The ROG Xreal R1 AR gaming glasses are now available to pre-order for $849

ASUS’s ROG division has announced that the ROG Xreal R1 AR gaming glasses are now available for pre-order at a price of $849, with sales starting on May 17 through Best Buy and ASUS’s official website.

The ROG Xreal R1 glasses are a high-end AR device designed for gaming and media consumption, featuring a 57-degree field of view, 1080p resolution, and a 240Hz refresh rate. They include a new docking station that allows for enhanced connectivity to PCs, consoles, and other hardware, enabling seamless integration for various gaming setups.

Compared to previous Xreal models, the R1 offers a more robust feature set, especially with the inclusion of the dock, which supports plugging in devices like the Nintendo Switch 2 and other peripherals via USB-C. The glasses are lighter than traditional VR headsets and can project a virtual screen up to 171 inches from four meters away. The device is aimed at gamers seeking a portable yet high-performance AR experience, though the price point reflects its premium status.

Why It Matters

This development is significant because it introduces a new high-end AR gaming option from ASUS’s ROG brand, potentially impacting the portable gaming and AR markets. The inclusion of a versatile dock and high refresh rate makes the R1 a notable upgrade, appealing to gamers looking for immersive experiences without bulky VR headsets. The price point also indicates a move toward premium hardware in consumer AR devices, which could influence future product designs and market expectations.

Background

The ROG Xreal R1 follows the company’s earlier AR glasses, which gained attention at CES and received positive reviews for their portability and display quality. The previous Xreal One Pro glasses were priced at $649 and offered a 60Hz refresh rate, whereas the R1’s 240Hz refresh rate marks a significant performance boost. The launch reflects ongoing advancements in AR hardware aimed at gaming and multimedia users, with ASUS positioning the R1 as a premium, versatile device.

“The ROG Xreal R1 glasses are a high-end AR device designed for gaming and media consumption, featuring a 57-degree field of view, 1080p resolution, and a 240Hz refresh rate.”

— Sam Rutherford, Engadget

“The included dock allows for more connectivity than previous models, supporting seamless connection to PCs, consoles, and other hardware.”

— Sam Rutherford, Engadget

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear how the ROG Xreal R1 performs in real-world gaming scenarios or how its battery life and comfort compare to competing devices. Detailed user reviews and hands-on testing are still pending.

What’s Next

Next steps include the start of sales on May 17, with reviews and user feedback expected shortly thereafter. Further updates may include firmware improvements, software support, and potential price adjustments based on market response.

Key Questions

What devices can the ROG Xreal R1 connect to?

The glasses can connect to PCs, consoles, and other hardware via the included dock and USB-C connections, supporting devices like the Nintendo Switch 2.

How much do the ROG Xreal R1 glasses cost?

The pre-order price is $849, with sales beginning on May 17, 2024.

What is the display resolution and refresh rate?

The glasses feature a 1080p resolution with a 240Hz refresh rate, suitable for fast-paced gaming.

Are these glasses suitable for casual media use?

Yes, they can be used for watching movies and general PC work, in addition to gaming.

What is the field of view of the ROG Xreal R1?

The device offers a 57-degree field of view, creating a virtual screen up to 171 inches from four meters away.