Varjo is known for their high-end, high-immersion virtual and mixed reality headsets primarily used for enterprise applications such as training astronauts, pilots, and other professionals in high-stakes fields. In 2021, Varjo made their debut in the high-end consumer market with the launch the Varjo Aero at $2,000 for the headset alone. The Varjo Aero truly pushed the boundaries of consumer VR by implementing the retinal resolution technology from their enterprise headsets.
But the game has just changed. Varjo is making this cutting-edge technology accessible to a broader audience by reducing Varjo Aero’s price by more than 50% at a more attainable $990 (or €990).
Let’s delve into the specs that make Varjo Aero a marvel of modern engineering:
- Dual mini-LED displays, 2880 x 2720 px per eye, with 35 ppd peak fidelity and 150 nits of brightness offer a stunning 115° field of view for unparalleled edge-to-edge clarity.
- The device employs crystal-clear, variable resolution aspheric lenses, a significant upgrade over the consumer-grade Fresnel optics commonly found in the market.
- Automatic IPD adjustment and ultra-fast, built-in eye-tracking at 200 Hz ensure a tailored, optimal experience for every user, every time.
Now, let’s talk about what doesn’t come with the $990 price. Varjo Aero requires at least 2 SteamVR base stations for 6DOF tracking, which are priced at $200 each for a total of $400 + tax. The Aero also does not come with any controllers, so you’ll likely need to purchase some. The Valve Index controllers cost $279. If you don’t already have these available, you’d need to invest an additional $679 in order to use the Varjo Aero with most games and applications, bringing the total price to $1,669.
For those gamers and professionals looking to buy into the Steam VR ecosystem for the first time, Varjo Aero is still a pretty pricey option, even at 50% off. But if you’re a sim enthusiast or you’re looking for a meaningful upgrade to your aging Steam VR headset, Varjo Aero might be the way to go.
