HP Reverb G2 does not use battery. If it is designed for flight sim without controllers, Pimax should not target an AIO VR headset at the beginning. In that case, the cost could be reduced and the selling price could be lower.
@@tyeh101 I'm sure they didn't need it for tracking. It's mainly for standalone mode, and (I suspect) to support wireless PCVR streaming when that option becomes available.
I knew Pimax Crystal is an AIO that aims too high. I rather Pimax focus on high end VR headset for PCVR first. Then buyers do t have to pay for the parts they won’t use.
Use Code "MRTV" for $20 discount: Order Pimax Crystal Sim: pimax.com/product/pimax-crystal-sim-limited-edtion/?ref=mrtv (Affiliate) Order Varjo Aero: tinyurl.com/varjo-aero (Affiliate) Order Bigscreen Beyond: bit.ly/3YtEm9x (Affiliate) Which of the three headsets is your favorite?
Good first step. The next step is to offer a combo deal on Crystal with the Lighthouse Tracking plate and the delete controllers option. This would be good for people who already have the lighthouse setup.
Just as am FYI, while we're waiting for Pimax to fix the audio latency problem, if you have a game where latency is an issue, be aware that you can plug wired USB headphones or earbuds into the bottom USB port, and this will eliminate the latency. Apparently, the issue is with audio over the display port, but audio over USB doesn't have this problem.
If you use earbuds for a more comfortable fit, get the JBL Quantum gaming TWS earbuds as they include a USB-C dongle, for 2.4GHz wireless low-latency audio instead of Bluetooth.
Hey, I was wondering if you know the answer to a few questions I have which Pimax says nothing about.. xD I'm assuming the Headset supports some sort of Stream VR Wireless Streaming to PC like the Quest Link, but it didn't say if you can use the wireless streaming using the StreamVR Tracking module. Basically looking for a Wireless StreamVR Headset with Eye Tracking that isn't the Quest and uses base stations. :3
I've been running an Aero for a couple of weeks. You only need one base station and no controllers if you are a simmer. I've been running it with a RTX 2080 ti and a RTX 3080 ti. With the 2080 I got around 40-45 fps playing IL2 wth a 35 PPD. The 3080 I got 50-55 fps, 39 PPD . Both were using Ultra with the other IL2 settings high. 32 gigs DDR5 I9-12900k not overclocked.
@@Lakedistrictrider I had been using a G2 for about two years and it indicated that my FOV was 94. With the Aero I get 97. Would I like for it to be wider, of course but it's not that big an issue for me. My main objective is visual acuity. If a person has a G2 don't expect a major increase. It's better and its noticeable but not by much. Do I regret buying it? No.
@@scratchsescape1978 Yeah the horizontal is fine, it's the vertical I was more concerned about. I play IL2 and need to see the skies above. If Varjo do an Aero 2 with better FOV and inside-out tracking then that would be the winner for me. The Aero is lighter, seems better designed and quality built, but that FOV and need for base stations lets it down.
Sorry Pimax, too late and too bad offer. I already pre-ordered my Varjo Aero with the price discount. I save up to 700€ compared to this offer and 1000€ compared to the normal one with controllers, which allows me to buy a Quest 3, a second hand Quest Pro or even full body tracking and index controllers.
They discounted it by $1000 because no one sane would buy it for $2000. You didn't "save" by buying the Aero. Its actual value is close to the current price given the competition like Crystal, Bigscreen.
@@algroyp3r I know, but who is going to pay 1000€ more for the Pimax just for having higher vertical FOV and wearing a 1.2 kg in his head? I would buy the Aero and use those 1000€ to get a Quest Pro. That's what I meant with my last message.
@@AlejandroLopez-wy2st It's not really $1000 more if you don't have base stations or don't need controllers. I'm really not happy with any choice but am considering the Crystal strongly. Also I need the neck workout to mog the local gym goers. Yes, it is cope.
I hope Pimax will get a much simplified version of Crystal out: No eyetracking, no standalone mode, no Qualcomm chips, and no batteries. Just pure QLED display and traditional style headset. It surely will go down to the sub $1000 level, and still have the best picture quality. This is what we actually need.
@@paulct91 Agreed! Its kind of like, "I'd love that pick-up truck if it just didn't have a bed, a hitch, or so-much-weight! In fact, if it was a car, it would be perfect." hehe
@@daviddahlstrom192 It's just at the current stage the extra features like mobile mode is actually liability. The QCOM chip adds tracking feature, but requires batteries to work, which is also a liability. Your example of pickup truck is also good here. It only needs the beds for work. It doesn't need GPS and auto-driving. It doesn't need fancy racing wheels. It just needs the essentials to work. Sadly right now Crystal is not in the right price range for most consumers. And there is no 8K screen upgrade in sight. 12k seems very very far away.
@@Thephilpw99 Uh, its the highest-end PCVR enthusiast headset on the market right now. So yes, you are absolutely right: it is not in the right price range for most customers. So if you're are an average customer, no, you will not want this headset; you'll want something in the mainstream consumer price range. Basically, you're shopping in the wrong store.
72hzmode is amazing for MSFS and this should be offered as standard by high-end HMDs, since such a big chunk of their target audience consists of simmers using sims that can't realistically hit 90fps even on the very best hardware money can buy.
@@exdorms if you can lock your fps at the same as your refresh rate it's smoother. In titles like DCS maintaining 90fps with all settings high is a challenge
@@exdorms yes obviously, because it's native. E.g. running 45 fps at 90hz is never perfectly smooth, ignoring the low absolute fps of course. It's not 100% consistent. 72fps@72hz is perfectly smooth, at least in flight sims it's definitely smooth enough. I've seen 72fps@72hz in the Quest Pro running MSFS and it's literally perfect, or at least unbelievably better than everything else currently possible for MSFS. Therefore all HMDs where a decent size of the demographic is simmers should offer this. Im quite annoyed the Varjo has neither a 72hz nor 120hz mode. With 120hz at least you can lock to 60fps.
