracking
* Full-body tracking possible
* Enthusiast preference
 
=== Hand Tracking ===
Controller-free option:
* Camera-based tracking
* Gesture recognition
* Limited application support
* Growing capability
 
== Wireless Capability ==
 
=== Built-in Wi-Fi 6E ===
Wireless PC VR:
* Integrated Wi-Fi 6E
* PC VR streaming
* No separate adapter
* Decent quality
 
=== Optional 60GHz WiGig ===
Premium wireless:
* Higher bandwidth
* Lower latency
* Additional purchase
* Best wireless quality
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== Integrated Speakers ===
Basic audio:
* Built-in speakers
* Adequate quality
* Near-ear positioning
* Upgradeable
 
=== DMAS Upgrade ===
Premium audio option:
* Deluxe Modular Audio Strap
* Off-ear speakers
* Improved sound
* Better comfort
 
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
Headphone option:
* Standard audio jack
* Use own headphones
* Better audio possible


=== Base Station Support ===
== Physical Design ==
Optional SteamVR base station support for enhanced tracking precision.


== Dual Mode Operation ==
=== Large Form Factor ===
Substantial headset:
* Larger than competitors
* Display and optics size
* Weight considerations
* Enthusiast acceptance


=== PCVR Mode ===
=== Weight ===
* Connects to gaming PC
Heavy for VR:
* Leverages dedicated graphics card
* ~960g with battery
* Full SteamVR library access
* Counterbalancing needed
* Not for all users
* Extended use comfort varies


=== Standalone Mode (AIO) ===
=== Modular Head Strap ===
* Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 powered
Comfort options:
* 8 GB RAM
* Standard strap included
* Mobile VR flexibility
* DMAS upgrade available
* Third-party options
* User preference


== Wireless Options ==
== Standalone Mode ==


* '''Built-in:''' Wi-Fi 6E
=== Snapdragon XR2 Apps ===
* '''Optional:''' 60 GHz WiGig adapter for wireless PCVR
Standalone capability:
* Android-based OS
* Limited app selection
* Media viewing
* Basic VR experiences


== System Requirements (PCVR) ==
=== Battery Life ===
Limited runtime:
* ~2 hours standalone
* Hot-swappable consideration
* PC VR doesn't use battery
* USB-C charging
 
== PC VR Performance ==
 
=== System Requirements ===
High-end recommended:
* RTX 3080 / RX 6800 XT or better
* Intel i7 / AMD Ryzen 7
* 16GB+ RAM
* DisplayPort 1.4
 
=== Foveated Rendering Benefits ===
Performance optimization:
* Eye tracking enables foveated
* 40%+ performance improvement
* Higher settings possible
* Quality maintained at gaze
 
== Software ==
 
=== Pimax Experience ===
Control software:
* Device management
* Game profiles
* Performance settings
* Firmware updates
 
=== SteamVR Integration ===
Gaming platform:
* Full SteamVR support
* OpenVR compatible
* Steam library
* VR game ecosystem
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Component !! Minimum
! Feature !! Pimax Crystal !! Varjo Aero !! Meta Quest Pro
|-
|-
| CPU || Intel Core i5 12th Gen / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
| Price || $1,599 || $1,990 || $999
|-
|-
| RAM || 16 GB+
| Resolution/eye || 2880×2880 || 2880×2720 || 1800×1920
|-
|-
| GPU || NVIDIA RTX 2070+
| PPD (peak) || 42 || 35 || ~22
|-
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii) || Yes || Yes
|-
| Standalone || Yes || No || Yes
|-
| FOV || 120° || 115° || 106°
|-
| Weight || ~960g || ~720g || ~722g
|}
|}


== Specifications ==
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* Highest PPD available
* Interchangeable lenses
* Eye tracking standard
* Hybrid standalone/PC VR
* Optional Lighthouse support
* Wireless built-in
 
=== Limitations ===
* Heavy (~960g)
* Large form factor
* Complex setup
* Premium pricing
* Software maturity
* Pimax support reputation
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 126: Line 419:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || QLED Mini-LED (2880 x 2880/eye)
| Display || Dual QLED, 2880 × 2880 per eye
|-
|-
| Total Resolution || 5760 x 2880
| Total Resolution || 5760 × 2880 (~6K)
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90/120 Hz
| PPD || 35/42 (lens dependent)
|-
|-
| Peak PPD || 35
| FOV || ~120° horizontal
|-
|-
| Field of View || 125° H / 140° diagonal
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/160Hz
|-
|-
| Eye Tracking || 120 Hz
| Eye Tracking || Yes (Tobii, 120Hz)
|-
|-
| IPD || Motorized automatic
| Tracking || Inside-out + optional Lighthouse
|-
|-
| Tracking || Inside-out 6DoF (4 cameras)
| Processor || Snapdragon XR2 + PC VR engine
|-
|-
| Processor (AIO) || Snapdragon XR2
| Wireless || Wi-Fi 6E (optional WiGig)
|-
|-
| Wireless || Wi-Fi 6E, optional WiGig
| Weight || ~960g
|-
| Weight || 845g
|-
|-
| Price || $1,599
| Price || $1,599
|}
|}
== Product Line ==
Pimax Crystal variants:
* [[Pimax Crystal Light]] - Lightweight version
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]] - Enhanced specifications


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax Vision 8KX]]
* [[Pimax 8K X]]
* [[Wide FOV VR]]
* [[Pimax Crystal Super]]
* [[QLED displays]]
* [[Eye Tracking]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[PC VR]]
* [[Hybrid VR]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 172: Line 459:
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Standalone VR]]
[[Category:Wide FOV VR]]
[[Category:Eye tracking]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:QLED displays]]
[[Category:Eye Tracking]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
[[Category:2020s VR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Pimax_Crystal"