Pimax has introduced updates to its PC VR headset lineup, accompanied by a novel financing plan for the Crystal Tremendous and Crystal Mild models, which reduces their price point while revising payment structures and return policies in ways that may raise some concerns about future developments.
Introducing Crystal Tremendous, the corporate’s next flagship PC VR headset, which makes its debut again in April. With a base model boasting an impressive 57 PPD, it features QLED panels delivering a mind-boggling resolution of 3,840 x 3,840 pixels per eye, a 120-degree field-of-view (FOV) that immerses users in the virtual world, and glass aspheric lenses ensuring a reported 99% light transmission for an unparalleled visual experience.
Additionally, the Crystal Tremendous boasts enhanced features such as eye-tracking, dynamic foveated rendering, and inside-out monitoring capabilities, along with interchangeable optical engines and an updated frame design that prioritizes ergonomic comfort. Targeting VR enthusiasts with high-end GPUs, this article outlines a hypothetical dream spec list for the upcoming 57 PPD model, expected to arrive in Q1 2025.
When the additional optical engines roll in, their impact will be even more significant, particularly as they integrate a cutting-edge micro-OLED engine priced at $699, and a 50 PPD QLED engine boasting an expansive 135-degree field of view for $399. Preorders for these optional extras are slated to commence early next year.
With the simultaneous release of the updated spec sheet and Crystal Tremendous pre-orders, Pimax introduced a revamped pricing structure for both Crystal Tremendous and its previously launched Crystal Light, aiming to reduce overall costs while making some adjustments to their fee structure and returns policy that have sparked controversy.
While you can view additional videos on Pimax’s website to grasp their promotional message, we’ve taken the initiative to delve deeper and uncover the key takeaway for decision-makers.
Pimax Prime (no relation)
Initially, the bottom value of Crystal Tremendous decreases from $1,800 to $1,695, a reduction of $105. The price of Crystal Mild has been reduced from its initial launch point of $899 to $858. Notably, each of the pricing tiers includes access to controllers, providing a comprehensive gaming experience. While some challenges are inherent to Pimax, it’s not a straightforward matter.
The corporation is now launching a pioneering financial membership program dubbed “Pimax Prime,” allowing customers to purchase Crystal Supreme upfront at $999 and Crystal Light upfront at $599.
Paving the way for similar initiatives like CrystalMild’s Trial Fee scheme introduced in 2022, Pimax now offers a trial period, allowing users to gauge whether this approach suits their needs effectively. Once the trial period concludes, you’ll face a crucial decision: opt for one of two subscription-based fee plans to sustain the headset’s software functionality, or return it to Pimax and claim a full refund.
Clients have the option to choose from a one-time payment of $696 or opt into a 24-month subscription for $33 per month, totaling $792, to gain access to the necessary Pimax Play software program. Crystal Mild’s pricing structure includes a one-time payment option for $259 and a 24-month subscription plan priced at $12 per month, totaling $288. If monthly payments are missed during the plan’s duration, software program access will be temporarily suspended.
Upon completing Prime fund goals, access to Pimax Play becomes freely available for the corresponding headset. If everything goes according to plan, and you’re satisfied with the product, you’ll be happy; however, if you find out it’s not suitable for your needs and want a refund during the trial period.
While Pimax Prime aims to incentivize early adopters with perks including priority access to new software updates, exclusive invitations to member-only events and advanced technical support, the pricing plan also introduces a fundamental shift in refund policies moving forward, ultimately offering customers greater flexibility despite a lower overall cost.
Through its initial Trial Fee program introduced in May, Crystal Light enabled customers to enjoy a 15-day trial period, during which they could return products for free, provided the item was not damaged by the user, with an extended 30-day window if damage occurred during transit. Pimax offers a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing customers to try their products risk-free; however, if the trial period ends without cancellation, customers are automatically enrolled in a recurring subscription plan with applicable fees.
In the US, insurance policies vary significantly due to the absence of federally mandated consumer safety regulations; in contrast, the EU and UK offer shoppers a standardized 14-day return policy for physical products without justification, as well as two years’ protection against defective items – excepting standard exceptions such as user error, misuse, accidental damage, and normal wear-and-tear.
Herein lies the issue. After a 10-day hiatus. Primarily, when using a headset on day 10 and opting for a one-time fee to secure the best deal, customers may only be able to recover their initial investment depending on local consumer protection laws, with no guarantee of future recoupment thereafter.
While opinions are divided on the potential consequences of this strategic move, it’s unclear whether it will ultimately prove a misstep or not. By offering increasingly affordable options in the niche market for PC-based VR headsets, the organization has built a reputation for providing high-quality products at competitive prices. Once more, you’ll have the opportunity to thoroughly evaluate whether a Pimax headset aligns with your expectations, with a 2-day trial period allowing you to return it at no cost if it’s not the right fit for you. Regardless, accepting payment for access to middleware that is typically offered at no cost may not be palatable to everyone, regardless of the reasoning supporting this practice.
Pimax announces that its Prime membership program will no longer be limited to Crystal Mild and Crystal Tremendous models, with plans to expand the service to include all future Pimax VR headsets. We’ll need to wait and observe how the community responds, and only then determine if Pimax’s innovative approach is indeed a lasting presence in our midst.
