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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Pimax 5K Plus
|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 = [[PC]], [[SteamVR]], [[Oculus Platform]]
|Platform = [[SteamVR]], [[Pimax Experience]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Creator = [[Pimax]]
|Announced = 2018
|Developer = [[Pimax]]
|Release = 2018
|Manufacturer = [[Pimax]]
|Price = $699
|Announcement Date = September 2018
|Website = https://www.pimax.com
|Release Date = November 2018
|OS = Windows
|Price = $699 (headset only)
|CPU = Intel i5-4590+ (rec)
|Website = https://pimax.com/
|GPU = NVIDIA GTX 1070+ (rec)
|Versions = Pimax 5K Plus, Pimax 5K Super, Pimax 5K XR
|Storage =
|Requires = Gaming PC, SteamVR Tracking
|RAM = 8 GB+ (rec)
|Predecessor = [[Pimax 4K]]
|Display = 2 x CLPL LCD
|Successor = [[Pimax 8K X]]
|Resolution = 5120 x 1440 (2560 x 1440 per eye)
|Operating System = [[Windows]]
|Refresh = 90/120/144 Hz
|Chipset = N/A (tethered PCVR)
|Brightness =
|CPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|FOV = 200° (diagonal) / 150° (horizontal)
|GPU = N/A (PC-powered)
|PPD =
|HPU =
|Lenses = Fresnel
|Storage = N/A
|IPD = Adjustable (hardware + software)
|Memory = N/A
|Eye Tracking =
|SD Card Slot = No
|Hand Tracking =
|Display = Dual LCD (CLPL)
|Tracking = 6DoF (SteamVR Lighthouse)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Spatial Mapping =
|Peak Brightness = ~100 nits
|Speakers = Built-in headphones
|Resolution = 2560 × 1440 per eye (5120 × 1440 combined)
|Microphone =
|Pixel Density = ~15 PPD (center)
|Audio Jack = 3.5mm
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Ports = DisplayPort, USB
|Field of View = 200° (diagonal), 170° (horizontal)
|Battery =
|Horizontal FoV = 150°-170° (adjustable)
|Weight =
|Vertical FoV = ~115°
|Materials =
|Average Pixel Density = ~12 PPD
|Colors = Blue/Black
|Peak Pixel Density = ~15 PPD
|Sensors = SteamVR tracking sensors
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Input = SteamVR controllers
|Optics = Custom aspherical lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = 60-75mm (mechanical adjustment)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR/Lighthouse)
|Tracking Frequency = 1000Hz (base stations)
|Base Stations = Required (sold separately)
|Eye Tracking = Optional (Droolon module)
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Optional (Leap Motion compatible)
|Body Tracking = Via VIVE Trackers
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = Up to 144Hz
|Tracking Volume = Lighthouse 1.0/2.0 supported
|Play Space = Roomscale
|Latency = <25ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = No built-in (MAS/DMAS upgrades available)
|Microphone = No (without audio strap)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = No
|Connectivity = DisplayPort 1.4, USB 2.0
|Ports = DisplayPort 1.4, USB, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (DisplayPort)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = USB powered
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~260mm × 140mm × 130mm
|Weight = ~470g (headset only)
|Material = Plastic
|Headstrap = Modular (basic strap, MAS, DMAS, KDMAS)
|Haptics = Controller haptics (via SteamVR controllers)
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Lighthouse tracking photodiodes, IMU
|Input = SteamVR controllers (Valve Index, VIVE), Pimax controllers
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Pimax 5K Plus''' (also written as 5K+) is a wide field-of-view [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]]. Released in 2018 alongside the Pimax 8K from the same Kickstarter campaign, the 5K Plus features dual CLPL (Customized Low Persistence Liquid) LCD displays at 2560 x 1440 per eye, an industry-leading 200-degree diagonal field of view (150° horizontal), and refresh rates up to 144 Hz. The 5K Plus offers native resolution input without upscaling, resulting in sharper visuals than the 8K model.<ref name="pimax">{{cite web|url=https://pimax.com/product/pimax-5k-plus/|title=Pimax 5K Plus|publisher=Pimax}}</ref>
The '''Pimax 5K Plus''' (also styled as 5K+) is a high-end [[PC VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Pimax]], announced in September 2018 and released in November 2018 at a price of $699 for the headset only. The 5K Plus was born from Pimax's highly successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $4.2 million, promising to deliver ultra-wide field of view VR at an accessible price. Featuring dual LCD displays at 2560 × 1440 per eye with RGB stripe subpixels and Pimax's signature 200° diagonal field of view (approximately 170° horizontal)—far exceeding the ~110° of competitors—the 5K Plus became the enthusiast's choice for flight and racing simulation where peripheral vision is crucial. Supporting up to 144Hz refresh rate and SteamVR Lighthouse tracking, the 5K Plus offered a compelling alternative to standard FOV headsets at a price below the HTC Vive Pro.


