Bigscreen Beyond is a remarkably compact and lightweight SteamVR headset, crafted specifically for those long PC-based VR sessions without compromising comfort.
With a price tag of $1,000—or starting as low as $32 per month—this headset doesn’t include positional tracking or controllers right out of the box. It’s built to work with the SteamVR Tracking system, meaning you’ll need at least one base station for operation, though having two would be optimal. Don’t forget, you’ll also require your own input devices, like Valve Index controllers, to get the most out of it.
The headset itself includes a basic cloth strap but skips integrated audio features; not even a headphone jack is present. It does, however, sport a USB-C port that you can use to connect audio equipment. For those seeking an audio upgrade and enhanced comfort, Bigscreen offers a $130 Audio Strap accessory.
In our assessment of the Beyond, we were impressed by its miniature size and astonishing level of comfort, which allows for extended VR experiences without the discomfort often associated with larger headsets. On the downside, the lenses presented issues, introducing distracting reflections and blurriness as a trade-off for their compact design. As a trailblazer in this new generation of comfort-focused headsets, Beyond has set a standard that others in the industry are striving to reach.
