This article reviews the XR1 Pro AR glasses, exploring their features, usability, and value proposition compared to other AR devices like the Apple Vision Pro. The reviewer purchased the XR1 Pro glasses and provides an unbiased opinion.
First Impressions and Key Features
The XR1 Pro glasses arrived after a significant delay due to supply chain issues. The primary appeal of these glasses lies in their ability to function as a wired external display, a feature lacking in the Apple Vision Pro. This allows users to connect the glasses to various devices (computers, gaming systems, phones) via USB-C and use them as a wearable monitor. This is particularly beneficial for gaming due to low input lag and high refresh rates.
XR1 Pro vs. XR1: What's the Difference?
For the extra $100, the XR1 Pro offers several improvements over the standard XR1 model:
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A slightly better Sony LED display.
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A wider field of view (57° vs. 50°).
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Improved dimming technology.
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Increased brightness (700 nits vs. 600).
Design and Comfort
The reviewer finds the XR1 Pro's design aesthetically pleasing, resembling normal sunglasses from a distance. Key design features include:
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Comfortable and lightweight design.
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USB connection discreetly placed on the left side.
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Included carrying case for portability.
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Swappable nose pads for customized comfort.
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Compatibility with prescription lenses.
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Integrated Bose speakers on either side.
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Adjustable arms with three different positions.
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Removable front plate for customization.
The reviewer expresses comfort wearing them in public.
Display Quality and Functionality
While internal recording isn't possible, the reviewer used the Apple Vision Pro to simulate the screen size and distance offered by the XR1 Pro. The glasses offer two display options: a locked screen or a head-tracking screen. The reviewer prefers the locked screen. The screen is sharp, crisp, and vibrant, leveraging a Sony microLED display. Adjustable brightness levels include theater mode, a pass-through mode, and a mode that reduces dimming when not directly looking at the screen.
Best Use Cases: Movies and Gaming
The reviewer considers watching movies and playing games the ideal applications for the XR1 Pro. Connecting a ROG Ally to the glasses for playing The Witcher 3 provided an immersive experience. The 120Hz refresh rate and minimal input lag make gaming especially enjoyable.
Downsides: Field of View and Screen Size Limitations
Despite the advantages, the XR1 Pro has drawbacks, primarily in field of view and viewing distance:
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Limited Field of View: The 57° field of view is significantly smaller than the Apple Vision Pro, creating a "window" effect. Users may need to move their head to see the entire screen. The edges of the display can also appear slightly blurry.
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Viewing Distance Constraints: The minimum viewing distance is approximately 6 feet, limiting productivity applications. While the screen can be made larger than 84 inches, the distance required to view it properly makes it impractical. The ultrawide setting also forces head movement to view the entire screen, which is deemed gimmicky.
These limitations make the XR1 Pro less suitable for productivity tasks.
Control Issues and Ergonomics
The controls on the arms of the glasses can become cumbersome when frequently adjusting settings. Prolonged use of the controls can cause arm and shoulder fatigue. The XREAL Beam device, a separate purchase, may alleviate this issue by providing remote control functionality.
Value Assessment
The reviewer is not fully convinced the XR1 Pro is worth the $600 price tag. While significantly cheaper than the Apple Vision Pro, its functionality and overall enjoyment are also considerably lower.
Who Might Benefit?
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First-time AR users may find them impressive.
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Those seeking a portable external display.
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Individuals prioritizing entertainment over productivity.
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Travelers looking for a less bulky alternative to full headsets.
The reviewer would choose the XR1 Pro over the XR1 due to the slightly improved field of view and enhanced dimming features.
Future Potential
The XR1 Pro includes a spatial computing chip, suggesting potential future software updates with new spatial features, and potentially motion and hand gesture support.
Final Thoughts
The reviewer plans to continue testing the XR1 Pro and welcomes questions in the comments. The glasses will be used on upcoming trips as a more portable alternative to the Apple Vision Pro, but a final decision on whether to keep them is yet to be made.