XREAL Air 2 Ultra (X1002) AR Glasses Review: A Deep Dive
The XREAL Air 2 Ultra (X1002) promises a groundbreaking augmented reality experience, and after extensive testing across various platforms and applications, I’m ready to share my findings. This review dives deep into its capabilities, addressing its strengths and shortcomings to help you determine if it’s the right AR headset for you.
Features and Specifications
The XREAL Air 2 Ultra boasts impressive features, including a 52-degree field of view, up to 120Hz refresh rate, and advanced hand and head tracking. Its compatibility extends to a wide array of devices, from PCs and mobile phones to popular gaming consoles like PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. This versatility is a major selling point.
| Material | Titanium |
|---|---|
| Colour Name | Black |
| What’s In The Box | Air 2 Ultra, USB-C cable, Cleaning cloth, Protective case, User manual, Nose pad (S/M/L). |
| Model Number | X1002 |
| Model Name | Air 2 Ultra |
Beyond the hardware, the software features, such as spatial computing capabilities (hand tracking, spatial anchors, depth mesh), promise a more immersive and intuitive AR interaction. The inclusion of TUV certification for flicker-free, low blue light display is also a welcome addition for user comfort.
Performance and Usage
The Air 2 Ultra delivers a surprisingly sharp and clear image, even in bright environments. The 120Hz refresh rate contributes to smooth, lag-free performance during gaming and video streaming. Hand tracking proved remarkably accurate in most scenarios, enhancing the interactive experience. However, I did experience occasional glitches in hand tracking when using certain applications, and there is a noticeable difference in the accuracy between hand tracking and head tracking. Setup was straightforward on both PC and mobile devices, although navigating the software options took some time initially.
Using the glasses for extended periods didn’t cause any significant discomfort, thanks to the lightweight titanium frame and adjustable nose pads. The battery life proved adequate for a few hours of continuous use, depending on the applications and settings used. Screen mirroring from different devices worked flawlessly in most cases, but some minor compatibility issues were encountered with older devices.
Gaming on the PlayStation 5 was a highlight. The larger field of view and high refresh rate significantly improved the overall gaming experience. However, some games, particularly those relying on fast-paced action, produced minor screen tearing. This may be a software limitation that can be fixed with future updates.
Pros & Cons
- High-resolution display with impressive clarity
- Smooth 120Hz refresh rate
- Accurate hand and head tracking
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Wide compatibility with various devices
- Excellent gaming performance
- TUV certification for eye comfort
Pros:
- Occasional hand tracking glitches
- Minor screen tearing during fast-paced gaming
- Battery life could be improved for longer usage sessions
- Some minor software quirks require getting used to
Cons:
Final Verdict
The XREAL Air 2 Ultra (X1002) is a significant step forward in the world of augmented reality. While it’s not without its minor flaws, its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses. The immersive experiences it provides in gaming and general usage make it a compelling choice for early adopters and tech enthusiasts. The combination of high-quality visuals, comfortable design, and wide compatibility makes it highly recommended. The few issues encountered are likely to be addressed in future software updates, further enhancing the overall experience.
