The world of virtual reality (VR) continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and the latest entry in the space, the Pico 4 Ultra, is making headlines. Released in key markets across Europe and Asia, this new VR headset positions itself as a strong rival to the Meta Quest 3. With its advanced hardware and features, the Pico 4 Ultra aims to cater to both newcomers and seasoned VR enthusiasts alike. In this blog, we will delve into the specifications, design, and standout features that set the Pico 4 Ultra apart from its competitors, and what makes it a worthy contender in the competitive VR market.
Introducing the Pico 4 Ultra: A Major Upgrade
The Pico 4 Ultra represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor, the Pico 4, by offering more powerful components designed to enhance both virtual and mixed reality experiences. At the heart of the Pico 4 Ultra is the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, paired with 12GB of RAM, providing a seamless performance boost. Additionally, the upgraded 256GB storage allows users to store a large variety of apps and games without worry. Coupled with a 2160 x 2160 resolution per eye, the Pico 4 Ultra offers a sharp, immersive visual experience, ideal for a wide range of VR applications.
Design and Usability
Comfort-Focused Design
When it comes to design, the Pico 4 Ultra carries forward the same balanced approach as its predecessor, offering a counterbalanced head strap that redistributes weight more evenly, resulting in reduced pressure on the face. Weighing in at 580 grams, it’s heavier than the Meta Quest 3, but its design ensures comfort during extended usage. However, some users have expressed concern over the fabric facial interface, which can become uncomfortable and sweaty during intense VR sessions. Unlike other headsets, the lack of a silicone face cushion may detract from the overall experience for users who frequently share their device.
Updated Controllers
The Pico 4 Ultra’s controllers also see some notable changes, moving away from the spiral-tracked rings found in the earlier model. Instead, the new controllers mirror the ring-less design seen on the Meta Quest 3, offering a more streamlined look and feel. These ergonomic improvements, combined with added buttons for easier navigation and screenshots, make for a more intuitive user experience.
Performance and Display
Powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 Chipset
A defining feature of the Pico 4 Ultra is its Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset, the same processor powering the Meta Quest 3. This chipset ensures high performance and quicker load times for more demanding VR applications. With 12GB of RAM, the Pico 4 Ultra offers a 50% increase over its predecessor, enabling smoother multitasking and better app management.
Enhanced Display and Passthrough
The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth motion rendering, although it falls short of the Meta Quest 3’s 120Hz refresh rate. Despite this, the Pico 4 Ultra shines with its enhanced passthrough capability, providing users with a 20 PPD (Pixels Per Degree) resolution that delivers more detailed and accurate visuals during mixed reality experiences. However, the device still uses the same pancake lenses as the original Pico 4, which may limit its ability to deliver the edge-to-edge clarity seen in the latest headsets.
Mixed Reality (MR) and Motion Tracking
32MP Cameras for Mixed Reality
One of the most significant improvements in the Pico 4 Ultra is its dual 32MP mixed-reality cameras, a notable upgrade from the single 16MP camera found in the Pico 4. These cameras allow for full-color passthrough, enabling users to interact with both virtual and real-world elements seamlessly. While these enhancements are impressive, some users feel that the level of realism still lags behind that of more premium devices like the Apple Vision Pro.
Pico Motion Trackers for Full Immersion
The Pico Motion Trackers are an exciting addition, especially for users interested in fitness and social VR. These trackers, which attach to the ankles, provide leg tracking, adding a new level of immersion in games such as VRChat and Blade & Sorcery. Initially included with pre-orders, these trackers offer a unique feature that enhances gameplay and fitness applications by incorporating full-body motion tracking.
Software and Game Library
Strong Game Library but Lacking in Exclusives
The Pico 4 Ultra offers access to a robust selection of VR games and apps, including titles like Blade & Sorcery: Nomad and Pistol Whip, making it a strong contender in terms of game variety. However, it lacks the exclusive titles that have made other headsets like the Meta Quest 3 more appealing to dedicated gamers. While the Pico 4 Ultra does feature some VR content unique to the platform, such as the TikTok VR app, it does not have the same iconic franchises as the Meta Quest 3.
User Interface and Navigation
Navigating the Pico OS is generally straightforward, but there are limitations. The window management system, for example, restricts users from freely positioning windows in virtual space, an area where the Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro have the upper hand. However, Pico’s virtual environments are more visually appealing, making multitasking in VR a more enjoyable experience.
Battery Life and Charging
Extended Battery with Fast Charging
The Pico 4 Ultra is equipped with a larger 5700mAh battery, providing sufficient power for extended VR sessions. The addition of 45W fast charging ensures that users can quickly recharge the device, though the lack of a charger in the box means that an additional purchase is required for users who do not already own a compatible charger.
Price and Market Availability
Pricing That Competes with Meta Quest 3
At £529 (€599), the Pico 4 Ultra positions itself in the mid-range VR market, offering premium features without the premium price tag. While slightly more expensive than the base model Meta Quest 3, the Pico 4 Ultra provides added value through its motion trackers and enhanced mixed reality features. The headset is available for pre-order in several European and Asian markets, though there is no word yet on a potential U.S. release.
Is the Pico 4 Ultra Worth It?
The Pico 4 Ultra is an impressive VR headset that holds its own against the Meta Quest 3, offering powerful hardware and innovative features at a competitive price. Its strengths lie in its improved mixed reality functionality, motion tracking, and overall performance thanks to the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset and 12GB of RAM. However, its lack of exclusive games and slightly outdated lenses may make it less appealing to hardcore gamers or those seeking the very best in visual clarity.
For users looking for a mid-range VR headset with a focus on mixed reality and body tracking features, the Pico 4 Ultra is a fantastic choice. But for those who prioritize exclusive game titles and cutting-edge optics, the Meta Quest 3 may remain the better option.