The Bigscreen Beyond really stands out in the world of SteamVR headsets for its ultra-compact design and lightweight build, providing a truly comfortable experience for those lengthy VR sessions on your PC.
Coming in at a price of $1,000—though there’s also an option to pay $32 a month—it’s not exactly an entry-level device. It’s important to note that it doesn’t arrive equipped with positional tracking or controllers. Instead, it operates using the SteamVR tracking system, so you’ll need at least one base station to get started, with two being the ideal setup. You’ll also have to bring your own input devices, like the Valve Index controllers, to fully enjoy your experience.
When it comes to audio and strapping setup, the Beyond keeps things simple with just a basic cloth strap and omits built-in sound. It doesn’t even have a headphone jack, but you’re not completely without options. There is a USB-C port available, which you can use to connect audio devices. If you’re looking to enhance both sound and comfort, Bigscreen offers an Audio Strap accessory for an additional $130, which could be worth considering.
During our review of the Beyond, we were definitely impressed by its compact and incredibly comfortable design, which allows users to immerse themselves in hours-long VR adventures without suffering the facial discomfort often encountered with other headsets. Yet, we couldn’t overlook some shortcomings, particularly with the lenses. While the pursuit of minimal size is admirable, it does lead to some distracting reflections and blurriness. Despite this, Beyond is paving the way for a new generation of headsets that set a high bar for comfort, with more manufacturers likely to follow in its footsteps.
