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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image = [[File:Varjo xr-41.png|350px]]
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Mixed Reality]], [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]], [[Mixed Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[PC-Powered VR]]
|Subtype = [[PC VR]], [[Enterprise VR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[OpenXR]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Varjo Base]]
|Creator =
|Developer = [[Varjo]]
|Developer = [[Varjo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Varjo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Varjo]]
|Announcement Date = November 27, 2023
|Release Date = November 2023
|Release Date = November 2023
|Price = $3,990 (XR-4 Standard Edition, no subscription)
|Price = $3,990 USD (XR-4), $9,990 USD (Focal Edition)
|Website = https://varjo.com
|Website = https://varjo.com/products/xr-4
|Versions = XR-4, XR-4 Focal Edition, XR-4 Secure Edition
|Requires = High-end PC
|Predecessor = [[Varjo XR-3]]
|Predecessor = [[Varjo XR-3]]
|Successor = ?????
|Display = 2× 4K Mini-LED LCD
|Operating System = Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
|Chipset =
|CPU =
|GPU =
|HPU =
|Storage =
|Memory =
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Mini-LED
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Peak Brightness = 200 nits
|Resolution = 3840×3744 per eye
|Resolution = 3840×3744 per eye
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz (120 Hz experimental)
|Refresh Rate = 90 Hz
|Pixel Density = 51 PPD
|Field of View = 120° × 105°
|Persistence = Low persistence
|PPD = 51 PPD
|Precision = Sub-pixel precision
|Brightness = 200 nits
|Field of View = 120° × 105° (H×V)
|Contrast = 1:10,000 (local dimming)
|Horizontal FoV = 120°
|Color Gamut = 96% DCI-P3
|Vertical FoV = 105°
|IPD Range = Automatic adjustment
|Visible FoV = 120° × 105°
|Rendered FoV = 120° × 105°
|Binocular Overlap = 105°
|Average Pixel Density = 51 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 51 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = Yes (dynamic)
|Optics = Dual-element aspheric lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = 55-75mm (automatic adjustment)
|Optics = Aspheric lenses
|Adjustable Diopter = No
|Tracking = Inside-out 6DoF
|Passthrough = Yes (20MP cameras + 300k LiDAR)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (200 Hz)
|Tracking = Inside-out (4 cameras)
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Tracking Frequency = 200 Hz
|LiDAR = Yes (300 kpix)
|Base Stations = Not required (optional support)
|Passthrough = Color (dual 20MP cameras)
|Eye Tracking = Yes (200Hz)
|Audio = DTS 3D spatial audio, noise-canceling mics
|Face Tracking =
|Connectivity = Fiber-optic cable, USB-C
|Hand Tracking = Yes (integrated)
|Weight = ~600g
|Body Tracking =
|Rotational Tracking = 6DOF
|Positional Tracking = 6DOF
|Update Rate = 200 Hz
|Tracking Volume = 7m radius
|Play Space = Room-scale
|Latency = ~22ms (passthrough), less than 15ms (VR)
|Audio = DTS 3D spatial audio headphones
|Microphone = Dual noise-cancelling
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 2× 20MP RGB, 1× 300k LiDAR sensor
|Connectivity = USB-C (Thunderbolt 4 compatible)
|Ports = 1× USB-C
|Wired Video = USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode
|Wireless Video =
|WiFi =
|Bluetooth =
|Power = USB-C Power Delivery
|Battery Capacity =
|Battery Life =
|Charge Time =
|Dimensions = 280mm × 140mm × 120mm
|Weight = 665g (headset only), 1021g (complete)
|Material = Carbon fiber composite, magnesium
|Headstrap = FlexFit ergonomic system
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black with carbon fiber accents
|Sensors = 200Hz eye tracking, 9-axis IMU, ambient light sensor
|Input = Hand tracking, SteamVR controllers
|Compliance = CE, FCC, IC, UKCA, TAA (Secure Edition)
|Size = Adjustable (S/M/L cushions)
|Cable Length = 5 meters (16.4 ft)
}}
}}
The [[Varjo XR-4]] is a professional [[PC-Powered VR|PC-powered]] [[mixed reality]] and [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] announced on November 27, 2023, by [[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]].<ref name="varjo-xr4-product" /> Representing the fourth generation of Varjo's mixed reality technology, the XR-4 series eliminated subscription requirements, introduced inside-out tracking as standard, and offered professional-grade specifications at a revised price point for its class.<ref name="varjo-announcement" />
==History==
The XR-4 development began in 2022 following feedback from [[Varjo XR-3]] customers and success of the subscription-free [[Varjo Aero]]. Key development goals included democratizing professional mixed reality, aiming for high visual fidelity in both virtual and passthrough modes, and eliminating external tracking requirements.<ref name="cnbc" />
===Major Improvements over XR-3===
*51 PPD uniform resolution (vs dual-display system)
*20-megapixel [[passthrough cameras]] (vs 12MP)
*[[Inside-out tracking]] standard (vs external base stations)
*Significant price reduction for the standard model with no subscription
*Passthrough resolution of 33 PPD (Standard Edition) or 51 PPD (Focal Edition)


