Is this the Next Level VR? | Pimax Crystal Light Review

Setup and hardware

The Pimax Crystal Light is a PC VR headset that uses four ultra-wide cameras built into the front of the headset for inside-out tracking. It does not require the mechanical light boxes used by Pat’s older HTC Vive. The package includes the headset, controllers, power adapter, USB cables and the main cable to connect it to a PC.

The headset works with SteamVR, while Pimax software manages settings, updates, a game store and a VR menu. Pat reported that setup was straightforward, with no connectivity problems during testing. The headset is wired, and the supplied cable is 5 metres long.

Resolution and viewing experience

Each eye has a resolution of 2,888 by 2,888 pixels using QLED panels with local dimming. The lenses are aspheric, with a large central sweet spot. The headset provides 35 pixels per degree and a stated horizontal field of view of 115 degrees, compared with 98 degrees on Pat’s original Vive.

Refresh rates are available at 60Hz, 72Hz, 90Hz and 120Hz. Pat found the higher refresh rate made movement feel smooth and lifelike, provided the computer could handle it. The headset also produced a detailed image in games including Half-Life: Alyx, No Man’s Sky, Elite Dangerous and Microsoft Flight Simulator.

The Crystal Light does not include eye tracking or dynamic foveated rendering. Instead, its fixed foveated rendering remains centred on the headset, rather than following the user’s eye movement. Pat found this took some time to adjust to, but became acceptable with use. Looking around with the eyes can also reduce clarity away from the central area, encouraging the user to turn their head towards an object.

Comfort and controllers

The wide head strap helps balance the headset’s weight, while the face cushion was described as comfortable during long sessions. Its snug fit reduced light bleed, although Pat noted that users with larger heads may find the fit more restrictive. Warm gaming sessions could also cause the lenses to fog.

The controllers are light and functional, but their build quality does not match the headset. Pat described the triggers as mushy and the buttons as plasticky. They include touch sensors on the X buttons and triggers, although the lack of a strap was noted as a limitation.

Tracking and cable limitations

Pat experienced occasional tracking losses, where the VR image froze for a second or two. He was not certain whether this was caused by the PC or software, but said it happened often enough to be noticeable. Tracking also became unreliable when controllers moved behind the front-facing cameras, making activities such as drawing a bow more difficult.

The room needs to be well lit, as dark or shiny surroundings can make tracking worse. The thick cable is another compromise. It can pull on the headset and add strain during active games, although the wired connection enables high resolution, low latency and high refresh rates.

Who is it for?

At $1,399, the Crystal Light was not presented as a headset for first-time VR users. Its strengths suit people who spend long periods in flight, driving, trucking and racing simulators, as well as users who want to watch films on a large virtual screen. The combination of resolution, comfort, speakers and local dimming was particularly effective for virtual cinema.