Xreal’s new AR glasses cost less and almost hit the mark
▼ Summary
– Xreal’s $299 A01 Plus AR glasses are a lighter, cheaper version of the $449 1S, weighing 62 grams with bright, contrast-rich screens but a flimsier frame.
– The A01 Plus include a modular light-blocking shell that improves outdoor use, and customization via swappable covers, including potential 3D-printed options.
– The glasses lack electrochromic lens tech and three degrees of freedom, but a stabilization feature reduces unwanted screen movement, though it introduces jitter.
– Prescription lens inserts (around $50) are likely needed for clear vision, as the 1080p screens appeared blurry without them.
– Key omissions include no volume control on the glasses and a fixed screen size (equivalent to 147 inches), but they offer a comfortable, lightweight build for mirroring games or movies at under $300.
When a company sets out to create a more affordable version of a flagship product, the results can be hit or miss. With the $299 Xreal A01 Plus, the company has managed to deliver a compelling, stripped-down alternative to its premium $449 Xreal 1S. While it cuts several features to hit the lower price point, these AR glasses succeed where it matters most: they are comfortable, stylish, and deliver surprisingly bright, high-contrast screens for the cost.
Weighing in at just 62 grams, the A01 Plus is over 20 grams lighter than the 1S, making them as light as I wish every model was. However, this reduction in weight comes with a trade-off in build quality. The frame feels noticeably flimsier. Adjusting the temple arms to center the screens requires a gentle touch, as applying too much force risks damaging the delicate micro OLED panels and birdbath optics, or popping off the modular glasses shell. Speaking of which, Xreal includes an extra shell that blocks light from all sides, making the A01 Plus surprisingly effective for outdoor use , arguably better than the pricier 1S in that regard.
Customization is a key selling point. The included tinted lens cover can be swapped out with other shells, and Xreal hints at future support for 3D-printed covers. Removing them feels precarious at first , you have to gently tug near the temple arms , but you quickly get the hang of it. The alternative cover provided with my review unit does an excellent job of accentuating the bright screens while keeping reflections at bay.
One notable omission is electrochromic lens technology, which allows adjustable opacity and is standard on most competing models. I don’t mind the absence here. The A01 Plus uses reflective films on the back of the optics that do a passable job of blocking ambient light. In fact, with the light-blocking cover installed, I held my phone’s flashlight directly to the lens and could barely see it. I actually prefer wearing the glasses without any snap-on shell at all, as they become incredibly compact and casual.
I spent a lot of time using the A01 Plus with my Steam Deck, playing games and watching content. Initially, my impressions were mixed. While the 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, brightness, and contrast were impressive, the screens appeared blurry. The issue was resolved when Xreal provided a set of HonsVR prescription lenses. The glasses have an IPD range of 54.5mm to 74.5mm, but unless you have perfect vision, you will likely need to budget around $50 for lens inserts to achieve clear visuals. The included hard case, which snaps shut, is a nice touch.
Some of my criticisms stem from being spoiled by the premium 1S. The biggest feature cut is three degrees of freedom (3DoF) , which allows you to lock your virtual screen in place. Xreal attempts to bridge the gap with a toggleable stabilization feature that works like a gimbal, reducing unwanted screen movement. It is decent, but it introduces noticeable jitter, especially with text. Audio quality is also a step down. The A01 Plus speakers are functional but lack the volume, lows, and mids of the 1S.
While I understand cutting 3DoF and audio quality to hit a lower price, other omissions are harder to justify. There is no way to adjust the volume from the glasses themselves; you must use the audio source. Additionally, the screen is locked to a single size , equivalent to 147 inches with a 50-degree field of view , and you cannot resize it like on other models. It feels odd that these features are considered too premium to include here.
Despite these shortcomings, the A01 Plus glasses are exactly what some people want: a relatively affordable set of USB-C AR glasses for mirroring games, movies, or a computer screen. They are lighter on features, but they nail the basics with bright screens, serviceable audio, and a comfortable, lightweight build. For the price, I am genuinely impressed with what is included.
For those willing to spend $150 more, the 1S offers a more polished experience with better build quality, audio, and 3DoF. But for first-time buyers who want to spend under $300, the A01 Plus is a great entry point , just remember to factor in the $50 you may need for prescription lenses.
(Source: The Verge)