==Technical Specifications==
The '''Varjo XR-4''' is a professional [[mixed reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Varjo]], released in November 2023. The headset features crystal-clear 4K-per-eye mini-LED displays with 51 pixels per degree, 120° × 105° field of view (50% wider than predecessors), 200 Hz eye tracking, and 300 kpix LiDAR for advanced mixed reality. The XR-4 uses inside-out tracking and a fiber-optic cable for ultra-low latency. Priced at $3,990 (down from $6,495 for XR-3), it targets enterprise applications in training, simulation, and design visualization.
===Display Technology===
The XR-4 uses advanced Mini-LED panels:
*'''Resolution''': 3840×3744 per eye (14.8 megapixels total)
*'''Pixel Density''': 51 pixels per degree (uniform)
*'''Panel Type''': Fast-switching Mini-LED with local dimming
*'''Brightness''': 200 nits sustained
*'''Contrast''': 10,000:1 with local dimming
*'''Color Gamut''': 96% DCI-P3, 98% sRGB


===Mixed Reality Cameras===
== History and Development ==
High-resolution passthrough system:
*'''RGB Cameras''': Dual 20-megapixel global shutter sensors
*'''Passthrough Resolution''': 33 PPD (XR-4 Standard Edition), 51 PPD (XR-4 Focal Edition, matching virtual content)
*'''Frame Rate''': 90 fps with ~22ms latency
*'''Dynamic Range''': 14 stops with HDR processing
*'''Low Light''': ISO 25,600 equivalent sensitivity


===LiDAR Depth System===
Varjo announced the XR-4 in November 2023 as a significant upgrade to the [[Varjo XR-3]], offering dramatically wider field of view, inside-out tracking (eliminating external base stations), and lower pricing. The headset marked Varjo's transition from dual-display (micro-OLED + LCD) systems to unified 4K mini-LED panels while maintaining near-retinal resolution.<ref name="uploadvr">{{cite web |url=https://www.uploadvr.com/varjo-xr-4-hands-on/ |title=Varjo XR-4: Stunning VR With Disappointing Passthrough |publisher=UploadVR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
Enhanced from XR-3:
*'''Resolution''': 300,000 points (300 kpix)
*'''Range''': 0.2m to 7m (extended from 5m)
*'''Accuracy''': ±2mm at 1m distance
*'''Frame Rate''': 30 fps depth updates (Note: some sources may vary)
*'''Coverage''': 94° × 78° depth sensing FOV


==Breakthrough Features==
The XR-4 series includes three variants: the standard XR-4 for VR training, the Focal Edition with autofocus passthrough cameras, and the Secure Edition for classified government environments.<ref name="varjo">{{cite web |url=https://varjo.com/products/xr-4 |title=Mixed Reality Headset for Professionals – Varjo XR-4 Series |publisher=Varjo |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
===Gaze-Driven Autofocus (Focal Edition)===
World's first XR autofocus system:<ref name="varjo-autofocus" />
*'''Technology''': Liquid lens with 200Hz response
*'''Focus Range''': 20cm to infinity
*'''Eye-Coupled''': Focus follows gaze automatically
*'''Latency''': <5ms focus adjustment
*'''Applications''': Aims to solve vergence-accommodation conflict


===[[Inside-Out Tracking]]===
== Design and Hardware ==
Professional-grade markerless tracking:
*'''Cameras''': 4× wide-angle tracking sensors
*'''Algorithm''': Advanced SLAM with ML enhancement
*'''Accuracy''': Sub-millimeter precision
*'''Range''': 7-meter radius tracking volume
*'''Persistence''': Remembers room layout


