Xiaomi VR glasses "Mi VR Play" test - Virtual Reality Headset

First impression of the Xiaomi VR glasses

 What's in the box 

The scope of delivery of the Xiaomi VR glasses is more or less unspectacular. In addition to the actual glasses, which are delivered in an attractive cardboard box, there is also the strap for attaching the head and an instruction card in Chinese.

 Design & processing 

In terms of design, Xiaomi has taken an interesting path, which is why the Mi VR Play differs from conventional VR glasses. Instead of using a PVC housing, the Xiaomi VR headset is made of elastane (Lycra). As a result, the VR glasses only weigh 209g, which means they are long-lasting and more comfortable to wear. The slot in which the smartphone is inserted is also interesting. This is opened by two zippers, has adequate ventilation through two side openings and enables active use of the smartphone camera. The smartphone is protected from damage by extensive padding and sits in the holder with a slip-proof padding with a silk-touch coating.

The Xiaomi VR headset can also score points in terms of processing. The zipper closes neatly, the seams are neatly worked out, the lenses sit firmly in the inlet and show no defects and the headgear is also solidly made.

Use and App

The Xiaomi VR glasses can be used with common 4.7 to 5.7 inch smartphones. The glasses are compatible with various VR apps and have a metal switch on the top, which can also be used to control Google Cardboard apps. Xiaomi itself also offers a suitable VR app, which can be downloaded using the QR code included in the scope of delivery. This app offers the possibility to download and play VR videos as well as VR games can be downloaded. Unfortunately, this app is only available in Chinese, and the films and games on offer are mainly aimed at Chinese consumers.

Nevertheless, the Xiaomi Mi VR Play can be used like conventional cardboard glasses. Operation is extremely easy thanks to the additional switch. The quality of the aspherical lenses is also convincing, although they are a bit too small for my taste, which is why the field of view is limited. I also miss a possibility of lens correction. Both the interpupillary distance and the distance between the lenses and the smartphone cannot be set individually. Especially those who are very nearsighted can unfortunately only use the Xiaomi VR glasses with additional visual aids.

comfort

 The wearing comfort is convincing. With the supplied head strap, the glasses sit tightly in front of the face. The elastane used makes the face area comfortable to wear, which is why the Xiaomi Mi VR Play can be used for a longer period of time, unlike other VR glasses.