In the world of virtual reality headsets, there are only two things that really matter. On the one hand, we want as many pixels as possible for optimal image quality. On the other hand, we want a comfortable device to wear hours on end. Finding the right balance is not easy, and Pimax hasn’t been successful in this regard either. However, their 8k VR headset is an interesting technical feat. Whether or not any consumer will ever wear it at home, is a different matter altogether.
Pimax’s Product is Unique in Many Ways
Diehard fans of VR content will gladly explain how pixel count is important. The more pixels projected per eye, the better – and more immersive – the overall VR experience becomes. That is, assuming you can watch content which takes full advantage of this technology. Pimax has been thinking along the same lines when it comes to their 8k Vr headset. As the name suggests, the headset offers a display of 3840 x 2160 pixels per eye. It is as close to proper quality as we can get with the current hardware.
Such a spectacular resolution does come at a cost, though. More specifically, it is impressive under the hood, but absolutely ugly to look at. It is gigantic, cumbersome, heavy, and not fun to use for more than a few minutes. It almost seems as if it would need its own neck stand just to ensure owners can stay alive wearing it. Cramming all of this powerful technology into a small form factor isn’t easy, and compromises have to be made along the way. It is also the fifth prototype presented by Pimax in just one year.
While no one can deny Pimax has a bleeding-edge VR headset on their hands, the average consumer may feel otherwise. A high pixel density and a 200-degree field of view are certainly appealing. However, you will need a powerful computer capable of pushing this insane amount of pixels.That is virtually impossible these days unless you are willing to spend close to ten grand on a machine. The headset itself will set you back another $500, but that almost feels like pocket change at this point.
The big question is whether or not Pimax even considers their VR headset to be consumer-grade right now. The obvious answer is “absolutely not”, yet they managed to show what this technology is really capable of at this stage. Very few people are actively looking for 8k VR headsets right now, but it is good to know they do exist. Moreover, the company’s Kickstarter was a big success, as close to 6,000 people wanted to pay $500 for such a unit.
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