===Integrated Hand Tracking===
=== Display ===
Built-in hand interaction:
*'''Technology''': Computer vision with neural networks
*'''Fingers Tracked''': All 10 fingers with 21 points each
*'''Latency''': 11ms hand-to-photon
*'''Gestures''': Library of standard XR interactions
*'''SDK''': Direct hand data access for developers


==Software Ecosystem==
The XR-4 features advanced mini-LED technology:
===No Subscription Model===
Following Aero's success:
*'''One-Time Purchase''': Starting at $3,990 for XR-4 Standard Edition
*'''All Features Included''': No feature tiers within an edition
*'''Free Updates''': Lifetime software support
*'''Professional Tools''': Full SDK access


===Varjo Controller Software===
* Dual 4K mini-LED LCD displays
New unified control system:
* 3840×3744 resolution per eye
*'''Device Management''': Configure all settings
* '''51 pixels per degree (PPD)'''—near retinal resolution
*'''Performance Monitoring''': Real-time diagnostics
* 90 Hz refresh rate
*'''User Profiles''': Save multiple configurations
* '''120° × 105° field of view:''' 50% wider than XR-3
*'''Cloud Sync''': Settings backup and restore
* 200 nits brightness (double previous generation)
* 1:10,000 contrast ratio with local dimming
* 96% DCI-P3 color gamut
* Full binocular range vision
* Day and night scenario support


===Development Support===
=== Eye Tracking ===
*'''[[Unity]] Plugin''': Native XR-4 features
*'''[[Unreal Engine]] 5''': Full integration with Nanite/Lumen
*'''[[OpenXR]] Extensions''': Varjo-specific features
*'''[[NVIDIA Omniverse]]''': RTX rendering support


==Variants==
Industry-leading eye tracking system:
===XR-4 Standard Edition===
Base professional model:
*All core features
*20MP passthrough (33 PPD)
*300k LiDAR
*$3,990


===[[XR-4 Focal Edition]]===
* '''200 Hz''' eye tracking frequency
With gaze-driven autofocus:
* 300 kpix LiDAR camera
*All Standard features plus:
* Highly accurate gaze tracking
*Liquid lens autofocus system
* Smooth eye movement capture
*20MP passthrough (51 PPD)
* Enables foveated rendering
*Enhanced eye tracking data
* Automatic IPD adjustment
*$9,990
===[[XR-4 Secure Edition]]===
Government/Defense variant:<ref name="varjo-secure" />
*[[TAA]]/[[BAA]] compliant
*Secure boot process
*Offline operation mode
*Manufactured in secure facility
*ITAR-free for international use


==System Requirements==
=== Passthrough and Mixed Reality ===
===Minimum Specifications===
*'''OS''': Windows 10 version 20H2 or Windows 11
*'''CPU''': Intel Core i9-11900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X (or comparable)
*'''GPU''': NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, RTX 3080, RTX 2080 Ti, or NVIDIA RTX A5000 (or comparable AMD GPU)
*'''RAM''': 32 GB DDR4-3200
*'''Storage''': 1 TB NVMe SSD
*'''USB''': Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C with DP Alt Mode
===Recommended Specifications===
*'''CPU''': Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
*'''GPU''': NVIDIA RTX 4090 or RTX 6000 Ada
*'''RAM''': 64 GB DDR5
*'''Storage''': 2 TB NVMe Gen4 SSD


==Industry Applications==
Advanced mixed reality capabilities:
===Automotive Industry===
Enhanced design validation:
*'''[[BMW Group]]''': Full vehicle design in MR
*'''[[Stellantis]]''': Global design collaboration
*'''[[Rimac Automobili]]''': Hypercar development
*'''[[Polestar]]''': Sustainable material visualization


Use cases:
* Dual 20-megapixel color cameras
*Design reviews with physical clay models
* Industry-leading passthrough clarity
*Ergonomics testing with real drivers
* Real-world instruments blend with virtual content
*HMI development and testing
* LiDAR-enhanced depth sensing
*Virtual showrooms with real products
* Chroma key support (requires Varjo Base Pro)
===Healthcare and Medical===
* Blend-control mask features
*'''[[Cleveland Clinic]]''': Surgical planning in MR
*'''[[Karolinska Institute]]''': Medical education
*'''[[Brainlab]]''': Image-guided surgery
*'''[[Siemens Healthineers]]''': MRI/CT visualization