Pimax off again with too many options!! No controllers seems a bit too restrictive. Most simmers are not so hardcore, they will also want to play other games. Make no batteries pcvr only version. Also DMAS should come as standard. Much more desirable
Many simmers want controllers and wireless for roomscale, and strongly prefer Quest ergonomics for that. Personally, while this is more tempting to me, I'll be waiting on Q3 reviews as I have *too* many headsets already.
I would recommend waiting for the Somnium VR1 since, while it will likely cost quite a bit more than Crystal, it will at least not come with the extras you don't want and so be better optimized for less hardcore simmers.
@@pondracek I have a Pico 4 which has in theory almost the same visuals as Q3. And let me tell you, there is loads to improve for sims. The resolution is good enough to enjoy the game, but definitely still lacking when looking at distance.
@@Lakedistrictrider Without the DMAS, definitely. With the DMAS installed, headphones such as my Sony MDR-V6s are a tight fit and not very comfortable (the DMAS speakers can't move far enough out of the way), so if you plan to use your own headphones I'd say just buy it without the DMAS, and save the $100. Since even without the DMAS, the headset still has integrated sound that you can still use if you're not in the mood to attach your headphones or playing something where sound quality isn't a priority.
All things considered, I don't think needing or not needing base stations will ever be a part of someones' calculations on cost. People in that realm are way more likely to already have them, now it's just a matter of which HMD provides the most user-friendly experience, comfort, etc. Audio seems to be the thing they are ALL lacking (Pimax version noted as not good already), as is the case for any headset that isn't the Index. Sure hope to see some solid comparisons in the future, since they are all within a relative price range!
When someone spend $1600 on a headset i think getting some base stations is not a big deal to get best tracking but they make it out as some sort of big feature to not have them on pimax and still costing more than other headset + base stations.
The elimination of basestations as a requirement to use the headset was our number 1 requested feature, and basestation necessity is the number one reason potential customer report not buying. @@Eskoxo
People have reported 1 (out of 4) bars dropping after ~6 hours use with the included USB hub. Napkin math suggests you'd only need to switch batteries in a > 24 hour endurance series if you were the only driver, and surely multiple of those pit stops would need to also be a chamberpot stop where you would have time to switch batteries if so.
You may wish to watch some Crystal users who have used it for 4+ hours with no issues and also, there are great reviews on the 'Apache Headset comfort strap. Take a look: th-cam.com/video/K5_g-QEUZLo/w-d-xo.html
I agree with you Sebastian, it is definitely NOT a "no-brainer", especially if you have a Valve ecosystem. Pimax price now almost 50% > Aero: Crystal €1,712.36* Aero - €1,188.00 (free shipping) (€524.36 difference! enough to get you a high-end HOTAS setup) * with Faceplate (additional €99.90) - of course, add the base stations price as well (didn't include them in the price as the Aero doesn't include them as well)
@@sirgriffinman even with base stations Aero costs less has higher quality and tracking is better not to mention all the software/quality control issues pimax continues to have.
The difference in USD is much smaller. $990 vs $1450. Pimax seem to have free shipping now. Base stations are like $300. This is extremely close. Aero has really unimpressive FOV, which puts me off the purchase. Pimax has unfinished features and history of issues. None of them are perfect, but I'd say its a very close call. With this sim edition, I'm very tempted to just buy it today, and return if it sucks.
Quest 3, Varjo Aero, Bigscreen Beyond or Pimax Crystal? RTX 4090 OC; Going to be using this heavily for MSFS Development. Not entirely sure which headset to go for. Crystal and Quest 3 are my biggest choices because I have no base stations. Bigscreen Beyond looks incredible but I don't really want to walk to an Apple Store to scan my face. Varjo Aero sounds really good, but every review I've seen said even at $990, the clarity of the Crystal and FOV is unmatched. So as odd as it sounds, I think I'm really down to the Crystal or the Quest 3. That said, nobody really has opinions on the Quest 3 yet with a direct comparison. I'm planning on purchasing one of these headsets today, just doing more and more research and reviews. Thanks for your review and any comments in response.
The Quest 3 will be the standard headset for millions for the next years. In my opinion you can't go wrong with it. It won't look as good as Crystal though, that I am sure even I have not looked through it yet!
Not sure if you bought something yet however I just got my pimax crystal today. Well in my opinion if you can afford it the crystal image rival's any high end monitor. I'm a dcs guy first vatsim second they are the only VR games I play. The image quality was amazing. I have the g2 as well and the only thing the g2 is better at out of the box is the audio. The speakers on the g2 are better. However the visual quality isnt even close. Not sure what system you have I have a 4080 and it looks fantastic. The eye tracking seemed to work great as well. As a sim guy that will not use it for anything other then dcs or vatsim I would highly recommend the crystal. I also have the upgraded speakers you can order but I have yet to put them on. I will probably do that tomorrow.
Great video Seb! I would say that most simmers will prefer the Crystal but for me it's not. I prefer the Beyond for my use case because I fly WW1. When it comes to dogfights in IL-2 Flying Circus I think the Beyond will be better because of rapid head movements. Like you mentioned in your video! So kudos! :)
@IvanFamanni thanks for all the great content we all need you to make a video for cristal on the ACC graphics settings of the primax of the various app toolkit and in game it would be great because the creators only always make content for flight simulators and no one good does simracing PLEASE
@@josegarrido1724 And I wish you could play it in VR with an Xbox controller, but they patched that out early on, unfortunately. For now, just scratch your itch with Elite:Dangerous (which works with controller just fine) and wait for the Quest 3 announcement later this week. That'll get you pancake lenses and controllers and wireless roomscale for about half the price of the Aero.
