Pimax Vision 8K+
The Pimax Vision 8K+ (also written as Pimax Vision 8K Plus) is a virtual reality head-mounted display developed by Pimax. Released in 2019, the Vision 8K+ features dual 4K displays with 200-degree diagonal field of view and 110 Hz refresh rate, positioning it as one of the highest resolution wide-FOV consumer VR headsets available.[1]
| Pimax Vision 8K+ | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Virtual Reality |
| Type | Head-mounted display |
| Subtype | PC VR |
| Platform | PC, SteamVR |
| Creator | Pimax |
| Website | https://pimax.com |
| System | |
| CPU | High-end gaming PC recommended |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 1080 Ti+ recommended |
| Storage | |
| Display | |
| Display | 2 x CLPL LCD (upscaled to 4K) |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 per eye (upscaled from 2560 x 1440) |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | 6DoF (SteamVR 1.0/2.0) |
| Audio | |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | DisplayPort |
| Ports | DisplayPort, USB |
| Device | |
| Weight | 500g |
| Input | SteamVR controllers compatible |
History and Development
Pimax and Wide FOV
Pimax has pioneered ultra-wide field of view VR headsets, consistently pushing the boundaries of peripheral vision in consumer VR. The Vision 8K+ represents an evolution of their wide-FOV design philosophy.
Vision Series
The Vision 8K+ is part of Pimax's Vision series, which features improved ergonomics and comfort compared to earlier Pimax headsets.
Design and Hardware
Display System
The Vision 8K+ features a unique upscaling approach:
- Panel Resolution: 3840 x 2160 per eye (4K)
- Rendered Resolution: 2560 x 1440 per eye (upscaled to 4K)
- Display Technology: CLPL (Customized Low Persistence Liquid Crystal)
- Subpixels: Up to 50% more subpixels than standard RGB panels
The upscaling approach virtually eliminates the screen door effect while reducing GPU requirements compared to native 4K rendering.[2]
Field of View
The Vision 8K+ offers the ultra-wide field of view that Pimax is known for:
- Advertised: 200° diagonal
- Effective: 154° (VRcompare measurement)
- Comparison: Valve Index offers up to 130°
This FOV rivals human natural vision and provides unmatched peripheral awareness in VR.
Refresh Rate
- Maximum: 110 Hz
- Smooth motion: High refresh rate reduces motion sickness and improves tracking response
Weight and Comfort
- Weight: 500 grams
- Design: New ergonomic design with comfort enhancements over previous Pimax models
Tracking
The Vision 8K+ supports full 6DoF tracking via SteamVR:
- SteamVR Lighthouse 1.0 compatible
- SteamVR Lighthouse 2.0 compatible
Known Characteristics
Ultra-Wide Optics
The ultra-wide lenses can introduce some distortion at the outer edges of the field of view, which is a characteristic of Pimax's wide-FOV design. Software calibration tools help minimize this effect.
Enthusiast Focus
The Vision 8K+ is optimized for VR enthusiasts who value maximum immersion and are comfortable with the calibration process required to optimize the wide-FOV experience.
Comparison: 8K+ vs 8KX
| Feature | Vision 8K+ | Vision 8KX |
|---|---|---|
| Rendering | Upscaled to 4K | Native 4K |
| Input Resolution | 2560 x 1440 | 3840 x 2160 |
| GPU Requirements | Moderate | High |
| Refresh Rate | 110 Hz | 75 Hz (native), 90 Hz |
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display Type | 2 x CLPL LCD |
| Panel Resolution | 3840 x 2160 per eye |
| Render Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (upscaled) |
| Refresh Rate | 110 Hz |
| Field of View | 154°-200° diagonal |
| Tracking | 6DoF (SteamVR) |
| Weight | 500g |
| IPD | Hardware adjustable |