Asus’ Windows Mixed Reality headset is priced on the steep side

MusicX · 08-31-2017

Sure the "3D Polygon" shell looks nice, but is it worth a premium?

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Asus has joined the likes of Dell and HP with the launch of its own mixed reality headset. Priced on the steep side at €449 (which is ~$535, but official US and UK prices TBA), the Asus Windows Mixed Reality headset takes Microsoft's reference design and wraps it up in a "3D Polygon" shell, complete with PlayStation VR-like headband design that distributes its 400g weight across the forehead.

Internally, it sports the same specs as other mixed reality headsets. Those include 1440x1440 panels for each eye, a 90Hz refresh rate, and two cameras for inside-out tracking. Asus is also making use of "quick drying antibacterial materials" to avoid any sweat-related germs passing between users. It comes complete with Microsoft's VR controllers, which look similar to those bundled with the HTC Vive.

Like Dell, which is selling its headset for $350, Asus is keen to point out use cases for the headset that don't revolve around games, including employee training. The headset will, however, work with apps from the Microsoft store and SteamVR titles. Many of Asus' upcoming laptops and desktops will also be certified as ready for mixed reality, and those will be released alongside the headset before the year is out.