Applications:
=== Connectivity ===
*Pre-operative planning with patient data
*Medical device training
*Anatomy education with cadavers
*Rehabilitation therapy


===Architecture and Construction===
Premium fiber-optic connection:
*'''[[Zaha Hadid Architects]]''': Parametric design review
*'''[[AECOM]]''': Infrastructure visualization
*'''[[Trimble]]''': BIM integration
*'''[[Autodesk]]''': Native Revit support


===Defense and Aerospace===
* '''Fiber-optic cable:''' Thinner, lighter than copper alternatives
*'''[[Lockheed Martin]]''': F-35 maintenance
* More expensive than a Meta Quest 3 by itself
*'''[[Saab]]''': Gripen pilot training
* Extendable to long distances without repeaters
*'''[[BAE Systems]]''': Ship design review
* USB-C for power and data
*'''Various contractors''': Classified programs
* Ultra-low latency transmission


==Market Reception==
=== Audio ===
===Launch Impact===
The XR-4 announcement generated significant attention<ref name="skarredghost" />:
*'''Price Point''': $3,990 for the standard edition was a notable reduction from the previous XR-3.
*'''No Subscription''': Praised by enterprise customers.
*'''Feature Set''': Considered comprehensive for its price in the professional market.
*'''Availability''': Global launch in 40+ countries.<ref name="auganix" />


===Critical Response===
* DTS 3D spatial audio
Professional reviews were generally positive, highlighting advancements:
* Integrated speakers
*'''[[Road to VR]]''': "The XR-4 redefines what's possible in mixed reality"
* Noise-canceling microphones
*'''[[UploadVR]]''': "Professional MR at prosumer pricing" (Note: "prosumer pricing" is relative to the high-end professional market)
* Voice communication support
*'''[[VRFocus]]''': "Inside-out tracking rivals base station precision"


====Common Praise====
=== Comfort ===
*Passthrough quality is a key focus, with Varjo aiming for experiences "indistinguishable from natural sight," though user experiences may vary.
*Autofocus system (Focal Edition) "game-changing" for MR.
*Price/performance ratio considered strong for the professional segment.
*Ergonomics significantly improved.


====Criticisms====
* Automatic IPD adjustment
*High PC requirements remain.
* Glasses compatible
*No wireless option at launch.
* Designed for long-duration use
*Hand tracking, while improved, may occasionally lose precision.
* ~600g weight
*Passthrough quality, while high, may not always meet the "indistinguishable from reality" claim under all conditions, according to some hands-on reviews.
* Balanced weight distribution
*Limited battery for future standalone use (if such a version were developed).


==Technical Innovations==
== Tracking ==
===CloudXR Integration===
Streaming MR capabilities:
*'''NVIDIA CloudXR''': RTX server rendering
*'''5G Support''': Ultra-low latency streaming
*'''Edge Computing''': Local cloud deployment
*'''Multi-User''': Synchronized MR sessions


===AI-Enhanced Processing===
=== Inside-Out Tracking ===
Machine learning throughout:
*'''[[Passthrough]] Enhancement''': AI upscaling and denoising
*'''[[Hand Tracking]]''': Neural network gesture recognition
*'''[[Eye Tracking]]''': Predictive gaze estimation
*'''[[SLAM]]''': ML-assisted tracking robustness


===Optics Engineering===
Major change from previous Varjo headsets:
*'''Dual-Element Lenses''': Reduced aberrations
*'''Coating Technology''': 99.5% light transmission
*'''Edge-to-Edge Clarity''': <2% distortion at edges
*'''Pancake Design''': Considered but rejected for quality


==Manufacturing Excellence==
* No external base stations required
===Helsinki Production===
* Effortless setup and deployment
In-house manufacturing advantages:
* 6 Degrees of Freedom
*'''Quality Control''': 100% optical calibration
* Multiple camera array
*'''Lead Time''': 5-day average shipping
* Supports SteamVR ecosystem
*'''Customization''': OEM versions available
*'''Sustainability''': Carbon neutral facility


===Component Partners===
=== Optional External Tracking ===
*'''Display Panels''': BOE (custom Mini-LED)
*'''[[Camera]]s''': Sony (IMX sensors)
*'''[[LiDAR]]''': Proprietary Varjo design
*'''[[Lense]]s''': ZEISS (coating technology)