The Crystal (obviously, since you asked here). But, honestly, it really is about as good as that title gets in VR IMO (though its a shame that the PCVR version doesn't yet support DFR like PSVR does, so you'll need a high-end GPU to drive it)
@@pondracek Yeah, if flying in space is important to you, Elite Dangerous might be a better choice. Similar grind, but ED with a HOTAS is something else for space simmers.
Great to see manufacturers developing headsets with lower refresh rates for simmers. I've been flying DCS at 60hz in my G2 for six months now. The gain in performance is better than a generational GPU upgrade and with the correct use of the XR Toolkit almost indistinguishable from 90hz.
Sim edition but you cannot use a headrest with it lol. Atleast with beyond you can. However, I like my Quest pro, due to its open design it doesnt get hot. Beyond gets hot unfortunately. Sim headsets need cooling like Aero.
I got a Pimax 8K plus 6 months ago. The FOV is really good and the resolution is ok… BUT…BUT…IS TO HEAVY!!!!!! It was my first Pimax and it will be my last one if the Pimax not change the headset. Is too heavy!!!! But, maybe the HIPERVISION it will be the next step. Cheers!
Actually, a standard brick is about 4.3 pounds (1.95 kg). The Crystal is 0.960 kg or around 2 pounds with the battery. So a bit less than half a standard brick. A fighter pilot's helmet can weigh upward of 4 or 5 pounds, which is much closer to a brick (though at heavy g's it can weigh quite a bit more).
@@stuart3712 Yes, I agree that the Crystal is not the same as a full helmet (closer to half of one); and yes, if standard Chinese bricks are filled with about 1kg of sand, then that would be about right too.
You don’t feel the weight in a bad way. I would say because of the imbalance from the default oculus strap, the pimax is more comfortable than a quest 2. You just tilt your head less from the weight but it really does not make any pains come up or anything.
I use a HP G2 for DCS World. I wish one of the above 2 companies would make a cheaper version (No Battery) 1 Cord to the Head Set No Controllers No Base Stations and hit the 600 to 700 Dollar Price Range for Flight and Race and all other Keyboard and Mouse Gaming.
I want an Aero without the internal cooling fan, lightweight like BSB, but with manual DPI adjustment, and one of those nifty new Pimax SIM faceplates (but engraved with my name).
In my opinion I still thinking if you dont have controlers you lose the stand alone and for me is still expensive even you lose 50% of the functions of the headset but you dont pay 50% less of money and still having stand alone parts you wont use...if they want make a just pc sim users they shoul make a new headset with less stand alone parts like the batteries,etc. thanks for your vids.
yea i never understood this pimax being targeted at simmers it has a lot of junk that just adds to cost and weight that simmers dont want/need It tries to do way too much in a half baked way.
@@WhatsupAbroad yes, we know this. but a G3 of sorts would be a G2 with great Aspheric lenses and OLED or mini LED perhaps Qled type screens. The rest the same. Heck If I could avoid SteamVR bloat, I would buy in a hot second.
if they removed all the bulk/weight such as batteries APU etc and priced it at 1000 then maybe but right now its overbuilt so a hard pass at least in my opinion and the audio option they charge extra $100 on should come as standard not as some extra it's ridiculous imagine valve doing something like that on index or the required battery nonsense when even quest2 with the right cable can keep the headset charged and play at the same time but apparently they cant figure it out.
Actually, I suspect that DFR will make this very reasonable since the distant fringes can be rendered at extremely low resolution, so for such titles I wouldn't be surprised if the impact isn't too bad. For non-optimized titles though, yeah, I can see that being 5090 territory.
A product that launched at $800 USD cheaper than it's closest competitor which it beats in terms of resolution, contrast ratio, and feature set. Just to place your comment into perspective. @@Eskoxo
@@WhatsupAbroad Did it also beat it in quality control, good non beta software, key features not enabled after launch, not having a constantly discharging battery, not being a weighty brick, and well probably missed a few...quite a few youtube videos out there... just some perspective and if you mean varjo aero well they are 50% off now. Oh and you are totally not on here getting paid to make pimax seems like the best option there is..
I ended up ordering the regular version - the $150 discount is not worth losing the controllers. It will make using the headset for anything but sims a real pain, and hurt resale value. The crystal is the least bad top tier headset I want, but this offer is still such PR bullshit.
@@mixedrealityTV removing the CONTROLLERS and adding a piece of plastic with a plane for a 9% discount is hardly a "sim edition". I don't think it's worth it for anyone, as you will just lose that much trying to sell it in the future, while severely restricting your own usage.
Not really. First your price will be lower, and shipping will be easier. Second, many VR users have lighthouse tracking already so they don't need those controllers.
@@Thephilpw99Lighthouse users are a constantly diminishing minority. Everyone wants inside out tracking, as its much more convient. Also it would not affect shipping at all, as the controllers fit inside the headset where your head would be. They are also lightweight, so shipping price would not be affected.
I'm from Brazil, and I think you should present the next metaconect show.... because in this video I was much more interested than what they presented.... i'm excited to buy quest 3 or what's coming in some peak 5 speculation....but the Meta exclusives tip the scales favorably towards the meta.
I heard Universal will be adding an all-new Varjo Land along with BSB-wearing Minions characters to their parks in 2024, now that Super Nintendo World is open. Now that would be the place to go!
Aero with the new price just blows the crystal out of the water. Cheaper, better build, comfort, built in fan, better brand. Can’t blame them for trying though.
The crystal has fans which are more than enough, integrated controllers and doesn’t require base stations. I have not tried to Aero but I had to readjust the crystal slightly on my head maybe 5-8 times in 6-8 hours of play time. It’s really not as bad as you think, at least for me.
