With VR gaming and AR experiences gaining traction, there are many developments on the hardware front as well. One of which is PICO 4, a newly launched VR headset with an affordable starting price of RM1,699. At this price point, it is squarely aimed at the Meta Quest 2, which starts at $399.99 (approximately RM1,770).
So let’s find out how does the PICO 4 perform, it’s suite of apps, and whether it can hold its own against the competition.
PICO 4 VR Headset Specifications
| Dimensions | 163 x 80 x 255-310 mm |
| Processor | Qualcomm XR2 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128 / 256 GB |
| Resolution | 4230 x 2160 pixels (2160 x 2160 pixels per eye) |
| Refresh Rate | 90 Hz |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6 (5Ghz & 2.4Ghz) Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Sensors | 6 DoF spacial positioning sensors |
| Audio | Integrated speaker Dual microphones |
| Battery & Charging | 5,300 mAh 20W fast charging |
What’s In The Box
- PICO 4 VR headset
- Controllers X 2
- Glasses spacer
- Nose pad
- Controller lanyards
- USB-C power adapter
- USB-C data cable
- Quick guide
- User guide
- Warranty guide
- AA batteries
Design
The first thing I noticed when picking up the PICO 4 is that the weight is balanced. Unlike the Meta Quest 2 which is front-heavy, the PICO 4’s battery is placed at the back of the headset, spreading the weight across the device. The pancake lens help make the device less bulky at the front as well. Overall, the PICO 4 feels much more balanced and natural to wear for long hours.
The faceplate cover is made of fabric. So if you sweat a lot, be sure to disinfect and wipe down after use. Although the built in integrated speaker and microphones sound great, there is no headphone jack if you want a more private listening experience. Luckily, the PICO 4 supports Bluetooth audio so you still can use your favourite TWS earbuds.
It is also equipped with a passthrough camera that allows you to see your surroundings without taking off the headset, perfect for augmented reality applications. Did I mention it is full color too? Take that Meta Quest 2!
The controllers look similar to PICO’s competitors in the market, and feels ergonomic to grip. My only gripe with the controller is that it is still using AA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable one. Guess I’ll have to take a trip to IKEA then.
PICO’s Ecosystem
PICO’s ecosystem of apps and games is relatively new compared to the competitors on the market. While it has a few popular titles such as Apex Construct and Walkabout Mini Golf, the game library is more limited when compared to the more mainstream competitors.
Luckily, there is a PC VR games support using Streaming Assistant software, so you will still be able to access Steam’s vast library of VR games. You have the option of wired USB-C connection or wireless, but the wireless connection is buggy at times.
User Experience
Overall, the PICO 4 VR feels great to use. While it is not the lightest VR headset out there, the balanced weight distribution allowed me to wear for long hours with minimal fatigue.
As it is a wireless only VR headset, I had more freedom of movement while playing VR games. However, the trade off is that I need to recharge the battery once it is depleted.
Speaking of battery life, I was able to get between 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours of play time before needing to recharge the device again.
Conclusion
At this price point, the PICO 4 offers great features and specifications compared to it’s competition. It is comfortable, has good specs and is more accessible than other VR headsets. If you do not care about Meta Quest exclusive titles, then you will surely have a blast with what PICO offers on the table.
To learn more and buy one for yourself, check out PICO’s official website here.
