Pimax Crystal Super: High-res VR headset with foveated rendering and local dimming now orderable

The Pimax Crystal Super is now available for preorder in two different variants. There's a model with a 120-degree field of view and another with a 135-degree horizontal field of view, both have a resolution of 3840 x 3840 pixels per eye. While the version with the wider field of view is expected to start shipping on April 7th, the 120-degree SKU is slated to be delivered in the second quarter of 2025.

The total price for this new VR headset is $1,791, which consists of an upfront payment of $999 and a two-year Pimax Prime subscription for $32.99 per month. Alternatively, a one-time payment of the remaining balance can be made. After that, the Crystal Super can be used without any subscription.

In terms of specifications, the headset boasts a variable refresh rate of 72 and 90Hz, which should result in smooth visuals at all times. The headset automatically adjust itself to interpupillary distances between 58 and 72 millimeters. Foveated rendering is supported, which is a technology that allows the headset to accurately track the user's eyes. This reduces load by only rendering the parts of the image which the eyes are focusing on in full resolution.

Pimax opted for QLED displays with mini-LED backlighting and local dimming, so the screen's brightness can be precisely adjusted in order to create higher contrasts. Two controllers are included and can be used to navigate in 3D space. However, the Crystal Super is a VR headset that has to be hooked up to a separate device and does not offer local rendering, and wireless image connections are not supported either. VR fans who prefer a standalone headset with local rendering might want to check out the Pico 4 Ultra instead.