Without the battery will never happen on the Crystal unfortunately, it's a firm requirement from Snapdragon. The 12K will probably be the better option to wait for and see if that contains a standalone mode or not. If not, we should be set :)
You already get the choice to buy with lighthouse integrated. The battery, though, won't be going away, due to the SOC, standalone mode, and probably wireless streaming modes. If you really don't want those, then the Somnium will probably be your headset--though you'll probably have to pay quite a bit more for it.
if I am asked to choose between the battery and having to resort to lighthouse tracking, I will go for the battery option every time. Seriously doubting anyone can really for longer than the battery life without having to pee.
isn't it better to just get a Varjo Aero at a 50% lower price? even if you buy a base station (1, not 2), and a pair of Valve Knuckles it is cheaper. The Pimax also supposedly has a bad depth perception due to the lenses being rotated. It gives a higher FOV, but sadly a bad depth perception. Hell, there is even the Beyond, which is lightyears more comfortable and still cheaper with basestations. It also has a microoled display
New base stations plus Knuckles will run about $600 more. So for a full Aero or BSB kit, basically the same price as Crystal. I don't know where you heard about bad depth perception on the Crystal as it is generally understood to have quite good stereo separation, and I can vouch for that. But if you wanted to know the difference, you'd have to try one, but the short list of benefits are greater FOV + higher contrast than Aero + no glare compared to BSB + SOC + standalone + both inside-out and (optional) lighthouse tracking + (likely) wireless support + wider angle lens option + higher frequencies + integrated sound (including DMASS option). So obviously, if those have no value to you, then of couse the Aero or BSB kit is a better deal by a few bucks.
@@daviddahlstrom192 the rotated lenses give a higher FOV, but worse depth perception. Bsb gives lower fov, but you can wear it for hours longer comfortably. Base stations give much superior tracking, and access to tons of cool accessories. If you can't have base stations in your room then the inside out is obviously better though. Let's not pretend that Pimax is actually going to do anything with the SoC that actually makes it worth using it for standalone. Pimax has tons of history with terrible quality control and support too. I am a Pimax hater, so i might just be biased. It's a terrible company
No idea why you would think the depth perception is bad. It's one of the best headsets for that. Beyond may have a micro-oled but that means the image is dramatically dimmer than the Crystal. The Crystal's panels produce a better looking image in the majority of scenarios. Light blooming can be a bother in particular scenes, and if that is a major use case, the local dimming can be disabled to eliminate it, although I find this to be rather rare personally.
@@WhatsupAbroad as i explained multiple times, it's the rotated lenses. Meta hasn't solved it yet despite throwing billions of dollars towards research. Pimax sure as hell hasn't either. I don't think you are aware of what depth perception is. Look at something in your room. You can see how far away that is, because of both of your eyes. Pimax struggles with creating that effect. That is what you compromise when you use rotated lenses to get a much higher FOV. To some people, it might be worth it. Buy whatever you want. I just think getting a hmd at 1600, with no controllers or anything is a terrible deal
they'd be better off removing the battery rather than the controllers.
Not possible by design. They need the XR2 for tracking and the XR2 needs a battery.
@ATP-Flo why can it not be powered from the pc?
HP Reverb G2 does not use battery. If it is designed for flight sim without controllers, Pimax should not target an AIO VR headset at the beginning. In that case, the cost could be reduced and the selling price could be lower.
@@tyeh101 I'm sure they didn't need it for tracking. It's mainly for standalone mode, and (I suspect) to support wireless PCVR streaming when that option becomes available.
I knew Pimax Crystal is an AIO that aims too high. I rather Pimax focus on high end VR headset for PCVR first. Then buyers do t have to pay for the parts they won’t use.
Use Code "MRTV" for $20 discount:
Order Pimax Crystal Sim: pimax.com/product/pimax-crystal-sim-limited-edtion/?ref=mrtv (Affiliate)
Order Varjo Aero: tinyurl.com/varjo-aero (Affiliate)
Order Bigscreen Beyond: bit.ly/3YtEm9x (Affiliate)
Which of the three headsets is your favorite?
But if i would use also room scale VR for this Crystal it won'T be enough for this crystal controller?
How about 72Hz on all current Crystals???!
Good first step. The next step is to offer a combo deal on Crystal with the Lighthouse Tracking plate and the delete controllers option. This would be good for people who already have the lighthouse setup.
The lighthouse sim already comes with a promotional discount on the lighthouse faceplate. Together they are 1559.
Just placed my order. I can’t wait!
Just as am FYI, while we're waiting for Pimax to fix the audio latency problem, if you have a game where latency is an issue, be aware that you can plug wired USB headphones or earbuds into the bottom USB port, and this will eliminate the latency. Apparently, the issue is with audio over the display port, but audio over USB doesn't have this problem.
This is such a crucial information!! Thank you!
Never use headset audio. That's one of the things I liked about the Aero.
yep sounds like pimax just on to the next issue it has lol
If you use earbuds for a more comfortable fit, get the JBL Quantum gaming TWS earbuds as they include a USB-C dongle, for 2.4GHz wireless low-latency audio instead of Bluetooth.
@@Avantime Yeah. You definitely don't want to use Bluetooth headphones or earbuds if you're trying to solve an audio latency problem!
500 more expensive than should be
Hey, I was wondering if you know the answer to a few questions I have which Pimax says nothing about.. xD
I'm assuming the Headset supports some sort of Stream VR Wireless Streaming to PC like the Quest Link, but it didn't say if you can use the wireless streaming using the StreamVR Tracking module. Basically looking for a Wireless StreamVR Headset with Eye Tracking that isn't the Quest and uses base stations. :3
It does not support wireless streaming as of now.
I've been running an Aero for a couple of weeks. You only need one base station and no controllers if you are a simmer. I've been running it with a RTX 2080 ti and a RTX 3080 ti. With the 2080 I got around 40-45 fps playing IL2 wth a 35 PPD. The 3080 I got 50-55 fps, 39 PPD . Both were using Ultra with the other IL2 settings high. 32 gigs DDR5 I9-12900k not overclocked.