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


=== Kickstarter Origins ===
=== Kickstarter Success ===
The 5K Plus emerged from the same successful Kickstarter campaign as the Pimax 8K, which raised $4.2 million.
2017 campaign:
* Over $4.2 million raised
* World's widest FOV promise
* 8K and 5K variants
* Strong backer interest


=== 2018 Release ===
=== 5K Evolution ===
Shipped to backers and became commercially available in 2018.
Design iteration:
* Original 5K scrapped
* 5K Plus replaced it
* RGB stripe vs PenTile
* Better text legibility


=== Native Resolution Advantage ===
=== Backer Fulfillment ===
Many users preferred the 5K+ over the 8K due to native resolution without upscaling.
Delivery timeline:
* Initial delays common
* November 2018 shipping began
* Backer units prioritized
* All backers fulfilled by July 2019


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Retail Availability ===
Post-backer sales:
* $699 retail price
* Competitive with Vive Pro
* Wider FOV advantage
* Enthusiast market


=== Display System ===
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Display Type:''' CLPL (Customized Low Persistence Liquid) LCD
* '''Resolution:''' 2560 x 1440 per eye (5120 x 1440 total)
* '''Refresh Rate:''' 90 Hz / 120 Hz / 144 Hz
* '''Native Input:''' No upscaling required


=== Field of View ===
=== Maximum Field of View ===
* '''Diagonal:''' 200 degrees
Core differentiator:
* '''Horizontal:''' ~150 degrees
* 200° diagonal claimed
* Close to human maximum FOV of 220°
* 170° horizontal practical
* Significantly wider than 110° competitors
* Peripheral vision included
* Immersion priority


=== Physical Size ===
=== Canted Displays ===
* '''Width:''' 11.5 inches (29.21 cm)
Optical approach:
* '''Height:''' 3.75 inches (9.5 cm)
* Displays angled outward
* '''Depth:''' 4.5 inches maximum
* Extends horizontal FOV
* Largest VR headset in its class
* Unique geometry
* Trade-offs in rendering
 
=== RGB Stripe Display ===
5K Plus distinction:
* Full RGB subpixels
* Better text clarity
* Replaced original 5K
* User preference
 
=== Enthusiast Target ===
Market positioning:
* Sim racing community
* Flight simulation
* VR enthusiasts
* Early adopters
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Dual LCD Panels ===
CLPL displays:
* '''Resolution''': 2560 × 1440 per eye
* '''Total''': 5120 × 1440
* '''Type''': CLPL (Custom Low Persistence Liquid Crystal)
* '''Subpixels''': RGB stripe
 
=== Refresh Rate ===
High refresh options:
* 90Hz: Standard mode
* 120Hz: High refresh
* 144Hz: Maximum (reduced FOV)
* User selectable
 
=== RGB vs PenTile ===
Display arrangement:
* Full RGB for clarity
* Better text legibility
* Reduced screen door
* 5K Plus advantage
 
=== Visual Quality ===
Image characteristics:
* Wide peripheral view
* Good center clarity
* Some edge softness
* Trade-off for FOV
 
== Field of View ==
 
=== Ultra-Wide FOV ===
Pimax signature:
* '''Diagonal''': 200°
* '''Horizontal''': ~170° (Large mode)
* '''Vertical''': ~115°
* Near-human FOV
 
=== FOV Settings ===
Adjustable modes:
* '''Large''': ~170° horizontal
* '''Normal''': ~150° horizontal
* '''Small''': ~120° horizontal
* Performance trade-offs
 
=== FOV Impact ===
User experience:
* Peripheral vision immersion
* Sim racing advantage
* Flight sim peripheral awareness
* More present feeling
 
=== Peripheral Distortion ===
Wide FOV challenges:
* Some edge distortion
* Software corrections
* Individual perception varies
* Improved over time
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Canted Display Geometry ===
Unique design:
* Displays angled outward
* Custom lens design
* Extended viewing area
* Complex rendering
 
=== Custom Lenses ===
Aspherical optics:
* Wide-angle coverage
* Good center clarity
* Some edge softness
* Typical for ultrawide