==Competitive Landscape==
* Compatible with SteamVR base stations (Varjo Base Pro required)
===Versus Apple Vision Pro===
* Third-party tracking systems supported
'''XR-4 Advantages''': Higher virtual resolution, PC-powered performance for demanding applications, established professional ecosystem, potentially more robust tracking for certain professional use cases.
* Enhanced accuracy for simulation


'''Vision Pro Advantages''': Standalone operation, advanced consumer-facing OS and apps, highly integrated hand/eye tracking for its interface.
== Model Variants ==
===Versus Meta Quest Pro/3===
'''XR-4 Advantages''': Significantly higher resolution, professional-grade tools and support, superior passthrough fidelity (especially Focal Edition).


'''Quest Advantages''': Standalone, much lower price, larger consumer content library.
=== Varjo XR-4 ($3,990) ===
===Versus HTC Vive XR Elite===
* Standard model for VR training
'''XR-4 Advantages''': Higher resolution, generally superior passthrough quality, more advanced eye tracking.
* Best-in-class visual fidelity
* Inside-out tracking


'''Vive Advantages''': Standalone option, lower price point.
=== Varjo XR-4 Focal Edition ($9,990) ===
* Gaze-driven autofocus passthrough cameras
* Enhanced mixed reality integration
* Real-world object interaction


==Future Roadmap==
=== Varjo XR-4 Secure Edition ===
While not officially announced, industry sources suggest:
* Fully TAA-compliant
*Standalone version in development
* Assembled in Finland
*Wireless adapter planned for 2025
* For classified/air-gapped environments
*8K per eye displays in testing
* Government and defense applications
*AI copilot for enterprise applications


==Impact on Industry==
== Software ==
*The XR-4's launch influenced the mixed reality landscape:
*Set a new benchmark for professional MR features at its price point.
*Reinforced the demand for 50+ PPD for detailed professional use.
*Accelerated inside-out tracking adoption in the professional space.
*Validated the no-subscription model for enterprise hardware.
*Technologies popularized:
*Gaze-driven autofocus for XR (Focal Edition).
*20MP+ passthrough cameras.
*300k+ point LiDAR integration.
*Uniform high-PPD displays.


==See Also==
=== Varjo Base (Free) ===
*[[Mixed reality]]
* Basic VR functionality
*[[Varjo|Varjo Technologies]]
* SteamVR integration
*[[Varjo XR-3]]
* Standard features
*[[Varjo Aero]]
*[[Apple Vision Pro]]
*[[LiDAR]]
*[[Inside-out tracking]]
*[[Foveated rendering]]
*[[TAA compliance]]


==References==
=== Varjo Base Pro ($2,500/year) ===
<references>
* Advanced mixed reality features
<ref name="varjo-announcement">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/press-release/varjo-releases-new-xr-4-series-to-deliver-mixed-reality-experiences-indistinguishable-from-natural-sight/|title=Varjo Releases New XR-4 Series to Deliver Mixed Reality Experiences Indistinguishable from Natural Sight|publisher=Varjo|date=November 27, 2023|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
* Chroma key
<ref name="cnbc">{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/27/finnish-startup-varjo-launches-3990-xr-4-mixed-reality-headset.html|title=Finnish startup Varjo launches $3,990 XR-4 mixed reality headset|publisher=CNBC|date=November 27, 2023|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
* Blend-control mask
<ref name="skarredghost">{{cite web|url=https://skarredghost.com/2023/11/27/varjo-xr-4-price-resolution/|title=Varjo announces XR-4 mixed reality headset with impressive resolution|publisher=The Ghost Howls|date=November 27, 2023|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
* Developer camera access
<ref name="auganix">{{cite web|url=https://www.auganix.org/xr-news-varjo-announces-new-xr-4-series-of-headsets/|title=Varjo announces new XR-4 series headsets|publisher=Auganix|date=November 2023|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
* Third-party tracking support
<ref name="varjo-xr4-product">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/products/xr-4/|title=Mixed Reality Headset for Professionals – Varjo XR-4 Series|publisher=Varjo|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
* Required for full XR capabilities
<ref name="varjo-secure">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/products/xr-4-secure-edition/|title=Mixed reality headset with TAA certification – Varjo XR-4 Secure Edition|publisher=Varjo|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
 