I was put off the Aero by the FOV
@@Lakedistrictrider I had been using a G2 for about two years and it indicated that my FOV was 94. With the Aero I get 97. Would I like for it to be wider, of course but it's not that big an issue for me. My main objective is visual acuity. If a person has a G2 don't expect a major increase. It's better and its noticeable but not by much. Do I regret buying it? No.
@@scratchsescape1978 Yeah the horizontal is fine, it's the vertical I was more concerned about. I play IL2 and need to see the skies above. If Varjo do an Aero 2 with better FOV and inside-out tracking then that would be the winner for me. The Aero is lighter, seems better designed and quality built, but that FOV and need for base stations lets it down.
We don't need internal processor and battery as well...
Will Prescription lenses for Primax Crystal work with eye tracking?
Yes.
My VR Rock covers the red dots so they don't work....@@mixedrealityTV
Sorry Pimax, too late and too bad offer. I already pre-ordered my Varjo Aero with the price discount. I save up to 700€ compared to this offer and 1000€ compared to the normal one with controllers, which allows me to buy a Quest 3, a second hand Quest Pro or even full body tracking and index controllers.
They discounted it by $1000 because no one sane would buy it for $2000. You didn't "save" by buying the Aero. Its actual value is close to the current price given the competition like Crystal, Bigscreen.
@@algroyp3r I know, but who is going to pay 1000€ more for the Pimax just for having higher vertical FOV and wearing a 1.2 kg in his head? I would buy the Aero and use those 1000€ to get a Quest Pro. That's what I meant with my last message.
@@AlejandroLopez-wy2st It's not really $1000 more if you don't have base stations or don't need controllers. I'm really not happy with any choice but am considering the Crystal strongly. Also I need the neck workout to mog the local gym goers. Yes, it is cope.
Can i use the Xreal air glasses in VR games ?
no...
I hope Pimax will get a much simplified version of Crystal out: No eyetracking, no standalone mode, no Qualcomm chips, and no batteries.
Just pure QLED display and traditional style headset. It surely will go down to the sub $1000 level, and still have the best picture quality. This is what we actually need.
I hope they keep the eye tracking, DFR is pretty huge
Sounds like 95% what you need is probably a BSB.
@@paulct91 Agreed! Its kind of like, "I'd love that pick-up truck if it just didn't have a bed, a hitch, or so-much-weight! In fact, if it was a car, it would be perfect." hehe
@@daviddahlstrom192
It's just at the current stage the extra features like mobile mode is actually liability. The QCOM chip adds tracking feature, but requires batteries to work, which is also a liability.
Your example of pickup truck is also good here. It only needs the beds for work. It doesn't need GPS and auto-driving. It doesn't need fancy racing wheels. It just needs the essentials to work.
Sadly right now Crystal is not in the right price range for most consumers. And there is no 8K screen upgrade in sight. 12k seems very very far away.
@@Thephilpw99 Uh, its the highest-end PCVR enthusiast headset on the market right now. So yes, you are absolutely right: it is not in the right price range for most customers. So if you're are an average customer, no, you will not want this headset; you'll want something in the mainstream consumer price range. Basically, you're shopping in the wrong store.
anyone know how well it works with a AMD 7900xtx and 5950x running a reverb G2 ?? playing elite dangerous and MSFS
I have a similar setup and it works perfectly with Pico 4, which is higher res than G2. You should be just fine.
72hzmode is amazing for MSFS and this should be offered as standard by high-end HMDs, since such a big chunk of their target audience consists of simmers using sims that can't realistically hit 90fps even on the very best hardware money can buy.
It's the best option for DCS World as well
Low fps looks better on lower refresh rate?
@@exdorms if you can lock your fps at the same as your refresh rate it's smoother. In titles like DCS maintaining 90fps with all settings high is a challenge
@@exdorms yes obviously, because it's native. E.g. running 45 fps at 90hz is never perfectly smooth, ignoring the low absolute fps of course. It's not 100% consistent. 72fps@72hz is perfectly smooth, at least in flight sims it's definitely smooth enough.
I've seen 72fps@72hz in the Quest Pro running MSFS and it's literally perfect, or at least unbelievably better than everything else currently possible for MSFS. Therefore all HMDs where a decent size of the demographic is simmers should offer this. Im quite annoyed the Varjo has neither a 72hz nor 120hz mode. With 120hz at least you can lock to 60fps.
Don't touch anything that comes from Pimax!
Ok, fair last warning. One more comment like this and no more commenting here for you.
We better get the 72hz mode on all Crystal headsets!
Why not more? the more the better. you already have 60 90 and 120 hz mode anyways, that's plenty to fit your needs
@@Juju20014 no we only have 90 and 120
I suspect it would be harder to not include it for everyone than to include it. So I'd say we should expect it.
That’s a big question for me.
Yes all the Crystal will have it
very good video, thank’s
Is it good for dancing in vr
Yes. On Fridays. BSB and Aero offer dancing on Saturdays (which is why they compete more closely).
Pimax not very smart why didn’t they get rid of the stand-alone and lower the price to 1000 to 1200
10:09 One minute of silence for that laptop on the floor…
Pimax off again with too many options!! No controllers seems a bit too restrictive. Most simmers are not so hardcore, they will also want to play other games. Make no batteries pcvr only version. Also DMAS should come as standard. Much more desirable
Many simmers want controllers and wireless for roomscale, and strongly prefer Quest ergonomics for that.
Personally, while this is more tempting to me, I'll be waiting on Q3 reviews as I have *too* many headsets already.
I would recommend waiting for the Somnium VR1 since, while it will likely cost quite a bit more than Crystal, it will at least not come with the extras you don't want and so be better optimized for less hardcore simmers.
@@pondracek I have a Pico 4 which has in theory almost the same visuals as Q3. And let me tell you, there is loads to improve for sims. The resolution is good enough to enjoy the game, but definitely still lacking when looking at distance.
Pimax, a wilde ride as always. But the display is friggn crazy man....
they need to stop including headphones in the headset. i want to use my own thats gonna be 1000x better
Just buy it without the DMAS and use your own.