=== IPD Adjustment ===
=== IPD Adjustment ===
* Hardware IPD adjustment dial
Physical lens movement:
* Software IPD fine-tuning
* '''Range''': 60-75mm
* Glasses-compatible design
* Mechanical adjustment
* Software offset available
* Wide accommodation


== Tracking ==
== Tracking System ==


=== SteamVR Lighthouse ===
=== SteamVR Lighthouse ===
* Compatible with SteamVR 1.0 base stations
External tracking:
* Compatible with SteamVR 2.0 base stations
* Base stations required
* 6 degrees of freedom
* Not included
* 1.0 and 2.0 compatible
* Sub-millimeter accuracy
* Sub-millimeter accuracy


=== Controller Compatibility ===
=== Base Station Requirements ===
* HTC Vive Controllers
Additional purchase:
* Valve Index Controllers
* Minimum 2 stations
* Any SteamVR-compatible controller
* Valve or HTC compatible
* Significant additional cost
* Standard SteamVR setup
 
=== Controller Options ===
SteamVR ecosystem:
* Valve Index controllers
* VIVE Wand controllers
* Pimax Sword controllers
* Full ecosystem access
 
== Audio ==
 
=== No Built-In Audio ===
Modular approach:
* 3.5mm jack only
* Headphones required
* Various upgrades available
* Weight savings
 
=== Audio Strap Options ===
Upgrades available:
* '''MAS''': Modular Audio Strap
* '''DMAS''': Deluxe Modular Audio Strap
* '''KDMAS''': Premium off-ear audio
* Improved comfort with audio
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Distinctive Shape ===
Recognizable form:
* Wide angular design
* Large front housing
* Unique appearance
* Function over form
 
=== Weight ===
Reasonable for features:
* ~470g headset only
* Audio strap adds weight
* Comfortable for size
* Good distribution
 
=== Comfort ===
Extended use:
* Basic strap included
* Audio strap recommended
* Various face gaskets
* Individual fit varies
 
=== Materials ===
Construction:
* Plastic housing
* Adequate build quality
* Modular design
* Upgrade path
 
== PC Requirements ==
 
=== High-End Hardware ===
Demanding specifications:
* '''Recommended GPU''': GTX 1070 / RTX 2070+
* '''Minimum GPU''': GTX 1060
* '''CPU''': i5-4590 equivalent+
* '''RAM''': 8GB+
 
=== Performance Optimization ===
Managing demands:
* Parallel projection option
* Per-game profiles
* Resolution scaling
* FOV adjustment
 
=== Parallel Projection ===
Compatibility feature:
* Required for some games
* Performance impact
* Canted display compensation
* User configurable
 
== Software ==
 
=== PiTool ===
Original software:
* Device configuration
* Firmware updates
* Settings management
* Game profiles
 
=== Pimax Experience ===
Newer interface:
* Streamlined setup
* Automatic optimization
* User-friendly
* Continued development
 
=== SteamVR Integration ===
Platform support:
* Full SteamVR compatibility
* Steam library access
* OpenVR support
* Standard ecosystem
 
=== Content Compatibility ===
Platform access:
* SteamVR games
* Oculus (via Revive)
* PiHome
* Wide library
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Flight Simulation ===
Ideal application:
* Peripheral instrument view
* Wide situational awareness
* Cockpit immersion
* Community favorite
 
=== Racing Simulation ===
Sim racing benefits:
* Mirror visibility
* Peripheral awareness
* Track boundaries
* Competitive advantage


== Platform Compatibility ==
=== VR Enthusiasts ===
General use:
* Immersive experiences
* Exploration games
* Social VR
* Wide FOV preference


=== Multi-Platform Support ===
== Variants ==
* SteamVR
* Oculus Platform (via compatibility layer)
* PiHome (Pimax native)


== Refresh Rate Modes ==
=== Pimax 5K XR ===
OLED alternative:
* OLED panels
* Better blacks
* Same FOV
* Different trade-offs


{| class="wikitable"
=== Pimax 5K Super ===
|-
Later upgrade:
! Mode !! Refresh Rate !! Notes
* Up to 180Hz refresh
|-
* Same resolution
| Standard || 90 Hz || Default mode
* Improved performance
|-
* Premium option
| High || 120 Hz || Reduced FOV mode
|-
| Ultra || 144 Hz || Maximum fluidity
|}


