Pimax, while not a true 8K VR headset, offers the first VR headset with support for 4K resolution and a surprisingly large field of view (FOV). This new device’s performance features deliver a stunning display, exceptional immersion, and outperforms Oculus and Vive in many aspects.
1. What is the maximum resolution supported by the Pimax VR headset?
2. What is the field of view (FOV) provided by the Pimax VR headset?
3. What is the refresh rate of the Pimax VR headset?
4. When will the Pimax headset be available in the market, and what is its price?
4K Resolution and Full Field of View
The Pimax VR headset boasts two screens, one for each eye, each equipped with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This high resolution significantly surpasses the 1080 x 1200-pixel resolution of Oculus and HTC Vive, as well as the maximum 1920 x 1080-pixel resolution of the PlayStation VR headset.
However, despite being marketed as an 8K VR headset, it’s important to note that each eye sees a 4K resolution picture. This means that the effective resolution is no greater than 4K. It’s like watching a movie on a 4K HDTV and then extending your display across three additional 4K HDTVs, which doesn’t increase the resolution beyond 4K.
The real standout feature of the Pimax VR headset is its exceptionally wide field of view (FOV) of about 200 degrees, which is roughly twice as wide as the FOV offered by traditional VR headset manufacturers. The screen can cover a man’s entire view with an angle that approaches 240 degrees. This large FOV provides an unparalleled VR experience that outshines its competitors. The headset’s large 53mm lenses deliver a clear, immersive image while minimizing eye strain.
One downside of this VR headset is its limited refresh rate. The Pimax VR headset operates at a refresh rate of only 60 Hz, whereas its competitors offer higher refresh rates, often up to 90 Hz. Even the Samsung Gear VR supports a higher refresh rate. With such a lower refresh rate, picture dynamics may not be as smooth as with headsets offering higher refresh rates.
The Pimax VR headset also comes equipped with a built-in gyroscope, magnetometer, distance sensor, movement sensor, and lighting. The Pimax package includes two controllers, two tracker positions, and a stand. The headset’s total weight is nearly half a kilogram, which is slightly heavier than the Oculus but significantly lighter than the HTC Vive and PlayStation VR. It’s compatible with a wide range of VR streaming applications.
Promising, But Not Without Drawbacks
The demands for processing power to display a parallel image at 4K resolution with a 60 Hz refresh rate are substantial. Pimax is well-equipped to handle these demands. The price for the Pimax VR headset is approximately $370, though it may vary over time. While the release date for the Pimax VR headset has not been officially disclosed, it’s expected that the company will start shipping in February of this year.