The Pimax Dream Air headset marks a shift in strategy for Pimax, known for their bulky headsets optimized for wide fields-of-view. With the Dream Air, Pimax aims to deliver a more compact headset that doesn’t skimp on features. A notable innovation here is an industry-first: a self-tightening headstrap.
Set to hit the market in May 2025 at $1,900, Dream Air is Pimax’s entry into the niche of compact, high-end PC VR headsets, competing alongside models like Bigscreen Beyond and Shiftall MaganeX Superlight.
But ambitious is an understatement for Pimax. With the Dream Air, they’ve added a promise that could divert attention from timely deliveries: an optional compute puck. This puck, affectionately named ‘Cobb’, allows the Dream Air to function as a standalone VR headset, equipped with a Snapdragon XR2 chip and a battery. There’s also an optional faceplate for SteamVR Tracking.
Pimax has a pattern of unveiling new products without clear paths to deliver previous ones. For instance, the Crystal Super headset was announced in April 2024 for a release in late 2024, but that timeline has shifted to early 2025.
The Dream Air promises a remarkable set of specs and features in a compact package:
– Weighs just 200g
– Offers a resolution of 13MP (3,840 × 3,552) using micro-OLED for each eye, operating at 90Hz with “HDR”
– Features a 102° field-of-view
– Utilizes inside-out tracking
– Comes with motion controllers and hand-tracking capabilities
– Includes on-board audio
– Supports optional prescription lenses
– Integrates eye-tracking
– Features automatic IPD adjustment and a pioneering auto-tightening headstrap
The automatic strap is an intriguing addition. This feature hasn’t been seen in major headsets so far but addresses a crucial comfort issue. Users often struggle to find a balance between tightness and stability, and this feature could enhance comfort significantly.
The design of the auto-tightening strap appears thoughtfully executed. Based on initial renders, the mechanism seems subtly incorporated beneath fabric, implying a seamless shrink-to-fit effect when tightening the headstrap.
The auto-tightening aspect could revolutionize user comfort, aligning the fit to optimum levels effortlessly. Moreover, automatic IPD adjustment ensures the lenses align perfectly with the wearer’s eyes, solving a common manual adjustment challenge.
While it’s uncertain if Pimax can deliver the promised sleekness, the Dream Air showcases Pimax’s potential in industrial design—a stark contrast to their traditionally utilitarian style.
Pimax hasn’t abandoned its bulkier design entirely; they continue to work on headsets with larger fields-of-view. However, the focus on a compact design with Dream Air is a refreshing change.
Pre-orders for the Dream Air are open, with a listed price of $1,900 and expected delivery in May 2025.