== System Requirements ==
== Comparison with Competitors ==


=== Minimum ===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Component !! Requirement
! Feature !! Pimax 5K Plus !! HTC Vive Pro !! Valve Index
|-
| Price || $699 (HMD) || $799 (HMD) || $499 (HMD)
|-
|-
| GPU || NVIDIA GTX 1070 equivalent
| Resolution/eye || 2560×1440 || 1440×1600 || 1440×1600
|-
|-
| CPU || Intel i5-4590 equivalent
| FOV || ~170° || ~110° || ~130°
|-
|-
| RAM || 8 GB
| Refresh Rate || Up to 144Hz || 90Hz || Up to 144Hz
|-
|-
| Ports || DisplayPort 1.4, USB 2.0/3.0
| Audio || None || Integrated || Integrated
|-
|-
| OS || Windows 8.1 / 10
| Tracking || Lighthouse || Lighthouse || Lighthouse
|}
|}


=== Recommended ===
== Strengths and Limitations ==
* NVIDIA RTX 2080+ for full FOV at high refresh rates
 
* Desktop PC preferred over laptop
=== Strengths ===
* Widest consumer FOV
* High refresh rates
* Competitive pricing
* SteamVR ecosystem
* RGB stripe displays
* Active community
 
=== Limitations ===
* Base stations not included
* No integrated audio
* Peripheral distortion
* Software maturity
* Support challenges


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


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 139: Line 429:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 2 x CLPL LCD
| Display || Dual LCD, 2560 × 1440 per eye
|-
| Total Resolution || 5120 × 1440 (5K)
|-
|-
| Resolution || 2560 x 1440 per eye
| FOV || ~170° horizontal (Large mode)
|-
|-
| Total Resolution || 5120 x 1440
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/144Hz
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90/120/144 Hz
| Subpixels || RGB stripe
|-
|-
| Field of View || 200° diagonal / 150° horizontal
| Tracking || SteamVR Lighthouse
|-
|-
| Tracking || SteamVR Lighthouse 1.0/2.0
| IPD || 60-75mm mechanical
|-
|-
| IPD || Hardware + software adjustable
| Audio || None (3.5mm jack)
|-
|-
| Audio || Built-in headphones
| Weight || ~470g
|-
|-
| Connection || DisplayPort 1.4 + USB
| GPU Requirement || GTX 1070+ recommended
|-
|-
| Price || $699
| Price || $699 (HMD only)
|}
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax]]
* [[Pimax 8K]]
* [[Pimax 8K X]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[Pimax Crystal]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[SteamVR]]
* [[Lighthouse Tracking]]
* [[Wide FOV VR]]
* [[Wide FOV VR]]
* [[PC VR]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 174: Line 468:
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:PC VR]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:SteamVR]]
[[Category:Wide FOV]]
[[Category:Wide FOV]]
[[Category:Pimax]]
[[Category:2010s VR]]
[[Category:2010s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:11, 8 January 2026

Pimax 5K Plus
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype PC VR
Platform SteamVR, Pimax Experience
Creator Pimax
Developer Pimax
Manufacturer Pimax
Announcement Date September 2018
Release Date November 2018
Price $699 (headset only)
Website https://pimax.com/
Versions Pimax 5K Plus, Pimax 5K Super, Pimax 5K XR
Requires Gaming PC, SteamVR Tracking
Predecessor Pimax 4K
Successor Pimax 8K X
System
Operating System Windows
Chipset N/A (tethered PCVR)
CPU N/A (PC-powered)
GPU N/A (PC-powered)
Storage
Storage N/A
Memory N/A
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Dual LCD (CLPL)
Subpixel Layout RGB stripe
Peak Brightness ~100 nits
Resolution 2560 × 1440 per eye (5120 × 1440 combined)
Pixel Density ~15 PPD (center)
Refresh Rate 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz
Persistence Low persistence
Image
Field of View 200° (diagonal), 170° (horizontal)
Horizontal FoV 150°-170° (adjustable)
Vertical FoV ~115°
Average Pixel Density ~12 PPD
Peak Pixel Density ~15 PPD
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics Custom aspherical lenses
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range 60-75mm (mechanical adjustment)
Adjustable Diopter No (glasses compatible)
Passthrough No
Tracking
Tracking 6DoF outside-in (SteamVR/Lighthouse)
Tracking Frequency 1000Hz (base stations)
Base Stations Required (sold separately)
Eye Tracking Optional (Droolon module)
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking Optional (Leap Motion compatible)
Body Tracking Via VIVE Trackers
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking Yes
Update Rate Up to 144Hz
Tracking Volume Lighthouse 1.0/2.0 supported
Play Space Roomscale
Latency <25ms motion-to-photon
Audio
Audio No built-in (MAS/DMAS upgrades available)
Microphone No (without audio strap)
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes
Camera No
Connectivity
Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4, USB 2.0
Ports DisplayPort 1.4, USB, 3.5mm audio
Wired Video Yes (DisplayPort)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth No
Power USB powered
Battery Capacity N/A
Battery Life N/A (tethered)
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions ~260mm × 140mm × 130mm
Weight ~470g (headset only)
Material Plastic
Headstrap Modular (basic strap, MAS, DMAS, KDMAS)
Haptics Controller haptics (via SteamVR controllers)
Color Black
Sensors Lighthouse tracking photodiodes, IMU
Input SteamVR controllers (Valve Index, VIVE), Pimax controllers
Compliance FCC, CE

