Lynx R1 Mixed Reality Headset Review: Everything We Know

lynx r1 mixed reality headset
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The Lynx R1 is a new mixed reality headset that merges augmented and virtual reality together. The headset smashed through its Kickstarter goal and is on pace to be one of the highest selling mixed reality projects so far.

In this guide, we go over:

  • Features of the Lynx R1
  • Design Specs
  • How to Buy the Lynx R1
  • Pricing
  • Frequently Asked Questions

If you backed this project on Kickstarter, comment down below and let us know!

What is the Lynx R1?

The Lynx R1 is a mixed reality (MR) headset with support for Unity3D. It is made with a Qualcomm XR chip and Ultraleap hand tracking. Being a MR headset, the Lynx R1 will cover all 4 categories of the headset landscape:

  • Augmented reality
  • Virtual reality
  • Tethered gaming to a PC
  • Standalone on the headset

Whether you want to play your favorite games in AR or you want to confront your friends in VR, the Lynx R1 allows both. For unique experiences, you can switch between VR and AR in the same app. Once launched, it will be the most versatile headset on the market. The Lynx R1 is repairable, plus its components can be replaced where necessary. 

The Lynx R1 headset is equipped with a compact form factor on a magnetic mount to guarantee maximum comfort. For optimal comfort, the battery is located on the back of the device. The forms can be removed, maintained, and plugged back into the headset. 

lynx r1 headset promo shot

How to Buy the Linx R1

The Linx R1 is available to buy on Kickstarter. The original crowd funding goal was $350,000 USD, which was passed in just a few short days.

Click here to view and buy the Linx R1.

Release Date

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Lynx R1 is scheduled to hit the market in April 2022. Despite the global shortage of semiconductor components, the team at Lynx is not leaving any stone unturned to meet this scheduled date. 

lynx r1 mixed reality headset

Specifications

SpecificationsDetails
Display1600×1600 @90Hz per eyeEye-Box: 11mmEye Relief: 13mm.
Processing System & MemoryQualcomm XR2 chipsetAndroid 10 with Unity3DCome with 128GB internal storage6GB RAM.
Tracking6DoFSLAM with world anchors. 
SensorsHand-trackingpositional trackingIMURGB cameras
ConnectivityWi-Fi 5 or 6USB-CBluetooth 5.0
AudioStereo speakers4 microphone array3.5mm Jack TRRS
CompatibilityCompatible with PCVRSteamVR over Wi-Fi

Limited Edition

The Limited Edition version of the Lynx R1 has a fully transparent front face. This lets you see the inner workings behind your face.

Professional Edition

The Professional Edition version of the Lynx R1 lets you resell the device.

lynx r1 mixed reality headset display

Features

The Lynx R1 is equipped with amazing features to enable you to enjoy immersive mixed reality experiences. Some of the great features include:

Display

The Lynx R1 is equipped with a dual LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 1600 pixels at a refresh rate of 90Hz per eye. It has a 4-fold catadioptric freedom prism for improved vision. The headset’s renders up to 90 degrees field of view circular. 

Audio

The Lynx R1 has 2 stereo speakers and 2 channel microphone arrays. It also has a 3.5mm TRRS jack where you can plug in your headphones. You can also wirelessly connect your earphones to the headset via Bluetooth. 

Games

The Lynx R1 supports all existing SteamVR games when you plug it into your gaming PC.

You can also disconnect the cable and take the R1 out into the world with you. Lynx features an app store with direct distribution for developers, meaning you will have direct access to new content.

Headstrap

This Mixed Reality headset comes with a hard padded strap so that the device will stay on your head while playing your favorite games. The strap connects to the compact form factor on a magnetic mount.  

Memory Extension

The Lynx R1’s memory is extendable. You can insert a 1TB memory using a micro SD card to enjoy extra external memory space. 

Battery

The battery can sustain up to 3 hours of intense gameplay on a single recharge.

lynx r1 headset game

Pricing

The Lynx R1 comes with both limited and professional editions. The following are the pricing tiers for EU and non-EU users:

Lynx R1 Early Birds (Non-EU)

For non-EU, the headset goes for US$ 492 or €425. The package includes:

  • The Lynx R-1
  • VR facial interface
  • Extra fabric head strap for comfort
  • 1m USB cable
  • USB-C Charger

Lynx R1 Early Birds (EU)

This version of the headset goes for $614 or €530. The delivery includes:

  • Lynx R-1 Early Bird
  • VR facial interface
  • USB-C charger
  • Extra fabric head strap

Lynx R1 Limited Edition (Non-EU)

The limited edition costs $695 or €600. This edition includes:

  • Lynx R-1 – Limited Edition (with a fully transparent front)
  • VR facial interface
  • 1m USB-C charger
  • Extra fabric head strap

For the EU version of the headset, it costs 862 or €745.

Lynx R1 Professional Edition (non-EU)

The professional edition costs $897 or €775. It includes:

  • Lynx R-1 – Professional Edition
  • VR facial interface
  • 1m USB-C charger
  • Extra fabric head strap
Lynx R1 Mixed Reality Headset Review: Everything We Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Lynx R1 Mixed Reality Headset support controllers?

The Lynx R1 supports the Finch Shift Controllers, so if you have one, you can connect your controllers to this headset. The Lynx R-1 is also compatible with SteamVR and its native content. 

Can I see my surroundings while in AR?

Yes! You will be able to see your surroundings while in AR if you use the Lynx R1 without the face foam. 

Can I use the headset for wireless streaming?

Absolutely, you can. But to smoothly stream your games to the headset from your PC, ensure you use a Wi-Fi 5 or 6 connection; otherwise, the streaming may be disrupted. 

How much does it weigh?

Compared to other mixed reality headsets on the market, the weight of the Lynx R1 is fairly decent. With all the foams added, the total weight is around 700 grams. If you wear the headset, the weight distribution is perfect, as it balances with the center of gravity. 

Can I connect my own earphones?

Yes, you can connect your earphones to the headset. The headset has a 3.5mm earphones jack connection where users can plug in their headphones. Additionally, if you have wireless earphones, you can also connect them to the headset via Bluetooth. 

Can I extend the storage space?

If you need more storage space, you can extend the headset’s memory. Though the headset comes with a 128GB memory, you can replace the MicroSD slot with a 1TB card for more video recording. 

How long does the battery last?

You can use the Lynx R1 headset for about 2-3 hours non-stop depending on the software.

Did you back the R1 on Kickstarter? Do you have any more questions? Comment down below and let us know.

Author

  • Ryan William

    With over 7 years of hands-on experience in the dynamic world of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR), Ryan is a recognized authority in the field. His collaborations with industry giants like Meta and HTC underscore his expertise in shaping the AR/VR landscape. Ryan has written over 2,000 blog posts, offering in-depth insights, reviews, and analyses of the latest mixed reality technology. From groundbreaking games to cutting-edge hardware, Ryan's extensive knowledge ensures readers are always at the forefront of AR/VR/MR, as well as Steam Deck, news.