@@daviddahlstrom192 Will they fit over the Crystal?
@@Lakedistrictrider Without the DMAS, definitely. With the DMAS installed, headphones such as my Sony MDR-V6s are a tight fit and not very comfortable (the DMAS speakers can't move far enough out of the way), so if you plan to use your own headphones I'd say just buy it without the DMAS, and save the $100. Since even without the DMAS, the headset still has integrated sound that you can still use if you're not in the mood to attach your headphones or playing something where sound quality isn't a priority.
@@daviddahlstrom192 cheers mate
All things considered, I don't think needing or not needing base stations will ever be a part of someones' calculations on cost. People in that realm are way more likely to already have them, now it's just a matter of which HMD provides the most user-friendly experience, comfort, etc. Audio seems to be the thing they are ALL lacking (Pimax version noted as not good already), as is the case for any headset that isn't the Index.
Sure hope to see some solid comparisons in the future, since they are all within a relative price range!
When someone spend $1600 on a headset i think getting some base stations is not a big deal to get best tracking but they make it out as some sort of big feature to not have them on pimax and still costing more than other headset + base stations.
The elimination of basestations as a requirement to use the headset was our number 1 requested feature, and basestation necessity is the number one reason potential customer report not buying. @@Eskoxo
I race sometimes for more than 2 hours competitively so unfortunately not the headset for me. Thanks for the video Seb!
People have reported 1 (out of 4) bars dropping after ~6 hours use with the included USB hub.
Napkin math suggests you'd only need to switch batteries in a > 24 hour endurance series if you were the only driver, and surely multiple of those pit stops would need to also be a chamberpot stop where you would have time to switch batteries if so.
You may wish to watch some Crystal users who have used it for 4+ hours with no issues and also, there are great reviews on the 'Apache Headset comfort strap. Take a look: th-cam.com/video/K5_g-QEUZLo/w-d-xo.html
Don't competitive drivers wear helmets? What do they weigh now?
@@daviddahlstrom192 pretty sure those drive in real cars and wear them for safety not some dude sitting in a sim in his moms basement.
@@Eskoxo Well, everyone's gotta start somewhere, hehe.
I agree with you Sebastian, it is definitely NOT a "no-brainer", especially if you have a Valve ecosystem. Pimax price now almost 50% > Aero:
Crystal €1,712.36*
Aero - €1,188.00 (free shipping)
(€524.36 difference! enough to get you a high-end HOTAS setup)
* with Faceplate (additional €99.90) - of course, add the base stations price as well (didn't include them in the price as the Aero doesn't include them as well)
This isn't totally accurate. The Aero does not come with base stations of which you need at least one, but better to have two base stations.
@@sirgriffinman even with base stations Aero costs less has higher quality and tracking is better not to mention all the software/quality control issues pimax continues to have.
@@Eskoxo I am aware. I own an Aero. The aero to me is a superior product, but the pricing differences are not as far apart as your original comment.
The difference in USD is much smaller. $990 vs $1450. Pimax seem to have free shipping now. Base stations are like $300. This is extremely close. Aero has really unimpressive FOV, which puts me off the purchase. Pimax has unfinished features and history of issues. None of them are perfect, but I'd say its a very close call. With this sim edition, I'm very tempted to just buy it today, and return if it sucks.
The tracking would be about the same with both using basestations though!@@Eskoxo
Quest 3, Varjo Aero, Bigscreen Beyond or Pimax Crystal?
RTX 4090 OC; Going to be using this heavily for MSFS Development. Not entirely sure which headset to go for. Crystal and Quest 3 are my biggest choices because I have no base stations. Bigscreen Beyond looks incredible but I don't really want to walk to an Apple Store to scan my face. Varjo Aero sounds really good, but every review I've seen said even at $990, the clarity of the Crystal and FOV is unmatched. So as odd as it sounds, I think I'm really down to the Crystal or the Quest 3. That said, nobody really has opinions on the Quest 3 yet with a direct comparison. I'm planning on purchasing one of these headsets today, just doing more and more research and reviews. Thanks for your review and any comments in response.
The Quest 3 will be the standard headset for millions for the next years. In my opinion you can't go wrong with it. It won't look as good as Crystal though, that I am sure even I have not looked through it yet!
Not sure if you bought something yet however I just got my pimax crystal today. Well in my opinion if you can afford it the crystal image rival's any high end monitor. I'm a dcs guy first vatsim second they are the only VR games I play. The image quality was amazing. I have the g2 as well and the only thing the g2 is better at out of the box is the audio. The speakers on the g2 are better. However the visual quality isnt even close. Not sure what system you have I have a 4080 and it looks fantastic. The eye tracking seemed to work great as well. As a sim guy that will not use it for anything other then dcs or vatsim I would highly recommend the crystal. I also have the upgraded speakers you can order but I have yet to put them on. I will probably do that tomorrow.
Great video Seb! I would say that most simmers will prefer the Crystal but for me it's not. I prefer the Beyond for my use case because I fly WW1. When it comes to dogfights in IL-2 Flying Circus I think the Beyond will be better because of rapid head movements. Like you mentioned in your video! So kudos! :)
For WW1, definitely. But for anything modern, given that helmets can weigh upward of 4 or 5 pounds, even the Pimax is way too light for realism, hehe.
Here’s an idea. How about lower the price and still include the controllers?
@IvanFamanni
thanks for all the great content we all need you to make a video for cristal on the ACC graphics settings of the primax of the various app toolkit and in game it would be great because the creators only always make content for flight simulators and no one good does simracing PLEASE
What is the best headset for No Mans sky. Without needing a base. I also need controllers.
Psvr2.
But honestly, the controls for no man's sky, specifically flight, are so god damned awful I would strongly advise you to stick to 2d.
@@pondracek I only have a PC and my old oculus controllers broke
@@josegarrido1724 And I wish you could play it in VR with an Xbox controller, but they patched that out early on, unfortunately.