<ref name="varjo-autofocus">{{cite web|url=https://varjo.com/vr-lab/xr-4-features-explained-worlds-first-gaze-driven-xr-autofocus-camera-system/|title=XR-4 Features Explained: World's First Gaze-Driven XR Autofocus Camera System|publisher=Varjo|date=2023|access-date=June 3, 2025}}</ref>
== System Requirements ==
</references>
 
* NVIDIA RTX 4070 or higher recommended
* High-performance PC required
* Business/Enterprise use only
* Varjo organization account required
 
== Reception ==
 
'''Praise:'''
* Near-retinal 51 PPD resolution
* 50% wider field of view (120° × 105°)
* Inside-out tracking eliminates base stations
* 200 Hz eye tracking
* 4K per eye displays
* Lower price than XR-3 ($3,990 vs $6,495)
* Fiber-optic cable innovation
* DTS 3D spatial audio
* Professional build quality
* LiDAR depth sensing
 
'''Criticism:'''
* Still expensive at $3,990+
* $2,500/year subscription for full features
* Passthrough quality disappointing vs claims
* Enterprise-only—no consumer use
* Requires high-end PC
* Requires organizational account
* Some features locked behind subscription<ref name="cnbc">{{cite web |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/27/finnish-startup-varjo-launches-3990-xr-4-mixed-reality-headset.html |title=Finnish startup Varjo launches $3,990 XR-4 mixed reality headset |publisher=CNBC |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
 
<ref name="venturebeat">{{cite web |url=https://venturebeat.com/games/varjo-releases-high-end-xr-4-mixed-reality-headset-for-3990/ |title=Varjo releases high-end XR-4 mixed reality headset for $3,990 |publisher=VentureBeat |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
 
== See Also ==
* [[Varjo XR-4 Focal Edition]]
* [[Varjo XR-3]]
* [[Varjo VR-3]]
* [[Apple Vision Pro]]
* [[Meta Quest Pro]]
 
== References ==
{{reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:PC VR Headsets]]
[[Category:MR Headsets]]
[[Category:Enterprise VR]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Headsets]]
[[Category:Varjo]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality Headsets]]
[[Category:2023 in technology]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 2023]]
[[Category:Finnish brands]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]

Revision as of 15:04, 7 January 2026

Varjo XR-4
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR, Enterprise VR
Platform SteamVR, Varjo Base
Developer Varjo
Manufacturer Varjo
Release Date November 2023
Price $3,990 USD (XR-4), $9,990 USD (Focal Edition)
Website https://varjo.com/products/xr-4
Predecessor Varjo XR-3
System
Storage
Display
Display 2× 4K Mini-LED LCD
Resolution 3840×3744 per eye
Refresh Rate 90 Hz
Image
Field of View 120° × 105°
Optics
Optics Aspheric lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range Automatic adjustment
Passthrough Color (dual 20MP cameras)
Tracking
Tracking Inside-out 6DoF
Eye Tracking Yes (200 Hz)
Hand Tracking Yes
Audio
Audio DTS 3D spatial audio, noise-canceling mics
Connectivity
Connectivity Fiber-optic cable, USB-C
Device
Weight ~600g


The Varjo XR-4 is a professional mixed reality head-mounted display developed by Varjo, released in November 2023. The headset features crystal-clear 4K-per-eye mini-LED displays with 51 pixels per degree, 120° × 105° field of view (50% wider than predecessors), 200 Hz eye tracking, and 300 kpix LiDAR for advanced mixed reality. The XR-4 uses inside-out tracking and a fiber-optic cable for ultra-low latency. Priced at $3,990 (down from $6,495 for XR-3), it targets enterprise applications in training, simulation, and design visualization.

