When it came time to replace my HP Reverb G2 virtual reality headset, finding a solid alternative was essential. The HP Reverb G2 was, in its time, the best choice for price, immersion, image quality, and comfort. However, with Microsoft discontinuing the Windows Mixed Reality platform in the latest versions of Windows 11, it was time to move on.
My Use Case and Selection Criteria
My primary use case revolves around simulation games like MSFS 2020/2024, DCS, and automotive simulations (notably F1). I was looking for a VR headset that, like the Reverb G2, could offer excellent visual performance without requiring base stations for tracking. My budget was comparable to what I spent on the Reverb G2, keeping in mind my current setup (i5-13600K and RTX 4070 Ti Super), which is robust but not top-tier.
I took my time to thoroughly research my options starting in May 2024, as I didn’t want to rush such an important decision. I appreciated several video blogs emphasizing the importance of careful analysis, weighing the pros and cons, and making an informed choice. In particular, I found the YouTube channels of VR Flight Sim Guy and SimHanger Flight Simulation incredibly helpful in guiding my decision.
Here are the main criteria I established:
- Reasonable price: similar to that of the Reverb G2.
- PCVR with DisplayPort connection: essential for image quality.
- Comfort: crucial for long sessions, especially with a good head strap.
- High-quality audio: on par with the Reverb G2.
- Exceptional image quality: in the same price range.
- Standalone tracking: no additional base stations required.
After extensive research and watching numerous YouTube video blogs (primarily from VR Flight Sim Guy and SimHanger Flight Simulation, and to a lesser extent from MRTV and theVRpilot) I narrowed my options down to three choices.
My considered options
1. Meta Quest 3
I tested this headset in a store. While the image quality was decent, several factors held me back:
- Subpar comfort (you need to buy third-party head straps—the standard version is indeed uncomfortable).
- No DisplayPort connection.
- Bulky and impractical battery (it doesn’t maintain charge even when plugged in during play).
- Better suited for standalone gaming than immersive simulations.
Conclusion: Not suitable for my needs.
2. Bigscreen Beyond
Its compact size and Micro OLED screen were appealing. However:
- Requires base stations.
- Fixed IPD and mandatory facial scan make resale complex.
- No built-in audio system by default.
- Reduced sweet spot.
Conclusion: Too many constraints and resale is impractical.
3. Pimax Crystal Light
The technical specifications matched my needs perfectly:
- Exceptional resolution (2880x2880).
- Glass aspheric lenses (far superior to the Reverb G2’s Fresnel lenses and the Quest 3’s pancake lenses).
- Mini LED display.
- High-quality audio comparable to the Reverb G2 with the optional DMAS speakers.
- Standalone tracking without base stations.
Other options I considered but excluded due to higher budgets (it’s important to stay reasonable): Sommium VR1, Varjo XR4, and Pimax Crystal Super.
My Experience with the Pimax Crystal Light
After ordering the Pimax Crystal Light, it arrived in just over three weeks. Customer service was responsive and answered all my questions.
Assembling the DMAS speakers and the head strap was my only concern. While it was easy to do thanks to a video tutorial, I would have preferred these components to come preassembled. This would avoid the risk of errors when handling a brand-new device.
Installing the Pimax software was straightforward. You just need to launch it and then start MSFS 2024, and it works perfectly. The visual quality is stunning, and even during two-hour-plus sessions, the comfort is excellent. With my setup (i5-13600K, RTX 4070 Ti Super) and Nvidia’s DLSS set to “Quality,” I can maintain an average of 35 FPS in VR, which is very satisfying. You don’t need to invest in a high-end Core i9 or an RTX 4090 at exorbitant prices to enjoy MSFS 2024 with great visuals and smooth performance.
The DMAS audio is a real asset (it’s an option, but I highly recommend it). Like the Reverb G2, the speakers positioned near the ears deliver clear sound without disturbing others. Ergonomically, the headset is bulkier than the Reverb G2, but this doesn’t detract from the experience.
Conclusion
In the end, I absolutely do not regret my choice. The Pimax Crystal Light is an excellent alternative to the HP Reverb G2.
The headset is easy to use, and with its field of view, resolution, and audio quality (with DMAS), I truly feel like I’m flying for real. When I let my father, who used to be a private pilot, try it, he was amazed at how it brought back the sensations he used to have while flying. One small anecdote: I have a desk fan that, when pointed at me, feels like air coming from the cockpit’s vents. It’s fantastic!
If you’re looking for a powerful PCVR headset without base stations and optimized for simulations, I can only recommend it. If you have any questions about my experience, feel free to ask!