For now, just scratch your itch with Elite:Dangerous (which works with controller just fine) and wait for the Quest 3 announcement later this week. That'll get you pancake lenses and controllers and wireless roomscale for about half the price of the Aero.
The Crystal (obviously, since you asked here). But, honestly, it really is about as good as that title gets in VR IMO (though its a shame that the PCVR version doesn't yet support DFR like PSVR does, so you'll need a high-end GPU to drive it)
@@pondracek Yeah, if flying in space is important to you, Elite Dangerous might be a better choice. Similar grind, but ED with a HOTAS is something else for space simmers.
I'm so torn between the aero and the pimax 😢
just remember that the aero doesn't have any built in audio so you will have to find a solution for that.
Great to see manufacturers developing headsets with lower refresh rates for simmers. I've been flying DCS at 60hz in my G2 for six months now. The gain in performance is better than a generational GPU upgrade and with the correct use of the XR Toolkit almost indistinguishable from 90hz.
I'm happy that you are excited about the new refresh rate. We also believe that our users will generally be quite pleased with the new option.
I ordered the crystal way too early. This would have been the ideal.
Sim edition but you cannot use a headrest with it lol. Atleast with beyond you can. However, I like my Quest pro, due to its open design it doesnt get hot. Beyond gets hot unfortunately. Sim headsets need cooling like Aero.
I got a Pimax 8K plus 6 months ago. The FOV is really good and the resolution is ok… BUT…BUT…IS TO HEAVY!!!!!! It was my first Pimax and it will be my last one if the Pimax not change the headset. Is too heavy!!!! But, maybe the HIPERVISION it will be the next step. Cheers!
Yeah, still not wearing that brick on my head
Actually, a standard brick is about 4.3 pounds (1.95 kg). The Crystal is 0.960 kg or around 2 pounds with the battery. So a bit less than half a standard brick. A fighter pilot's helmet can weigh upward of 4 or 5 pounds, which is much closer to a brick (though at heavy g's it can weigh quite a bit more).
@@daviddahlstrom192 VR isnt the same has a full helmet and the crystal is indeed a brick but more like a Chinese brick filled with sand.
@@stuart3712 Yes, I agree that the Crystal is not the same as a full helmet (closer to half of one); and yes, if standard Chinese bricks are filled with about 1kg of sand, then that would be about right too.
I don't know whether to laugh or cry. @@stuart3712
You don’t feel the weight in a bad way. I would say because of the imbalance from the default oculus strap, the pimax is more comfortable than a quest 2. You just tilt your head less from the weight but it really does not make any pains come up or anything.
Thanks
I use a HP G2 for DCS World. I wish one of the above 2 companies would make a cheaper version (No Battery) 1 Cord to the Head Set No Controllers No Base Stations and hit the 600 to 700 Dollar Price Range for Flight and Race and all other Keyboard and Mouse Gaming.
We were asking for this before the Crystal even launched. To bad its what I would have purchased but already purchased the Crystal
Crystak is 120Hz, slim is 72Hz, i would keep the normal one if i was you
If you think that's bad, consider the folks who bought the Aero for $2000.
@@Juju20014 I have no use for anything above 90 and would prefer 72
true!@@daviddahlstrom192
My bad, the slim is also 90 and 120 hz so there is not a difference
Shame that the Aero doesn't work with AMD cards.
I just want a face plate tracking, no XR2 no battery, and pimax lenses. Just Dp cable and no controller....
I want an Aero without the internal cooling fan, lightweight like BSB, but with manual DPI adjustment, and one of those nifty new Pimax SIM faceplates (but engraved with my name).
In my opinion I still thinking if you dont have controlers you lose the stand alone and for me is still expensive even you lose 50% of the functions of the headset but you dont pay 50% less of money and still having stand alone parts you wont use...if they want make a just pc sim users they shoul make a new headset with less stand alone parts like the batteries,etc.
thanks for your vids.
Would rather see a version without stand alone gaming and just a wireless pc connection
Last comment. We simmers want a G3. G2 with pimax lenses... simple, wired, Reliable! OpenXR no steamVR load on CPU. Forget the xr2 chip for simmers.
yea i never understood this pimax being targeted at simmers it has a lot of junk that just adds to cost and weight that simmers dont want/need It tries to do way too much in a half baked way.
HP has stopped all VR development as far as I know.
@@WhatsupAbroad yes, we know this. but a G3 of sorts would be a G2 with great Aspheric lenses and OLED or mini LED perhaps Qled type screens. The rest the same. Heck If I could avoid SteamVR bloat, I would buy in a hot second.
if they removed all the bulk/weight such as batteries APU etc and priced it at 1000 then maybe but right now its overbuilt so a hard pass at least in my opinion and the audio option they charge extra $100 on should come as standard not as some extra it's ridiculous imagine valve doing something like that on index or the required battery nonsense when even quest2 with the right cable can keep the headset charged and play at the same time but apparently they cant figure it out.
The 12k trade in program is a moonshot. 5090 even 6090 is not going to drive that resolution. We can't even push a crystal to native siming on 4090. .
Actually, I suspect that DFR will make this very reasonable since the distant fringes can be rendered at extremely low resolution, so for such titles I wouldn't be surprised if the impact isn't too bad. For non-optimized titles though, yeah, I can see that being 5090 territory.
Feel like this headset needed another year in the oven.
Oh and DMAS should be standard! Anything less for $1k+ is not competitive
its just yet another poor decision they made to nickle and dime on an already expensive product.
A product that launched at $800 USD cheaper than it's closest competitor which it beats in terms of resolution, contrast ratio, and feature set. Just to place your comment into perspective. @@Eskoxo
@@WhatsupAbroad Did it also beat it in quality control, good non beta software, key features not enabled after launch, not having a constantly discharging battery, not being a weighty brick, and well probably missed a few...quite a few youtube videos out there... just some perspective and if you mean varjo aero well they are 50% off now. Oh and you are totally not on here getting paid to make pimax seems like the best option there is..
