Xreal's new AR glasses, the A01 Plus, offer an intriguing proposition for those seeking affordable augmented reality (AR) experiences. At a price point of $299, it's a stripped-down version of their pricier 1S model, which retails for $449. While it may lack some of the advanced features of its more expensive counterpart, the A01 Plus still manages to impress in several key areas.
One of the most notable aspects of the A01 Plus is its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 62 grams, it's significantly lighter than the 1S, making it a more comfortable option for extended wear. However, the frame's durability is a concern, as it feels flimsy compared to the 1S. This is particularly evident when adjusting the temple arms to center the screens, which requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the delicate micro OLED panels and birdbath optics.
Customization is another strong suit of the A01 Plus. Xreal includes a tinted lens cover on the other side of the screens, which can be swapped out for other covers, including 3D-printed ones in the future. While removing these covers requires a bit of practice, the company provides an alternate cover that enhances the bright screens and reduces reflections.
In terms of performance, the A01 Plus delivers a decent experience. The 1080p resolution, brightness, 120Hz refresh rate, and contrast are impressive for the price, but the screens initially appeared blurry. However, Xreal's prescription lenses significantly improved clarity, making them a worthwhile investment for those with visual impairments.
One area where the A01 Plus falls short is in its feature set. It lacks electrochromic lens technology with adjustable opacity, which is standard across most models. Additionally, it doesn't offer three degrees of freedom, a feature that allows users to lock their virtual screen in position. While Xreal's toggleable stabilization feature reduces unwanted screen movements, it introduces jitter that's easy to spot with text.
Audio quality is also a bit of a letdown, with the A01 Plus lacking the robust sound of the 1S. The omission of volume control from the glasses is also a notable shortcoming, requiring users to adjust the volume on their audio source instead. Furthermore, the screen size is fixed, equivalent to 147 inches with a 50-degree field of view, and cannot be adjusted like other glasses allow.
Despite these shortcomings, the A01 Plus is an attractive option for first-time buyers who don't want to spend more than $300. It's a great entry point into the world of AR glasses, offering bright screens, serviceable audio quality, and a comfortable, lightweight build. While the features you get by spending $150 more for the 1S might be worth the upgrade, the A01 Plus is still a solid choice for those on a budget.
In conclusion, Xreal's A01 Plus AR glasses offer a compelling value proposition for those seeking an affordable AR experience. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of its pricier counterparts, it still manages to impress in several key areas, making it a great option for first-time buyers.
