Pimax is not only launching the most sophisticated VR headset on the market but is also making current models wireless with new technology.
Pimax is fully committed to its new top-tier VR headset, the Crystal Super. It introduces the first-ever interchangeable optical engine for both QLED and Micro-OLED. Simply put, it allows you to see much more and with finer details than the previous top model, the Pimax Crystal.
The Pimax Crystal is on our list of top VR headsets because of its impressive display quality. However, the Crystal Super is set to surpass it dramatically. In terms of pixel count, the Crystal Super will boost the total from 16.6 million to 29.6 million.
Instead of having to choose between QLED or Micro-OLED, Pimax has developed a method to swap display engines easily. This modular design lets you change the panel types just like changing the battery in the basic Crystal headset.
The Micro-OLED display features pancake lenses, a maximum refresh rate of 90Hz, and 4K resolution. On the other hand, the QLED uses glass aspheric lenses and supports up to 120Hz, with a huge resolution of 3840p.
The Pimax Crystal Super no longer includes the standalone mode, which didn’t impress us in the Crystal, so Pimax can focus completely on PCVR. Also, the headset is lighter, which makes it more comfortable, allows for longer use, and lessens the chance of repetitive strain injuries.
The commitment to a huge field of view, no ghosting or glare, and a large visual sweet spot will be challenging to meet, but Pimax always aims high with its technology goals. If it succeeds, this will be great for VR as a hobby.
It should be mentioned that this headset is not designed for casual VR gamers. This is mainly due to its cost, which I will discuss soon, but also because it requires a very powerful gaming PC to perform best. The original Crystal model needs at least an Nvidia RTX 3080, though the minimum requirement is an RTX 2070.
If you choose to buy the Pimax Crystal Super with both display engines, the price is $2,399. The QLED version is priced at $1,799, while the micro-OLED version costs $1,999. They plan to start shipping in the fourth quarter of 2024.
During the presentation, they also revealed the Pimax Crystal Airlink, a wireless adapter that makes the basic Pimax Crystal headset wireless. It uses a strong battery and eliminates the cable required for PCVR gaming. This adapter will be priced at $299, with shipping set for sometime in 2024.
If this announcement excites you about starting with VR, take a look at our Meta Quest 3 review, and also explore the best VR games currently available for PC.
What we think?
The Pimax Crystal Super is going to change VR gaming a lot. It has super clear displays and lets you switch between two types, which is really cool. It’s also lighter and more comfy for long gaming sessions.
But, it’s expensive and needs a strong PC. If Pimax delivers on its promises, this headset will be awesome for serious gamers who want the best experience.