Property "Latency" (as page type) with input value "" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


The Pimax 5K Plus (also styled as 5K+) is a high-end PC VR head-mounted display developed by Pimax, announced in September 2018 and released in November 2018 at a price of $699 for the headset only. The 5K Plus was born from Pimax's highly successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $4.2 million, promising to deliver ultra-wide field of view VR at an accessible price. Featuring dual LCD displays at 2560 × 1440 per eye with RGB stripe subpixels and Pimax's signature 200° diagonal field of view (approximately 170° horizontal)—far exceeding the ~110° of competitors—the 5K Plus became the enthusiast's choice for flight and racing simulation where peripheral vision is crucial. Supporting up to 144Hz refresh rate and SteamVR Lighthouse tracking, the 5K Plus offered a compelling alternative to standard FOV headsets at a price below the HTC Vive Pro.

History and Development

Kickstarter Success

2017 campaign:

  • Over $4.2 million raised
  • World's widest FOV promise
  • 8K and 5K variants
  • Strong backer interest

5K Evolution

Design iteration:

  • Original 5K scrapped
  • 5K Plus replaced it
  • RGB stripe vs PenTile
  • Better text legibility

Backer Fulfillment

Delivery timeline:

  • Initial delays common
  • November 2018 shipping began
  • Backer units prioritized
  • All backers fulfilled by July 2019

Retail Availability

Post-backer sales:

  • $699 retail price
  • Competitive with Vive Pro
  • Wider FOV advantage
  • Enthusiast market

Design Philosophy

Maximum Field of View

Core differentiator:

  • 200° diagonal claimed
  • 170° horizontal practical
  • Peripheral vision included
  • Immersion priority

Canted Displays

Optical approach:

  • Displays angled outward
  • Extends horizontal FOV
  • Unique geometry
  • Trade-offs in rendering

RGB Stripe Display

5K Plus distinction:

  • Full RGB subpixels
  • Better text clarity
  • Replaced original 5K
  • User preference

Enthusiast Target

Market positioning:

  • Sim racing community
  • Flight simulation
  • VR enthusiasts
  • Early adopters

Display Technology

Dual LCD Panels

CLPL displays:

  • Resolution: 2560 × 1440 per eye
  • Total: 5120 × 1440
  • Type: CLPL (Custom Low Persistence Liquid Crystal)
  • Subpixels: RGB stripe

Refresh Rate

High refresh options:

  • 90Hz: Standard mode
  • 120Hz: High refresh
  • 144Hz: Maximum (reduced FOV)
  • User selectable

RGB vs PenTile

Display arrangement:

  • Full RGB for clarity
  • Better text legibility
  • Reduced screen door
  • 5K Plus advantage

Visual Quality

Image characteristics:

  • Wide peripheral view
  • Good center clarity
  • Some edge softness
  • Trade-off for FOV

Field of View

Ultra-Wide FOV

Pimax signature:

  • Diagonal: 200°
  • Horizontal: ~170° (Large mode)
  • Vertical: ~115°
  • Near-human FOV

FOV Settings

Adjustable modes:

  • Large: ~170° horizontal
  • Normal: ~150° horizontal
  • Small: ~120° horizontal
  • Performance trade-offs

FOV Impact

User experience:

  • Peripheral vision immersion
  • Sim racing advantage
  • Flight sim peripheral awareness
  • More present feeling

Peripheral Distortion

Wide FOV challenges:

  • Some edge distortion
  • Software corrections
  • Individual perception varies
  • Improved over time

Optical System

Canted Display Geometry

Unique design:

  • Displays angled outward
  • Custom lens design
  • Extended viewing area
  • Complex rendering

Custom Lenses

Aspherical optics:

