Pimax Crystal Pro: Uncompressed Wireless VR for $1,399

Pimax's uncompressed wireless approach could push the entire VR industry toward higher-fidelity streaming, directly challenging Valve's Steam Frame and raising expectations for wireless PCVR.

Pimax's uncompressed wireless approach could push the entire VR industry toward higher-fidelity streaming, directly challenging Valve's Steam Frame and raising expectations for wireless PCVR.

Key points - Pimax announced the Crystal Pro, a standalone VR headset with Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 and DisplayPort for lossless PCVR. - It uses a 60G AirLink for uncompressed wireless PCVR, requiring a $599 AirLink kit with two USB-C antennas. - Native foveated streaming uses 10 infrared emitters per eye polling at 120Hz to sharpen image quality. - The headset features 2880 x 2880 QLED panels per eye, 110° FOV, up to 120Hz refresh, and aspheric lenses. - Pimax also launched Spation, a desktop-class mini-PC for VR, and ringless controllers that snap into a gamepad.

Timeline - Announcement: Pimax unveils Crystal Pro VR headset, controllers, and Spation mini-PC. - Pricing: Crystal Pro priced at $1,399; $1,899 with 60G AirLink kit bundled. - Availability: No release date announced yet.

FAQ

Q: What makes the Crystal Pro's wireless different? A: It uses a 60G AirLink for uncompressed wireless PCVR, avoiding the image compression typical of other wireless headsets.

Q: Do I need the AirLink kit? A: The $599 AirLink kit adds two USB-C antennas to prevent signal blockages, but it's optional depending on your setup.

Q: Can I use it for flat-screen gaming? A: Yes, the ringless controllers snap together magnetically into a traditional gamepad for flat-screen gaming.