History and Development

Varjo announced the XR-4 in November 2023 as a significant upgrade to the Varjo XR-3, offering dramatically wider field of view, inside-out tracking (eliminating external base stations), and lower pricing. The headset marked Varjo's transition from dual-display (micro-OLED + LCD) systems to unified 4K mini-LED panels while maintaining near-retinal resolution.[1]

The XR-4 series includes three variants: the standard XR-4 for VR training, the Focal Edition with autofocus passthrough cameras, and the Secure Edition for classified government environments.[2]

Design and Hardware

Display

The XR-4 features advanced mini-LED technology:

  • Dual 4K mini-LED LCD displays
  • 3840×3744 resolution per eye
  • 51 pixels per degree (PPD)—near retinal resolution
  • 90 Hz refresh rate
  • 120° × 105° field of view: 50% wider than XR-3
  • 200 nits brightness (double previous generation)
  • 1:10,000 contrast ratio with local dimming
  • 96% DCI-P3 color gamut
  • Full binocular range vision
  • Day and night scenario support

Eye Tracking

Industry-leading eye tracking system:

  • 200 Hz eye tracking frequency
  • 300 kpix LiDAR camera
  • Highly accurate gaze tracking
  • Smooth eye movement capture
  • Enables foveated rendering
  • Automatic IPD adjustment

Passthrough and Mixed Reality

Advanced mixed reality capabilities:

  • Dual 20-megapixel color cameras
  • Industry-leading passthrough clarity
  • Real-world instruments blend with virtual content
  • LiDAR-enhanced depth sensing
  • Chroma key support (requires Varjo Base Pro)
  • Blend-control mask features

Connectivity

Premium fiber-optic connection:

  • Fiber-optic cable: Thinner, lighter than copper alternatives
  • More expensive than a Meta Quest 3 by itself
  • Extendable to long distances without repeaters
  • USB-C for power and data
  • Ultra-low latency transmission

Audio

  • DTS 3D spatial audio
  • Integrated speakers
  • Noise-canceling microphones
  • Voice communication support

Comfort

  • Automatic IPD adjustment
  • Glasses compatible
  • Designed for long-duration use
  • ~600g weight
  • Balanced weight distribution

Tracking

Inside-Out Tracking

Major change from previous Varjo headsets:

  • No external base stations required
  • Effortless setup and deployment
  • 6 Degrees of Freedom
  • Multiple camera array
  • Supports SteamVR ecosystem

Optional External Tracking

  • Compatible with SteamVR base stations (Varjo Base Pro required)
  • Third-party tracking systems supported
  • Enhanced accuracy for simulation

Model Variants

Varjo XR-4 ($3,990)

  • Standard model for VR training
  • Best-in-class visual fidelity
  • Inside-out tracking

Varjo XR-4 Focal Edition ($9,990)

  • Gaze-driven autofocus passthrough cameras
  • Enhanced mixed reality integration
  • Real-world object interaction

Varjo XR-4 Secure Edition

  • Fully TAA-compliant
  • Assembled in Finland
  • For classified/air-gapped environments
  • Government and defense applications

Software

Varjo Base (Free)

  • Basic VR functionality
  • SteamVR integration
  • Standard features

Varjo Base Pro ($2,500/year)

  • Advanced mixed reality features
  • Chroma key
  • Blend-control mask
  • Developer camera access
  • Third-party tracking support
  • Required for full XR capabilities

System Requirements

  • NVIDIA RTX 4070 or higher recommended
  • High-performance PC required
  • Business/Enterprise use only
  • Varjo organization account required

Reception

Praise:

  • Near-retinal 51 PPD resolution
  • 50% wider field of view (120° × 105°)
  • Inside-out tracking eliminates base stations
  • 200 Hz eye tracking
  • 4K per eye displays
  • Lower price than XR-3 ($3,990 vs $6,495)
  • Fiber-optic cable innovation
  • DTS 3D spatial audio
  • Professional build quality
  • LiDAR depth sensing

Criticism:

  • Still expensive at $3,990+
  • $2,500/year subscription for full features
  • Passthrough quality disappointing vs claims
  • Enterprise-only—no consumer use
  • Requires high-end PC
  • Requires organizational account
  • Some features locked behind subscription[3]

[4]

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Varjo XR-4: Stunning VR With Disappointing Passthrough". UploadVR. https://www.uploadvr.com/varjo-xr-4-hands-on/.
  2. ↑ "Mixed Reality Headset for Professionals – Varjo XR-4 Series". Varjo. https://varjo.com/products/xr-4.
  3. ↑ "Finnish startup Varjo launches $3,990 XR-4 mixed reality headset". CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/27/finnish-startup-varjo-launches-3990-xr-4-mixed-reality-headset.html.
  4. ↑ "Varjo releases high-end XR-4 mixed reality headset for $3,990". VentureBeat. https://venturebeat.com/games/varjo-releases-high-end-xr-4-mixed-reality-headset-for-3990/.
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