  • Wide-angle coverage
  • Good center clarity
  • Some edge softness
  • Typical for ultrawide

IPD Adjustment

Physical lens movement:

  • Range: 60-75mm
  • Mechanical adjustment
  • Software offset available
  • Wide accommodation

Tracking System

SteamVR Lighthouse

External tracking:

  • Base stations required
  • Not included
  • 1.0 and 2.0 compatible
  • Sub-millimeter accuracy

Base Station Requirements

Additional purchase:

  • Minimum 2 stations
  • Valve or HTC compatible
  • Significant additional cost
  • Standard SteamVR setup

Controller Options

SteamVR ecosystem:

  • Valve Index controllers
  • VIVE Wand controllers
  • Pimax Sword controllers
  • Full ecosystem access

Audio

No Built-In Audio

Modular approach:

  • 3.5mm jack only
  • Headphones required
  • Various upgrades available
  • Weight savings

Audio Strap Options

Upgrades available:

  • MAS: Modular Audio Strap
  • DMAS: Deluxe Modular Audio Strap
  • KDMAS: Premium off-ear audio
  • Improved comfort with audio

Physical Design

Distinctive Shape

Recognizable form:

  • Wide angular design
  • Large front housing
  • Unique appearance
  • Function over form

Weight

Reasonable for features:

  • ~470g headset only
  • Audio strap adds weight
  • Comfortable for size
  • Good distribution

Comfort

Extended use:

  • Basic strap included
  • Audio strap recommended
  • Various face gaskets
  • Individual fit varies

Materials

Construction:

  • Plastic housing
  • Adequate build quality
  • Modular design
  • Upgrade path

PC Requirements

High-End Hardware

Demanding specifications:

  • Recommended GPU: GTX 1070 / RTX 2070+
  • Minimum GPU: GTX 1060
  • CPU: i5-4590 equivalent+
  • RAM: 8GB+

Performance Optimization

Managing demands:

  • Parallel projection option
  • Per-game profiles
  • Resolution scaling
  • FOV adjustment

Parallel Projection

Compatibility feature:

  • Required for some games
  • Performance impact
  • Canted display compensation
  • User configurable

Software

PiTool

Original software:

  • Device configuration
  • Firmware updates
  • Settings management
  • Game profiles

Pimax Experience

Newer interface:

  • Streamlined setup
  • Automatic optimization
  • User-friendly
  • Continued development

SteamVR Integration

Platform support:

  • Full SteamVR compatibility
  • Steam library access
  • OpenVR support
  • Standard ecosystem

Content Compatibility

Platform access:

  • SteamVR games
  • Oculus (via Revive)
  • PiHome
  • Wide library

Use Cases

Flight Simulation

Ideal application:

  • Peripheral instrument view
  • Wide situational awareness
  • Cockpit immersion
  • Community favorite

Racing Simulation

Sim racing benefits:

  • Mirror visibility
  • Peripheral awareness
  • Track boundaries
  • Competitive advantage

VR Enthusiasts

General use:

  • Immersive experiences
  • Exploration games
  • Social VR
  • Wide FOV preference

Variants

Pimax 5K XR

OLED alternative:

  • OLED panels
  • Better blacks
  • Same FOV
  • Different trade-offs

Pimax 5K Super

Later upgrade:

  • Up to 180Hz refresh
  • Same resolution
  • Improved performance
  • Premium option

Comparison with Competitors

Feature Pimax 5K Plus HTC Vive Pro Valve Index
Price $699 (HMD) $799 (HMD) $499 (HMD)
Resolution/eye 2560×1440 1440×1600 1440×1600
FOV ~170° ~110° ~130°
Refresh Rate Up to 144Hz 90Hz Up to 144Hz
Audio None Integrated Integrated
Tracking Lighthouse Lighthouse Lighthouse

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths

  • Widest consumer FOV
  • High refresh rates
  • Competitive pricing
  • SteamVR ecosystem
  • RGB stripe displays
  • Active community

Limitations

  • Base stations not included
  • No integrated audio
  • Peripheral distortion
  • Software maturity
  • Support challenges

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Dual LCD, 2560 × 1440 per eye
Total Resolution 5120 × 1440 (5K)
FOV ~170° horizontal (Large mode)
Refresh Rate 90/120/144Hz
Subpixels RGB stripe
Tracking SteamVR Lighthouse
IPD 60-75mm mechanical
Audio None (3.5mm jack)
Weight ~470g
GPU Requirement GTX 1070+ recommended
Price $699 (HMD only)

See Also

References

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