I ended up ordering the regular version - the $150 discount is not worth losing the controllers. It will make using the headset for anything but sims a real pain, and hurt resale value. The crystal is the least bad top tier headset I want, but this offer is still such PR bullshit.
Why must everything directly be bullshit just because it does not cater to you?
@@mixedrealityTV removing the CONTROLLERS and adding a piece of plastic with a plane for a 9% discount is hardly a "sim edition". I don't think it's worth it for anyone, as you will just lose that much trying to sell it in the future, while severely restricting your own usage.
i mean i get it. However i am a DCS and vatsim guy i wont do any other vr games so for me no base stations or controllers is fine to me.
harder to resell whitout the controllers
Not really.
First your price will be lower, and shipping will be easier.
Second, many VR users have lighthouse tracking already so they don't need those controllers.
why? it's not that it does not work with the controllers. People can always get controllers from other sources easily.
@@melvinf78That would increase cost, people who buy gear used usually want it cheaper.
@@Thephilpw99Lighthouse users are a constantly diminishing minority. Everyone wants inside out tracking, as its much more convient.
Also it would not affect shipping at all, as the controllers fit inside the headset where your head would be.
They are also lightweight, so shipping price would not be affected.
Actually, its probably like trying to sell your house with a pool. It could go either way.
Not good enough - competition is now at $990.
Right, but for the competition you still need base stations!
You sleeping? :) Quest 3 announced.
No kidding!
I'm from Brazil, and I think you should present the next metaconect show.... because in this video I was much more interested than what they presented....
i'm excited to buy quest 3 or what's coming in some peak 5 speculation....but the Meta exclusives tip the scales favorably towards the meta.
Certainly not "perfect". Just a sort of panic move to counter the Varjo price cut, but not very effective...
Tired of Pimax Lego universe...
I heard Universal will be adding an all-new Varjo Land along with BSB-wearing Minions characters to their parks in 2024, now that Super Nintendo World is open. Now that would be the place to go!
1770 euros with VAT 😅
Aero with the new price just blows the crystal out of the water. Cheaper, better build, comfort, built in fan, better brand. Can’t blame them for trying though.
The crystal has fans which are more than enough, integrated controllers and doesn’t require base stations. I have not tried to Aero but I had to readjust the crystal slightly on my head maybe 5-8 times in 6-8 hours of play time. It’s really not as bad as you think, at least for me.
Cool campaign now please without battery and lighthouse integrated!
Without the battery will never happen on the Crystal unfortunately, it's a firm requirement from Snapdragon. The 12K will probably be the better option to wait for and see if that contains a standalone mode or not. If not, we should be set :)
@@LostBoyNZ I want the standalone to stay, because I think they'll eventually get the wi-gig wireless sorted, and you'll be needing the battery...
You already get the choice to buy with lighthouse integrated. The battery, though, won't be going away, due to the SOC, standalone mode, and probably wireless streaming modes. If you really don't want those, then the Somnium will probably be your headset--though you'll probably have to pay quite a bit more for it.
@@LostBoyNZ of course the 12k also has the xr2 as its used for the headset & controller tracking
if I am asked to choose between the battery and having to resort to lighthouse tracking, I will go for the battery option every time. Seriously doubting anyone can really for longer than the battery life without having to pee.
isn't it better to just get a Varjo Aero at a 50% lower price? even if you buy a base station (1, not 2), and a pair of Valve Knuckles it is cheaper.
The Pimax also supposedly has a bad depth perception due to the lenses being rotated. It gives a higher FOV, but sadly a bad depth perception.
Hell, there is even the Beyond, which is lightyears more comfortable and still cheaper with basestations. It also has a microoled display
New base stations plus Knuckles will run about $600 more. So for a full Aero or BSB kit, basically the same price as Crystal. I don't know where you heard about bad depth perception on the Crystal as it is generally understood to have quite good stereo separation, and I can vouch for that. But if you wanted to know the difference, you'd have to try one, but the short list of benefits are greater FOV + higher contrast than Aero + no glare compared to BSB + SOC + standalone + both inside-out and (optional) lighthouse tracking + (likely) wireless support + wider angle lens option + higher frequencies + integrated sound (including DMASS option). So obviously, if those have no value to you, then of couse the Aero or BSB kit is a better deal by a few bucks.
@@daviddahlstrom192 the rotated lenses give a higher FOV, but worse depth perception. Bsb gives lower fov, but you can wear it for hours longer comfortably.
Base stations give much superior tracking, and access to tons of cool accessories. If you can't have base stations in your room then the inside out is obviously better though.
Let's not pretend that Pimax is actually going to do anything with the SoC that actually makes it worth using it for standalone.
Pimax has tons of history with terrible quality control and support too.
I am a Pimax hater, so i might just be biased. It's a terrible company
No idea why you would think the depth perception is bad. It's one of the best headsets for that. Beyond may have a micro-oled but that means the image is dramatically dimmer than the Crystal. The Crystal's panels produce a better looking image in the majority of scenarios. Light blooming can be a bother in particular scenes, and if that is a major use case, the local dimming can be disabled to eliminate it, although I find this to be rather rare personally.
@@WhatsupAbroad as i explained multiple times, it's the rotated lenses.
Meta hasn't solved it yet despite throwing billions of dollars towards research. Pimax sure as hell hasn't either.
I don't think you are aware of what depth perception is. Look at something in your room. You can see how far away that is, because of both of your eyes. Pimax struggles with creating that effect. That is what you compromise when you use rotated lenses to get a much higher FOV. To some people, it might be worth it.
Buy whatever you want. I just think getting a hmd at 1600, with no controllers or anything is a terrible deal
i choose cristal
If only it worked with AMD Cards
It does!
@@mixedrealityTV I read that its not supported
😑